Detecting kit stall at rallies and shows

Keen hobbyists at events, beginners wanting hands-on advice, and visitors at country and outdoor shows.

Retail margin on each sale, often with event-day deals on bundles. Pitch fees and travel are your main running costs.

• Hands-on product knowledge and demonstrating kit
• Friendly, honest selling
• Organising stock, travel and event dates
• Handling card payments

• Public liability insurance, which organisers often require for traders
• Pitch fees, fuel and unsold stock can eat into profit, so test with a few events first
• Consumer rights still apply to sales at events, so check the rules on returns and refunds
• Some events or council land may need trading permission, so check with the organiser or council
• Seasonal demand, with fewer events in winter

Startup costs are typically around £2,000 to £8,000, depending on how much stock you buy, your stall setup, transport and insurance. Testing with a few events first can help you judge how much stock you need.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £600 to £3,500, depending on how many events you attend, your stock and your prices. Pitch fees, fuel and unsold stock can reduce profit, and winter has fewer events.

Check public liability insurance, which organisers often require, and the rules on returns and refunds, as consumer rights still apply at events. Some events or council land may need trading permission, so check with the organiser or council.