In our country, the herbalist business is a relatively recent one; these businesses first became widespread in the early 1970s, and today, data indicates an annual growth rate of over 40%. The reasons for this growth lie in the increasingly popular ecological and naturalistic mentality that is gaining ground among young and old alike.
The selection of natural products available for purchase in herbalist shops is increasingly diverse, and thanks to new trends and so-called green fads, more and more people are experimenting with these products both for personal care and, in many cases, as alternatives to pharmaceuticals, both as preventative measures and as effective treatments for a wide range of ailments.
Today, herbalists don’t just offer traditional natural products for making herbal teas or potpourri, but also embrace the latest trends, offering a wide variety of truly innovative products to their increasingly discerning and knowledgeable clientele.
The rapidly growing organic food sector, for example, makes this type of business a real source of employment; similarly, the broad and diverse selection of cosmetics, fragrances, herbal teas, and loose herbs, rather than packaged and ready-to-use ones, meets ever-increasing demand.
Many people are increasingly seeking alternatives to chemical medications, natural products that can alleviate discomfort, relax the body and mind, and prevent ailments of various origins.
It’s clear, then, that opening a herbalist’s shop represents an excellent investment. If you have a passion for natural and alternative medicine, along with the right entrepreneurial spirit, and you’re interested in starting this business, below you’ll find some guidance on the steps to take.
1. The first distinction to make regarding a herbalist’s shop is between two alternatives:
- Trade of packaged products only
- Transformation of medicinal plants into their derivatives
In the first case, it will be sufficient to complete a specific training course; in the second, a qualification is required (a three-year degree in Herbal Techniques, a degree in Pharmacy, a degree in Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Technologies, or a degree in Medicinal Plant Science and Technology or Pharmacognosy).
2. Choose between a Sole Proprietorship and a Joint Stock Company; to understand the characteristics of each, it is necessary to consult a consultant in the sector.
3. Draft the articles of association through a private deed or public deed through a notary, who will forward the registration to the Revenue Agency and the Business Registry.
4. Apply for a Tax Code from the Revenue Agency.
5. Notify the Municipality (Commercial Office) of the start of the business, which will assess compliance with building and urban planning regulations.
6. Finally, once the business has begun, register the company with the Business Registry of the Chamber of Commerce.
7. Opening a herbalist’s shop does not require large investments, either in terms of the size of the premises or in terms of business management; the key to success is a passion for natural medicine and offering a wide range of products that can meet the ever-growing needs of a rapidly growing customer base.
