Open a specialist soft drinks shop

Local shoppers, people buying gifts, home entertainers, plus cafés, bars and restaurants that want interesting mixers.

You buy from suppliers and wholesalers and sell at a mark-up. Extra income comes from gift boxes, multi-buy deals and regular orders from local cafés and bars.

• Choosing products people want
• Stock control and ordering
• Friendly customer service
• Basic bookkeeping

• Shop rent, business rates and fit-out costs, so check them before signing a lease
• Check with your local council about registering as a food business; you normally need to register at least 28 days before you start trading
• Check labelling and allergen rules for any products you pack yourself, such as gift sets
• Heavy stock and slow-selling lines can tie up cash, so start with a small range
• The Soft Drinks Industry Levy is paid by producers and importers, not shops, but suppliers may build it into their prices. If you plan to import drinks directly yourself, check with HMRC whether you would need to register for the levy

Startup costs are typically estimated at around £10,000 to £40,000, depending on the premises, fit-out and how much stock you buy. Check shop rent, business rates and fit-out costs before signing a lease, and consider starting with a small range.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £4,000 to £18,000, depending on location, range and whether you also supply local cafés and bars. Heavy or slow-selling stock can tie up cash, so watch your ordering.

Check with your local council about registering as a food business, which normally needs to be done at least 28 days before you start trading. Also check labelling and allergen rules for gift sets you pack yourself, and ask HMRC about the levy if you import drinks directly.