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The most unusual side hustles across the UK include queue standing, working as a professional break up text writer and operating as a 'rent-a-mate'. Other distinctive methods of generating additional income involved crafting bespoke jingles, constructing miniature cemeteries and participating in police identification parades. A study of 1,400 adults with side hustles revealed that 29% regarded their extra money-making techniques as 'quirky' – with 78% acknowledging it's entirely different from their main employment. Gen Z are particularly keen on transforming their daily interests into income, with 57% stating they would contemplate converting theirs into full-time work, compared with merely 14% of baby boomers. Tesco Mobile commissioned the study to promote its business mobile packages, which provide value and adaptability to business operators, and has collaborated with various side hustlers to share their experiences as part of a fresh content series. Customers operating a side-hustle can register for a business contract without requiring company registration. Laura Joseph, from the brand, said: "The UK's side-hustle economy is thriving, with people across the country finding creative ways to turn their passions into pay cheques. "From paranormal tours, to food art and even writing breakup messages for other people, there's an incredible spirit of creativity and determination out there." Other distinctive methods of earning additional cash included crocheting, producing ASMR content and crafting costumes for dolls. Designing bespoke jigsaws for companies, penning personalised love letters for special occasions and creating quirky portraits of their deceased budgie were also highlighted by participants. Meanwhile, side ventures being considered for the future included composing quiz questions, producing art with AI and designing novelty tea towels. One in six (16%) would be willing to establish a 'name my baby' service according to the OnePoll.com data. Of those who don't regard themselves as small business owners, despite the additional income they generate, 50% believe they don't earn enough money to qualify. Nearly half (47%) simply do it for enjoyment while the majority (69%) view their side venture as a method to cover expenses. And 48% assessed their prospects of transforming theirs into a full-time occupation. But the advantages are obvious, as apart from the money, it's flexible, something they can manage independently and enables them to be creative. Laura Joseph, from Tesco Mobile, added; "We're proud to offer some support to these savvy side hustlers. You don't need to be a registered business to sign up or have a business bank account. "With free access to expert resources, we're helping people stay connected and in control – wherever and however they work." 1. Writing quiz questions. 2. Make art with AI. 3. 'Line sitting' (getting paid to queue for someone else). 4. Designing novelty tea towels 5. Crafting unusual pottery. 6. Flogging handmade confetti. 7. Providing "breakup apology" writing services. 8. Composing custom jingles for small businesses. 9. Designing bespoke treasure hunts for birthdays or proposals. 10. Providing "name my baby" services. 11. Hiring out garden gnomes for photo shoots. 12. Hiring out vintage board games. 13. Working as a professional mourner at funerals. 14. Flogging 80s cartoon figurines. 15. Hiring out sheds as tiny pop-up shops. 16. Crafting miniature food art for dollhouses. 17. Constructing bug hotels. 18. Providing "silent disco dog walking". 19. Crafting custom scarecrows for allotments. 20. Running paranormal investigation tours.
