Spice exporter with a small packing unit

Overseas wholesalers, distributors, food manufacturers and shops that want smaller or private-label packs from a UK supplier.

You sell packed spices at a higher price than bulk buying cost. Repeat container or pallet orders and private-label packs add steadier income.

• Food hygiene and handling
• Stock control and organising
• Sales and relationship building
• Export paperwork

• Food business registration and inspections. Some export markets may also ask for extra approvals or certificates, so check
• Food labelling and allergen rules, both in the UK and the destination country
• Import rules, duties and pesticide or contaminant limits abroad
• Cash tied up in stock, and spoilage if spices are stored badly
• Product liability, public liability and stock insurance
• Payment risk with new overseas buyers

Startup costs are typically around £8,000 to £30,000, depending on unit rent, how much stock you buy, packing equipment and insurance. These are estimates, so get real quotes for your unit, spices and shipping before committing.

Monthly revenue is typically around £3,000 to £15,000, depending on the customers you win, order sizes and pack types. This is an estimate of revenue, not profit, and the work usually takes around 25 hours a week or more.

Check food business registration and inspections, plus any extra approvals or certificates export markets may ask for. Also check UK and destination food labelling and allergen rules, import rules, duties, contaminant limits, insurance, and payment risk with new buyers.