Tool wholesaler with a small trade counter

Builders, joiners, plumbers, electricians, small contractors and independent shops in your area.

Margin on bulk-bought stock sold at trade prices, with extra from regular account customers, delivery charges and supplying small retailers.

• Sales and building trade relationships
• Stock control and buying
• Customer service at the counter
• Managing credit accounts

• Unit lease terms, business rates and whether the planning use suits trade counter sales, check with the landlord and council
• Cash tied up in stock and the risk of customers paying late on trade credit
• Product safety and marking rules for power tools, check with suppliers or Trading Standards
• Employer's liability insurance once you hire, plus public liability, stock and theft cover
• Manual handling and safe storage of heavy stock
• Competition from large trade chains, so focus on service, local delivery and range

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £20,000 to £80,000, depending on the unit, the range of stock you hold, and any delivery vehicle or counter fit-out you need.

Check the unit lease terms, business rates and whether the planning use suits trade counter sales, with the landlord and council. Also check power tool safety and marking rules, insurance, and manual handling and safe storage of heavy stock.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue of typically around £10,000 to £50,000, depending on your range, location and trade accounts. Late payment on trade credit can strain cash flow. The estimates assume at least around 35 hours a week.