Online trade light bulb supplier

Electricians, letting agents, landlords, small building firms, shops and facilities managers who want reliable supply and quick delivery.

You buy in bulk from wholesalers or importers and sell at a margin, with better margins on multi-packs and repeat trade orders.

• Comparing suppliers and prices
• Basic knowledge of bulb fittings and types
• Order handling and customer service

• Check the rules on electrical product safety and marking for items you sell, and buy only from suppliers who can show compliance
• Check your producer obligations under the WEEE regulations for electrical and lighting products
• Check whether your home insurance or lease allows storing stock and posting parcels
• Product liability and public liability insurance
• Cheap imported bulbs can be poor quality, which leads to returns and complaints

Startup costs are typically estimated at around £1,000 to £5,000, depending on how much stock you buy, which bulb types you carry and how you set up your website, marketplace listings and packaging.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £500 to £3,500, depending on how many trade customers and orders you win. Returns from poor quality imported bulbs can eat into what you keep.

Check the rules on electrical product safety and marking for what you sell, and buy only from suppliers who can show compliance. Also check your WEEE producer obligations, product and public liability insurance, and whether your home insurance or lease allows storing stock.