Online supplier of plastic containers and fittings

Small businesses that use plastic items in their own work, such as caterers, workshops, growers, installers, retailers and packers.

You buy at trade prices and sell at a margin, often with a minimum order and discounts for repeat or bulk buyers. Regular re-orders from a handful of customers matter more than one-off sales.

• Selling to businesses
• Organised with orders and suppliers
• Reading product specifications
• Basic website or marketplace skills

• Plastic items for food use must be suitable for contact with food, so check the supplier's paperwork and the current rules
• Check what product safety, chemical (UK REACH) and packaging waste obligations apply to what you sell
• Public liability and product liability insurance, so check cover before your first sale
• Paying suppliers before customers pay you if you offer credit terms
• If you import, check customs, duty and VAT costs before pricing
• Check VAT registration once turnover grows

Startup costs are typically estimated at around £500 to £2,500, depending on your website or marketplace setup, any samples or opening stock, and insurance. Sending items direct from suppliers can help keep early costs down.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £1,500 to £7,500, depending on your niche, the range you list and how many trade customers you win. Supplier costs and credit terms will also affect your cash flow.

Check that plastic items for food use are suitable for food contact, and which product safety, UK REACH and packaging waste obligations apply. Also check insurance cover, import costs if relevant, and when VAT registration applies.