The fashion element is very competitive and anyone considering this field needs to know their market - the styles and colours which are going to be popular. Margins on clothes can be significantly higher than on hardware - but you can easily get it wrong and be left with unsaleable items!

However, there are a number of more practical items which can be a godsend to many expectant Mums. To buy a complete wardrobe just for a few months is an expense that most of us cannot afford, never mind any one who has the extra expenses of buying things for baby. So things like the grogroup's Bando which covers the gap are ideal! This is the sort of thing that not only sells well by mail order, it is also the sort of thing that a pregnant mum will pick up in passing. And because one pregnant mum talks to other pregnant Mums and will be seen out and about in one, it is something that can help publicise your shop and bring other mums in who, hopefully, will buy more than just the Bando!

Maternity cushions do work! That is a message that is slowly gaining ground on the various chat rooms. Those that support the bump can give a valuable good night's sleep. They can also help support baby while feeding. Many of them even have a 'life after baby' as they can be used for support when reading in bed for those lucky enough to find the time!

Finally, don't discard the idea of lingerie. Body shape changes while pregnant and many mums find they need support for the first time. Breastfeeding is easier with the right bra.