Home-based promotional products reseller

Local businesses, schools, clubs, charities, event organisers and trades firms that want branded items for marketing, gifts or staff.

You add a margin to the supplier's price on each order. Repeat orders from the same customers (for example new uniforms, annual gifts or event giveaways) build steady income.

• Selling and following up leads
• Attention to detail on artwork and proofs
• Organised, with good supplier communication

• Check whether you need to register as a sole trader with HMRC or set up a limited company
• Check the supplier's minimum order quantities and lead times before promising delivery dates
• Get customers to approve artwork proofs in writing to avoid disputes over mistakes
• Check intellectual property: do not print logos or designs customers do not have the right to use
• Check product safety and labelling rules for items such as textiles, toys or items used with food
• Running a business from home may need permission from a landlord or mortgage lender

Startup costs are typically around £200 to £2,000, depending on samples, a website and any marketing you do. These are estimates, and you source items from suppliers rather than holding stock or printing yourself.

Monthly revenue is typically around £300 to £3,000, depending on how many customers you win and the size of their orders. The estimate assumes at least about 6 hours a week, and it is revenue, not profit.

Check whether to register as a sole trader with HMRC or set up a limited company. Also check supplier minimum orders and lead times, written proof approval, intellectual property, product safety and labelling rules, and permission to work from home.