Local shelving and storage showroom

Homeowners, landlords, tradespeople, small businesses and shops that want to see and compare products before buying.

Margin on products sold in-store and online, plus extra income from delivery, fitting, custom sizes and repeat trade customers.

• Retail selling and product knowledge
• Measuring spaces and advising customers
• Stock control and managing suppliers

• Lease terms, deposits and business rates, ask a solicitor or adviser to check before signing
• Planning and permitted use of the premises, check with your local council
• Public liability and stock and contents insurance, plus employer's liability insurance if you hire
• Safe handling of heavy items, and accurate advice on load limits and wall fixings
• Slow early sales while tying up money in stock and rent, so plan some cash reserve

Startup costs are typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on the premises, display stock, fit-out and deposits. This is an estimate, so get real quotes for your area and plan a cash reserve for slow early sales.

Monthly revenue is typically around £6,000 to £30,000, depending on location, range, and how much trade and home business you win. The estimate assumes from about 35 hours a week, so results will vary.

Have a solicitor or adviser check lease terms, deposits and business rates before signing. Check planning and permitted use with your council, and insurance such as public liability, stock and contents, and employer's liability if you hire. Also check safe handling of heavy items.