Online asian homeware and gifts shop

Gift buyers, people furnishing their homes, and customers with a connection to Asian cultures who want items that are hard to find locally.

You buy stock from wholesalers or importers and sell it at a mark-up. Higher-value gift sets and bundles help cover postage and packaging.

• Finding and judging good suppliers
• Basic product photography and listings
• Stock and order tracking
• Customer service

• Check product safety rules for what you sell, especially tableware, candles, electricals and children's items
• If you import directly, check customs duty, import VAT and any restrictions with HMRC
• Food items bring labelling and registration rules; check with your local council before selling them
• Fragile goods: plan packaging and returns costs into your prices
• Keep an eye on the VAT registration threshold as sales grow
• Check whether you need permission to run the business and store stock at home

Startup costs are typically around £1,000 to £5,000, depending on how much stock you buy, whether you import directly and your website or marketplace costs. These are estimates, so check supplier prices and packaging costs before you start.

Monthly revenue is typically around £300 to £3,000, depending on your range, pricing and how well you reach gift buyers. These are estimates, not guarantees, and revenue is before costs. A focused range may help you stand out.

Check product safety rules, especially for tableware, candles, electricals and children's items. If you import directly, check customs duty, import VAT and restrictions with HMRC. Check food labelling and registration rules, the VAT threshold, and permission to store stock at home.