Ask James Caan: How can I set-up a retail business?

For one thing, make sure you really understand what you can bring to the market because, at the moment, it’s clear that you’re unsure.

Don’t worry about being unique — little in business is. You need to work out how to make your service better than anybody else’s. Then establish your USP. It’s simple: ask yourself “What is going to make the next avid shopper turn to me?”

Perhaps it’s your background as a PA, perhaps your great attention to detail — whatever it is, make sure it’s visible. Use every one of your personal skills to your advantage and most importantly, ensure you maintain your passion, that’s the only way to really make it work.

Once you have completed those steps and think you have a great idea, contact the team at Start Up Loans. The government funded scheme not only offer funding to start up firms, but also mentoring and advice, and as chairman I am immensely proud of our successes so far.