Start a smoothie shop on a high street unit

Office workers, students, gym-goers, shoppers and parents looking for a quick, healthier drink.

Price per drink, with upsells such as protein boosts and larger sizes. Profit depends on controlling fruit waste and keeping rent in proportion to sales.

• Customer service
• Food hygiene and cleanliness
• Costing and stock control
• Working fast at busy times

• Register as a food business with your local council, usually at least 28 days before opening (check with your council)
• Allergen rules: you must be able to tell customers about allergens in your drinks
• Check the lease, business rates and whether the unit has the right planning use for food sales
• Public liability insurance, plus employer's liability once you hire staff
• Fruit spoils quickly, so over-ordering eats into profit
• Sales can dip in colder months, so plan hot drinks or other options

Startup costs are typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on the unit, fit-out and equipment. These are estimates, so get quotes and check lease terms and business rates before you commit.

Monthly revenue is typically around £6,000 to £25,000, depending on location, opening hours and menu. That is revenue, not profit, and fruit waste and colder months can affect results. Expect at least around 40 hours a week.

Check with your local council about registering as a food business, usually at least 28 days before opening. Also check allergen rules, your lease, business rates, planning use for food sales, and insurance such as public liability.