AS THE Yuletide season draws closer and the wish lists are being finalised, there is likely to be an increased buzz of activity in the local business environment.

Many persons will be focused on choosing the right gifts, or making sure the right outfits are in place for the flurry of end-of-year parties.

But, then, this season is also an opportunity to find ways to augment your income.

Christmas could be considered the best time to get into business, as spending patterns tend to rise during this period. And this potential for increased earnings will mean that entrepreneurs can count on starting the New Year with a financial surplus rather than a deficit.

There are a few easy to set up and operate business ideas, which require low start-up capital inputs.

Trading

Trading is one of the oldest forms of business and works with a basic principle. Buy low and sell higher. Perhaps the most consumed products this Christmas will be gift items and food. It would therefore be wise to focus your ambitions towards trading in commodities that fall within these two main categories.

Fruitcakes

Fruitcakes will once again be a big hit this season. Identify a reliable wholesale source for high-quality home-made rum cakes in a variety of sizes. Solicit pre-orders among friends, family and corporate entities, apply a reasonable margin and deliver with a smile.

Customised Stationery

Custom-designed Christmas cards and calendars provide a welcome departure from the norm. The more creative the design, the more you are likely to sell. Place particular focus on small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which will like that fact that their companies' image will stand out from the crowd.

Skin-care and spa products

Cosmetic, spa and skin-care products, bought at wholesale terms, can be used to create fantastic custom-gift packages by adding those extra special holiday wrappings. Target those gentlemen who yearn to make an impression with their special someone this Christmas.

Novelties and giveaways

Corporate novelties and giveaways such as key holders, coffee mugs and mouse pads will be in demand among small businesses that want to reward their clients at year end. Find a wholesale source for customised novelty items and market strategically to the SME sector.

Catering

Catering is good business during this season. Even if you cannot prepare the meals yourself, leverage your relationships with local culinary experts to drum up business. Numerous events are now being organised by individuals and companies alike, and they will need food. Do your research, market your service to potential clients and deliver your tasty delights.

Corporate delivery service

In the coming weeks, the demand for corporate delivery services will increase exponentially. Local companies, both large and small, will be eager to ensure that their greeting cards and gift packages reach their valued clients safely and in good time. Contract a few reliable cyclists, market your service and get your deliveries on the road.

Beyond profits

Bear in mind that the true meaning of Christmas is giving. The holiday season not only provides a great business opportunity, but it also gives you a unique chance to strengthen your relationships with your staff, clients and other stakeholders in a spirit of goodwill.

Engage in some form of charitable activity to share your blessings with our less privileged countrymen. And while you're busy making money this Christmas, make sure you're also making a difference in someone's life.

Aldain Reid is a serial entrepreneur and is currently serving as the president of the Young Entrepreneurs' Association of Jamaica. He may be contacted via his entrepreneurship blog at www.aldainreid.com.

... While you're busy making money this Christmas, make sure you're also making a difference in someone's life.