Starting a business in the UK presents a wealth of opportunities, thanks to its thriving economy, strong consumer demand, and access to government-backed support schemes.
Whether you’re a new entrepreneur or an experienced business owner, selecting the right business idea is crucial for long-term success.
This guide highlights 10 of the best business ideas in the UK for 2024 and beyond. Each idea is carefully chosen to align with market trends, consumer needs, and profitability potential. By the end of this blog, you’ll have a clear understanding of which business might be the perfect fit for you and how to get started.
Why Start a Business in the UK?
The UK is widely regarded as one of the most business-friendly countries in the world. Its strategic location, stable economy, and vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem make it a prime destination for startups and small business ventures.
Here are some of the key reasons why starting a business in the UK is an excellent choice:
- Government Support: The UK government offers several schemes to help small businesses get off the ground. The Startup Loans Scheme provides access to low-interest loans, while grants for specific industries are available to support innovation and growth.
- Growing Market Demand: The UK market is rapidly evolving, with rising demand for online services, sustainable products, and personalized experiences. Entrepreneurs who can tap into these trends are well-positioned for success.
- Diverse Consumer Base: The UK’s diverse and multicultural population creates opportunities in various industries, from technology and education to hospitality and wellness. Businesses that cater to specific cultural needs or lifestyle trends can thrive.
Quote: “The UK remains one of the best places to start a business due to its access to financial support, skilled talent, and a strong e-commerce market.” – Business Growth UK Report 2024
Top 10 Best Business to Start in UK
Below are ten of the best business ideas that are in high demand in the UK. These ideas align with emerging trends and offer strong potential for long-term profitability.
1. E-Commerce Store (Online Retail Business)
The e-commerce industry in the UK is booming, with more consumers choosing to shop online than ever before. From fashion and electronics to niche handmade crafts, e-commerce stores cater to every possible interest and need.
According to Statista, UK e-commerce sales are projected to continue growing year on year, making it one of the most lucrative business models available.
Why Start an E-Commerce Store?
An e-commerce store offers several advantages:
- Low Startup Costs: Unlike physical stores, you don’t need to rent space or pay for utilities.
- Global Reach: Sell to customers across the UK or even globally.
- 24/7 Availability: Your store never closes, meaning you can make sales even while you sleep.
How to Start an E-Commerce Store?
| Step | Action | Description |
| 1 | Choose a Niche | Identify a market segment, such as eco-friendly products, fitness gear, or pet accessories. |
| 2 | Set Up a Website | Use platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce to create a professional online store. |
| 3 | Source Products | Find suppliers or create your own products. This could be handmade items or products from wholesale suppliers. |
| 4 | Marketing and SEO | Use SEO, content marketing, and social media to attract customers. Implement paid advertising for quick traffic. |
Earnings Potential
- Start-Up Cost: £500 – £2,000 (depends on product sourcing, website development, and marketing).
- Profit Margins: 20% to 50% depending on the product category.
2. Digital Marketing Agency
As businesses shift to online operations, the demand for digital marketing services has skyrocketed. Digital marketing agencies help businesses improve online visibility, attract more customers, and increase sales.
Why Start a Digital Marketing Agency?
- High Demand: Every business, big or small, needs a strong online presence to succeed.
- Low Startup Costs: All you need is a laptop, internet connection, and marketing skills.
- Recurring Income: Many clients sign long-term contracts for SEO, social media management, and advertising services.
Services You Can Offer
- SEO (Search Engine Optimization)
- Social Media Management
- Content Creation (blog posts, infographics, and video marketing)
- PPC Advertising (Google Ads, Facebook Ads)
| Service | Skills Required | Earning Potential |
| SEO | On-page and off-page SEO | £30-£100/hour |
| Social Media Management | Content creation, scheduling | £25-£70/hour |
| PPC Advertising | Ad strategy, campaign setup | £50-£150/hour |
3. Sustainable Products Business
Sustainable products are in high demand as more consumers seek eco-friendly alternatives. From reusable bottles to biodegradable packaging, sustainable businesses are reshaping industries.
Why Start a Sustainable Products Business?
- Consumer Demand: Shoppers are increasingly opting for green products.
- High Profit Margins: Sustainable products often command premium prices.
- Social Impact: You’ll contribute to a greener planet, which also enhances your brand’s reputation.
Steps to Launch a Sustainable Products Business
- Select Products: Choose products like bamboo toothbrushes, reusable bags, or eco-friendly clothing.
- Find Suppliers: Partner with suppliers committed to ethical and sustainable practices.
- Certification: Use eco-certification to establish credibility.
- Marketing Strategy: Highlight your brand’s eco-friendly mission on your website and packaging.
4. Home-Based Consulting Services
If you have expertise in a specific field (like finance, HR, IT, or marketing), starting a home-based consulting business can be highly profitable. You’ll help companies and individuals solve specific problems.
Why Start a Consulting Business?
- Flexible Schedule: You control your work hours.
- Minimal Overheads: No need for a physical office space.
- High Earning Potential: Experienced consultants can charge £50-£500/hour.
| Consulting Type | Target Audience | Skills Required |
| HR Consulting | SMEs, startups | Recruitment, training |
| IT Consulting | Corporations, SMEs | Cybersecurity, IT support |
| Business Consulting | Startups, entrepreneurs | Market research, growth strategy |
5. Personalised Gifts and Crafts Business
Personalized gifts have surged in popularity, with customers wanting one-of-a-kind items for birthdays, weddings, and holidays.
Why Start a Personalized Gifts Business?
- High Demand: People love personalized gifts, especially for special occasions.
- Creative Expression: Showcase your creativity through custom-made products.
- Global Market: Sell through Etsy, Amazon Handmade, or your own website.
Popular Products:
- Engraved jewelry
- Custom mugs and T-shirts
- Personalized home decor
6. Subscription Box Business
Subscription boxes offer customers a monthly “unboxing” experience. From beauty boxes to snack kits, subscription businesses have become extremely popular.
How to Launch a Subscription Box Business?
- Select a Niche: Choose themes like snacks, skincare, or crafts.
- Source Products: Find suppliers or manufacturers.
- Launch Your Website: Use platforms like Cratejoy or Shopify.
- Market Your Brand: Use social media to generate subscribers.
| Category | Target Audience | Popular Products |
| Beauty Box | Women, beauty enthusiasts | Skincare, makeup, self-care items |
| Snack Box | Food lovers, gift buyers | Healthy snacks, international snacks |
| Hobby Box | DIYers, craft lovers | Arts, crafts, DIY kits |
7. Virtual Assistant Services
The rise of remote work has fueled the demand for Virtual Assistant (VA) services. Businesses, entrepreneurs, and executives now seek skilled professionals to handle administrative, technical, and creative tasks from remote locations.
By becoming a virtual assistant, you can tap into a growing industry with minimal startup costs and the potential for high earnings.
What Does a Virtual Assistant Do?
A Virtual Assistant (VA) performs various tasks that would traditionally be done by an in-house assistant. The difference is that VAs work remotely and are hired on a freelance, contract, or hourly basis. Businesses prefer VAs because they save costs on office space, equipment, and employee benefits.
Common Tasks Performed by Virtual Assistants
- Administrative Support: Email management, appointment scheduling, and file organization.
- Customer Service: Responding to customer queries, managing support tickets, and providing assistance.
- Content Management: Editing and uploading blog posts, managing content calendars, and SEO updates.
- Social Media Management: Posting, scheduling, and interacting with followers on social media platforms.
- Bookkeeping: Managing invoices, payments, and expense tracking.
How to Start a Virtual Assistant Business?
- Identify Your Niche: Decide which services you’ll offer (administration, social media, content creation, etc.).
- Set Your Rates: Most VAs in the UK charge £20-£50/hour, depending on their skills and experience.
- Market Your Services: Use platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and LinkedIn to find potential clients.
- Tools & Software: Invest in tools like Trello, Google Workspace, Slack, and Zoom for communication and task management.
Earning Potential
- Hourly Rate: £20-£50/hour
- Monthly Income: £1000 – £4000+ (depending on hours worked)
Pro Tip: Specializing in a high-demand area like social media management or bookkeeping can help you command higher rates.
8. Online Tutoring and Coaching
The online tutoring and coaching industry has exploded over the past few years, driven by increased demand for online learning.
With the shift to remote education, online tutoring has become an essential service for students and working professionals. If you have expertise in a particular subject or skill, you can turn that knowledge into a thriving online business.
What Can You Teach as an Online Tutor or Coach?
The possibilities for online tutoring and coaching are vast. You can teach both academic and non-academic subjects, as well as offer life coaching or career mentoring.
In-Demand Subjects for Online Tutoring
- Academic Subjects: Mathematics, English, Science, and foreign languages (like French, Spanish, and Mandarin).
- Technical Skills: Coding, data analytics, and software development.
- Personal Development: Soft skills such as leadership, public speaking, and communication.
- Exam Preparation: Help students prepare for standardized exams like GCSE, A-levels, and IELTS.
How to Start an Online Tutoring/Coaching Business
- Select Your Niche: Identify your area of expertise and target audience (students, professionals, or adults).
- Set Up Your Online Classroom: Use platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet for live classes.
- Create Course Materials: Design lesson plans, PDFs, and presentations.
- Set Your Rates: Charge per hour or offer packages (e.g., 10 sessions at a discounted rate).
- Find Students: Use platforms like Preply, Italki, Superprof, or promote your services on social media.
Earnings Potential
- Hourly Rate: £15-£60/hour (depending on the subject and experience)
- Monthly Income: £1000 – £5000 (based on hours and student base)
Pro Tip: Consider creating pre-recorded courses on platforms like Udemy or Teachable for passive income.
9. Health and Wellness Business
The health and wellness industry has seen enormous growth, driven by increased awareness of physical and mental well-being. As people seek healthier lifestyles, demand for wellness-related products and services has risen. From personal training to wellness retreats, the opportunities in this sector are endless.
Types of Health & Wellness Businesses to Start
1. Personal Training Business
- Offer one-on-one personal training, group fitness classes, or online fitness coaching.
- Use platforms like Zoom or create video workout sessions.
- Obtain certifications from organizations like CIMSPA or NASM to build credibility.
2. Wellness Retreats
- Organize wellness events or retreats focused on yoga, mental well-being, or holistic health.
- Retreats are often weekend getaways and can charge attendees £500 – £1000+ per person.
3. Online Health Coaching
- Offer virtual coaching on health, nutrition, and fitness.
- Provide tailored plans for weight loss, mental wellness, and healthy living.
4. Mental Health Support Services
- Offer support as a certified counselor or therapist.
- Use platforms like BetterHelp to offer teletherapy.
How to Start a Health & Wellness Business?
- Choose a Specialization: Decide if you want to focus on fitness, mental health, nutrition, or wellness retreats.
- Obtain Certifications: Get certified in areas like personal training, yoga instruction, or mental health counseling.
- Build Your Brand: Create a website, establish social media presence, and highlight testimonials from clients.
- Market Your Services: Use local directories, social media, and wellness platforms to get clients.
Earnings Potential
- Personal Trainer: £30-£80/hour (depending on experience and location)
- Wellness Retreats: Charge £500-£2000 per person for weekend wellness retreats.
- Online Health Coach: £50-£150/hour for personalized coaching.
10. Property Management Services
Property management is a booming business as real estate investors and landlords seek professionals to manage their rental properties. This business is especially profitable in cities with large rental markets like London, Manchester, and Birmingham.
What Do Property Managers Do?
Property managers act as intermediaries between landlords and tenants. Their responsibilities include ensuring properties are well-maintained, collecting rent, and dealing with tenant issues.
Key Tasks for Property Managers
- Tenant Management: Screening potential tenants, managing contracts, and handling disputes.
- Rent Collection: Collecting rent payments and following up on overdue payments.
- Property Maintenance: Coordinating with contractors for cleaning, repairs, and renovations.
- Legal Compliance: Ensuring that properties comply with UK property laws and safety regulations.
How to Start a Property Management Business?
- Learn the Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the UK’s Landlord and Tenant Act.
- Set Up Business Infrastructure: Obtain landlord management software like Arthur Online or Buildium.
- Create a Business Model: Decide whether you’ll charge a fixed fee or a percentage of rental income (typically 8-15%).
- Get Clients: Network with landlords, join local property investor groups, and advertise on property forums.
Revenue Potential
- Start-Up Costs: Low, mostly administrative expenses.
- Income Model: Charge landlords a percentage of rent (typically 8% – 15% of monthly rent).
- Example: If you manage a property with monthly rent of £1000, your fee (at 10%) would be £100/month.
| Number of Properties | Monthly Earnings (£) | Annual Earnings (£) |
| 10 Properties | £1000/month | £12,000/year |
| 20 Properties | £2000/month | £24,000/year |
| 50 Properties | £5000/month | £60,000/year |
Pro Tip: Automate key processes like rent collection and maintenance requests to reduce time and effort.
Conclusion
Starting a business in the UK can be one of the most rewarding decisions you make. From Virtual Assistant Services and Online Tutoring to Health and Wellness and Property Management, each of these ideas offers a unique path to financial freedom and personal fulfillment.
The key to success lies in choosing a business that aligns with your skills, passion, and the current demands of the UK market.
With government support, access to funding, and a growing demand for online and wellness services, there has never been a better time to become your own boss.
Whether you aim to work from home, offer services remotely, or manage physical properties, these business ideas provide the flexibility and growth potential required for long-term success.
Take the first step today by researching your preferred business idea, building a clear business plan, and taking action. Success is just a decision away!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the easiest business to start in the UK?
The easiest business to start in the UK is a Virtual Assistant Service because it requires minimal investment, no physical location, and can be done remotely.
How much money do I need to start a small business in the UK?
The cost varies depending on the business type. For example, starting a Virtual Assistant Service may only cost around £100-£500, while launching a Property Management Business could cost more due to software, licensing, and legal fees.
Which small business is in high demand in the UK?
Businesses in high demand include Online Tutoring, Digital Marketing Agencies, and Sustainable Product Stores. These sectors align with current market trends and consumer demand.
Can I start a business from home in the UK?
Yes, many businesses, such as Virtual Assistant Services, Online Tutoring, and Personalized Gift Businesses, can be run from home. All you need is a laptop, internet connection, and basic tools or software.
How do I market my new business in the UK?
To market your business, use a combination of SEO (Search Engine Optimization), social media marketing, and content creation. Platforms like Google My Business, Facebook, and LinkedIn are excellent for increasing visibility.
How much can I earn as a Virtual Assistant in the UK?
The average Virtual Assistant in the UK earns between £20-£50/hour, depending on skills and experience. A full-time VA can earn around £2,000 to £4,000 per month.
What business can I start with no experience?
You can start a Subscription Box Business, Personalized Gifts Business, or Virtual Assistant Service without prior experience. Many resources, training platforms, and tools are available to help you get started.
