Local washing machine and dryer shop

Local households, landlords and letting agents, and people whose machine has broken and who need a replacement quickly and on a budget.

Margin on each appliance sold, plus charges for delivery, installation, removal of old machines and optional extended warranties. Reconditioned machines often earn a better margin than new ones.

• Selling and explaining options clearly
• Basic appliance knowledge
• Handling heavy items safely
• Stock and cash management

• Check the rules on taking back old appliances and registering as a retailer under the WEEE regulations
• Check whether you need waste carrier registration to collect and dispose of old machines
• Second-hand electrical goods should be safety tested, and consumer law on faulty goods and warranties applies, so check what you must offer
• Public liability and product liability insurance, plus stock and van cover
• Business rates and lease terms on premises, and storage space for bulky stock
• Check whether installation work needs any plumbing or electrical qualifications

Startup costs are typically around £8,000 to £35,000, depending on your premises, the amount of stock and whether you need a van. These are estimates. Bulky stock also needs storage space, so allow for that.

Monthly revenue is typically around £4,000 to £20,000, depending on your location, your mix of new and reconditioned machines and how many installations you handle. These are revenue estimates, not profit.

Check the WEEE regulations on taking back old appliances and retailer registration, and whether you need waste carrier registration. Also check safety testing of second-hand electrical goods, consumer law on faults and warranties, insurance, business rates, and any qualifications needed for installation.