Fiberglass supply counter near boatyards

Boat builders and repair yards, auto body shops, contractors, insulation installers and walk-in DIY customers.

Markup on products sold at the counter and on regular trade accounts, plus delivery fees and cut-to-size services.

• Product knowledge of fiberglass and resin systems
• Building trade relationships and sales
• Stock control and basic bookkeeping

• Local business license and zoning for retail or warehouse use; check with your city or county
• Fire code, ventilation and storage rules for flammable resins and catalysts; check with your local fire marshal
• General liability and product liability insurance, plus workers' compensation once you hire
• Sales tax registration and resale certificates in your state
• Stock tied up in slow-moving products and the shelf life of resin; start with a tight range

Startup costs are typically around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on your premises, stock and equipment. These are estimates only, so consider starting with a tight range to avoid tying up cash in slow-moving products.

Monthly revenue is typically around $10,000 to $50,000, depending on your location, range and how many trade accounts you win. This is an estimate of revenue, not profit.

Check your local business license and zoning for retail or warehouse use with your city or county. Also check fire code, ventilation and storage rules for flammable resins with your local fire marshal, plus insurance, sales tax registration and resale certificates.