Usually when an individual wants to start up a new business, they know what they’re going to make, supply or offer as a service.  For example, anyone who enjoys baking and sharing cakes and other home cooked fare, will often be asked to supply batches for a function.   After two or three such events, they realise that this is something they like doing and they could make money out of it.    That’s the easy bit.  Getting going with a legally run bona fide business requires a bit more activity before the profis start to show.

The primary thing is to ensure you can afford the right equipment needed to make continuous supplies of a product.  You also need to know that your ingredient supply chain will remain accessible and reasonably priced so that you do make a profit.  Consideration should be given to whether the enthusiasm will continue on day after day after day.  Also, are there enough customers likely to be lining up for your services.

Once you have satisfied these intial personal queries, then your premises must be registered with your local council.  Then immediately look into and arrange appropriate home baking insurance.   Another legal point, often ignored in the rush to produce, is informing the landlord or mortgage lender;  it can sometimes be a matter of negotiation whether the company allows this activity.  Develop and maintain an online presence – get help with this profssionally to ensure you get the best possible opportunities to market your goods and services.  Get out and about your locality to introduce business and product information cards to the locality not forgetting the hotels.   Keep at least a basic track of all outgoings and resulting incomings.  Spreadsheets are best for this actvitity.