Local packaging supplies trade counter

Local shops, online sellers, makers, removal and storage firms, workshops, restaurants and takeaways, and offices.

You buy in volume and sell at a mark-up, with extra income from delivery charges, cut-to-size or custom orders, and account customers who reorder regularly.

• Stock control and buying
• Selling to businesses
• Customer service
• Managing cash flow and supplier accounts

• Stock ties up a lot of cash, so start with fast-selling lines
• Check the planning use class and any lease terms before taking a unit, as well as business rates
• Public liability, stock and buildings or contents insurance, plus employer's liability once you hire
• Packaging waste and producer responsibility rules may apply depending on your size, so check the current guidance
• Food-contact packaging has its own rules, so check supplier paperwork
• Heavy lifting and bulky storage, so plan for safe manual handling and fire safety

Startup costs are typically around £10,000 to £45,000, depending on the unit, the amount of stock you buy and your fit-out. Stock ties up a lot of cash, so many owners start with fast-selling lines. These are estimates only.

Check the planning use class, lease terms and business rates before committing. Also check your insurance, including public liability and stock cover, plus employer's liability once you hire. Plan for safe manual handling and fire safety with bulky stock.

Monthly revenue is typically around £8,000 to £35,000, depending on your location, range and customer base. Expect at least around 35 hours a week. These are revenue estimates, not profit, so work out your own costs.