Are you hoping to break into the online wholesale industry? You may already know that it’s a lucrative and fast-growing market. However, if you’re not familiar with this unique e-commerce model, you might not know which products to focus on. For this reason, you should familiarize yourself with the best wholesale business ideas that can contribute to your enterprise’s success.
Fortunately, you can find tons of wholesale ideas with potential and promise. These can help you launch your wholesale company on the right foot and improve your chances of achieving your business objectives.
In this post, we’ll discuss why you may want to start a wholesale business. Then, we’ll cover 10 of the best wholesale business ideas to consider if you want to hit the ground running.
So let’s dive in!
Why Launching A Wholesale Business May Be Right For You
The world has seen a massive increase in e-commerce sales in recent years. Most experts agree that this isn’t just a trend but that it’s here to stay.
If you’re hoping to dive into the e-commerce world, the wholesaling model is a great way to start. However, you’ll need to create a wholesale website.
Using WordPress to make your website is a smart idea because it’s a beginner-friendly Content Management System (CMS). You can even utilize free, pre-designed (but customizable) WordPress themes to manage your site’s appearance.
Moreover, if you pair the platform with the right tools, you can launch your wholesale store in record time. The WooCommerce plugin is probably the most popular extension for creating e-commerce businesses on WordPress.
Moreover, WooCommerce can seamlessly integrate with our Wholesale Suite plugin. This powerful tool gives you added functionality specifically for wholesale management. For example, it enables you to easily create order forms, set minimum order subtotals, and manage bulk discounts.
All-in-all, a wholesale business can be very successful in the current market. Plus, with so many resources to help you launch your wholesale website, there’s little holding you back.
20 Best Wholesale Business Ideas To Get You Started Strong
Now that you know why launching a wholesale business is a good idea, you might want to choose what products to sell. Here are 20 of the best wholesale business ideas that can help you enjoy a strong start in the industry!
1. Children’s toys
One popular wholesale product niche that’s likely to succeed is children’s toys. There’s a huge market for this category. In fact, according to the Toy Association, toy sales in 2021 were valued at $38.2 billion in the U.S. alone.
Therefore, selling toys can be a fun and accessible wholesale business. However, since you’re selling a product that young customers will use, you’ll want to ensure that you’re only pairing with reputable suppliers. This way, you can count on them to provide safe products.
You’ll likely need to ensure that your toys comply with any safety regulations in your region. On the flip side, you may not have to worry too much about quality control because kids often break toys!
2. Furniture and home goods
As customers become increasingly comfortable shopping online, they are more likely to virtually purchase items with higher price tags. That’s what makes furniture one of the best wholesale business options.
Consumers looking for couches and beds likely already know that they will need to shell out a reasonable amount for these items. They might be actively looking for wholesaler goods to save some cash.
Moreover, these larger products will likely have a higher Return On Investment (ROI). Pairing furniture with home goods is a natural choice. You can even specialize in luxury home items to maximize your profits.
3. Apparel
Wholesale apparel can be a great option for anyone interested in fashion. Plus, there’s lots of potential to expand your business with this category. There are so many facets to fashion. So, if the business is doing well, you can start to offer more products.
Additionally, fashion is a highly profitable choice. The U.S. apparel market is currently valued at over $335 billion (annually). This value is expected to keep growing steadily.
However, you might have more competition if you choose this niche. As such, you’d be wise to take the time to develop a solid wholesale marketing strategy for your apparel store. You may also want to stay up-to-date on the latest fashion trends.
4. Sporting goods
When it comes to the best wholesale business ideas, timeless products are often your best bet. And there are few things more enduring than sports.
That’s why selling sporting goods is another excellent option for wholesale businesses. A wholesale sporting goods store could sell everything from baseball mitts to volleyball nets.
Plus, if you already plan to sell items in bulk, this may be the perfect product category. Schools or professional sports teams can become regular and repeat customers. Therefore, when marketing for this type of wholesale business, it’s wise to target these groups.
You could even create a loyalty program to incentivize these buyers to keep coming back to your wholesale store. You can easily create and manage this program using our Advanced Coupons plugin paired with WooCommerce.
5. Party supplies
You may recall when parents used to buy party supplies in bulk from the local brick-and-mortar party supply shop. Now, wholesale party supply stores are starting to make headway online.
This type of store is known for selling items such as party hats, balloons, streamers, and maybe even the occasional clown costume. Customers who can’t find the exact party knick-knack they’re searching for at their local businesses often won’t hesitate to look for a party specialty store. If it’s wholesale, even better!
This business model is a low-risk choice because party favors are typically disposable or one-time-use. Plus, as long as you are strategic about attracting new customers, this can be a highly successful business. To boost your chances of turning a profit, you may want to collaborate with party venues or market to younger parents with children below ten.
6. Jewelry
Wholesale jewelry is another popular option because, similar to furniture, buyers may seek out reduced prices for this type of luxury item. A wholesale jewelry business may deal with anything from engagement rings to diamond-studded watches.
Jewelry is also great for selling wholesale to retail because some consumers like to buy luxury items at boutiques. Therefore, you could partner with local jewelry shops and gain long-term customers.
Keep in mind that consumers will expect the best when it comes to product quality. Therefore, you may want to put extra effort into relationships with these repeat customers. You can do this by offering occasional promotions, check-in calls, or even a loyalty program that provides exclusive benefits.
Alternatively, you may opt for more affordable jewelry for a younger audience. You could even offer customizable gifts for holidays like Mother’s Day.
7. Organic food
As consumers become increasingly aware of what producers put in their food, the organic industry is growing quickly.
Therefore, organic food may be among the best wholesale business options, especially if you have experience in the food industry. However, as with children’s toys, you’ll likely need to deal with more regulation.
You’ll want to make sure that you’re only partnering with dependable and reputable suppliers that comply with all requirements to receive the ‘organic’ status. Plus, you’ll need to stay on top of any food-related health emergencies, such as salmonella outbreaks.
8. Footwear
One of the most promising wholesale business ideas is footwear. Much like the other items on this list, footwear has an evergreen market, with demands that remain steady across varied demographics. In fact, according to industry insights, the global footwear market is predicted to reach a revenue of US$412.90 billion in 2024, with an annual of 3.43% from 2024 to 2028.
It’s also a versatile option for newcomers, giving you several opportunities. From everyday casual shoes, to athletic footwear or high-end designer shoes, you have the flexibility to cater to different customer preferences. Offering a wide range of styles and options can help you appeal to a broad audience, which is beneficial if you’re just starting out in the industry.
9. Books
What makes delving into books one of the most profitable wholesale business ideas? Books are timeless products that cater to a wide range of interests and have a long shelf life compared to perishable goods. Their enduring appeal and the diverse audience they attract make them a reliable and lucrative option for wholesalers.
This niche offers several opportunities to specialize. For instance, you can become a distributor of educational textbooks, popular fiction, comics, or rare books. To create demand for your products, you can partner with local libraries, bookstores, or schools.
10. Beauty products
As consumers continue to seek new ways to enhance their self-care and beauty routines, the demand for beauty products continues to grow. In 2024 alone, the global beauty and personal care market is projected to reach a staggering $646.20 billion.
Keep in mind that this market is fast-paced and highly driven by trends and consumer preferences. Therefore, it’s crucial to stay on top of emerging trends and innovation if you want to enter this industry.
For instance, the rise of “clean beauty” and organic beauty products has garnered attention as consumers become increasingly health-conscious. Similarly, there has been increased demand for vegan and cruelty-free cosmetics, showcasing the shift towards making more sustainable and ethical buying decisions.
If you’re looking for a high-demand, fast-paced, and profitable niche, then selling beauty products might be one of the best wholesale business ideas for you.
11. Home fragrances
The global pandemic has emphasized the importance of creating comfortable living spaces. As more people spend time at home, the demand for products that enhance the home environment is on the rise. These include home fragrances like candles, essential oils, room sprays, and diffusers. Consumers of all ages enjoy personalizing their homes with scents that reflect their unique tastes and preferences.
Home fragrances are among the most promising wholesale business ideas because they cater to a wide audience and have a long shelf life. Similarly, these products do not require complex storage conditions, making them easier to manage and distribute.
12. Eyewear
Eyewear is both essential and fashionable–individuals need eyeglasses for vision correction, but they also seek frames and eyewear accessories that match their personal style. This makes eyewear a versatile and high-demand product.
Just like the other products on this list, becoming an eyewear wholesaler provides you with several avenues to grow your business. For instance, you can specialize in distributing prescription glasses, blue light glasses, or sunglasses. Partnering with optical shops, online retailers, and fashion boutiques can help you reach a wider audience and create a steady demand for your business.
13. Fitness activewear
As more individuals embrace healthier lifestyles and make exercising a part of their routine, the demand for fitness activewear continues to soar. According to industry estimates, the global activewear market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.8% from 2022 to 2032. You can take advantage of this opportunity by wholesaling stylish, functional, and comfortable activewear.
Further increase your brand’s appeal by offering a variety of activewear products, from leggings, sports bras, shorts, joggers, and athletic jackets and hoodies. Since these products are both fashionable and functional, so focus on high-quality materials that offer durability, comfort, and style.
14. Arts and crafts supplies
Selling arts and crafts supplies is one of the best wholesale business ideas. These products feature a wide range of applications and appeal to buyers of all ages. Supplies like paints, canvases, and brushes are also items that need to be replaced regularly, which can contribute to a steady demand.
Moreover, the industry has increased in popularity with the growing interest in handmade crafts, artistic hobbies, and DIY projects. With more people looking to express their creativity and personalize their spaces, there’s no better time to venture into this market.
15. Vitamins and supplements
Health and wellness have become a top priority for a lot of people, as reflected in the shifts in the behavior of most consumers. For instance, half of millennials are now using vitamins and supplements more often than they did before the pandemic. This growing demand for health and wellness supplements presents a lucrative opportunity for wholesalers.
Quality and regulatory compliance are key in this industry, so make sure to do your research. Partner only with reputable industry manufacturers who prioritize quality control and scientific backing for their products.
16. Pet supplies
Americans spent a whopping $147 billion on their pets in 2023. What’s more, it’s estimated that 66% of US households own at least one pet. As more people welcome pets into their homes, there’s no denying that pet suppliers are one of the best wholesale business ideas.
Pet owners are always on the lookout for high-quality products to ensure the happiness and well-being of their furry companions. This niche offers you a wide range of wholesale items to sell, from pet food, toys, grooming supplies, and accessories. You can reach out to pet stores, online retailers, and veterinary clients to promote your products and increase demand.
17. Gardening supplies
Gardening supplies encompass a wide range of products–from seeds to simple tools, pots, and garden decor, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. This makes this industry one of the best wholesale business ideas in 2024.
This niche is also enjoying a resurgence in popularity. According to recent statistics, more than half of American households engage in gardening. This increasing interest is driven by numerous factors, including relaxation, the desire to connect with nature, and grow fresh fresh produce.
18. Cleaning supplies
Homes, schools, businesses, and facilities all need a steady supply of cleaning products to maintain a standard of safety and cleanliness. The demand for these goods has only increased as individuals place increased importance on hygiene and cleanliness. This makes this niche a lucrative market for wholesalers.
There’s also an opportunity to cater to different market segments. For example, you can specialize in serving businesses and industrial facilities with heavy-duty cleaners designed for machinery and equipment. Alternatively, you can target household retailers by offering a range of household cleaners, from kitchen-specific solutions to bathroom disinfectants.
19. Kitchenware
The kitchenware industry also allows you to cater to several market segments, making it one of the best wholesale business ideas. From professional-grade equipment to basic cooking essentials, there’s a wide variety of products to offer.
Just like the other industries on this list, the kitchenware niche enjoys steady growth and revenue. It’s projected to reach a revenue of $17.19 billion in 2024, growing at an annual growth rate of 3.08% until 2019. This consistent growth highlights the enduring demand for kitchen tools and utensils, driven by both home cooks and culinary professionals.
20. Bedding, linens and pillowcases
Wholesaling bedding, linens, and pillowcases capitalize on recent lifestyle trends that place increased focus on comfort, the importance of quality sleep, and home decor. It’s also a great way to tap into the lucrative hospitality industry. For example, you can partner with hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals to supply them with high-quality bedding products.
This niche offers opportunities to grow your revenue. You can specialize in distributing luxury sheets, mattress protectors, duvet covers, or pillowcases. Experimenting with a range of styles, materials, and price points can help expand your reach and cater to a broader market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of wholesale business is best?
Some of the most successful wholesale business ideas cater to evergreen, essential, and high-demand products. These can include offerings like household goods, wellness items, food and beverages, and apparel. Niche markets like activewear, pet supplies, eco-friendly products, and artisanal crafts also offer lucrative opportunities. When venturing into wholesaling, consider your interests, market demand for the products you want to offer, profit margins, and supplier reliability.
Is a wholesale business profitable?
Yes, wholesaling can be an incredibly profitable business venture when managed effectively. However, it’s important to note that the profitability of a wholesale business will depend on several factors, including product choice, market demand, pricing, and operational efficiency. Depending on the types of products sold, wholesale profit margins can range from 30% to 50%.
How to start a small wholesale business?
Begin by researching, deciding on a niche, and registering your business. Then, you can start finding reliable suppliers and setting up your operations. You can take advantage of platforms like WooCommerce to build your online presence and expand your market reach. Plugins like Wholesale Suite make this process easy, allowing you to set wholesale prices, offer bulk order forms, capture wholesale leads, and offer flexible payment terms to potential customers.
How do I market myself as a wholesaler?
You’ll want to make sure you have a solid e-commerce platform that effectively showcases your inventory. Once you have this set up, you can take advantage of digital marketing channels like email marketing, social media, and SEO optimization to grow your reach and advertise your offerings. Networking is key—attend trade shows, and industry events, and join relevant online forums to connect with potential clients.
Conclusion
Launching a wholesale business can be an excellent opportunity to get involved with e-commerce. However, if you have little experience in wholesaling or online sales, you might struggle to decide what type of products and services will be most profitable.
To recap, here are some of the best wholesale business ideas to consider if you want to become a wholesaler:
- Children’s toys
- Furniture and home goods
- Apparel
- Sporting goods
- Party supplies
- Jewelry
- Organic food
- Footwear
- Books
- Beauty products
- Home fragrances
- Eyewear
- Fitness activewear
- Arts and crafts
- Vitamins and supplements
- Pet supplies
- Gardening supplies
- Cleaning supplies
- Kitchenware
- Bedding, linens, and pillowcases
Do you have any questions about the best wholesale business ideas that can help you start strong in the industry? Let us know in the comments section below!
