Start a custom business stationery workshop

Local companies, event organisers, schools, charities, independent shops and corporate gift buyers.

Charge per batch or per item based on quantity and finish, with repeat orders from regular customers and wholesale accounts.

• Production planning
• Design and print knowledge
• Selling to businesses
• Quality control

• Public liability and product liability insurance, plus employer's liability once you hire
• Check lease terms, business rates and whether the unit's permitted use suits light manufacturing
• Machinery safety, including guards, training and risk assessments
• Paper and ink prices can change, so build some margin into quotes
• Check any printing or paper recycling and waste rules that apply to you with your council

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around £8,000 to £40,000, depending on the trimming, binding, printing and finishing equipment you buy and the unit you take on. Treat this as a guide and get real quotes before committing.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £2,000 to £10,000, depending on how many business customers and retailers you win and the size of your print runs. Estimates suggest at least 30 hours a week, plus useful skills in production planning and selling to businesses.

Check public liability and product liability insurance, plus employer's liability once you hire. Also check your lease terms, business rates, whether the unit's permitted use suits light manufacturing, machinery safety, and any printing or paper recycling and waste rules with your council.