Office furniture showroom business

Local businesses, home workers, start-ups, schools and landlords furnishing offices.

Margin on furniture sales, delivery and fitting charges, and larger fit-out contracts. Selling ex-display or refurbished pieces can add extra income.

• Retail and sales conversations
• Stock buying and cash flow planning
• Managing deliveries and installers

• Rent, business rates and lease terms, so check the full cost and exit options before signing
• Planning use class and any permissions needed for the premises, check with the council
• Stock tied up in display items and slow-selling lines can strain cash
• Public liability, stock and contents insurance, plus employer's liability once you hire
• Check that furniture meets UK safety and fire standards

Startup costs are typically around £10,000 to £50,000, depending on the premises, display stock, fit-out and how much you spend on delivery and installation. These are estimates, so check rent and lease terms carefully.

Check the full cost of rent, business rates and lease terms, plus exit options before signing. Ask the council about the planning use class and any permissions needed, and check that the furniture meets UK safety and fire standards.

Monthly revenue is typically around £4,000 to £20,000, depending on location, range and how many business customers you win. The estimate assumes at least 35 hours a week. Display items and slow-selling lines can tie up cash.