Local radiator shop and trade counter

Homeowners, landlords, letting agents and local heating engineers or plumbers who want quick access to stock.

Profit on radiators and fittings, plus charges for fitting, repairs and delivery. Regular trade customers can bring steady repeat orders.

• Knowing radiator types, sizes and outputs
• Basic plumbing and heating knowledge
• Stock control and supplier negotiation
• Customer service

• Fitting work on heating systems: check which qualifications you or your fitters need, and whether any registration applies for the work you offer
• Public liability and product liability insurance, plus insurance for your stock
• Business rates, lease terms and planning use class for your premises, so check with the council
• Tied-up cash in stock, so start with fast-selling sizes and order the rest on request

Startup costs are typically around £8,000 to £40,000, depending on premises, fit-out and how much stock you hold. Starting with fast-selling sizes and ordering the rest on request can limit cash tied up in stock.

Monthly revenue is typically around £3,000 to £15,000, depending on location, stock range and how many trade customers you win. These are estimates, not guarantees, and they are revenue rather than profit.

Check which qualifications you or your fitters need for heating work, and whether any registration applies. Also check public liability, product liability and stock insurance, plus business rates, lease terms and planning use class with the council.