| (REF: AK041) Well Known Importer, Wholesaler & Retailer Of Australian, Nz And Canadian Prod. |
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| Seller Reference: |
AK041 |
| B4S Reference: |
16145 |
| Asking Price: |
£550,000
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| Net Profit: |
£55,000 |
| Sales Revenue: |
£885,000 |
| Number of Staff: |
Send enquiry for more details. |
| Established For: |
Send enquiry for more details. |
| Ownership: |
Leasehold |
| Location: |
Central London, Central London, United Kingdom |
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This well known and respected business retails goods from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Canada and was established in 1994, with roots dating even further back. After trialing imported products to fairs and events around the UK, the vendors decided to expand by acquiring an established retailer of Australian gifts in Central London.. The previous retailer had history in selling goods on site at the Australian Embassy, and then via a shop unit in the West End of London. After taking over this small operation and trading from the original shop unit for a number of years, the business re-located to the present unit in 2003, from where they have been successfully operating since that time. The husband and wife vendors brought over 20 years of experience working with Australian Government representatives in London, and decades of knowledge in international logistics to establish a unique offering in the Capital and the wider UK marketplace.
After originally focusing on supplying Australian foodstuffs, gifts and unique products to a growing customer base, the business took opportunities over the years to expand the portfolio of product lines to include lines from New Zealand, South Africa and Canada. The business imports directly and buys via other wholesalers a huge range of specialty branded foods, drinks, gifts and clothing items.
With links at a high Governmental level from the outset, the business has enjoyed enviable relations with key diplomatic figures in the UK, which has provided un-rivaled recommendation and public relations opportunities along with credence to the wider population of ex-pat customers that make-up a high proportion of customers seeking out the shop. The shop does not require much seeking out though, as it is located in a very high profile Central London tourist area, with a large footfall of international customers and London locals.
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Property: |
Leasehold |
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Lease Terms: |
The business occupies a ground floor shop unit with basement in Central London. The main retail area is approximately 750 sq ft on the ground floor. Downstairs there is a small courtyard under the lease, along with a storage area and 2 small management offices of around 150 sq ft and 200 sq ft. There is also a small staff area with food preparation facilities downstairs. The annual rent is circa £42,000 per annum, with business rates circa £8,400 per annum.
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Current Rent: |
The annual rent is circa £42,000 per annum, with business rates circa £8,400 per annum. |
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Living Accommodation: |
No |
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The company has exceptional word of mouth amongst the demographic of regular customers and new visitors to the business. There is also a concerted effort to maintain relations with those who are involved at a senior level with international relations between the source countries and local community. In support of these efforts, the business has a comprehensive web presence with a number of independent store fronts. The internet site although well developed is now primed for further search engine optimisation and internet marketing. The company takes out regular adverts in trade press and targeted lifestyle publications, and accommodates contra deals offering sponsorship and deals with suppliers of travel and media.
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This business has exceptional expansion opportunities. Revenue has already nearly doubled since the implementation of the comprehensive website in 2007 detailing all products available with online ordering facilities. There are great opportunities to open new outlets with the well known trade name, or build the business further on a franchise model with like minded individuals looking to provide the products to their local growing community.
As the business is responsible for directly importing a large range fo key goods, and as they already have warehousing, logistics and corporate clients on the books, there is ample room to greatly expand the wholesale operation with limited impact on overheads.
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The vendors are keen for the business to be handed over on a successful basis, and will agree to a period of handover for continuity of operations. |
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After many successful years building the business, the husband and wife vendors are looking to enjoy their retirement and the fruits of their labour by spending time travelling and experiencing a different work / life balance. |
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Is this a home-based business? |
No |
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Can this business be relocated? |
No |
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Is this business part of a franchise? |
No |
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Monday – Friday: 10:30 am – 6:30 pm
Saturday: 11:00 am – 6:30 pm
Sunday: 11:00 am – 5:30 pm
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Alongside the vendors of the business who are responsible for day-to-day operations and business administration between them, the business employs a full-time General Shop Manager, a full-time Shop Assistant and a full-time Warehouse Manager. In support there are 5 part-time shop assistants, and a sub-contracted book-keeper. |
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