The cold and the snow should not stop you from making money this winter. If you’re stuck trying to think of business ideas for this winter season, we have compiled some fantastic suggestions of businesses that will help you earn good money during the winter. So, keep reading till the end to discover our list of the TOP 9 Profitable Winter Business Ideas to make Money.
It is not a secret that small business owners and entrepreneurs often struggle in the winter. Travel is not ideal due to harsh weather conditions and icy roads, so it’s harder for customers to reach the business even if they felt the need to get to it.
The cold mitigates how much time customers spend outside, curbing retail visits, and essentially eliminating outdoor dining at restaurants. To further the hardships, aside from customers, it is even challenging to get employees to brave the bad conditions and the frigid temperatures to merely get to work.
None of this, however, should negate business owners from running a profitable business in the wintertime. If you’re looking to earn extra money during the winter, here are some useful ideas to think about.
Winter Business Ideas to make Money
1. Christmas Tree Sales:
Christmastime is one of the biggest retail selling points of the year. One of the primary purchases that customers seek out in December is purchasing Christmas trees for the upcoming holiday season. If you live in a heavily wooded area, with evergreens growing nearby, you can sell these as Christmas trees. People love the trees and they will purchase them in places that are irrespective of what the business normally sells.
The process includes cutting down the trees, clipping branches in the appropriate spots, and creating them, all of this is done on repeat and can yield an inventory of several dozen trees. Additionally, other plants can be cut down (firs, pines, etc.) and wrapped in plastic. These make great sales for other Christmas or firewood.
Selling the trees at a competitive price such as $10 per tree can draw many interested buyers. Promoting this is also simple, as putting signs outside of churches, schools, or even near suppliers will draw droves of clients to your place of business seeking the trees. To spice things up more, trees can be specially decorated or painted to make a more unique offering that can be sold for more than $10. When smaller trees have these modifications, children often want to bring them to their families.
2. Teach Skiing:
One of the most popular winter activities is skiing, with many people eager to do so every year. However, many of them need to be taught how to properly do so. People are always interested in working with instructors to help them learn how to ski as they are starting out. If you or any of your employees are experienced on the slopes, you could consider becoming (or offering the services of) a ski instructor in the winter. Instructors for skiing and snowboarding can make excellent money during the winter.
If you enjoy skiing but have never taught, and happen to live near a ski resort, you can hone your skills on the slopes to earn money as a ski instructor in the winter. Don’t worry, you don’t need to be an expert at skiing to teach others, you just have to be able to teach complete novices the important basics and have them begin practicing on easy courses.
You can also Create a Skiing Course and turn your expertise into your own thriving business with the help of Thinkific or Payhip.
3. Start A Winter Home-Proofing Business:
Winter may not be great for many businesses, but it is an exceptionally lucrative time for winter-proofing businesses. As the seasons start to change, people begin to recognize that their homes could use some enhancements to keep them warm and issue-free during the cold months, so they are willing to pay extra to be prepared for the winter.
This is a boom for business opportunities for many businesses that serve residents of wintery areas, so as the seasons turn, it is the best time to start a business specializing in home winter-proofing. For this to be a successful venture, it’s important to keep in mind what areas of the home are most susceptible to being negatively impacted during the winter.
For instance, if a family in the home has members who are allergic, offering services that help with that can go a long way. Customers may be hesitant to go with a new start-up business, so to make it worth their while, entice them with an introductory offer, but take care to cater to their specific needs.
4. Snow Removal Services:
One of the most lucrative ways to make money during the winter in an area that gets heavily impacted by snow is by offering snow removal services. When large storms dump feet of snow in areas, especially overnight, when people are getting out to go to work, there is nothing worse than needing to shovel out when you are in a hurry, older, or dealing with chronic pains.
Short of moving to a snow-free area, many people would choose the option of someone coming to clear their snow for them. Snow removal services are very lucrative because they provide a solution for a very significant need and help ease people’s lives.
Different clients will require different types of services. Some may need their steps and walkways shoveled and potentially salted so the ice underneath isn’t as slippery. Some may need their driveways cleared so they can pull their car out to head out to work or for errands. If you have a snowblower, you can help people out for a small cash fee. As long as you have a way to transport the snow blower, you can theoretically travel to accommodate customers several miles away.
You can charge more if the snowfall is significant as it takes more time and effort to clear large amounts of snow. Plows that clear the roads typically pile the snow at the edge of driveways, and a flash freeze can ice it over. These will take an especially long time to clear, so these jobs are worth more.
Small businesses and restaurants may need this done in an especially pressing manner because they would like the have the access points to their places of business open for incoming cars, as well as parking areas. Many resorts and hotels will even employ seasonal workers for these very needs.
5. Selling Heated Car Seats And Steering Wheel Covers
The temperatures inside vehicles in the winter can often be colder than those outside. Many people don’t have the luxury of automatic car starters that will heat their cars before they get out to them, nor do they have warming seats. Therefore, there is a big market for heated car seats and covers for steering wheels. That way customers can sit in their cars after starting them while the car warms up, and have some degree of warmth.
Assuring customers that they will be happy even in the freezing temperatures will give them a degree of comfort, and that will make a positive impression on your business. That means they are more likely to come back in the future. If you decide to pursue this approach, you should start stockpiling in the warmer months so you are ready for the cold ones.
6. Sell Winter Clothes Or Accessories
As the weather gets colder, people start to pull out their thermals, blankets, jackets, sweaters, and other winter clothing to stay warm. Winters can be full of cozy nights and hot chocolate, but people also crank up the heat which can be expensive. It is, however, necessary to not freeze. The more bundled up someone is, the less heat they have to utilize, so people are happier when they have warm clothes to help in that regard.
If you have an eye for fashion, you can take advantage of your talent to sell various winter clothing and accessories. You can purchase various apparel and other items at wholesale prices, then sell them individually with a moderate markup.
One way to sell winter clothes or accessories is by using the e-commerce platform Shopify (Sign up for a free trial and enjoy 3 months of Shopify for $1/month on select plans). Shopify is a popular tool that allows you to easily set up an online store and sell your products to customers around the world.
You could also try your hand at dropshipping using Printful, a popular strategy where people sell the products, but never handle the inventory, simply getting an order, purchasing it somewhere else for a lower price, and sending it directly to the customer. Just because your prices are marked up, doesn’t mean you cannot price out the competition. People will still purchase from you to fulfill their needs for the winter as long as you are within reason, and you can still make extra money.
7. Sell Heating And Insulation Systems
Bundling up in warm clothes, hiding under blankets, and cranking up the heat all work to keep us warmer, but as people are mostly stuck indoors during the winter, they need to keep the heat turned up, especially if they have a drafty home that is letting the cold air in. Most people prefer not to have to turn the heat up because they have insulated and winter-proofed their homes instead. This is where you can come in by selling heating and insulation systems.
In fact, selling heating and insulation systems is one of the best winter business ideas out there. People recognize that insulation systems keep more cold air out which results in less heat being used. That, of course, translates to lower heating bills, which everyone loves. By offering functional heating and insulation systems customers can invest in something that will pay off for years to come in terms of savings.
8. Open A Hot Chocolate And Cake Stand
Sipping on a hot chocolate and biting into a warm piece of cranberry cake is a purely satisfactory delight for most on a frigid winter day. If you set up a hot chocolate stand on a busy street corner and offer potential customers a variety of at least three flavors to choose from, you can draw in serious interest. If you offer a cup of hot chocolate with marshmallows, whipped cream, and a piece of high-pepper cranberry cake, many people will simply not resist.
Starting such a stand is one of the easiest money-making opportunities in the winter. You are certainly not limited to selling on a street corner either. You can park yourself outside events and even specialty shops where your product would nicely complement what people buy there. Just don’t eat away at the shop’s business or you might run into problems.
To get your product ready you just need to buy hot chocolate mixing packets in bulk from a wholesaler, which means they are going to be very inexpensive. One packet can make a large mug of hot chocolate, so if you sell it in smaller cups, you can stretch it out to two or even three. For the cake samples, you can get free samples from bakeries.
Once you get people buying your products, you will have satisfied customers who will tell others about your business. As you earn more, you can invest in other winter snacks like different pastries, small pizzas, and even sandwiches, helping your winter venture grow.
9. Start A Chimney Repair Business
People in homes built before 1978 are likely to need some form of chimney repair, and that accounts for a large swath of current US homes. Since many people make use of their fireplaces, they need their chimneys in great shape. Chimney repairs can span a range of variations including damage to cracked chimney bricks from extreme temperatures, to water damage, wear and tear, and simply require a cleaning.
Most residents are aware that problems with the chimney damage airflow from the fire in the fireplace, which means that the carbon monoxide buildup in the home can be significant. As colder weather sets in, people begin to use these more in order to taper down their heating bills. The months of November through March, therefore have a very high demand for chimney services.
If you are handy and know what you are doing you could start a chimney repair business to assist many households with this essential need in helping to heat their homes. Some homes use the chimneys so much that the frequency results in faster wear and tear, so if you don’t mind some hard work in colder temperatures, getting your hands dirty, and doing some much necessary work, you can enter one of the best winter business ideas industries there is.
10. Ski or snowboard rental and instruction:
If you live in an area with ski resorts or other winter sports opportunities, consider starting a business offering rentals and lessons for skis, snowboards, and other winter sports equipment.
11. Winter event planning:
Many people host holiday parties and other winter events. Consider starting a business offering event planning services for winter celebrations such as corporate holiday parties, family gatherings, and New Year’s Eve events.
12. Winter landscaping:
While landscaping may not be the first thing that comes to mind in the winter, there are still opportunities to offer services such as snow and ice removal from walkways and driveways, holiday lighting installation, and tree and shrub care.
13. Winter car care:
Cold weather can take a toll on vehicles, and people may need help with winterizing their cars and trucks. Consider starting a business offering services such as oil changes, tire rotations, and battery checks to help keep cars running smoothly in the winter.
14. Virtual winter fitness classes:
With the colder weather, people may be looking for ways to stay active and healthy while staying indoors. Consider starting a business offering virtual fitness classes such as yoga, pilates, or dance through online platforms.
15. Winter home organization and decluttering:
The winter months can be a good time for people to tackle home organization and decluttering projects. Consider starting a business offering services such as closet organization, kitchen pantry organization, and general decluttering to help people get their homes in order.
16. Winter meal delivery service:
With the colder weather, people may be looking for warm, comforting meals delivered to their door. Consider starting a business offering meal delivery service featuring hearty, seasonal dishes.
17. Winter gardening and plant care:
While traditional outdoor gardening may not be possible in the winter, there are still opportunities to offer services such as indoor plant care, greenhouse maintenance, and planning for spring gardens.
18. Virtual winter travel planning:
While traditional travel may be difficult during the winter months, people may still be looking to plan and book future trips. Consider starting a business offering virtual travel planning services, helping people research and book their dream vacations.
19. Winter pet care:
With the colder weather, people may need help caring for their pets when they are unable to be home during the day. Consider starting a business offering services such as dog walking, pet sitting, and pet grooming.
20. Winter car detailing:
Cold weather can be harsh on car exteriors, and people may be looking to have their cars cleaned and detailed to protect against the elements. Consider starting a business offering services such as waxing, tire shining, and interior detailing.
21. Winter home cleaning and organization:
The winter months can be a good time for people to deep clean their homes and get organized. Consider starting a business offering services such as carpet cleaning, window washing, and general home cleaning and organization.
22. Virtual winter workshops and classes:
With the colder weather, people may be looking for ways to stay busy and learn new skills while staying indoors. Consider starting a business offering virtual workshops or classes on topics such as cooking, crafting, or personal development.
23. Winter home decor and styling:
As the holiday season approaches, people may be looking to update their home decor and add some winter flair. Consider starting a business offering services such as holiday decorating, home staging, and interior styling to help people make their homes festive and cozy.
24. Winter home security:
As people spend more time at home during the colder months, they may be concerned about home security. Consider starting a business that provides home security services, such as installing security cameras or alarm systems.
25. Winter car rental:
As the weather gets colder, people may need to rent a car to get around, especially if their own car is not equipped to handle the colder weather. Consider starting a business that rents out cars specifically for winter use.
26. Winter home staging:
As the real estate market slows down during the winter, people may need help staging their homes to make them more attractive to potential buyers. Consider starting a business that offers home staging services, particularly for homes that are on the market during the colder months.
27. Winter event photography:
With the holiday season and the possibility of outdoor winter events, people may be looking for photographers to capture the memories. Consider starting a business that offers event photography services specifically for winter events.
28. Winter home repair and remodeling:
Cold weather can lead to home repair and maintenance issues, and people may be looking for help with repairs and updates to their homes. Consider starting a business that offers home repair and remodeling services specifically for the winter months.
29. Winter home automation:
As people spend more time at home during the colder months, they may be interested in automating their homes to make their lives easier and more convenient. Consider starting a business that installs and configures home automation systems.
30. Winter home energy efficiency consulting:
As people try to save money on their energy bills during the colder months, they may be looking for help making their homes more energy efficient. Consider starting a business that offers consulting services to help people identify and implement energy-saving measures in their homes.
Winter Business Ideas Conclusion:
While it may seem like thinking of interesting, new business ideas in the winter months is tough, don’t give up. Just check out the above list for nine terrific opportunities for winter business ideas that could result in a seasonal side job or a full-out niche business venture. Let’s be clear, for a variety of reasons, starting and running a winter business is not easy, but if you can bear the cold and utilize some of the suggested ideas, you can reap great rewards.
Since you have finished reading this amazing article of the TOP Profitable Winter Business Ideas to make Money , we suggest to you to check this one: How To Make Money As A Mechanic
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do ideas for winter businesses work?
Most winter businesses fall into either the seasonal or niche category. The great thing about these ideas is that depending on where you live you can provide different services in your area, so there is no shortage of needs to fill.
How do you stay ahead of the winter business ideas competition?
With winter business ideas, staying ahead of the competition is key, and there are several ways to do so. The first is to have a creative idea that considers several factors. Scope out your competition and what they are doing, consider the timing of your services and the location you live, as well as the changing demographics of the area’s population.
Are special skills needed for winter business ideas?
As long as you are a smart and thorough planner, you do not really need any special skills, just creativity, and persistence in order to be successful with your winter business. Make sure that your focuses are on filling a need for prospective clients, working hard, and focusing on how to make wise investments in operational costs in order to make the most profit.