Online specialist paint shop

Homeowners, upcyclers and hobbyists who want a specific type of paint, and sometimes small decorators.

You sell products at a mark-up on what you pay suppliers, plus delivery charges. Bundles, such as paint with brushes and prep supplies, increase the value of each order.

• Setting up and running an online shop
• Product knowledge and writing clear guides
• Packing and managing orders
• Social media or search marketing

• Paint is heavy and can leak, so check courier costs, packaging and any limits on sending certain products
• Some solvent-based or flammable products have special rules for storage and carriage, check before you stock them
• Check labelling, product safety and online selling rules, including returns, with Trading Standards or government guidance
• Tinted-to-order paint may be treated differently on returns, so check and state your policy clearly
• Check whether storing stock at home is allowed by your landlord, lender or insurer

Startup costs are typically around £1,500 to £8,000, depending on your range, whether you hold stock or have suppliers send orders direct, and your website set-up. These figures are estimates.

Monthly revenue is typically around £800 to £4,000, depending on your niche, range and marketing. These are estimates of revenue, not profit. You could start with around 10 hours a week.

Check courier costs, packaging and limits on sending certain products, and special storage and carriage rules for solvent-based or flammable items. Also check labelling, product safety and online selling rules with Trading Standards, your returns policy, and whether you may store stock at home.