I am currently 17 years old... I am toying with the idea of starting a card business... I will begin as a sole trader... but hopefully develop into a larger force opening stores around scotland by 2010... will I survive in such a market... and is it wise taking such a risk at a critical stage of my development.

Good for you! Most of the entrepreneurs of the world started young just like you.

Just a thought: Lessen your risk by starting it "on the side"; while working a job - even part time - that has regular pay. A business like that can easily be started - and done well - via a website to start with... rather than jumping into renting storefront space right away.

Good for you, try to keep your out going as low as you can, look at the kind of cards you are doing, see if there is a high demand,try to put some in local shops, around where you live,see what the out come is, good luck

You can Accomplish in any thing as long as you work hard, focus, and really want to do it. A lot people get into the hardest market and still succeed because that'

My friends son did something similar to this at a young age. One thing he did that surprised me. He contacted lawyers. After a few dozen he found one that would listen. He told them his plan. They lawyer was so impressed he was willing to work for free. The lawyer helped him negotiate with a trade show group and negotiated a free spot in at the show. The Kid was good enough to sell the lawyer some cards.

Currently the lawyer is considered a major collector and my this young guy has one kiosk in a Mall and has works on consignment at over a dozen stores.

It is always great to work with young people. Keep in mind there is one way to insure you will NEVER FAIL. Never try. I think your way is much better.