Online pool supplies shop

Owners of garden and holiday-park pools, hot tub and spa owners, and small pool maintenance firms who reorder regularly.

Profit on each product sold, plus repeat orders through the season. Bundles such as opening and closing kits and trade accounts for maintenance firms can raise order values.

• Basic knowledge of pool water care, or willingness to learn it
• Online selling and customer service
• Stock and order management

• Pool chemicals are hazardous goods: check the rules on storage, labelling and safety data sheets with the Health and Safety Executive and your local Trading Standards
• Check that any sanitising products you sell are approved for sale in Great Britain or Northern Ireland, as biocide rules apply
• Check courier rules for sending hazardous chemicals, as many carriers restrict them and special transport rules may apply
• Check your insurance covers storing and selling chemicals, including product liability
• Sales rise in spring and summer, so plan cash flow for the quiet months
• Large online retailers compete on price, so a niche and good advice help

Startup costs are typically around £1,500 to £7,500, depending on the stock range you carry and how much storage space you need. These are estimates, so build your own budget from supplier quotes.

Pool chemicals are hazardous goods, so check storage, labelling and safety data sheet rules with the Health and Safety Executive and Trading Standards. Also check sanitising products are approved for sale, courier restrictions, and that your insurance covers chemicals.

Monthly revenue is typically around £800 to £4,500, depending on your product range and customers. Sales rise in spring and summer, so plan cash flow for the quieter months.