cottage industry

• Kleinteilige, oft in Heimarbeit betriebene Produktion von Waren durch Einzelpersonen oder Familien, meist mit geringen Investitionen und einfacher Ausstattung.

A small-scale, often home-based business or manufacturing activity where goods are produced by individuals or families, typically with minimal investment and equipment.

1. Small-scale home-based businessB2formal

   A business or manufacturing activity carried out by people in their own homes, often involving manual labor or craft skills.

   Heimarbeit

   • She runs a cottage industry making handmade soaps and candles.
   • The village is known for its cottage industry of weaving baskets.
   • Many families rely on cottage industries like pottery for their income.

2. Small specialized sectorC1formal

   A small, often informal, sector of an economy or activity that operates on a limited scale.

   Heimgewerbe

   • The local food market has become a cottage industry for artisan bakers.
   • Online tutoring has turned into a cottage industry for many retired teachers.
   • The production of custom furniture has grown into a cottage industry in this region.