Paper wholesaler with a small stock unit

Independent printers, stationery resellers, sign makers, schools, councils and mid-sized offices that want fast delivery without buying in huge volumes.

You earn the margin between bulk buying prices and the price you charge per box or pallet. Contracts and regular orders from printers and resellers bring repeat income.

• Selling to businesses
• Stock control and purchasing
• Managing cash flow and credit
• Organising deliveries

• You tie up cash in stock and customers may pay late, so check how much working capital you need
• Stock insurance and fire risk, as paper burns easily, check requirements for your unit and landlord
• Business rates and unit lease terms, check them before signing
• Safe handling of pallets, including training for pallet trucks and any forklift use
• Goods in transit and vehicle insurance if you deliver yourself
• Check any recycled or FSC claims match your supplier's certification

Estimated startup costs are typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on your unit, pallet stock and any vehicle. You tie up cash in stock and customers may pay late, so check how much working capital you need.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £8,000 to £40,000, depending on your customer base and order sizes. That is revenue, not profit, so allow for stock costs, rent, business rates and delivery.

Check stock insurance and fire risk for your unit, as paper burns easily, plus business rates and lease terms before signing. Also check safe pallet handling, including training for pallet trucks or forklifts, and goods in transit cover.