Author: Tegan

Starting a Food Business from Home

14 December 2023

•

11 mins read

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Starting a home food business takes hard work and dedication, but there’s certainly a market for it. In recent years, the food industry has witnessed a significant shift towards home-based businesses. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the trend for home-based businesses in general, as shown by the 2023 research showing that 60% of new entrepreneurs started running a business during lockdown.

Since 2020, food delivery services have become more popular than ever, with home-based food businesses offering something a little different from the mainstream, along with a perception of extra love and care going into the cooking and preparation. If you have a passion for food, the desire for flexibility, or the dream of becoming your own boss, starting a food business from home can be hugely rewarding, if you can make it a success.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the essential steps for how to start a UK food business at home, from building your brand through to costs and marketing.

How to start a food business from home

Whether you’re a skilled baker, a culinary artist, or a master of preserving, everyone has to start from somewhere when setting up on their own. Before you start a food business from home, it’s good to know these crucial steps for founding your business, building a brand, and fulfilling your legal requirements.

Define your niche

Identify your speciality or niche. Are you passionate about baking, preserving, cooking, or making artisanal products like sauces or condiments? Your niche will determine your product range and target market. What will your unique selling point be, which will set you apart from other businesses?

If you’re wondering what food sells best from home, take a look at businesses in your local area that have been running for a while. Ask around and take opinion polls, starting with friends and family. After all, they’ll be most likely to support you and spread the word, particularly in the early days as you get off the ground. You can also think about what you enjoy and what you’re passionate about creating. Ideas that bore you aren’t likely to keep you going through long hours and quieter periods, when you need to keep your enthusiasm and commitment going.

Legal requirements

Here are the stipulations you’re expected to comply with by law when starting a food business from home in the UK:

Food Hygiene and Safety:

Comply with food safety laws. Register with your local council, and make sure your food preparation area meets hygiene standards. Complete a Level 2 Food Hygiene course, if required. You don’t need a food hygiene rating to sell food at home, but the knowledge will be useful as you grow professionally.

Food Business Registration:

To sell food directly to consumers, you must register your business with the Food Standards Agency (FSA). If you plan to sell through a third-party retailer, such as a local store, the retailer must be registered.

Home Business Regulations:

Check with your local council regarding any zoning restrictions or licensing requirements related to starting a food business from home. Different areas may have varying regulations. In any case, you do need a licence to sell home-cooked food.

Insurance

Consider business insurance to protect yourself and your customers in case of accidents or product-related issues. Public liability insurance and product liability insurance are common types to explore. You may also want to consider cover for your equipment and stock. Exploring a specialist catering insurance could be the best options to ensure you’re fully protected.

Labelling and packaging

Your product labels should include other details like ingredients, use-by dates, and storage instructions. Consider sustainable and eco-friendly packaging options to reduce your environmental impact.

If your products contain any of the 14 allergens specified by the Food Standards Agency, food labelling regulations require you to clearly and accurately provide this information to customers.

The allergens are as follows:

Celery
Cereals containing gluten (such as wheat, barley and oats)
Crustaceans (such as prawns, crabs and lobsters)
Eggs
Fish
Lupin
Milk
Molluscs (such as mussels and oysters)
Mustard
Peanuts
Sesame
Soybeans
Sulphur dioxide and Sulphites (at a concentration of more than ten parts per million)
Tree nuts (such as almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts and brazil nuts)

Start-up costs

The initial costs of launching a food business from home can vary significantly, depending on the scale and complexity of your operation. Here’s a breakdown of potential expenses.

Kitchen equipment

Invest in the necessary kitchen equipment, which may include ovens, cookware, utensils, food processors, refrigerators, freezers, and specialised tools related to your niche.

Ingredients and supplies

Purchase high-quality ingredients and supplies that will make a big difference to your food products, thereby helping your chances of success. Keep a detailed inventory to manage costs effectively.

Food safety and hygiene supplies

Maintaining a hygienic workspace is essential, so stock up on cleaning supplies, such as sanitisers, gloves, aprons, and containers for food storage.

Business registration and licensing

Budget for registration and licensing fees, which may vary depending on your location and the type of food business you’re running.

Marketing and branding

Allocate spend to developing a professional website, logo design, packaging materials, and any marketing campaigns. This investment is crucial for building your brand and attracting customers, so it can pay off, in the long run, to hire freelance support to fill any skills gaps you have.

Transportation and delivery

If your business involves delivering products to customers, you may need a reliable vehicle or courier service. Fuel, maintenance, and transportation costs should be considered.

Essential materials and tools

The materials and tools you require depend on the type of food business you’re starting. Here’s a list of some common items you may need:

Cooking and baking equipment:

Oven
Hob
Cookware (pots, pans)
Baking pans and sheets
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Knives and cutting boards
Food processors or blenders

Refrigeration and Storage:

Refrigerator
Freezer
Food storage containers (airtight)
Shelving units
Labelling materials

Utensils and tools:

Whisks, spatulas, and ladles
Rolling pins
Thermometers (oven and food)
Pastry brushes
Scales

Packaging materials:

Food-safe packaging (jars, bags, boxes)
Labels and stickers
Sealing equipment (if applicable)
Eco-friendly packaging options

Cleaning supplies:

Sanitisers and disinfectants
Dish soap and brushes
Dish towels and cloths
Cleaning equipment (mop, broom)

Safety and hygiene:

Gloves
Aprons
Hairnets or hats
First-aid kit

Marketing and branding:

Professional website
Logo and branding materials
Business cards
Packaging design

Marketing and promotion

A well-planned marketing strategy is vital to the success of your home-based food business. It creates awareness, attracts customers, and establishes credibility in a crowded marketplace. You could have the best food product in the world, but if you aren’t promoting it effectively, chances are not many people will spend their hard-earned money on it. It’s all about communicating the unique value of your products, keeping them front of mind and building trust with the people you want to buy from you.

In the digital age, a well-executed marketing plan can be mastered pretty quickly, with plenty of tools and platforms at your disposal. Here are the most effective strategies to invest your time in.

A professional website

It’s worth spending money on a well-designed home for your business. However, that’s not to say you can’t do it yourself. If you have fairly basic design and web skills, you may just need to budget for a Squarespace subscription, for example. Your site will need to showcase your products well, provide contact information, and have functionality for online orders or enquiries. Populate it with high-quality photographs of your food and interesting articles. Link through to your social pages so that you can build a following and grow your community.

Social media presence

Leverage social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to create visually appealing and informative posts, featuring videos and photos of your products. Engage with your audience, respond to comments, and use relevant hashtags. Follow other food businesses for inspiration and to encourage support.

Local SEO

Optimise your website for local search by including location-specific keywords and phrases. Register your business on Google My Business to enhance local visibility, provide customers with relevant information such as opening hours and contact details, and showcase reviews.

Food delivery apps

If your business model allows for it, consider partnering with food delivery apps like UberEats or Deliveroo. Having a presence on these hugely popular platforms can significantly expand your reach and customer base.

Collaborations

Collaborate with local businesses, cafes, or markets to feature your products. Building partnerships can increase exposure and sales, introducing your products to new audiences while establishing you as part of the community. It also creates a sense of shared success which can be great for morale and makes customers want to be involved too.

Attend food fairs and events

Participate in local markets or food fairs to showcase your products and interact with potential customers. These events offer excellent networking opportunities.

Email marketing

Email marketing allows direct communication with customers. It’s a cost-effective way to drive sales, build loyalty, and reach a targeted audience interested in what you offer. Personalised emails in particular will strengthen customer relationships and make sure your brand is remembered, rather than getting lost among online noise. Build an email list and send regular newsletters with product updates, promotions, and relevant content. Personalise your messages and maintain a consistent schedule.

Customer reviews and testimonials

Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews on your website, social media pages, or on platforms like TripAdvisor. Positive reviews can boost your credibility and attract new customers, as people like to take recommendations and see social proof before they buy.

Packaging and branding

A strong brand identity conveys professionalism and builds trust, so invest in eye-catching branding materials like packaging, flyers, leaflets, menus and business cards. Well-designed packaging not only protects your products, it leaves a memorable impression on customers and has been proven to keep them coming back. This enhances product visibility, attracts customers, and fosters brand recognition in a competitive market.

Quality and consistency

Quality and consistency are the cornerstones of a successful business. They build trust, ensuring that customers receive reliable, superior products or services every time. Repeatedly delivering in this way will result in positive word-of-mouth recommendations, which can be your most powerful marketing tool. Give customers something to get excited about with your products and treat them with care too, to reinforce your brand’s reputation, foster loyalty, and encourage repeat business. It sets a standard of excellence that distinguishes your business in the marketplace, leading to long-term success.

Seasonal and themed promotions

Create special promotions or themed product ranges for seasonal occasions or events, catering to changing customer interests and occasions. Limited-time offers can generate a sense of excitement and urgency, driving sales and customer engagement by encouraging people to buy more quickly so that they don’t miss out.

Get catering insurance with Protectivity

Catering insurance for home food businesses is essential. It offers peace of mind and safeguards your business from unexpected financial liabilities, providing protection in case of accidents, foodborne illnesses, or product-related issues.

Protectivity’s speciality Catering Insurance offers Public Liability cover, designed to give you protection in the event of injury or property damage to a client or member of the public. There’s also Employers’ Liability for anyone looking after a team or employing subcontractors, which includes cover for illness or injury. You can opt for the Products Liability Insurance extension too, which protects you against claims over third-party products.

Get an instant quote to suit the needs of your business. If you’ve any questions, our team are on hand to help.

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How to Get Started as a Handyman

7 December 2023

•

12 mins read

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If you have strong practical skills and are good with people, a career as a handyman (also referred to as a handyperson), could be for you. You can enjoy independence in your professional life, as well as variety in your work environments and the people you meet. Handymen work in settings such as people’s homes, workplaces, schools, hospitals or other public buildings.

The entry route to becoming a handyman is fairly straightforward, with the potential for a good income if you grow your entrepreneurial abilities and continue building your business. By gaining plenty of hands-on experience and continuously expanding your skills, you can enjoy a fulfilling career.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to become a handyman, covering qualifications, responsibilities, potential earnings and progression opportunities.

How in demand are handymen?

Research in the last few years has shown that handymen work an average of 10 hours per day to fulfil the high demand for work. The demand for handymen in the UK can be influenced by various factors such as economic conditions, population growth, and the housing market. The demand for specific services may vary based on location.

In today’s busy lifestyle DIY tasks are often outsourced with people having a lack of time or inclination to focus on them – that’s where a handyman can come in.

Main clients

With no shortage of work available, starting up might be sounding good, but knowing who your customers are will help to promote your services. These are a selection of your clientele.

Homeowners

Around a third of the UK population own their own homes, and homeowners often require maintenance and repair work.

Many properties in the UK are older and may require regular maintenance and renovations, creating a steady demand for handyman services.

Busy lifestyles

Households with multiple full-time workers often have the need to hire handymen for tasks they don’t have the time or expertise to handle.

DIY limitations:

While DIY is popular, some tasks are beyond the skill level or time constraints of homeowners, prompting them to seek professional help.

Landlords

Around a fifth of the UK are private renters. Landlords and property managers often require maintenance and repairs for rental properties, contributing to the demand for handymen.

Home improvement trends

Homeowners investing in home improvements and renovations contribute to the demand for skilled professionals.

Qualifications and experience

Unlike many professions, becoming a handyman doesn’t require a formal education. However, gaining relevant qualifications and offering particular services can enhance your skills and marketability. Consider specialising and pursuing courses in carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and general maintenance.

Vocational qualifications, such as a City and Guilds diploma in Maintenance Operations or Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) cards, may be required depending on your job, which you can add to your CV to boost your credibility.

Hands-on experience is the most crucial element to bringing in a steady amount of work. Apprenticeships, volunteering schemes, or assisting an experienced handyman can give you valuable insights and help you refine your skills.

What does a handyperson do?

Here are some of the typical responsibilities you can expect to carry out as a handyman.

Minor repairs and maintenance

You can expect to handle a range of general practical tasks as part of your day-to-day. You might be fixing leaky taps, repairing broken doors or installing shelves. You could also be putting up curtain rails, fitting smoke alarms or assembling furniture.

Plumbing and electrical work

Basic plumbing repairs fall within a handyman’s scope too. These could include unblocking sinks or dealing with leaks. Simple electrical tasks, such as fixing small appliances and installing thermostats and doorbells, can also be part of your duties.

More complex issues will likely fall under the remit of professionals, who are more specialised in these areas.

Painting and decorating

Handymen also carry out basic painting and decorating tasks. You might be working on areas such as walls, window frames, furniture and doors. These could be inside or outside buildings.

Roofing

Another area you can offer services in is roofing. This could include cleaning up, repairing or repainting roofs, on the interior and exterior, as well as applying insulation, replacing any fixtures and improving structural components.

Gardening work

You can also base your services outside of the home, with this kind of work particularly in demand over the spring and summer months. Handymen services in the garden can include mowing grass, erecting and painting sheds, clearing out debris and jet-washing driveways.

Tiling and flooring

Installing or repairing tiles and flooring is a common responsibility too. This kind of work may involve measuring floor spaces, applying adhesive, cutting, laying and sealing tiles and other flooring materials.

Window fitting

You could base your business around installing or fixing windows, replacing panels and frames, and attending to smashed glass.

Customer service

If you work for yourself, interacting with clients, understanding their needs, and providing excellent customer service are essential aspects of the job. This could mean answering emails and calls, outreaching for new clients over the phone or online, or making door-to-door sales calls.

Required skills for a handyman

Becoming a handyman requires a diverse set of skills to effectively address the varied tasks and challenges involved. By honing these skills, you can increase your chances of success by providing a quality service.

The best way to learn these skills is to work closely with other tradesman or take a course to improve your knowledge.

If you want to know how to become a handyman, read more about the most important skills you’ll need.

Technical skills

The practical and technical skills you may need include:

Carpentry – A proficiency in woodworking for tasks like furniture repair, door installation, and building shelves.

Plumbing – Basic knowledge of plumbing systems to fix leaks, install faucets, and address common plumbing issues.

Electrical work – Understanding of basic electrical systems for tasks such as installing light fixtures, outlets, and switches.

Painting and decorating – Skill in painting walls, ceilings, and trim, as well as basic knowledge of decorating techniques.

Problem-solving skills

It will greatly benefit you to be able to apply analytical thinking and to be able to quickly identify practical solutions to problems. You’ll also need to be adaptable, being able to apply yourself to various different tasks and unexpected challenges on the job.

Communication and interpersonal skills

Strong communication skills will help you to understand your customer’s requirements, explain your work processes and negotiate contracts. A customer-centric approach is essential, as you’ll need to make sure they’re satisfied with your work. Happy clients are key to building a strong reputation, encouraging word-of-mouth recommendations and securing good reviews.

You’ll need to work well in a team too. Whether you work for someone else and divide your daily duties with colleagues, or you manage people and have responsibility for others’ livelihoods, it’s critical that you can talk to teams, managers or employees effectively, pass on instructions and feedback, and hear what others have to say.

You may also regularly interact with suppliers, fellow industry professionals and other third parties. You’ll need to cultivate good working relationships with people from all walks of life, at all levels of seniority.

Manual dexterity

Hand-eye coordination is highly important. You’ll need precise control and coordination for tasks such as using tools, handling materials, and performing intricate work.

Organisation and time management

You should be able to plan and prioritise tasks efficiently to complete jobs within deadlines, which is one of the most important parts of your job. If you can carry out good work in a shorter timeframe than other professionals, this can give you an edge over competitors. It can allow you to increase your prices as you become more efficient over time. You could also give the option for a shorter turnaround at a higher fee.

Effective time management skills will also help you to handle multiple tasks in different locations when you are balancing projects for a range of different clients.

Physical fitness

Strength and stamina are also an important asset in this work. The job can be physically demanding, so being in good physical condition is important for tasks that involve lifting, carrying, and working in various positions.

Attention to detail

Precision is everything when it comes to making clients happy. Paying attention to detail ensures that your work is completed to a high standard and meets customer expectations. One minor lapse in concentration, or a failure to check over your work, could be the difference between a good review and a bad one, or even a refusal to pay.

Knowledge of tools and equipment

Tool proficiency is important too. You’ll need to be familiar with a variety of tools and equipment used for different tasks, from basic hand tools to power tools.

You’ll need to have the right kit to be a handyman, so make sure you have a reliable set of tools, ladders, protective clothing and, ideally, a van. Depending on the work you do, you may require and need to be comfortable using painting supplies, electric drills, spirit levels, circular saws and tape measures. You can protect your tools with our specialist tools insurance for tradespeople.

Safety awareness

Health and safety is paramount as a handyman. You’ll have to adhere to safety regulations and protocols at all times, to prevent accidents and injuries on the job. This isn’t only for your own protection, but that of your clients and anyone you employ. This also means protecting yourself financially with the right insurance, in case an incident occurs and a lawsuit is brought against you.

Business skills (if self-employed)

Entrepreneurial skills are highly valuable, especially if you work for yourself and want to grow your business. Understanding basic business principles, including budgeting, pricing, and marketing, is essential for self-employment.

If you do go self-employed, you’ll need to register with HMRC and make sure you file and pay your taxes before each annual deadline.

Progression opportunities

You can either start out as a handyman working for a construction company in a team, or working for yourself. However you enter the industry, over time you can start to develop your services and reputation to for more financial and job security.

Here are a few ways you can progress as a handyperson:

Specialisation – As you gain experience, you can choose to specialise in certain areas such as plumbing, electrical work, or carpentry, expanding your expertise and potential income.

Entrepreneurship – Experienced handypeople often start their own businesses, offering a wider range of services and managing a team.

Further education – You could opt to take up additional training in specific trades, enhancing your qualifications and marketability. Acquiring relevant qualifications will help you to market yourself and set yourself apart from the competition.

Networking – Building a strong professional network can help you secure partnerships, collaborations, and a greater number of job opportunities.

Earning potential of a handyman

Handyperson earnings can vary based on experience, location, and the services you offer. However, the average salary is between £19,000 and £42,000. As you grow your experience and portfolio, you can expect to earn at the higher end of the scale.

The average self-employed handyman hourly rate in the UK is around £30, though many have a minimum call-out fee to make the job worth their while. Specialised skills or emergency call-outs may command higher rates.

When you start out, the hourly rate will usually be lower. If you work for yourself, it’s up to you to increase your income over time and bring in your worth as your career develops.

Starting out as a handyman

Starting a handyman business can be a rewarding and profitable venture, but it’s important to get the basics right. This 10-point checklist covers the key steps to help you set up, stay legal, and grow your business successfully.

Learn the Trade – Gain experience in basic skills like plumbing, carpentry, painting, and electrics. Online courses or apprenticeships can help.
Get Certified – While not always required, having qualifications (e.g., NVQ in maintenance operations) can boost credibility.
Register as Self-Employed – Notify HMRC if you’re working for yourself to stay legal and handle tax properly.
Get Insurance – Public liability insurance protects you in case of accidents or damage.
Invest in Tools & Transport – A reliable van and quality tools are essential for professional work.
Set Your Rates – Research local handyman rates to price your services competitively.
Market Yourself – Use social media, local directories, and business cards to attract customers.
Join Trade Platforms – Websites like Checkatrade, Rated People, or MyBuilder can help you find work.
Network & Get Reviews – Word-of-mouth and positive customer feedback are key to growing your business.
Stay Legal & Organised – Keep records of income, expenses, and jobs for tax purposes.

Get Tradesman Insurance with Protectivity

Being a handyman comes with certain hazards, as with any trade. Starting a company also has elements of risk, as you navigate finances, build a customer base, try to deliver good work and establish your reputation. Therefore, protecting your business is important if you want to make a success of it.

Protectivity’s tradesman insurance has been created to help protect your handyman business from typical risks you might face. Our policies include public liability up to £5 million as standard; you then have the option to add Contractor Works cover, Plant and Tools cover, financial loss and employee tools (only if you’ve included the other benefits). You can also insure your tools from as little as £8.98 a month with our new tools insurance offering.

Find out more about our liability insurance for tradesman get an instant quote designed for your needs. If you need any help, our experienced team are on hand to help.

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15:55:04 GMT • 29 January 2025

Christmas Craft Ideas to Sell

5 December 2023

•

8 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

If you’re looking to make extra money or diversify your business around the festive season, why not make or stock Christmas crafts to sell? Whether you offer them at fairs, online or in an existing store, it can be both profitable and fun to help people gift their loved ones or fill their homes with the warmth and charm of Christmas. Whether you’re an experienced artisan or dipping your toe into getting crafty, there’s undoubtedly always a market for Yuletide creations.

Once you’ve decided to share and spread joy through your creativity, you’ll want to settle on your niche or narrow down your products. If you’ve been to Christmas markets or fairs before, you’ll know there are many different things you can sell, aimed at a range of demographics. Whether you specialise in cards, woodwork, ornaments, or other festive crafts, you can tap into different audiences on various platforms and channels, for a successful seasonal business.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best Christmas craft ideas to sell, with advice on current trends and how to approach the festive market.

Is it better to source or make Christmas crafts to sell?

Before you do anything, you’ll need to decide whether to source existing products or make Christmas crafts to sell. This depends on various factors, including your skills, resources, and business goals. Designing and producing your own crafts gives you the option of making unique, personalised products that reflect your creativity. This can set you apart in the market and build a brand identity. However, it will require time, effort, and a certain level of proficiency in craftsmanship. Aside from the business benefits, it’s also, of course, about whether you enjoy the making in and of itself.

The benefit of sourcing existing crafts is that it lets you be more efficient with your time. You can offer a bigger range of products and have more hours in the day for other aspects of your business, such as marketing. This is a good option if you lack specific crafting skills, while also giving you the opportunity to bulk price collections, potentially increasing profit margins.

Research market demand, competition, and your target audience. Handcrafted items often appeal to consumers seeking one-of-a-kind pieces, while sourced goods might cater to those looking for convenience and variety.

You might want to go for a hybrid approach, crafting signature pieces while supplementing your offering with sourced items. Striking this balance lets you increase your product range and appeal to a broader customer base, maximising your potential in the market. Regularly assessing customer preferences and market trends will guide your strategy for long-term success.

What crafts can I make and sell for Christmas?

There are numerous Christmas crafts you can make and sell, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. The popularity of different items can vary from year to year. Anything personalised can add a touch more emotional connection and make people feel special.

Here are some ideas for Christmas crafts to sell at craft fairs, in stores or on online marketplaces.

Homemade Christmas cards

If you want something straightforward to produce yourself, cards are easy Christmas crafts to make and sell. Handcrafted Christmas cards are timeless yet still elevate this long-held tradition, with the huge rise of digital designs in recent years. This means unique and personalised designs offer a nostalgic point of difference.

Consider using traditional festive symbols or incorporating popular Christmas themes. Experiment with different techniques such as embossing, calligraphy, or incorporating small ornaments into the card design. Start early to ensure you have enough stock for the rush. Selling customisable options lets people add a personal touch.

Wooden ornaments

Woodwork crafts add a rustic, charming touch to tree decorations or rooms in the home. If you’re planning to make and sell wooden Christmas crafts, you could include classic holiday shapes like stars, snowflakes, reindeer or Christmas trees. Alternatively, you might want to sell gifts that can be used throughout the year, such as jewellery boxes and planters.

If you’re environmentally minded, give some thought to using or sourcing reclaimed wood for an eco-friendly twist. Whatever materials you opt for, they can be set apart with intricate details, painting or wood burning. Bundle your ornaments into themed sets to encourage customers to purchase multiple pieces, or personalise them with names and dates for a sentimental touch. Crafters’ platforms like Etsy are great for these kinds of products.

Festive wreaths

Wreaths are a staple in Christmas decor, so beautifully crafted designs help to set people’s homes apart for everyone to see. Experiment with different materials such as pine cones, berries, and ribbons. Offer a variety of sizes and styles to cater to different tastes.

You could also host wreath-making workshops to engage with your local community. Create a strong online presence through social media and a dedicated website to showcase your designs, while remembering traditional marketing to reach people offline, such as posters in local shops or cafes.

Personalised stockings

Add a personal touch to another Christmas tradition by creating bespoke, handmade stockings. Experiment with different fabrics, textures, and embellishments. Personalised stockings with names or monograms to make them extra special.

Offer a range of sizes and designs aimed at different preferences and age groups. You could also collaborate with local retailers or online marketplaces to expand your reach. You can sell stockings in sets with other festive items, such as candles to put around them on the mantlepiece, for a complete holiday package.

Candles and scented crafts

People love to bring evocative seasonal scents into their homes. Help them create that cosy Christmas ambience that’s so coveted this time of year, with handmade candles and scented crafts. Experiment with festive scents like cinnamon, pine, or gingerbread. Package candles in Christmas-themed containers, or create decorative wax melts for a unique twist.

There’s also the option to create gift sets with coordinating scents and candle sizes. Invest in striking packaging to elevate your products.

For inspiration on starting a candle making business read our short guide.

What are good craft show ideas?

Consumer tastes are ever-evolving, so you’ll have the best chance of success if you latch onto current ideas that bear the modern market in mind. Stay informed on emerging trends and tailor your craft range accordingly.

This year, you might want to consider something that falls within these areas:

Sustainable crafts: Give purpose to your brand identity by creating sustainable crafts that minimise environmental impact. Emphasise eco-friendly, recycled materials and practices in your designs, reducing waste and educating people on how to protect the planet. An ever-increasing percentage of customers specifically seek out globally conscious retailers, so it makes good business sense. From upcycled ornaments to reusable wrapping paper, your creations can inspire others to embrace a more sustainable approach to holiday celebrations.
Interactive workshops: Take your craft show experience a step further by offering live demonstrations or workshops, to engage attendees in hands-on creativity. From personalised ornament crafting to holiday wreath making, these workshops create an energised atmosphere, letting you connect with your audience. Sparking creativity and making lasting memories of your craft show booth provides an immersive experience that goes beyond shopping.
Tech-integrated crafts: Transform traditional crafts with a tech-savvy twist by embracing augmented reality (AR), LED lights, or interactive elements. Seamlessly integrating technology into your creations gives a modern and innovative take on classic designs. From illuminated ornaments to interactive digital displays, captivate audiences with crafts that bridge the gap between tradition and cutting-edge technology.
Personalised experiences: Allow buyers to customise their products, so they can take away something bespoke. You can let them do this in person at a fair, show or in-store. Alternatively, you can give people the option to go away and personalise items online after selecting their purchase from you, so that they have extra time to create something they love.
Collaborative exhibits: Partner with other crafters for joint displays or interactive projects. Create a dynamic craft show experience by fostering collaboration with other artisans. Collaborative exhibits bring together diverse talents, resulting in interactive and visually stunning displays. From joint workshops to shared projects, these exhibits encourage a sense of community, providing attendees with a unique and enriching artistic experience that transcends individual creations.

Get Crafters Insurance with Protectivity

One of the core considerations of any commerce business should be getting the right insurance. It’s no different when it comes to crafts, as you’ll want to protect yourself and your products for professional longevity.

Protectivity’s Crafters Insurance is designed to give protection from customer or third-party claims, with Product Liability Insurance for the event of accidental damage to someone else. You can also opt for Craft Fair Insurance, specifically created for stallholders.

Find out more and get an instant quote tailored to the needs of your business. Get in touch if you have any queries at all.

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How to Start a Painter and Decorator Business?

30 November 2023

•

11 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

Get painters and decorators insurance from Protectivity

Starting a painter and decorator business can be a rewarding venture if you have the skills and passion. It requires time and effort, but there are plenty of opportunities out there to bring in work if you remain committed. You can enjoy the freedom and flexibility of being your own boss and get to flex your creative skills, while meeting a wide range of people.

If you love the idea of running your own company, setting your own schedule and the variety of constantly changing working environments, the profession certainly gives you all of this. You’ll need to take a sustained approach to building a client base and reputation, as patience and consistency are key. Of course, it all starts with offering a high-quality service. However, there’s so much more to building a successful business that will give you an attractive income.

In this guide, we’ll talk you through how to become a painter and decorator, with advice on the kind of money you could earn and ways to eventually grow your business.

Do painters and decorators make good money?

Painters and decorators can earn a good living from their trade. You can work on ways to increase your earnings over time. For example, you could research the most profitable areas to specialise in, charge higher rates with experience, and focus only on your local area to keep travel costs down.

It’s well worth knowing what kind of income you could make from your profession before you decide how to market your business and how you’ll source customers. If you’re wondering how much self-employed painters and decorators earn, you can consult government resources and trade websites for a good indication.

However, as a rough guide, sole traders can earn around £37 an hour, £296 a day, or £54,576 a year, on average. This increases if you set up a limited company, to an average of around £48 an hour, £384 a day, or £70,802 a year; factor in the additional costs from this figure, such as corporation tax. If you employ staff, your outgoings will also include their wages.

Build your business with a methodical approach

Here is a step-by-step guide to how to start painting and decorating for a living. If you already work in this profession for an existing company, you can follow these tips to find out how to set up on your own.

Review your current skills and qualifications

You don’t need to be qualified to be a painter and decorator, but you will need to demonstrate your experience. The first thing you’ll want to do is make sure you have the necessary skills and knowledge in painting and decorating.

If you don’t have any past work under your belt yet, consider taking courses or gaining experience through apprenticeships. Maybe you could take on work for an established painter and decorator before you become self-employed, to give you some stability of income and learn from someone else as you hone your talents.

Decide what kind of services you will offer

Knowing your strengths is key. You can either choose to do more of the type of jobs you love, find out what is likely to be most profitable for you, or understand what type of jobs are most likely to be available in your area.

Here are some examples of painting and decorating services you can specialise in:

Basic painting
Painting with effects (e.g. marbling)
Traditional finishes
Wallpapering (including other materials such as vinyl)
Minor repairs
Carpentry
Tiling
Flooring

Decide who your ideal customer will be

There are a range of ways you can approach this, so you don’t have to rely on guesswork to find out the best way to secure a steady stream of work. Once you know what you’ll offer, you can research your ideal customer base and assess your competition.

Will you offer your services to commercial or residential clients? What type of buildings have the most potential to bring you business and a healthy fee? Find out how many other people are offering those services, and look at what kind of buildings are in your area. If you focus on working in your own region, you can develop a strong local reputation.

Create a solid business plan

A well-thought-out business plan is essential. It will give you a clearer understanding of how you will approach building a company and securing work, while helping you secure financing if needed. At the very minimum, it should outline the following:

Your short-term and long-term business goals
Associated costs, e.g. any requirement investment, training, vehicle, materials and tools
Your specific services
Your target market
Your pricing strategy
A marketing plan outline
Financial projections

Register your business correctly

When establishing what you need to be a self-employed painter and decorator, registering your business is one of the most important first steps. Ascertain the appropriate legal structure for your business (either a sole trader or limited company) and register it with the government. Obtain any required permits or licenses for your area. There are advantages and disadvantages to both, but when starting out it may be more likely that you’ll meet the requirements of a sole trading company.

As a sole trader, you’ll be able to keep everything you earn after tax. You can register as a limited company when your income is over a certain threshold, which could give you more credibility. Some bigger clients may only do business with limited companies.

Invest in the right equipment and supplies

Purchase the necessary painting and decorating equipment and supplies. This includes brushes, rollers, ladders, drop cloths, paint, and wallpaper. Aim to invest more in items where the materials need to be high-quality, which will help you deliver a professional service. For anything that can be bought at a lower price without compromising the results, make sure you shop around for the best value.

Determine your pricing and how you want to be paid

Be intentional with how you will price your services. You can do your research to find out how much others charge, but also consider factors such as the cost of materials, labour, overheads, and your desired profit margin. Use your business plan projection as a guide, looking at how much you’ll need to earn each month in order to meet your desired annual income. Decide on payment terms and methods, including whether you will require upfront deposits.

Start marketing your business online and offline

Develop a detailed marketing strategy that will help you to attract clients through various channels. At the very least, you should create a professional website, set up social media profiles, create business cards and flyers, and network with local real estate agents, builders, and interior designers. Find out what networking events are in your area, and join local and national business federations which encourage referrals between members.

Continously add to your portfolio

Showcase your work through a portfolio of completed projects, which can sit on a dedicated page within your website. You could also post regular updates on sites such as LinkedIn and Facebook to keep people informed on your latest work, encourage conversation about your services and generate enquiries.

Include before-and-after photos to demonstrate your skills and the quality of your work. This portfolio will be a valuable tool when meeting potential clients, as they can easily see what you do rather than taking your word for it.

Familiarise yourself with estimating and bidding

Learn how to provide estimates for projects. This is a useful alternative to giving quotes, as they can’t be changed if the work ends up taking longer or incurring unexpected costs. This can leave you out of pocket and doesn’t establish you as a professional who’s being paid what they deserve, which can diminish the respect people have for your business.

Be transparent with clients about the scope of work, costs, and timelines. Providing detailed and competitive bids can help you win contracts.

Create a reliable template for client contracts

Always have a written contract in place before starting any project. The contract should outline the scope of work, timelines, payment terms, and any other relevant details. This helps protect both you and your clients, giving you both a clear vision of what to expect and what the finished outcome will look like.

Contracts serve the purpose of letting clients know exactly what they’re getting in return for their investment and minimising the chance of any disputes around payments or delivery dates further down the line.

Create a thorough accounting system

Set up a system to manage your finances, including tracking income and expenses, invoicing clients, and paying taxes. Consider hiring an accountant if you need support in this area. If you have the know-how and confidence to take care of your own finances, you can use accounting software to help you stay organised. Read our blog on Accounting tips for small businesses.

Develop your knowledge of safety and regulations

Make sure you are highly knowledgeable about safety regulations and best practices in your industry. Anyone you hire will also need to know these inside out, in order to follow guidelines and prevent accidents. You’ll need to comply with workplace health and safety regulations, as well as exercising fire safety. Pay attention to areas such as the use of equipment, protective clothing, and processes for reporting accidents.

Always provide high-quality customer service

Never underestimate the importance of excellent customer service for your reputation. Satisfied customers are more likely to give you good reviews, which you should always ask for as standard practice. Ask on completion of the work whether they’d be willing to give you a positive review, and include it in your follow-up emails. You could even offer future discounts in exchange for reviews.

People like to get recommendations for painters and decorators, so if you’ve built trust with customers and impressed them with your quality of work, they’ll talk about you and refer you to anyone and everyone, from friends to family and colleagues. Securing repeat customers should also be a priority when it comes to your business strategy, so the happier clients are, the more likely they’ll return to you for future projects.

Grow your business when the time is right

Your marketing plan should incorporate ways to keep scaling your business, so that you can increase your earnings year on year and become an established name in your sector. Once you’re bringing in a steady stream of work and developing a good reputation, you may get more word-of-mouth referrals, but it pays to avoid complacency. As you experiment with new ways to bring in work, you’ll increase the likelihood of scalability, rather than simply aiming for consistent work.

As you start to increase the scale of your work, you can take on additional painters or decorators. Expanding your team means you’re well-resourced to take on bigger projects, which you could charge higher fees for, and reach out to a greater number of potential customers.

Get Painter and Decorator Insurance with Protectivity

Running a professional painting and decorating company needn’t be made more difficult by worrying about claims against your business. While you focus on doing great work that keeps clients happy, liability insurance gives you reassuring financial support in the event that third parties take you to court, employees become poorly or have an accident while working.

Whether someone suffers an injury, illness or damage to property, Protectivity’s Painter and Decorator Insurance gives you a range of options for protecting your reputation and finances, with your chosen limit. Our Public Liability option protects you in the event you are sued by clients or members of the public, while Employers’ Liability includes claims from staff and subcontractors. You can also protect your tools and equipment with our new tools insurance offering.

Our insurance for tradesman is trusted by thousands. Our helpful team are on hand to support you with any queries.

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22:03:45 GMT • 22 January 2025

A Practical Guide to Selling Crafts Online

28 November 2023

•

11 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

If you’re wondering how to sell your crafts online, it’s certainly feasible, with a low barrier to entry. You can start whenever you’re ready, with little more than a suitable home workspace and a few supplies. The sooner you start honing your skills, the better, so you can start to establish your place in the market. Of course, further down the line you can create a business plan, define your branding and find out the most effective marketing channels for your audience.

If you’re wondering how to sell arts and crafts online, read our extensive guide for everything you need to know.

Decide on a product

Before you even think about how to sell handmade crafts online, you have to come up with a product worth putting out there. You’ll want to create high-quality crafts, which have something unique to offer but are also in demand. You can make anything from handmade jewellery and home decor to digital prints and knitwear.

Before you start designing or constructing anything, consider your skills, interests, and target market. Do your research, read trade publications, consult Google search results, browse seller sites and research hashtags on social media. Once you’ve identified on-trend products and settled on an idea, check out what similar crafts are selling for and get to know what kind of competition is out there. See how much existing products are selling for.

After you’ve found your idea, you’ll naturally be excited to start offering it to the world. It’s important that you take your time with the creation stage when you start, however, rather than rushing something out. Make sure your products are durable and meet the expectations of your target audience.

Create your brand

In order to create a strong brand, you’ll need to understand your ideal customers, including their preferences and pain points. Tailor your brand to resonate with this specific demographic. Share the story of your craft business in emails, blogs, the about page of your website (if you have one) and social posts. Explain why you started, what inspires you, and how your crafts are made. Customers often connect more with a brand that has a compelling, emotionally-driven narrative.

Of course, you’ll need to decide what to call it. Choosing a name for your craft business is crucial as it represents your brand identity. Consider combining words that evoke creativity, craftsmanship, and uniqueness. Try alliteration, rhyming, or wordplay to make it catchy, although you don’t want to go too humorous unless it’s on-brand. If you’d rather have an aspirational brand, you can keep the name in line with a more premium feel. It will need to be easy to spell and pronounce, as well as having an available website domain. Keep it relatively short to make it easily memorable. Take your time to brainstorm and seek feedback from friends and family to make sure your chosen name resonates with your vision and target audience.

You’ll also need to design a logo, or hire a professional creative to design one, which reflects your brand style and establishes a visual identity you’re happy with. A well-crafted logo is a powerful tool to leave a lasting impression on your customers. Start by reflecting on your product’s essence and your company values. Use colours, fonts, and imagery that convey creativity, handmade quality, and uniqueness. Simplicity is key, as a clutter-free design is more memorable. Incorporate craft-related elements, such as tools, materials, or your signature product. Sketch ideas, create mood boards and seek inspiration from other craft businesses. Your logo should be versatile, working well on various online platforms and offline materials.

Create branded materials such as business cards, packaging, labels, and thank-you notes. These should carry your logo and branding elements. Choose a colour palette and fonts that align with your brand’s personality. They should be consistent across everything your brand is associated with.

Invest in good product photography. This is crucial for your craft business because it can significantly impact how your products are perceived by potential customers. Use natural light, high-resolution images, and multiple angles to showcase your crafts. The better your photos, the more likely you’ll make sales. Use a clean, uncluttered background that doesn’t distract from the product. A plain backdrop, seamless paper roll, or props that enhance the product can work well. Position the product centrally or off-centre, depending on the composition you prefer.

What is the best website to sell crafts?

The question of which platform/s you’ll make your products available on is highly important when deciding how to sell crafts online in the UK. In addition to your own website, there are a range of online marketplaces you can choose from.

Here’s an overview of online platforms for selling crafts:

Etsy: Etsy is still the biggest marketplace for handmade products, with over 88.3 million buyers last year. It also has low seller fees.

Not on the High Street: NOTHS is renowned for handmade crafts, making it a go-to destination for people searching for unique gifts.

Amazon: There’s vast potential from this retail giant serving millions of customers, with a dedicated platform, Amazon Handmade.

Ebay: With hundreds of millions of monthly visits, Ebay is user-friendly for listing your products and offers useful selling tools.

Facebook Marketplace: if you want to know how to sell crafts online for free, this is a the only platform that doesn’t charge. You can sell to people within 100 miles.

Shopify: With a customisable online store featuring thousands of apps to make use of, you can sell as much as you like when you set up your own site on Shopify.

How to start selling crafts online

Once you’re ready to sell online, these are some of the key areas to bear in mind:

Pricing: Calculate your costs by working out the total of materials, labour, shipping, and platform fees (once you know where you’ll sell), then adding a reasonable profit margin. You’ll need to strike a balance between offering customers a competitive price and charging your worth.

Copywriting: Write copy for the different touchpoints your brand will sit on, such as transaction pages, social media, emails and your own website, if you’ll have one at this stage. Decide on the tone of voice you want to use when addressing your customer. Write detailed and appealing product titles, descriptions and articles, highlighting the unique features and benefits of your crafts.

Shipping: Determine your shipping methods and rates. Your items will need to be securely packaged to prevent damage during transit. Offer tracking and delivery confirmation if possible.

Payment processing: Set up secure and convenient payment options for your customers. PayPal, credit cards, and buy-now-pay-later options like Klarna and Clearpay are popular payment methods to consider.

Customer service: Provide excellent customer service. Respond promptly to inquiries, address issues professionally, and maintain a good reputation for your business. This will keep customers coming back and encourage them to recommend you to others.

Legal and tax considerations: You’ll need to comply with local laws and regulations for online businesses, paying attention to your tax obligations. You might need to register your business, get a resale licence, or collect sales tax in certain cases. Consult with a legal or financial professional if necessary, as this could save you money and avoid costly issues.

Organising your business operations

Good organisation and clear processes, even if you’re working alone from home and aren’t creating vast amounts of product yet, will help you to run your craft business effectively. If you have these in place from the start, you’ll have the right mindset for continuing to grow and be ready for the challenge. Here are some tips to help you manage your day-to-day operations:

Organise your workspace: Keep your craft supplies and finished products in dedicated areas, making use of different containers and having a methodical filing system for orders, invoices and other paperwork. Label and categorise materials for easy access.

Set up an inventory system: Establish a tracking system to record the quantity and details of each item. You can use straightforward spreadsheets or more sophisticated inventory management software.

Monitor stock levels: Regularly check your inventory levels. Set reordering points for materials to ensure you order more before you run out. This helps prevent backorders and production delays.

Prioritise fast-moving items: Pay special attention to crafts that sell quickly or seasonally. Keep more of these items in stock to meet customer demand.

Batch or create in small batches: Consider making crafts in small batches, rather than producing in large quantities. This allows you to adjust your production based on sales trends and reduce the risk of overstocking.

Manage lead times: Be aware of lead times for your materials. Some materials may have longer lead times or require international shipping. Plan your orders accordingly.

Safety stock: Maintain a safety stock level for your most essential materials. This extra buffer helps prevent shortages in case of unexpected high demand or delays in supply.

Use technology: Consider using inventory management software to streamline your processes. These tools can automate reordering, track sales trends, and provide real-time inventory data.

How to make money selling crafts online

If you’re wondering whether selling crafts online is profitable, the answer is that it can be if you approach it in the right way. Of course, you need to start with a good product, but even then, there are no guarantees and you have to work hard to promote it. Rather than there being a magic formula for how to make money selling crafts online, it takes a little experimentation, an open mind and a willingness to adapt and try new ways of selling your wares.

Finding success can therefore be a gradual process, as it takes time and effort to build a strong brand and a loyal customer base. Be open to refining your strategies as you gain experience. Here are some of the most important tactics that will help you to increase your online income from selling crafts:

Marketing: Try using social media, email marketing, and paid advertising to promote your crafts. See what works best for you so that you can assess where it’s worth investing your time. Engage with your target audience, share your creative process, and build a community around your brand.

Search engine optimisation (SEO): Use relevant keywords for SEO, so that your customers can find you in Google when searching for terms related to your product.

Feedback and reviews: Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews. Positive testimonials build trust with potential buyers, as people like to see social proof before they commit to buying.

Nurture your business for long-term growth

Growing your business is a process that requires patience, adaptability and dedication. There are no guarantees for when it will start being profitable, as this is influenced by elements like market demand, product quality, and effective marketing. Many crafters start as a side hustle and gradually expand as they gain experience and a loyal customer base.

As your craft business grows, maintain a future-focused perspective and keep these tips in mind:

Price your products appropriately: this is crucial for the success of your business and as you grow, you can think about whether to increase your prices.

Harness your data: Analyse your sales data, customer feedback, and website analytics to identify areas for improvement.

Listen to customer feedback: Continuously improve your products and services based on the input of those who matter most.

Diversify your products: Consider expanding your product line to include related items, such as lifestyle products or accessories.

Network and collaborate: Broaden your reach by building relationships with other crafters, artisans, retailers, and potential collaborators.

Commit to ongoing learning: Keep up with industry trends and developments to stay competitive.

Get Crafters Insurance with Protectivity

Protecting your wares is made much easier with specialist craft insurance. Whether you’re an online seller or heading out to craft fairs, it makes sense to be as prepared as possible for any kind of incident.

Find out more and get an instant quote tailored to the needs of your business. Get in touch if you have any queries at all.

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How to Get a 5-star Food Hygiene Rating

21 November 2023

•

11 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

Get catering insurance from Protectivity

The UK Food Hygiene Rating System (FHRS) is a valuable tool for both consumers and food businesses, created by the Food Standards Agency (FSA). It promotes transparency, encourages food safety compliance, and helps people make informed decisions about where to eat or purchase food. Businesses have to maintain high standards to achieve and retain a 5-star rating, which is the ultimate mark of excellence in food hygiene and safety.

If you’re wondering how to get a 5-star food hygiene rating, look no further. Here are some tips and advice to help you achieve and sustain a high rating.

What does a 5-star hygiene rating mean?

A 5-star hygiene rating is the highest possible rating a catering business can achieve under the FHRS. Here’s what it means for catering businesses in the UK.

Excellent food hygiene and safety

A 5-star rating indicates that the catering business has demonstrated very good food hygiene and safety standards during a thorough inspection, conducted by local authority environmental health officers. It is a clear sign that the establishment has done as much as possible to provide safe and hygienic food to its customers, in a clean environment.

Full compliance with food safety regulations

Businesses with a 5-star rating have shown full compliance with food safety regulations and best practices. This includes maintaining high standards in food handling, preparation, storage, and serving, as well as the cleanliness and maintenance of the premises.

Strong management of food safety

Achieving a 5-star rating reflects a high level of competence and confidence in the management of food safety within the business. This includes proper record-keeping, staff training, and a commitment to maintaining rigorous food safety practices.

Reduced health risks

For customers, a 5-star rating offers reassurance that your catering business poses minimal health risks. Foodborne illnesses and other food-related health issues are less likely to occur in food outlets with such a high rating.

Increased customer trust

A 5-star rating is a powerful marketing tool, as it can build trust and confidence among potential customers. It demonstrates that your business takes food safety seriously and values people’s wellbeing.

A competitive advantage

In a highly competitive market, a 5-star rating sets your catering business apart from competitors. It can attract more customers, boost repeat business, and enhance your professional reputation.

Compliance with the law

Displaying a 5-star rating is not just a matter of prestige; it’s a legal requirement in England and Northern Ireland. Businesses are obliged to display their ratings prominently, making them clearly visible and accessible to the public. If you’re awarded a rating in the highest end of the scale, you are doing everything possible to follow the law.

There is a slight difference for online food businesses, who still have to comply with legal regulations but aren’t obliged to display their ratings.

Continuous commitment

Maintaining a 5-star rating is an ongoing commitment, so you can’t rest on your laurels. Inspections will take place as frequently as every six months for some businesses deemed high-risk; they could be every few years for others. Businesses must therefore consistently adhere to high food hygiene and safety standards, as ratings can change with subsequent inspections.

Even if you are inspected less regularly, you will still want to do everything possible to keep customers happy and of course, avoid being reported to authorities for low hygiene standards or health incidents. Regular self-audits, staff training, and vigilant management are necessary to sustain this top rating.

Understanding the system and processes

Familiarise yourself with the food hygiene rating system, so that you know what you need to do to create a healthy business that also has the best chance of a healthy bottom line. Here’s some key information about the FHRS requirements and how the process works.

Who is rated

The FHRS scheme covers various types of food businesses, including restaurants, cafes, takeaways, pubs, food retailers, and more. It applies to businesses in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Scotland has a similar scheme called the Food Hygiene Information Scheme (FHIS).

The rating scale

The FHRS uses a scale from 0 to 5, with 5 being the highest rating (very good) and 0 being the lowest (urgent improvement necessary). The ratings are based on the following criteria:

Hygiene standards

Structural compliance (cleanliness, layout, lighting, and ventilation)

Confidence in management (record-keeping, training, and management of food safety)

Inspection process

Local authority environmental health officers conduct inspections of food businesses to assess their compliance with food safety regulations. These inspections are unannounced, and the frequency may vary depending on the type of business, its history, and the perceived level of risk.

Displaying ratings

Food businesses in England and Northern Ireland, with physical premises, are required by law to display their FHRS rating prominently, such as on windows or doors, and at their entry points. In Wales, it is encouraged but not mandatory.

Appeals and re-inspections

If a business disagrees with its rating, it has the right to appeal the decision. Additionally, food businesses that receive a low rating can request a re-inspection after making necessary improvements. Re-inspections allow for the possibility of a better rating.

Access to ratings

Consumers can easily access food hygiene ratings online or through mobile apps, making it convenient to check the rating of a food establishment before dining or buying food. The ratings are also available on the official Food Standards Agency (FSA) website.

Improvement notices and closures

In cases where a business is rated very poorly (0 or 1), local authorities may issue improvement notices or, in extreme cases, close the business if there is an imminent risk to public health. The business can only reopen after addressing the issues identified during the inspection.

Does it cost to get a food hygiene rating?

There is no direct cost associated with receiving a Food Hygiene Rating as part of the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme (FHRS). Local authorities carry out inspections and issue ratings to food businesses as part of their statutory responsibilities for food safety. These inspections are typically funded by local government budgets and taxpayers’ money.

It is intended to be a transparent and objective assessment of the establishment’s food safety practices, made available to the public to inform their dining choices. However, investing in food safety and hygiene practices is an essential part of running a responsible and reputable food business.

Additionally, there are some potential indirect costs that a food business may incur as part of the process of getting a good food hygiene rating:

Staff training – Food businesses may need to invest in staff training to ensure that employees are knowledgeable about food safety and hygiene practices. While this is not a direct cost associated with the rating itself, it is an essential part of maintaining a good rating.
Improvement costs – If your food business receives a low rating (e.g., 0 or 1) and you want to improve it, you may need to invest in necessary improvements to meet food safety standards. These costs can include repairs, equipment upgrades, or changes in procedures.
Re-inspection costs – After making improvements following a low rating, businesses can request a re-inspection to potentially improve the rating. While this is not a direct fee, there may be costs associated with implementing changes and preparing for the re-inspection.
Training materials – You may choose to purchase food safety training materials for your business, or hire trainers to help educate your staff.

How to get a 5-star food hygiene rating

Getting and maintaining a 5-star food hygiene rating is essential for protecting both your customers and your company’s success. Being awarded this rating is an ongoing process requiring dedication, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to food safety. It’s not about reaching an end goal and then relaxing. You’ll have to regularly review and update your practices throughout the life of your business, ensuring the safety and satisfaction of your customers.

Here are the general steps you’ll need to take.

The quality and uniqueness of your crafts play a significant role in your success. Customers will pay more for well-made, unique, and attractive items, so make your products stand out in terms of design and craftsmanship.

Training and education

When it comes to how to get a food hygiene rating you’re proud of, education is vital. It’s not just you who’ll need to be aware of the system’s requirements, but your team too. Ensure that all your staff members receive appropriate food safety training and certification. This includes knowledge of food hygiene, food handling, and the safe preparation of food. Regularly update and refresh this training to stay current with best practices.

Implement a food safety management system

Develop and maintain a robust food safety management system based on Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) principles. This system, called an HACCP plan, should identify potential hazards and establish control measures to mitigate them.

Here’s an overview of the steps you’ll need to take in an HACCP plan:

Clearly define your offering and its intended use, with any specific characteristics that may impact food safety.
Address biological, chemical, and physical risks.
Determine critical control points (CCPs), which are points in the process where control can be applied to prevent, eliminate, or reduce a hazard to an acceptable level.
Set specific limits to control hazards effectively.
Establish monitoring procedures to ensure compliance with critical limits and define corrective actions for deviations.
Implement thorough verification processes, maintaining meticulous records.
Regularly review and update the HACCP plan, and provide comprehensive training for all employees involved.

Maintain a clean and organised kitchen

Keep your kitchen and food preparation areas clean and well-organised. Regularly clean and sanitise all surfaces, equipment, and utensils. Use colour-coded equipment to prevent cross-contamination.

Personal hygiene

Enforce strict personal hygiene practices for your staff, including proper handwashing, wearing clean uniforms, using gloves when necessary, and not working when ill. Make sure employees know the importance of reporting illnesses.

Temperature control

Monitor and maintain proper temperature controls for food storage, preparation, and cooking. Regularly check and record temperatures, and discard any food that has been stored or cooked at incorrect temperatures.

Food labelling and storage

Ensure that all food items are labelled with their use-by or best-before dates. Store food items correctly to prevent cross-contamination, and arrange items in a way that allows for proper air circulation in refrigerators and freezers.

Allergen awareness

Be diligent in identifying and managing allergens in your menu items. Make sure your team is knowledgeable about allergens and can communicate them to customers accurately.

Pest control

Establish a pest control program to prevent and address any infestations. Regularly inspect your premises for signs of pests and take immediate action to resolve any issues.

Documenting and record-keeping

Maintain comprehensive records of your food safety practices, including temperature logs, cleaning schedules, staff training, and any incidents. This documentation can demonstrate your commitment to food safety during inspections.

Regular inspections and self-audits

Conduct regular self-audits and inspections to identify and correct any potential issues before an official inspection. Address any shortcomings immediately.

Continuous improvement

You’ll need to stay updated with food safety regulations and best practices. Consistently improve your food safety procedures, adapting to changing circumstances and customer demands.

Seek professional advice

Consider consulting with food safety experts or organisations that specialise in food safety and hygiene, for professional guidance and support that will be valuable to your success.

Get catering insurance with Protectivity

Protecting your business isn’t just about how to get a hygiene certificate. Beyond the five-star ratings, you can do even more to preserve the life of your company by taking out a suitable catering insurance policy.

Protectivity’s catering insurance is a specialist product designed to give you a range of options suited to your business needs. Our Public Liability cover will protect you against claims that may be brought against you, from accidental injury or damage to clients and belongings. You can also select Employers’ Liability Insurance, which will cover you up to the amount of £10m in compensation if your employees are injured while working. In addition, our Products Liability Insurance gives you protection against claims arising from third-party products or goods.

Read more about our catering insurance and get an online quote in minutes.

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How to Start a Candle Business

16 November 2023

•

11 mins read

Contributors

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Creating calm, atmospheric spaces is a common priority in modern home design, so candles are far more than just sources of light. The right candle can exude comfort, ambience, and style, serving as an extension of the existing decor in any room. This is why starting a candle-making business can be rewarding both creatively and financially.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to start a UK candle business, from selecting unique business names to designing exceptional products and creating effective packaging.

Shortlist candle business names

One of the first things you’ll want to do is come up with potential names for your candle business. If you want to make a strong first impression on new customers, it goes without saying that you should call your brand something catchy, unique, and memorable.

Here are some tips for brainstorming candle business names:

Reflect your brand personality: The name needs to mirror the essence of your candles and how you want buyers to feel. Think about the style, scent and brand mission of your product, as well as your target customer.

Check for availability: See which of your candle business name ideas are available. If the one you really like is already in use by another business, you might still be able to use it if they haven’t registered a trademark. If the company hasn’t done the latter but is well-known, that could change things, as you’ll struggle to make yourself known in your own right. If they have registered it, you would be committing trademark infringement to use the same name, so consider alternatives like using a different spelling.

Domain name availability: Securing relevant domain names for your candle business is a smart move. Even if you’re not sure whether you’ll use them, it avoids somebody else registering them for their business at some point in the future. If this happens, it can impact the potential customers you’re able to attract through website traffic.

Test it out: Share your candle business name ideas with friends and family to gauge their reactions. You can gain valuable feedback this way, potentially raising issues or selling points you hadn’t previously considered.

Create your business plan

A well-thought-out business plan is a blueprint for your company. It provides a comprehensive overview for investors and helps you clarify your vision, serving as a roadmap to guide you in the various stages of growing your company. It should outline your short-term and long-term goals and help you to identify potential challenges, among other details.

Key components of your business plan need to include:

Business description: Explain the nature and purpose of your candle business.

Market research: Show analysis of your target market, competitors, and customer preferences.

Start-up and operating costs: Estimate your expenses and explain how you plan to fund your business.

Marketing strategy: Detail your plans for promoting and selling your candles.

Financial projections: Create a financial forecast, including income, expenses, and profitability.

Calculate your start-up costs

Starting a candle business, like any other venture, requires an initial investment. This can vary widely based on factors like scale, quality and the materials you use. On average, you can expect to invest anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand pounds in supplies, equipment, and marketing efforts in the first year.

It’s essential to have a detailed understanding of your start-up costs to ensure that your business has the best chance of hitting the ground running. These expenses typically include:

Candle-making supplies: Wax, wicks, fragrance oils, dyes, moulds, and other essential materials.

Equipment: Candle-making equipment like melting pots, thermometers, and pouring pitchers.

Packaging and labelling: Jars, containers, labels, and packaging materials.

Business registration: Costs associated with registering your business and obtaining necessary licenses.

Marketing and promotion: Budget for marketing materials, website development, and advertising.

Set up your workspace

Creating a functional, organised workspace is crucial for producing high-quality candles. Whether you’re working from home or a dedicated studio, think about the following:

Safety: Create appropriate ventilation, follow fire safety measures, and use personal protective equipment. Never leave candles unattended while burning, and keep flammable materials away from your workspace.

Organisation: Arrange your supplies, tools, and equipment in an orderly manner to enhance your efficiency as you work.

Ergonomics: Choose comfortable seating and appropriate workstations to reduce strain over extended periods of work.

Source your candle-making supplies

The success of your candles largely depends on the materials you use. It’s essential to source high-quality supplies for products that stand out in the market and burn consistently, which is important for customer satisfaction. You can find candle-making supplies in specialised online stores, local craft shops, and wholesale suppliers. Research and compare prices, quality, and shipping options to choose the best suppliers for your needs.

Wax: Options include paraffin, soy, beeswax, and palm wax. Each of these has unique properties and benefits, so do your research.

Wicks: Purchase wicks in your desired size and material, to match your brand aesthetic and identity. If you’re taking a sustainable approach, you can opt for eco-friendly varieties.

Fragrance oils and dyes: Select scents and colours that align with your brand and target audience. Again, you can choose options that fit a green business model, such as vegan-friendly oils.

Moulds and containers: You can have a lot of fun with this one to inject plenty of personality into your brand. Opt for a variety of shapes and sizes to diversify your product range.

Hone your candle-making skills

Creating exquisite candles is at the heart of your business. The more you learn and practise, the more confident you’ll become. To excel in this craft, you’ll need to:

Learn different techniques: Spend time mastering methods for various types of designs, such as container candles, pillar candles, and taper candles.

Practice consistently: Like any skill, practice makes perfect when it comes to candle-making. Experiment with different materials and techniques to refine your talents.

Follow protocols: Make sure you’re fully informed on how to avoid accidents and personal injury when working with hot wax and open flames.

Design unique candle styles

Setting your candle business apart from the competition largely comes down to the unique designs and styles you offer. They need to both echo your brand and resonate with your market.

Some design considerations include:

Colour palette: Experiment with various colours and combinations to create visually appealing candles. You can go for on-trend hues, stick to classic neutrals or use seasonal colour themes.

Fragrance selection: Offer a diverse range of scents that cater to the preferences of your customers. If it’s something you love, it’s a good sign that others will like it – but again, it’ll be valuable to get others’ opinions too.

Decorative elements: Get creative and incorporate decorative elements like dried flowers, glitter, or unique textures.

Personalisation: An easy way to expand your range and broaden your income sources is by offering the option of customised candles for gifts and special occasions.

Create an eye-catching logo

A visually appealing logo is essential for building brand identity and recognition. You can either do this yourself or outsource your logo design to a professional, which is a worthwhile business expense if you want to grab people’s attention from the start.

Simplicity: A simple, clean design is often more memorable. It also makes it easier to use on different types of packaging and marketing collateral.

Colour psychology: Choose a colour/s that makes sense for your brand name and fits the style of your candles.

Originality: It’s of paramount importance that your logo is unique and doesn’t infringe on others’ trademarks. You also don’t want to be confused with any other brands or you lose your identity.

Versatility: Your logo should look good across different offline and online platforms and channels, from business cards to social media profiles.

Choose the right packaging

Packaging is not just about protecting your candles; it’s also a vital element of branding and can elevate your product. The right packaging makes a powerful first impression, enhances your customers’ unboxing experience and conveys the quality of your candles.

Consider the following packaging options:

Container type: Select containers that match your candle style and are heat resistant, whether you choose jars, tins, or other creative options.

Labelling: You’ll want your labels to provide various pieces of essential information, while visually showcasing your brand’s visual identity. Besides the name, this should include ingredients, instructions for use and your brand ethos.

Sustainability: If possible, invest in eco-friendly packaging materials to avoid a harmful global impact. This also makes great business sense, as more and more of today’s consumers place importance on reducing their carbon footprint.

Branding consistency: Your packaging needs to act as an extension of your brand image and messaging.

Know the legal consideration

Starting a candle business in the UK involves various legal and regulatory requirements, so these are essential to understand. You can consult with legal and financial professionals to ensure that you meet all the legalities for your candle business, but it’s good to be aware of what they may include:

Business structure: Do your research and decide on the legal structure of your business, whether it’s a sole proprietorship, LLC (Limited Liability Company), or corporation.

Permits and licensing: Get a business licence and look into your local authority’s requirements for candle-selling permits.

Product safety: You’ll need to be compliant with business health and safety regulations and standards, adhering to local and national laws.

Taxes: Understand your tax obligations as a business owner and keep accurate financial records.

Market your candle business

Effective marketing is key to attracting customers and growing your candle business. It’s an ongoing effort that helps you to connect with people, engage in an ongoing conversation and get them excited about your offering.

Consider these strategies:

Create a website: Build your online presence with a professional site that showcases your candles and brand. There are plenty of website-building platforms with easy-to-use interfaces, that allow even beginners to create something impressive.

Grow your social media following: Leverage platforms like Instagram, TikTok and Pinterest to share visually appealing candle photos, storytelling videos and other behind-the-scenes content.

Utilise content marketing: Write blogs, guides, and articles about candle care, home decor, and fragrances to suit every mood, to engage and educate your audience.

Use email marketing: Build a mailing list to inform customers about new products, promotions and content, collect feedback and run competitions. Emails are a good way of getting noticed by sitting in people’s inboxes, rather than having your message lost in online noise.

Try out different selling methods

The digital age has made it easier than ever to sell candles online. While it opens up a potentially global market for your products, it also requires a dedicated effort and careful attention to detail.

Here are some important points to think about in your planning:

E-commerce platforms: Choose an e-commerce platform like Shopify, WooCommerce, or Etsy to set up your online store.

Professional photography: High-quality product photos are essential for showcasing your candles.

SEO optimisation: Optimise your product listings by including keywords, to increase visibility in search engines.

Secure payment and shipping: Focus on smooth payment processing and reliable shipping methods.

Get Crafters Business Insurance with Protectivity

Growing any business takes a lot of focus and a positive mindset. This is why it’s crucial to safeguard your business with the right insurance, so that you can minimise any additional stress and give your full attention to making a success of your brand.

Protectivity’s Crafters Business Insurance is designed to protect you against the unexpected. It can cover you in cases of accidents, liability claims, or damage to your equipment and products. By securing your candle business with crafters insurance, you can do what you do best, creating beautiful candles, with peace of mind.

Find out more about our Crafters Business Insurance and get an instant quote to suit your needs.

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Successful Hairdressing Entrepreneurs

14 November 2023

•

8 mins read

Contributors

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Whether you’ve been hairdressing professionally for some time, or are just starting out with hair styling as a career, the leaders in the field are your natural role models. They started out at the bottom, just as everyone does, and they’ve all got their own fascinating stories to tell.

This blog showcases some of the most famous hairdressers and successful hair styling entrepreneurs the world has ever seen. We’ve picked out a selection of legends and pioneers past and present, from both sides of the Atlantic, giving you inspiration and insight on what’s needed to stand out and reach the very top of your profession.

Madam C. J. Walker

Madam C. J. Walker is widely regarded as the first self-made female millionaire in America. This fact is even more astounding given that she did so as an African-American in an era when the U.S. was still divided on racial lines in many walks of life.

Madam Walker built her success on the recognition that the characteristics of black people’s hair can differ significantly from other races, and many hair products on the market at the time could be harmful to African-Americans. She created different product formulations that were kinder to those characteristics, and went on to establish her own salon, factory and beauty school. Through the ‘Walker System’, nearly 20,000 women learned how to condition the scalp, promote better hair growth, and become hairdressing businesswomen in their own right.

Vidal Sassoon

If you’ve seen a photo of a famous actress from the 1950s and 60s, there’s a fair chance that you’ll be looking at a hairstyle devised by Vidal Sassoon. Having grown up in poverty in Shepherd’s Bush in London, he started as an apprentice hairdresser on the recommendation of his mother, and quickly developed a reputation for innovation.

The short, angular haircuts he provided from his London salon, which opened in 1954, became famous around the world, and he eventually moved to Los Angeles to become a stylist to the stars. Sassoon died in 2012 at the age of 84, but his legacy lives on through an extensive range of haircare products and accessories.

Charles Worthington

One of the most sought-after places at which to get a hairdressing appointment in London is at Charles Worthington’s luxurious facility in Covent Garden – and it’s easy to understand why. Along with his team of stylists, he’s been delivering eye-catching hair for models, musicians, film stars and TV personalities alike since the late 1980s. Jodie Kidd, Kim Cattrall and Diana Ross are just three of a long line of celebrities who have turned to Worthington for their styling, and his creativity has helped earn him an MBE. His team are also regularly used as the stylists in residence for the annual BAFTA awards.

John Frieda

Next time you work with a client who has particularly curly or frizzy hair, have a look at the label on the bottle of the product you use. More than likely, you’ll be using the Frizz-Ease that John Frieda invented, or one created off the back of it. He started out working at his father’s salon in London, and he quickly started moving in celebrity circles, being married to the singer Lulu for 14 years. He moved to New York in the late 1980s, and it was there that Frizz-Ease, developed in collaboration with Gail Federici, really took off. More than three decades later, his products are used all over the world, and he’s still working with A-listers today.

Jen Atkin

If you were to draw up a list of the most influential and popular hair stylists today, then there’s no doubt that Jen Atkin will be right up towards the top of it. Raised in a Mormon community in Utah, she moved to Los Angeles when she was 19 to follow her dreams for a hair and fashion career. Much of her success has been built by her pioneering use of Instagram (where she has 5.3 million followers at the time of writing) to showcase her creations and designs. This has helped her connect with leading stars and models such as Chrissy Teigen and the Kardashians, and become a major source of hair inspiration all over the world.

Nicky Clarke

Nicky Clarke is one of the most famous British hair stylists of modern times, and much like Vidal Sassoon before him, his is a real rags-to-riches story. Raised in a London council flat, he started his hair styling career when he was just 16 and built a strong reputation throughout the 1970s and 80s, including a salon partnership with John Frieda. He overcame a heroin addiction to eventually set up his own styling enterprise, which led to him becoming a TV celebrity himself and a regular fixture on various shows. His salon was badly hit by COVID-related restrictions and had to close in 2022, but his four decades of service to the industry have stood the test of time.

Ted Gibson

Many of today’s top stylists have come to prominence through appearances on TV reality shows, and Los Angeles-based Ted Gibson is a perfect example of that. If you watch What Not To Wear, then it’s his designs that you’ll be looking at!

His father was an army sergeant, which meant Texas-born Ted grew up on army bases all over the world, and he started out by going to barber school and then studying cosmetology. Working in New York as a stylist, he quickly gained a reputation for great work, as well as for discretion with the celebrity clients that he works with. Angelina Jolie and Anne Hathaway are just two of Ted’s satisfied customers, so it’s no wonder that he charges up to $2000 for a treatment today.

Antoine de Paris

If you’ve ever wondered who the world’s very first celebrity stylist was, then the answer is to be found in one of the most stylish cities on the planet: Paris.

Antoine de Paris was actually the name of his salon in the French capital: he was born in Poland under the name Antoni Cierplikowski. Many of his styles in the early years of the 20th century proved to be trend-setters in the city, and he became trusted by some of the most famous women of the time: Coco Chanel, Greta Garbo, Brigitte Bardot, Eleanor Roosevelt, and many more.

After the First World War, his bob cuts blazed a trail among wealthier young women of the time, and he opened a fashionable salon at Saks Fifth Avenue in New York in 1924. And one of his crowning glories (no pun intended!) came in 1937, when he supervised 400 coiffures in a single night ahead of the coronation of King George VI.

Get your hairdressing insurance from Protectivity

Every famous hairdresser listed here – and a whole lot more all over the world – have had to work hard to get to where they are today. As well as enjoying a lot of success, many will likely have had to overcome setbacks that you won’t necessarily read about in the media. Bouncing back from disappointment or times of difficulty is one of the most important parts of becoming successful in any line of business, and having good insurance cover in place is a major part of that.

At Protectivity, we provide wide-ranging hairdressing insurance cover for ambitious stylists just like you. If you accidentally injure someone during a styling or treatment; damage their property, or are sued for negligence, we can make sure you aren’t out of pocket. If you run a salon where you employ other people, we can also provide you with employer’s insurance, which is an important legal requirement.

Our hairdressing insurance starts at just a few pounds a month, making it a sound and affordable investment into your future career. Take a closer look at our policies today to find out more.

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How Much Does It Cost to Start a Craft Business?

9 November 2023

•

10 mins read

Contributors

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Starting a craft business is an exciting venture, allowing you to turn your creative passion into a source of income. Whether you’re skilled in knitting, jewellery making, woodworking, or any other craft, making a business of your hobby can be rewarding.

However, to ensure the success of your business, it’s crucial to understand the start-up costs for a craft business and the legal requirements. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the expenses involved, answer questions about licensing and business registration, and provide tips on how to get started.

What are the essential costs for a craft business?

Craft business start-up costs can vary based on the scale and nature of your company. However, here’s a general breakdown of key costs to be aware of.

Materials and supplies

The cost of materials and supplies is a significant expense for any craft business. The amount you spend will depend on the type of crafts you create. For example, if you’re into woodworking, you’ll need tools, lumber, and finishing materials. If you make jewellery, you’ll require beads, wires, and other components. It’s essential to budget for these materials, and it’s a good idea to buy in bulk to potentially reduce costs.

Equipment and tools

Crafting often requires specialised tools and equipment. This could include sewing machines, kilns, engraving machines, or 3D printers, among others. The cost of these tools can vary widely, so it’s important to research and invest in quality equipment that suits your craft.

Workspace

You may need to set up a dedicated workspace for your craft business. This could be a home studio or a rental workshop, depending on the scale of your operations. Factor in rent, furniture, utilities, and any renovations or improvements, to create an efficient working environment.

Marketing and promotion

To get your craft business off the ground, you’ll need to invest in marketing your brand. This could include creating a professional website, business cards, email marketing, offline promotional materials like brochures and posters, and attendance at craft fairs or markets. Social media promotion is also essential for reaching a broader audience, with options to put advertising spend behind your posts.

Business registration

There may be registration fees involved with starting your business. Additionally, licensing can carry costs, such as street trading or market stall licences. Read more about business registration later in the article.

Insurance

Craft businesses should consider business insurance, which may include public liability insurance, product liability insurance, and contents insurance for your workspace. These insurance policies are crucial for protecting your business in case of accidents, damage, or legal issues.

Packaging and shipping

If you plan to sell your crafts online or through mail orders, budget for packaging materials, shipping costs, and postage. Shipping can be a significant cost, so explore cost-effective options and consider passing on some of these costs to customers.

Photography and branding

High-quality product photography is crucial for showcasing your crafts online and in any printed materials. You may need to invest in a good camera and potentially hire a professional photographer. Developing a distinct brand identity also involves design and branding costs, which you could enlist a professional creative to help with.

Accounting and tax

Consider the cost of hiring an accountant or purchasing accounting software to manage your business finances. This is essential for keeping track of expenses and income and fulfilling tax obligations.

Storage and inventory

If you have a significant inventory of crafts, you’ll need storage space. Renting storage facilities or managing storage costs at home is an expense to factor in.

Travel and transport

If you plan to attend craft fairs, markets, or trade shows, you’ll incur travel and transport costs. This could include fuel, accommodation, and booth rental fees.

Contingency fund

It’s always wise to set aside a contingency fund for unexpected expenses or fluctuations in business income. This acts as a safety net to ensure your craft business can weather unforeseen challenges.

Do I need a licence to sell crafts in the UK?

One of the first questions that often arise when starting a craft business is whether you need a licence to sell your crafts. There isn’t a specific craft-selling licence in the UK, but you might require other licences, depending on your business and area.

Street trading licence

If you plan to sell your crafts on the streets or in public spaces, you may need a Street Trading Licence from your local council. The requirements and costs can vary between councils, so it’s essential to check with your local authority for details.

Market stall licence

If you intend to sell your crafts at markets, you might need a Market Stall Licence, which is usually issued by the event organisers or local authorities. This licence might come with a fee, which you can inquire about when applying to participate in a market.

Food and trading standards

If your crafts are considered food, or if you’re selling items that fall under specific trading standards, you might need to meet certain regulatory requirements and obtain relevant licences or permits. This is particularly relevant for crafts like handmade candles, cosmetics, or edible items.

Alcohol licensing

If your craft business involves selling products with alcohol content, such as hom

It’s important to note that if you’re operating from your home or an online platform, you may not need any specific licence related to crafts. However, you must ensure your crafts comply with safety standards and consumer protection regulations.

Do I need to register to sell crafts in the UK?

Whether or not you need to register your craft business with HMRC (Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs) depends on the scale and nature of your business.

It’s essential to consult with an accountant or a business advisor to determine the most suitable structure and tax implications for your business. Proper registration and tax compliance are crucial to avoid legal issues and financial penalties.

Sole trader registration

If you plan to run your craft business as a sole trader, which is the simplest and most common structure for small businesses, you’ll need to register as self-employed with HMRC. This registration is necessary if your craft business is your primary source of income. You’ll need to keep records of your income and expenses, and you may need to pay income tax and National Insurance.

Limited company registration

If you intend to operate your craft business as a limited liability company (LLC), you must register it with Companies House and inform HMRC. This structure offers more legal protection for your personal assets but comes with additional reporting and tax obligations.

VAT registration

If your craft business generates a significant income, you might also need to register for Value Added Tax (VAT) if your annual turnover exceeds the VAT threshold. This is subject to change but is typically over £85,000. VAT registration involves charging VAT on your products and submitting periodic VAT returns.

Can you make money from selling crafts in the UK?

Firstly, there is plenty of potential to make money from selling crafts. However, there are various factors to consider, such as the quality of your offering, your marketing efforts, and your business strategy. Find out in more detail how you’ll be able to earn more and cover your craft business start-up costs.

Craft quality

Market research

Conduct thorough market research to identify your target audience and competitors. Understand what sells well in the craft market and how you can differentiate your products.

Pricing strategy

Determine a competitive pricing strategy. Ensure that your prices cover your costs and provide a reasonable profit margin. Don’t undervalue your work, but be mindful of pricing yourself out of the market.

Sales channels

Consider where and how you want to sell your crafts. Options include craft fairs, markets, online marketplaces, your own website, and social media. Diversifying your sales channels can help reach a broader audience.

Marketing and branding

Invest time and effort in marketing and branding. Effective promotion on social media, craft forums, and local events can help you build a customer base. Creating a distinct brand identity will set you apart from competitors.

Financial planning

Develop a comprehensive business plan that includes a budget and financial projections. This will help you keep track of your expenses, income, and overall profitability.

Customer service

Providing excellent customer service and responding to customer feedback can help you build a loyal customer base and positive reviews, which can be crucial for your business’s success.

Legal considerations

Ensure that you are in compliance with all legal requirements, such as safety standards, licensing, and tax obligations. Non-compliance can lead to costly penalties and damage your business reputation.

Persistence

Building a successful craft business takes time. Be patient and willing to adapt your strategies as needed. Don’t be discouraged by initial challenges.

Networking

Connect with other crafters, attend craft-related events, and consider joining craft associations or online communities. Networking can provide valuable insights and support.

While it’s possible to make money from selling crafts in the UK, it’s important to have realistic expectations and be prepared for the challenges that come with running a business. Success often requires dedication, innovation, and the ability to adapt to changing market conditions.

How do I start a small craft business in the UK?

Starting a small craft business in the UK involves several important steps. Here’s an overview of how to get started:

Clarify your business idea: Identify your craft niche and products. Conduct market research to understand your target audience and competition.

Create a business plan: Create a detailed business plan, containing your goals, target market, marketing strategy, financial projections, budget and investment needs.

Register your business: Decide on the legal structure of your business (sole trader, limited company, etc.). Register it with the appropriate authorities.

Come up with a business name and branding: Choose a business name and check it’s not already in use. Develop a brand identity, including a logo and visual elements that represent your crafts.

Develop your product: Create or source the crafts you plan to sell. Ensure that your products meet safety standards and regulations.

Set your pricing: Determine your pricing strategy to cover costs and make a profit.

Get Crafters Insurance with Protectivity

There are things you can do to minimise the start-up costs for any craft business. This includes having the right craft insurance to cover you in the event that incidents may occur. This way, you can lessen the potential financial impact that could threaten your operation.

Protectivity’s Craft Insurance offers Public Liability cover, designed for accidental damage to customers or third parties, and Employers’ Liability, for any staff you may employ. Our Products Liability extension has been created for claims around third-party products, or opt for Equipment and Stock Cover for loss, damage or theft. We also offer Craft Fair Insurance, if you need cover for your equipment and supplies at one-off or short-term events.

Read more and get a personalised quote today. If you need help with anything, our friendly team can answer any queries you may have.

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