Sunglasses Business: Start This for Under £300

Author: Brad Emery | Date: 2026-02-14

Startup Cost: £50–£300  |  Difficulty: Beginner  |  Time to Start: 7 Days  |  Business Type: Local

Unlock a Lucrative Summer Business Opportunity: Starting a Profitable Sunglasses Business As the sun starts to shine, people are on the hunt for the perfect shades to protect their eyes and make a stylish statement. This consistent demand presents a lucrative opportunity for entrepreneurs to start a profitable sunglasses business, making it an ideal seasonal side hustle.

What is a Sunglasses Business?

A sunglasses business involves selling sunglasses to customers, either online or in-person. This can be done through an e-commerce website, a physical store, or even through events and markets. With the right strategy and suppliers, you can capitalise on the high demand for sunglasses during the warmer months.

Video Breakdown

The video provides a comprehensive guide on how to start a sunglasses business, covering topics such as market research, supplier sourcing, and marketing strategies. You'll learn how to determine your target market, source suppliers, and set up an online store or physical location. Watch the full video on YouTube for the full walkthrough.

Key Takeaways

  • Determine your target market and understand their buying habits and preferences
  • Source suppliers for branded or generic sunglasses, ensuring safety certification and negotiating terms
  • Set up an online store or physical location and develop a marketing strategy using SEO, influencer marketing, and local advertising
  • Network and build relationships with potential customers to build a personal brand

Startup Costs in the UK

MicroBiz365 keeps costs under £300; free tools and our PDF where possible.
Item Approx. Cost (UK) Notes
Website & hosting £0 Use free tools and our PDF
Branding basics £0-£40 Basic branding materials
Tools/equipment £50-£100 Basic tools and equipment for the business
Contract/template £0-£50 Basic contract or template for the business
Initial stock £100-£500 Initial stock of sunglasses
In practice, you can get to your first paying client for a total setup spend of roughly £100–£250, well under the £300 mark, then upgrade tools and protection as the business grows.

Tools & Equipment Needed

  • Sunglasses inventory
  • Online store or physical location
  • Marketing materials
  • Computer and internet connection
  • Credit card machine or other payment processing system

How to Start

  1. Research and planning: Determine your target market and understand their buying habits and preferences to decide whether to sell branded or generic sunglasses.
  2. Source suppliers: Contact brand reps or distributors for branded stock, or browse Alibaba or accredited suppliers for generic stock.
  3. Set up an online store or physical location: Create a website or rent a physical space to sell sunglasses.
  4. Develop a marketing strategy: Use SEO, influencer marketing, and local advertising to drive traffic to the store or website.
  5. Network and build relationships: Attend events, wear sunglasses, and engage with potential customers to build a personal brand.

Earnings & Scaling

With careful planning and execution, it's possible to earn £1,000-£5,000 per month from a sunglasses business in the UK. However, this will depend on various factors such as the size of the operation, the target market, and the marketing strategy.

Pros, Cons and Risks

Pros:
  • High demand for sunglasses during the warmer months
  • Potential for high earnings with careful planning and execution
  • Opportunity to build a personal brand and network with potential customers
Cons:
  • Initial investment may be required for startup costs
  • Competition from established brands and retailers
  • Risk of counterfeit or low-quality products
Risks:
  • Seasonal fluctuations in demand
  • Competition from online retailers and marketplaces
  • Risk of product returns or refunds

UK-Specific Tips

  • Ensure you comply with UK regulations and laws regarding the sale of sunglasses, such as the Consumer Rights Act 2015
  • Register your business with HMRC and obtain any necessary licenses or permits
  • Use UK-specific payment processing systems and online marketplaces to reach a wider audience
  • Consider attending UK-specific events and markets to showcase your products and build relationships with potential customers

FAQ

What are the average prices of sunglasses in the UK?

The prices of sunglasses vary depending on the brand, quality, and style. On average, you can expect to sell sunglasses for £10-£50 per pair for branded stock and £5-£20 per pair for generic stock.

How much can I earn from a sunglasses business in the UK?

With careful planning and execution, it's possible to earn £1,000-£5,000 per month from a sunglasses business in the UK.

What are the startup costs for a sunglasses business in the UK?

The startup costs for a sunglasses business in the UK can vary depending on the size of the operation and the target market. However, with careful planning and execution, you can start a sunglasses business in the UK for a total setup spend of roughly £100–£250, well under the £300 mark.

Conclusion

Starting a sunglasses business in the UK can be a lucrative opportunity for entrepreneurs who are willing to put in the time and effort to research and plan carefully. With the right strategy and suppliers, you can capitalise on the high demand for sunglasses during the warmer months and build a successful business. If you're interested in learning more about starting a sunglasses business in the UK, browse more ideas on MicroBiz365.

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