Novelty and gift wholesaler with a trade unit

Gift shops, convenience stores, market and event traders, seasonal pop-up sellers and online resellers.

You sell stock to trade customers at wholesale prices, with income from repeat orders, bulk deals and seasonal peaks such as Christmas and summer holidays.

• Buying and negotiating
• Stock management and pricing
• Customer service with trade buyers
• Managing cash flow

• Unit lease terms, business rates and any rent deposit
• Product safety and labelling rules for toys and novelty goods, so check with Trading Standards
• Stock insurance, public liability insurance and employer's liability insurance once you hire
• Importing goods may involve customs duties and VAT, so check the current rules with HMRC
• Cash tied up in stock, especially after peak seasons

Startup costs are typically around £8,000 to £40,000, depending on the unit lease and deposit, how much stock you hold, shelving and insurance. A broader range needs more cash tied up in stock.

Monthly revenue is typically around £4,000 to £20,000, depending on your range, the number of trade customers and the season. Cash can be tight after peak seasons, so plan for slower periods.

Check unit lease terms, business rates and any rent deposit. Also check product safety and labelling rules for toys and novelty goods with Trading Standards, insurance, and customs duties and VAT with HMRC if you import.