coffee shop business plan

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How to write a successful coffee shop business plan (with template).

• By Taylor Anderson

Dreaming of opening a coffee shop ? You’re not alone. The coffee industry is bustling with passionate business owners eager to make their mark. However, becoming successful coffee shop owners requires more than just a love for the brew. It demands a clear vision that differentiates your coffee house in a saturated market. A well-crafted business plan not only gives life to your idea but also sets your business on a path to thrive. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned entrepreneur, this guide, complete with a free template, will help you craft a business plan that markets and propels your coffee venture to success.

What is A Coffee Shop Business Plan?

A coffee shop business plan is a comprehensive document that explains what your business idea is, how you intend to penetrate the coffee market, and the strategies you’ll employ to run your coffee shop successfully. When opening a cafe, many aspiring cafe or coffee shop owners underestimate the value of a structured plan. However, this document does more than just outline the needs to open a coffee shop; it gives a detailed roadmap for your new business, offering clarity on every aspect of its operation.

More than that, presenting a well-structured business plan to potential investors is essential. It not only showcases your commitment but also your understanding of the industry, making it a vital tool for securing funding. While crafting a business plan can seem daunting initially, it’s the foundation that both clarifies your idea and sets your business on the trajectory for growth and success in the competitive world of cafes and coffee shops.

Why A Business Plan Is Important For A Successful Coffee Shop Business?

1. Clear Vision and Objectives

When you set up your coffee shop, having a business plan establishes a clear vision and defines your objectives. It is the backbone that steers every decision you’ll make. Without a clear outline, you may find yourself swaying from one idea to the next. With a detailed business plan, you can present a clear business proposal to stakeholders, ensuring them and yourself of the path you plan to tread.

2. Financial Planning

A comprehensive business plan is imperative for accurate financial planning. It will include information on how much capital is required to start, what your ongoing costs will be, and the revenues you plan to generate. If you’re seeking external funding, investors will want to see how you plan to use their money, and most importantly, how you plan to make a return on that investment. If you plan to sell specialty blends or unique treats, the financial section can also help you plan a strategy for pricing, promotion, and sales forecasts.

3. Operational Efficiency

Operational efficiency is the linchpin that holds all business operations together. A business plan will map out every detail, from supplier agreements to employee schedules. You may want to create special events or loyalty programs for regular customers, and this is where a business plan can help you plan a strategy for success. It becomes the reference point, ensuring that daily tasks align with the broader objectives, guaranteeing that resources, time, and efforts are used optimally.

Step-by-step Guide To Write A Coffee Shop Business Plan

1. Executive Summary

The Executive Summary is like the introduction of a novel – it provides a snapshot of what is to come. Typically, you write the executive summary last, even though it appears first in your business plan. It encapsulates the essence of your coffee shop’s mission, objectives, and financial overview, succinctly explaining what your business concept is about. This section is crucial because many coffee shops fail to engage potential investors right off the bat. Ideally, it should be concise – a page or two.

What should you cover in an Executive Summary?

• Introduce Your Coffee Shop or Cafe: Provide a company overview, giving readers insight into what makes your coffee shop unique from the myriad of coffee bars in the market.
• State Your Mission and Vision: Describe what drives your coffee business and where you see it in the future.
• Outline Your Objective: Define clear, measurable goals that you aim to achieve.
• Provide a Financial Overview: Highlight projected profit margins, a brief balance sheet, and other pertinent financial data.

2. Coffee Shop Business Description

This section paints a picture of your coffee shop. It’s where you elaborate on how you plan to infuse the local coffee market with your unique brews and pastries.

What should you cover in the Coffee Shop Description section?

• Coffee Shop Concept: Dive into the types of coffee drinks you plan to offer, whether it’s a rich espresso or a classic brewed coffee.
• Unique Selling Proposition: Discuss what makes your coffee shop stand out, be it a special blend of coffee beans, a unique roasting method using a specific coffee roaster, or artisanal pastry offerings.
• Operational Plan: Briefly touch upon how you’ll manage your coffee shop, from sourcing beans to serving cups of coffee.

3. Market Analysis

Before pouring your first espresso, performing market research before starting your coffee business is essential. This section dives deep into understanding your potential customer base and the coffee industry landscape in your area.

What should you cover in this section?

• Target Market: Describe your ideal customer. Are they local residents, office workers, or students?
• Location: Discuss the significance of your chosen location. Are there many coffee shops in the area? How does your location cater to your target market?
• Competition: Analyze existing coffee shops. What coffee and food products do they offer? What pricing strategy do they employ? How will your coffee shop compete or complement them?

4. Organization and Management

Behind every successful coffee shop is a robust organizational structure and a competent management team.

What should you cover in the Organization and Management Plan?

• Coffee Shop Ownership Information: Highlight the business’s legal structure.
• Profiles of Your Coffee Shop Management Team: Include details about your baristas, perhaps a part-time accountant, and someone to manage marketing. It can be helpful to create profiles for each role, detailing responsibilities and expertise.

5. Sample Menu

Your menu is the heart of your coffee shop. It’s more than just a list of coffee and tea; it’s an expression of your brand.

What should you consider when creating a Sample Menu?

• Menu Items: Detail the types of coffee, espresso drinks, and pastries you plan to offer. Maybe consider including non-coffee items like teas or specialty drinks.
• Unique Selling Proposition: Reiterate what makes your coffee or food items different from other coffee shops in the area.
• Menu Pricing : Discuss your pricing strategy, keeping in mind profit margin, competitors’ prices, and your target customer base.

6. Marketing Plan

To brew success, it’s not enough to have a fantastic coffee product; you must effectively market it.

What should you cover in a Marketing Strategy for your Coffee Shop Business?

• Define Your Brand: What voice, theme, or emotion do you want your coffee shop to evoke?
• Lay out your plans for social media campaigns, local partnerships, loyalty programs, SEO for website, and other promotional strategies.
• Considering using an  online food ordering system  in your food truck
• Create a  digital menu with QR code  to make your menu easy for your customers to access online

7. Operations Plan

Efficiency is key to the daily grind of running a cafe. The operations section provides a detailed look at the day-to-day operations of your coffee shop business.

What Operational Issues should you address in your Business Plan?

• Supply Chain: Where will you buy your coffee beans? Who will be your coffee roaster?
• Operating Hours: Consider the best times to cater to your target market.
• Staffing: Detail roles, such as barista, manager, and part-time support.
• Equipment: List down essential equipment, from espresso machines to ovens.

8. Financial Plan

In this crucial section of your business plan, delving into the financial specifics is paramount to lay out a concrete roadmap for the fiscal aspects of your coffee shop.

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Coffee Shop?

Starting a coffee shop is not just about brewing the perfect espresso; it’s also a substantial financial commitment. The cost for opening a coffee shop can range from $80,000 to $250,000. These costs can vary widely based on factors such as location, size of the establishment, equipment quality, and inventory requirements. Moreover, the process of opening a coffee shop might also involve unexpected expenditures, so it’s essential to account for some buffer in your budget.

How Many Ways to Fund Your Coffee Shop?

There are multiple avenues for funding your coffee venture. Traditional bank loans, personal savings, angel investors, crowdfunding campaigns, and partnerships are just a few options. It’s crucial to assess which option aligns best with your business vision and financial situation.

Important Questions to Consider When You Create Your Funding Request If you’re seeking funding, there are several questions you’ll need to answer in your business plan:

• How much money do you need to start and maintain your coffee shop until it becomes profitable?
• What will the funds be used for specifically?
• How do you plan to handle financial challenges that might arise?
• How do you plan to repay any loans or provide a return on investment?

9. Financial Projections

The financial projections section of your business plan forces you to translate your coffee shop vision into numbers, ensuring you’ve accounted for all key metrics that can make or break your venture.

Break-even analysis:

This is the point where your coffee shop’s total revenues equal its total costs. Simply put, it’s when you neither make a profit nor a loss from selling coffee.

Use this formula:  Fixed Costs / (Price – Variable Costs) = Break Even Point

Projected profit and loss statement:

This will provide a forecast of your expected income and expenses, giving a clear view of your venture’s profitability.

Cash flow analysis:

Essential for understanding the liquidity of your business, this tool is especially crucial for coffee shops, considering the fluctuating expenses and incomes coffee shops offer. When drafting this, consider who will read it, as stakeholders like investors or lenders might have specific expectations.

Coffee Shop Business Plan Template

• Mission: To offer the community high-quality coffee in a comfortable and vibrant environment.
• Vision: To become the go-to local coffee spot that fosters community connections and coffee appreciation.
• Coffee Shop Description: “Java Junction” will be a modern coffee hub that emphasizes direct-trade coffee beans and a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere.
• Costs: Estimated initial costs are $125,000.
• Profits: Projected annual profit by year two is $75,000.

2. Description of the Coffee Shop

• Coffee Shop Concept: A community-focused café emphasizing artisanal methods.
• Coffee Shop Name: Java Junction. (Consider using a coffee shop name generator for more ideas).
• Coffee Shop Type: Sit-down café with an adjacent mini-library.
• Location: Main Street, Downtown Area – chosen for its high foot traffic.
• Order Fulfillment: Orders taken at the counter with table service for food.
• Working Hours: Mon-Fri (7 am – 9 pm), Sat-Sun (8 am – 10 pm).

3. Menu Offer

• Type of Food and Drink: Coffee, teas, pastries, and sandwiches.
• Offer: From classic espresso shots to unique blends like “Lavender Latte”.
• Unique Selling Point: Every coffee product uses direct-trade beans, ensuring farmer fairness.

4. Market and Competition Analysis

• Market Analysis: The local population includes a mix of professionals, students, and tourists. Many search for quiet spots to work or relax.
• Target Customer: Professionals aged 25-40 and students.
• Size of the Target Customer: Approximately 15,000 individuals.
• Competition Analysis: Three established coffee shops within a mile.
• Size of the Competition: Ranging from small boutique coffee shops to a larger chain.
• Competitors’ Offer: Basic coffee drinks, with limited specialty items.
• Competitors’ Prices: Average of $4 for a coffee drink.

5. Investment Plan (Detailed Cost Analysis)

• Equipment: $30,000
• Renovations: $20,000
• Initial Stock: $10,000
• Licenses: $5,000
• Miscellaneous: $10,000
• Rent: $3,000
• Salaries: $10,000
• Utilities: $1,000
• Stock: $2,000
• Marketing: $1,000

6. Financial Forecast

Year one is projected to break even, with a profit of $50,000 expected in year two, and $75,000 in year three, considering growth and expanding customer base.

• Owner: Jamie Smith, a coffee enthusiast with a business degree.
• Manager: Alex Brown, previously managed a successful coffee chain for five years.
• Baristas: A team of 4 skilled individuals passionate about coffee.

8. Marketing Plan

Java Junction will use a mix of social media marketing, local print advertising, and loyalty programs to attract and retain customers. Regular events, such as “Buy Our Coffee Day” and collaboration with local businesses, will drive foot traffic and community engagement, integral components for starting your coffee shop and making it successful.

This coffee shop business plan sample is hypothetical and serves as a template. Tailoring specifics to your local market, vision, and unique aspects will be necessary. Every coffee shop has nuances that can make them successful, whether it be the coffee products they sell, the environment they cultivate, or the events they host. Focus on what will make your coffee shop stand out and be sure to engage your community.

Tips For Writing a Business Plan For a Coffee Shop

Your business plan becomes the blueprint of your vision. Here are essential tips to consider:

• Comprehensiveness is Key: Ensure your plan encompasses all sections you should include, such as marketing, financial projections, and operations. A well-rounded plan provides a holistic view of your business.
• Tailor to Your Audience: If you’re presenting to potential investors, focus on profitability and growth projections. For a landlord, emphasize the benefits your coffee shop will bring to their property.
• Specialize in Marketing: Given the competitiveness in the coffee industry, it’s crucial to have a solid marketing plan. If marketing isn’t your strength, consider hiring someone to do marketing for your venture. A strong online presence, loyalty programs, and community engagement can set you apart.
• Research Your Market: Understand what nearby coffee shops include in their offerings. Identify gaps in the market and strategize on how your shop can fill them.
• Stay Flexible: While a business plan provides direction, remain adaptable. The coffee industry is dynamic, and your ability to pivot can prove invaluable.
• Separate Sections for Clarity: If your plan becomes too dense, you might want to create a separate document for specific sections like a detailed marketing strategy or an in-depth market analysis. This makes your primary business plan concise and more readable.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. how profitable is owning a coffee shop.

Owning a coffee shop can be profitable, depending on factors like location, quality of products, and management. On average, after expenses, many coffee shops report a profit margin of around 3% to 5%, with some successful ones achieving even higher. However, it’s essential to factor in initial setup costs, ongoing expenses, and market competition.

2. How do I start a coffee shop business plan?

Starting a coffee shop business plan involves multiple steps. Begin by defining your coffee shop’s mission and vision. Conduct market research to understand your target audience and competitors. Then, detail out sections like your product offerings, pricing strategy, marketing plan, financial projections, and operational procedures. If you’re thinking of opening a coffee shop, a well-thought-out business plan is indispensable.

3. What is a business plan for a coffee shop?

A coffee shop business plan is a detailed document that outlines your coffee shop’s objectives, strategies, and operational procedures. It acts as a roadmap, guiding you from the startup phase to establishing a thriving business. Moreover, if you need a coffee shop business loan or investment, this plan becomes crucial in convincing stakeholders of your venture’s viability.

4. What are the 4Ps in a coffee shop business plan?

The 4Ps stand for Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. In the context of a coffee shop:

• Product: What type of coffee and related products will you offer?
• Price: How will you price your coffee? Will it be premium or competitive?
• Place: Where will your coffee shop be located? Is it accessible to your target audience?
• Promotion: How will you market your coffee shop? Will you offer promotions or loyalty programs?

These elements help in creating a marketing strategy tailored to your coffee shop’s unique needs and market position.

Related Coffee Shop Resources

• How to start a coffee shop with no money
• How much do coffee shop owners make
• Coffee shop names
• Coffee shop name generator

Launching a coffee shop is not just about brewing the perfect cup but weaving a narrative that resonates with your community, fostering an ambiance that people gravitate towards, and maintaining a seamless operation that drives profitability. The meticulous creation of a business plan is a pivotal step in this endeavor. It’s the beacon that guides budding entrepreneurs through the complexities of the coffee industry. In such a competitive marketplace, a well-structured, comprehensive business plan can make the difference between a fleeting venture and a thriving institution. To potential coffee shop owners, embrace the process, let your passion shine through in your plan, and remember that every great coffee shop started with a simple idea, much like a single coffee bean ready to brew greatness.

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How To Start A Coffee Shop (2024 Guide)

Updated: May 1, 2024, 5:13pm

Table of Contents

How to prepare, 12 key steps to open a coffee shop, tips for success after opening a coffee shop, independent coffee shop vs. starting a franchise, frequently asked questions.

It’s no wonder you want to start a coffee shop. Coffee is one of the most popular and profitable beverages in the world. It is robust and delicate, flavorful and aromatic, stimulating and relaxing. It’s conversational, it brings people together and it jumpstarts the day. The coffee industry can be a lot of fun. If you want to know how to start a coffee shop, look no further—we’ve compiled the ultimate guide to get you on your way.

Before you truly launch into the process of starting a coffee shop, you should lay a solid foundation to build on.

Create a Business Plan

Having a business plan is important. It’s similar to a map, helping you get from point A to point B.It’s also essential if you are seeking a loan or investment. You want your lender to see what you intend to achieve and how you plan for success.

Creating a business plan helps you connect your investments with goals, have a business model, show your target market, sales strategy and overall potential for growth. It also helps you uncover any weak spots, honing in on things that could potentially go wrong. Try to map out the whole picture for the entire business including business structure, customers, location, pricing, cost, products, staff and financials.

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Choose Your Business Structure

When it comes to choosing your type of business structure , it is important to decide what structure best supports you and your business. This is something you will need to do before you register your business with the state. It is best to choose your business structure carefully, as it directly affects you and your business from personal liability, taxes, legal protection, bankruptcy, selling or even transferring ownership.

You could run your business as a sole proprietor, partnership, limited liability company (LLC) or corporation. LLCs and corporations provide protection against personal liability, but require filing forms with your state. Take some time to consider which option works best for you.

Consider Costs: Funding and Finances

Unless you already have the finances to start your coffee shop, you’ll need to calculate your startup costs. After you determine your startup expenses, you’ll need to decide where to request funding. You may have self-funding or investors as financial resources or you may need to contact banks and credit unions to request a small business loan . Another popular option is crowdfunding, which allows other people to support and contribute to the success of the business. Whichever way you decide, you need to have a good idea of what your budget is going into it. Consider costs such as renovations, buildouts, construction, machines, water systems, coffee grinders—these can add up. It’s inevitable for unforeseen things to come up, so it is better to be as accurate as you can and avoid underestimating.

1. Have a Vision

Passion with a vision is the driving force you need to move into action and succeed. Your desire will be the fuel to your success, and your customers will sense your love and dedication to the business. This vision and passion not only fulfills your personal dreams and desires, but it delivers an exceptional outcome and experience to your customers. When the going gets tough, you’ll need that fuel to get you through and when you put your heart and soul into something you love, the payoff is even greater.

“People with passion can change the world” —Steve Jobs

2. Do Your Research

Knowledge is power and it is a major contribution to your success. In order to gain knowledge, you must do your research. Start by learning the ins and outs of what makes a successful coffee shop.

There are many ways to do this, from hands-on experience to networking, asking other coffee shop owners with experience and educational tools such as books, classes and online content. This will provide you with important tools and information to move forward with confidence. Write a list of questions to help you gather the information you need. Some examples include:

• How do you roast your own coffee beans?
• What makes a great cup of coffee?
• What are the best machines to use?
• What are the coffee shop essentials?
• What is the competition like in the area?
• What are the health codes for a coffee shop?
• What other sources can help the business grow?

The more knowledge you have, the better your business will be. You’ll have more insight on how to run it, and you’ll be able to make good decisions. Your staff will trust in you and your customers will enjoy buying from you.

3. Identify Startup Cost and Equipment

No matter what, starting a coffee shop will have expenses, and these are essential for your operation. If you are choosing a brand-new retail location, it will be more costly to build and renovate than it will be to rent an existing location. Depending on the size and location of your coffee shop, cost can vary from $100,000 to $600,000. Determine what your budget is and what your limit is to spend on the necessities including renovations, furnishings, products and equipment. Some common startup costs that you’ll have include:

• Rental space
• Licenses and permits
• Advertising
• Staff wages
• Furnishing and equipment

To gain a full picture, separate your one-time costs, such as licenses and permits, equipment and renovations, from your monthly costs, such as utilities, advertising and employee wages.It’s better to overestimate than underestimate, and it’s important to have additional funding to cover operating costs until the business becomes profitable. This can take anywhere from six to 12 months.

4. Develop a Branding Strategy

Branding is much more than a logo. It not only represents the overall identity of your business, but the quality of your product, allowing customers to recognize, become familiar and trust your services. Think of it as the face and personality of your coffee shop and what makes your café unique and stand out.

Ask yourself, “How can I leave a lasting impression on the consumer and how do I want my customers to feel when they arrive?” You want your brand to activate their senses so they will automatically anticipate the full experience before they even walk through the door. This leaves a lasting impression on the consumer, encouraging them to talk about their experience with others and visit again.

Here are some helpful questions to ask yourself when developing your brand:

• What makes your coffee shop unique? For example, the coffee beans, the atmosphere, the environment, the services, the ingredients, etc.
• What kind of experience do you want to provide, and what is your overall theme for the shop?
• How can you create a sense of community, and how does it serve others as a gathering hub?
• Is your brand logo appealing, and does it translate well on packaging, social media and merchandise?
• How will your logo create a sense of familiarity and trust for consumers?

Once you’ve found the perfect design, don’t forget to trademark your logo and protect your creative assets.

5. Find a Location and Commercial Space

When starting a coffee shop, it’s important to choose a location and space that provides a wonderful experience for your customers. With that in mind, you’ll also need to consider other factors that will determine the success of your business, returning true profitable potential.

Pick a location that targets your ideal customers. You want to make sure there will be enough foot traffic in the area to provide your coffee shop with high volume and avid coffee drinkers—keeping your business steady year round. Get an idea of population density in your area by contacting the city or visiting census.gov census data by zip code.

Research other coffee shops in the area. It’s a good idea to research other coffee shops in the area to see if they compete with the products and services you provide. Some coffee shops target specific audiences or have limited hours of operation. This could help you determine whether or not you want to target customers who are early birds or night owls. Maybe you want to serve breakfast sandwiches in the morning or dessert and coffee in the evening.

Either way, it’s a good idea to make sure you’re not in competition with your neighbor—try to complement them instead.

Find a location that is easily accessible. Customers are drawn to locations that are easily accessible whether on foot or driving. Customers love the convenience of hassle-free parking and street visibility for those walking from one destination to another.

Find a commercial space. Finding a cozy coffee space is just one necessary component to an exceptional café experience but, unfortunately, not all commercial spaces will be able to accommodate more than that. Coffee shops require a unique set of accommodations, such as sufficient space to move around, room for espresso machines, couches and tables, kitchen space, gas, drain and water lines just to name a few. Remember to take all of it into consideration.

Find a commercial space you can afford. This falls in line with your budget as an ongoing cost, making it a commitment for the long haul. Consider the length of the lease, rent increases, renovations, insurance requirements, security deposit, maintenance and repairs. This not only plays a role in your coffee prices, but can directly affect any business loans.

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6. File for Permits and Licenses

Before you start firing up the espresso machine and filling the display case with baked goods, you’ll need to get approved for state and local licenses and permits. Make sure you’re prepared ahead of time and be aware that these licenses and permits take time to secure. Permits and license requirements vary from state, city and county so be sure to check with your area of operation in order to fully operate in compliance with state laws and regulations.

Here are some licenses and permits you’ll likely need to open a coffee shop:

• EIN (Employee Identification Number)
• Business license
• “Doing Business As” License (DBA)
• Retail Food Service License
• Resale License for Sales Tax
• Sign Permit
• Food Handler’s Permit
• Building Health Permit
• Live Entertainment License

Once these important documents are set in place, you’ll be well on your way to opening your doors.

7. Choose the Right Coffee Supplier

A successful coffee shop is one that brews quality coffee time after time. A delicious cup of coffee keeps your customers coming back for more, making the experience enjoyable and worth every penny. When sourcing coffee, you’ll want to offer a product you’re proud of and to do that you must partner with the right supplier.

Here are a few key pointers to consider when choosing your coffee supplier:

Coffee lovers can be picky so be prepared to brew a high-quality cup of joe. When scouting the right supplier, there are many factors to take into consideration. Learn about the origin, how the coffee is roasted and where they source the coffee beans. If possible, visit the supplier and sample the coffee firsthand or request samples by mail. Inquire how the coffee is stored—as heat and humidity can damage the flavor and quality. Look for a coffee roaster that offers a wide variety of coffee bean options and falls in alignment with the vision of your café.

Find a supplier that can support low minimums to higher-volume capacity and has a fast and reliable turnaround. Once you find a supplier that suits your needs, you’ll want to make sure the supplier is able to grow with you. You may want to purchase a wide variety of coffee beans or a minimum quantity to start and a larger quantity as you grow. Either way, make sure you choose a supplier you can rely on. Your business will have fluctuating needs and you want to make sure the supplier is consistent and can provide a steady supply.

Customer Service

Think of your supplier as someone you are forming a long-term relationship with. You’ll want them to be just as committed to your success as you are. A good supplier will provide great customer service and walk you through each step—from roasting to packaging, sampling, creating blends and making small to large orders.

There are a few important things to consider when finding a price that works for you, including quality, customer prices and profit. First, determine if the supplier offers quality beans for the price, Second, decide if the price is fair for your customers and what your profit margin will look like. Lastly, will this price allow you to turn a profit? Great coffee does not come cheap, but it should not break the bank either. Most importantly, the taste and price should be worth a return visit.

8. Design Layout and Workflow

Your coffee shop layout and workflow will play a critical role in attracting customers to your café. Not only is ambiance and environment important, but so is the customer flow, food flow and coffee flow.

Here are a few things to consider when designing a layout:

Create a first impression. From a marketing perspective, your first impression determines who will become your customers. Determine what message you want to convey and what type of experience you want your customers to have when they walk through the door. Is it cozy and quaint? Is there music, study areas or areas for conversation? Not only is ambiance important, but so are the little details—such as where your customer will stand in line, wait for their coffee and move comfortably from place to place.

Create a good workflow design. Keep in mind, you’ll want to provide great service to your customers and with great service, you’ll need to move quickly and efficiently. Coffee shops can get busy, so it’s important the layout allows your baristas to move gracefully and swiftly when under pressure. Create a layout that allows the barista to be in a good flow from taking orders to brewing, grinding, steaming and frothing.

Long before you sign any contracts, make sure the building can accommodate a good workflow and area design. Consider how you will arrange and place the essentials:

• Coffee machines, grinders, milk frothers and kitchen equipment
• Storage and supplies
• Food display
• Menus and signs
• Outdoor and indoor seating
• Food assembly
• Coffee assembly
• Customer and employee flow

9. Order Equipment and Supplies

Quality equipment is necessary for a good cup of coffee but, unfortunately, equipment is not cheap. It’s best to do your research when making big purchases and remember quality equipment is a long-term investment, essential for the growth and success of your business.

Here is a list of equipment essentials you’ll likely need for your café:

• Espresso and coffee machine
• Coffee grinder
• Water filtration system
• Refrigeration and freezers
• Hot food equipment
• Point-of-sale (POS) system
• Dine-in and take-out coffee containers
• Ice machine
• Bakery display

This is just a starter list of your standard equipment and supplies. Remember to do your research because every detail counts. Get ready to stock your shelves with blenders, stirrers, syrups, varieties of milk, condiments, containers and thermometers and more. Inventory management software is also a great tool for tracking and identifying these items, making it easy to know what’s in stock and what needs to be reordered.

10. Hire and Train Your Team

A good barista goes a long way, from the very first interaction with the customer to their coffee-making skills. Remember, the people you hire are the face of your café and they have the ability to make a positive difference to your customers’ day. Customer service is everything so hire staff who know the importance of building relationships with people and have strong communication skills. Customers love genuine interaction and it will help create a bond between the customer and the café.

You also want to train your employees properly so they can make a great cup of coffee with confidence. Make sure the barista is ready to learn and is fully equipped with all the essential tools and knowledge to succeed—even a skilled barista will benefit from a refresher.

Here are a few must-haves to look for when hiring and training a barista:

• Great customer service
• Strong communication skills
• Attention to details
• Ability to multitask
• Ability to work under pressure
• Responsible and reliable
• Willingness to learn
• Cleanliness
• A positive attitude

Overall, a great barista will not only have a love for coffee, but they will care about the success and reputation of your business. Learn more in our guide about how to hire employees.

11. Market Your Brand

It can be frustrating to gain exposure when first starting out, so having a marketing plan for your brand should be top priority. It’s also important you tailor your ads and promotional products in a way that attracts the right people. There are many influential ways to promote your brand, so make sure to utilize all avenues of marketing—whether it be through online web content, social media, storefront advertising or involvement in the community.

Let’s take a look at a few ways you can promote your brand:

• Create a website
• Search engine optimization (SEO)
• Social media
• YouTube, Instagram and Facebook
• Influencer marketing
• Community gatherings and pop up shops
• Giveaways and raffles
• Paid advertising

12. Open House

Hard work pays off and once the paperwork is signed, decor is in place and staff is on the schedule, it’s time to open your café. To do so, you’ll need to get people to walk through your doors on opening day.

Now is the time to create a buzz through your social networks. Plan a ribbon-cutting event to promote your business or welcome a few people to a soft opening for an exclusive firsthand experience. Post about opening day on social media, letting your target audience know you’ll be open for business. You can even offer discounts or freebies as an incentive; this will help build curiosity and entice people to visit.

During the open house, it’s a good idea to show the face behind the brand. Mingle with your customers and take the time to know your community as this helps to build good lasting relationships.

There is no secret formula to success but here are a few additional ways you can increase your chances of success and grow the business.

Invest in a Strong Point-of-Sale System

You can greatly improve your business through a point-of-sale (POS) system . POS systems are made up of hardware and software, working together to process sales and payment transactions at the point of purchase. This system is digital with an intuitive touchscreen and interface, replacing the traditional cash register.

Having a point-of-sale system will benefit every area of your business. It allows customers to use different payment types, which in turn increases your revenue. It improves accuracy with a touchscreen, allowing you to keep a close eye on sales, profits and expenses.

It shows real-time inventory data from tracking inventory, making reordering simple. It also includes time clock functionality for employees to clock in and clock out. You can print reports, customize receipts and so much more. A point-of-sale solution is a great addition, furthering the success of your business and keeping your business organized and running smoothly.

Stay Ahead of the Game

In a saturated market of coffee shops, it’s important your café stands out. Find ways to take your coffee shop to a whole new level, giving your customers a good reason to visit your café and not your competitors. This brings money in the door and profits up.

Create consistency with your customers so they know what to expect, giving them a reason to come back, which helps form a long-term relationship. Think of something you can include with their experience that they wouldn’t get anywhere else such as a free biscuit with purchase, rewards or loyalty programs. Another way is to create an environment that is warm and inviting. Have relaxing music playing, comfortable lounge areas and offer free Wi-Fi, this will help your customers feel at home.

If you’re considering opening a coffee shop, you may be wondering if it is better to start a franchise or an independent business. There are many differences between the two business models and the choice will ultimately depend on your personal vision and set of goals. Let’s briefly take a look at both sides of the coin.

Opening an Independent Coffee Shop

Independent small business ownership is for those who have a personal vision and want to follow their own passions. You decide how the business will run. You are your own boss and you call the shots in every area of operation. If you decide on opening an independent coffee shop, you’ll have the freedom and independence to fully create and market your own product and brand name.

On the other hand, you’ll have less exposure, and you’ll need to develop your own customer base. You are fully responsible for developing and maintaining the success of the business.

Opening a Franchise Coffee Shop

When you franchise a coffee shop, you buy the rights from a company to operate and do business under their brand name. They provide the blueprint to replicate a proven formula. There are many controlled elements when opening a franchise, ranging from hours of operation and marketing strategies to the type of equipment and ingredients used.

They define how the business will operate in every way and you gain the reputation of a brand that most people already know and trust. If you decide you want to open a franchise, you’ll be responsible for signing contracts and following many rules and regulations. Startup costs can be high and you will have to pay a continuous fee to keep using their name.

In a nutshell, both have pros and cons, and both have the potential for success. It’s important to do your research and consider all factors before making a decision.

Bottom Line

We all know coffee will never go out of style. Coffee shops are continuing to grow and are becoming more popular every day, offering a variety of flavors and styles. You will likely succeed as a coffee shop owner if you have an ongoing love for your business and a solid business plan. Stay committed to the journey, express your creative edge and be open to learning. All in all, owning a coffee shop can be a gratifying and profitable experience.

How profitable is a coffee shop?

The profit margin will all depend on a few major factors, such as volume of sales, location, price point, startup costs, operational cost and more. Every coffee shop will vary from person to person, but it is estimated that a coffee shop owner can make between $50,000 and $175,000 yearly.

Do I need any qualifications to run my own café?

There are no specific requirements or qualifications to start a coffee shop, but it is a good idea to learn general business skills. Although you do not have to have a lot of experience, you must have the motivation to learn and grow.

How do I write a simple business plan?

When you’re working on a business plan, make sure you have as much information as possible so that you can simplify it to the most relevant information. A simple business plan still needs all of the parts included in this article, but you can be very clear and direct.

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Natalie Cusson is a small business owner with over 15 years experience in the creative arts. She's worked on ad campaigns for many trusted brands such as Nike, Subaru, Polaris, Red Bull and Progressive Insurance, just to name a few. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Natalie is driven by her love for writing and research, and is committed to maintaining a growth mindset. Not only is she passionate about learning and growing, she believes in embracing a healthy lifestyle.

Cassie is a deputy editor collaborating with teams around the world while living in the beautiful hills of Kentucky. Focusing on bringing growth to small businesses, she is passionate about economic development and has held positions on the boards of directors of two non-profit organizations seeking to revitalize her former railroad town. Prior to joining the team at Forbes Advisor, Cassie was a content operations manager and copywriting manager.

Coffee Shop Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Business Plan Outline

• Coffee Shop Business Plan Home
• 1. Executive Summary
• 2. Company Overview
• 3. Industry Analysis
• 4. Customer Analysis
• 5. Competitive Analysis
• 6. Marketing Plan
• 7. Operations Plan
• 8. Management Team
• 9. Financial Plan

Coffee Shop Business Plan

Whether you are planning to start a new business or grow your existing coffee shop, you’ve come to the right place to create your coffee shop business plan.

We have helped over 100,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their coffee shops.

A coffee shop business plan is used to start and/or grow your business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

Sample Business Plan for a Cafe or Coffee Shop

Below are links to a sample of each of the key elements of a coffee shop business plan example:

• Executive Summary – The Executive Summary will provide an overview of your coffee shop business plan including highlights from each section.
• Company Overview – The Company Overview section provides a brief business description and history of your coffee business, as well as your business model, retail space location, and mission statement.
• Industry Analysis – The Industry Analysis leverages market research to provide an overview of the coffee industry, including trends, growth potential, and competition in the coffee market.
• Customer Analysis – The Customer Analysis section provides insights into the segments of your target market (i.e., business professionals, college students, etc.), including their needs and preferences, as well as how you plan to attract and retain them.
• Competitive Analysis – The Competitive Analysis section provides an opportunity for you to research other coffee shops in your area and identify their strengths and weaknesses. You will also detail your unique selling proposition (i.e., high-quality coffee, specialty coffees, welcoming atmosphere, etc.) for attracting new and repeat customers.
• Marketing Plan – The Marketing Plan offers a detailed marketing strategy for promoting your coffee shop to attract and retain customers, including advertising and social media marketing. It will also include your pricing structure for your products.
• Operations Plan – The Operations Plan includes information on the daily operations of your coffee shop, such as staffing, inventory management, and equipment.
• Management Team – The Management Team section introduces the key players in your coffee shop, their roles and responsibilities, and their relevant skills and experience.
• Financial Plan – The Financial Plan will provide detailed projections for the financial performance of your coffee shop, including startup costs, operating costs, revenue, and expenses. This section should include an income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statement.

Next Section: Executive Summary >

Coffee Shop Business Plan FAQs

What is a coffee shop business plan.

A coffee shop business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your business. Among other things, it includes your company overview, allows you to conduct a market analysis to identify your target market, includes a sample menu, presents your marketing plan and pricing strategy to attract your local customer base, details your sales forecasts, and provides the income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statement for your coffee shop.

You can  easily complete your coffee shop business plan using our Business Plan Template for a Coffee Shop here .

What Are the Main Types of Coffee Shops?

The different types of coffee shops include cafes, coffee bars and coffeehouses that sell coffee drinks and other snacks. Some coffee shops offer lunch and dinner menus and are close to being full-service restaurants. There are also coffee shops that are more accessible for people on the go or those who want to make their own coffee. These are retail coffee shops, drive thru coffee shops, coffee carts and trucks, and roasters or retailers.

What Are the Main Sources of Revenue and Operating Expenses for a Coffee Shop?

The primary source of revenue for many coffee shops come from its food and drink sales, which includes brewed coffee, coffee beans, seasonal drinks and refreshments, and baked goods. Gift card and merchandise sales like tumblers, mugs, and coffee makers also contribute to a coffee shop’s revenue stream.

The expected expenses for a coffee shop are the cost of coffee and food products, salaries and wages, rent, and advertising costs. 

How Much Does it Cost to Start a Coffee Shop?

Opening a coffee shop business can cost anywhere from $40,000 to $100,000 depending on the size and location of the business. Additional costs such as inventory, employee salaries, and marketing expenses can range from $5,000 to $15,000 per month.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Coffee Shop Business?

The best way to get funding for a coffee shop business is through a bank loan or utilizing your personal savings, business credit cards or borrowing from friends and family. You can also look into government grants or loans, or try to find a partner who is willing to invest in your business. Whatever route you choose, be sure to have a solid coffee shop business plan for potential investors including a sales and marketing plan as well as a realistic idea of how much money you need to get started.

How to Start a Coffee Shop?

• Determine the type of coffee shop business you want to open . There are many different types of coffee shops, from small mom-and-pop shops to large chains.
• Create a coffee shop business plan. This will outline your plans for starting and running your coffee shop. 
• Secure funding . You will need money to start and run a coffee shop, so you'll need to find investors or borrow money from a bank or other lending institution.
• Find a location for your coffee shop. This can be tricky, as you'll need to find a space that is affordable and has good foot traffic.
• Equip your coffee shop . You'll need to buy or lease equipment such as espresso machines, coffee brewers, and furniture in addition to the coffee beans and other food products you plan to sell.
• Hire staff . You'll need employees to run your coffee shop, so post job ads and interview potential candidates.

Learn more about how to start a successful coffee shop business:

• How to Start a Coffee Shop Business

Where Can I Get a Coffee Shop Business Plan PDF?

You can download our free coffee shop business plan template PDF . This free coffee shop business plan template can be used to write your own business plan.

• Try it out »

The Ultimate Coffee Shop Business Plan and Template

If you are looking to write a coffee shop business plan, you have come to the right place.

A coffee shop business plan is an essential tool for coffee shop owners or people who want to open a coffee shop. A business plan will help you plan your strategy for success and act as a guide as you look to build your coffee shop.

In this article, we’ll look at why you should write a business plan for your coffee shop or cafe, as well as provide you with a sample and a template that contains inspiration for the things you should include in your coffee shop business plan.

Table of Contents

• 1 Why Write a Coffee Shop Business Plan?
• 2.1 Executive Summary
• 2.2 Company Overview
• 2.3 Market and Customer Analysis
• 2.4 Sales and Marketing Plan
• 2.5 Management Team
• 2.6 Financial Plan
• 3 Wrapping Up

Why Write a Coffee Shop Business Plan?

The basic idea behind a coffee shop is simple. The business needs to sell enough coffee products to cover costs and make a profit. However, many variables will define whether your business is successful.

A coffee shop business plan will help you plan a strategy for success. It will consider factors such as opportunities, risks, and how you will market yourself . By having a good idea of this before you start a coffee shop, you will be better placed to overcome or avoid any difficulties.

Here are some examples of how a business plan could help iron out any difficulties:

• While creating the market analysis section, you may decide that competition is too intense. If this is the case, you could look for a new area with fewer competitors or find a way to make your coffee shop business stand out.
• By creating a marketing plan before you open, you can put yourself in an excellent position to make sales from the moment you start a coffee shop.
• By creating cash flow projections, you will be able to spot any potential financial issues well before they come to light, preventing cash flow problems.

Without a business plan, you would either not know about the potential difficulties listed above, or you would be aware of them but lacking any defined strategy for overcoming them. By creating a coffee shop business plan, you can tackle issues with a clearer head.

Business plans are also essential documents if you plan to apply for funding for your coffee shop.

You’ll likely need to submit the business plan to the bank when applying for a loan, or to investors when applying for equity funding. Having a well-thought-out business plan shows you have done your market research and analyzed your idea which helps give investors an overview of the risks and potential rewards of investing.

If you are going to use your business plan to apply for funding, you’ll need to go into a little more detail about the financials of your business. This will include your income and expenses and you’ll also need to include a section that discusses how you will use the money you’re raising.

Coffee Shop Business Plan Template

A Google search will reveal differences when it comes to the exact sections you should include in your coffee shop business plan.

Nonetheless, a coffee shop business plan template will include the sections listed below. In this part of the article, we’ll go through a coffee shop business plan template and discuss what you should include in each section.

Executive Summary

The executive summary is a short overview of your coffee shop business plan. It should include all the important details about your business. When deciding what to include, think about what you would want someone to see if they told you they would only read this one section of your plan.

Open your executive summary with a statement about what your coffee shop business is all about. Talk about what it will offer that is unique and mention why you think it will be successful. Is it the only coffee house in town, for example?

Coffee shop name: AI Coffee Shop

Executive Summary:

AI Coffee will serve high-quality coffee to office workers and business people who work nearby. We will sell espresso-based drinks with a focus on providing quality at speed. We will sell coffee to take away as well as to eat in, with an indoor seating area with space for 25 customers in our coffee shop.

While there are other coffee shops in the area, we believe that there is demand for more — especially ones that focus on a high-quality product. We will also provide a light lunch menu and pastries that we believe will differentiate us from other coffee shops in the area. 

Company Overview

In the company overview section, you should include practical details about your coffee shop business. This will include:

• The structure and ownership of your coffee shop
• The staff you plan to hire and what you will pay them
• Your company’s mission statement, and startup expenses

While this may seem like a lot of work, the good news is this also serves as a way to kill two birds with one stone. As you flesh out your company’s goals & vision statements, it’s important to track this information in an internal wiki . Not only will this help your business stay true to its course, but it can also serve as a great resource for your staff.

AI Coffee will be a privately held company owned entirely by Mr Smith, who will also manage the coffee shop. We will hire two full-time employees with at least two years of barista experience, as well as four part-time employees to help during busy periods.

Startup costs for the coffee shop will be $70,000, which will be spent on rent, renovations, and purchasing equipment. The owner has put up half the money and has borrowed half from a bank. Based on annual sales of $160,000 and after costs and wages, we expect to be profitable within the second year. 

Market and Customer Analysis

In the market analysis section, you should include details about the local market. This can include information on competitors, such as other coffee shops or any fast-food joints, restaurants, or bars that you think will be competing for your coffee shop’s money.

You should also outline what makes your coffee shop business unique and why you think it can be successful despite the competition. You can also include wider information about the coffee industry.

In the customer analysis section, you need to include information about your target market. Include details on who they are and why you think they will like your coffee shop, with metrics where possible. If you performed market research before starting your coffee shop business plan, include that here.

Market Analysis

The coffee industry is expected to keep growing between 2020 and 2024 in the U.S. Research suggests that coffee is one of the most consumed beverages in the country, with the average person drinking two cups per day. We believe that this growth, plus the high volume of coffee people drink each day, makes opening a coffee shop a good business opportunity . 

Competitor Analysis

AI Coffee will be located in a vibrant district that is seeing offices open up and new companies move in. There are currently two other coffee shop competitors in the immediate area, but we believe there is room for more.

Our shop’s main advantages are that it is closer to a new office building than the other shops. We also plan to differentiate ourselves by offering a small lunch menu, unlike any of the existing coffee shops, as well as various customer loyalty schemes . 

Customer Analysis

The location of the coffee shop has high footfall, especially before and after work and during lunchtimes. The area has a high proportion of local professionals who can afford to spend money on coffee and other drinks. 

The office blocks in the immediate vicinity are home to around 2,500 people. There are also other buildings being developed nearby. The location is also close to shopping and entertainment districts. We expect to receive significant revenue from passersby, who will keep us busy during the day. 

Sales and Marketing Plan

Before you start a coffee shop, you should have a clear idea of what your business’s sales strategy will be.

Your sales strategy contains practical details on how you will handle sales. You should also include sales forecasts and how you have come up with these forecasts. In this section, you should include information about the products you will sell and your pricing strategy.

Your marketing plan will discuss the strategies you will use to get customers through the door. Discuss your budget and expected returns on investment. If you have a particularly complex marketing plan, you may want to create a separate document for this and only include the highlights in your business plan.

AI Coffee will open from 7.30 a.m. until 7.30 p.m. seven days a week. We expect the hours immediately before and after office hours, as well as between 12 p.m. and 1 p.m., to be the busiest of the day, with much of our sales being to take out. 

We will use a commercial espresso machine and we expect to be able to produce up to a maximum of 70 cups of coffee per hour, which should be sufficient during busy times. 

We will sell our espresso-based drinks and tea at between $3 and $6, depending on the drink and the size. We will sell pastries at between $2 and $5, as well as light meals at between $7 and $12. These meals will be packaged so customers can either eat them on-site or take them away. 

We expect to generate around $730 per day from food and drink sales. 

Marketing Plan

We will market our coffee shop to customers in the nearby area through display marketing in relevant locations. We will also use social media marketing to target people nearby, and we will connect with people through our social media accounts. We will use these accounts to keep customers updated with new menu items as well as offers and discounts. 

We will also create a website and an app, which we will use to run a customer loyalty scheme . We will provide the option to order coffee through the app and pick it up at the shop. We think this will appeal to busy professionals. 

Our marketing will focus on the quality of the coffee we sell, as well as the benefits of our shop to office workers ( in-app ordering ). During the week after we open, we will offer substantial discounts on coffee to attract people to our business. This offer will be central to our marketing during this period. 

We will encourage repeat customers using a loyalty scheme that will give them a free cup of coffee when they buy eight drinks.

Our marketing budget will be $500 in the first two months, but we will cut this down to around $350 a month after that. 

Operating Plan

The operating plan will include details of how you will run your coffee shop. This will include costs, as well as specifics about things like opening times, food and drink production, prices, and more.

It will also allow you to spot any potential conflicts. For example, if you plan to serve 150 office workers between 7:30 a.m. and 9 a.m., can you do it with only two members of staff or would you be better off hiring another employee?

You can also use this section to explain any licenses or certifications you need to get before you open your shop, as well as how you will train employees.

We will open from 7:30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m. We will always have at least three staff members in place to take care of making coffee, process sales, and keep the coffee shop tidy.

We will buy our coffee wholesale from a supplier that specializes in high-quality coffee. This coffee will cost $40 per five-pound bag. We will keep enough coffee in stock to last for at least one week. 

In terms of equipment, we will use a commercial grinder to grind beans before making each cup. 

We will buy pastries and light meals from a local supplier who will also take care of the packaging. We will receive a daily delivery at 7 a.m., thirty minutes before the shop opens. 

We will thoroughly clean up the shop after closing to ensure it is ready for the following day. We will build HACCP processes to stay compliant with food safety regulations. All members of staff will receive training so they know about these processes.

Management Team

In the management team section, you should include who the business owners are and who will manage your coffee shop. You should write about any experience or qualifications they have that will help make them successful.

If the owners won’t be managing the coffee shop, you should include details about who will take care of the day-to-day running of the business. In this section, include how much you will be paying each of the management team as well as how any profits will be shared amongst the owners.

The owner will also manage the coffee shop. The owner has over ten years’ experience working in coffee shops, including six years in various management positions. AI Coffee will also hire two full-time employees. These employees will have at least two years’ experience working in a coffee shop. We will pay each full-time employee $22,000 a year.

We will also hire four part-time employees with or without experience to work at weekends and provide cover during the week. We will pay these employees $10 an hour. 

Financial Plan

The final section of the coffee shop business plan is the financial plan. Here you need to go into detail about how your business will be financially successful.

Include operating costs (this includes the cost of equipment), loan repayments, cash flow and expected revenue (in the first year, especially). Also, include a balance sheet analysis that shows how much revenue you need to take in to become a profitable coffee business.

In this section, we will explain our financial plan, including costs, expected sales, and profit. We will also include a balance sheet. We believe this plan accurately illustrates why AI Coffee will be financially successful. 

ADD FINANCIALS 

Wrapping Up

That’s all for our coffee shop business plan guide. We hope that this has equipped you with enough knowledge on how to start a coffee shop and will help you with your business planning.

To find out more about getting a business up and running, check out our guides to writing a business proposal in 2019 and writing a small business marketing plan.

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Coffee Shop Business Plan Template & PDF Example

• July 22, 2024
• Business Plan

Creating a comprehensive business plan is crucial for launching and running a successful coffee shop. This plan serves as your roadmap, detailing your vision, operational strategies, and financial plan. It helps establish your coffee shop’s identity, navigate the competitive market, and secure funding for growth.

This article not only breaks down the critical components of a coffee shop business plan, but also provides an example of a business plan to help you craft your own.

Whether you’re an experienced entrepreneur or new to the food and beverage industry, this guide, complete with a business plan example, lays the groundwork for turning your coffee shop concept into reality. Let’s dive in!

Our coffee shop business plan is structured to cover all essential aspects needed for a comprehensive strategy. It outlines the shop’s operations, marketing strategy, market environment, competitors, management team, and financial forecasts.

• Executive Summary : Offers a quick look at your coffee shop idea, market research , your team, and money plans.
• Coffee Shop & Location: Talks about the design, special features, and why the spot is great for customers.
• Operations: Describes how your shop runs daily, like hours, staff roles, and your menu items with prices.
• Key Stats: Gives numbers on how big the coffee shop world is and what’s trending.
• Key Trends : Points out new things in coffee shops, like eco-friendly practices or tech for ordering.
• Key Competitors: Looks at other coffee places nearby and how your shop is different.
• SWOT: Lists strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and risks for your shop.
• Marketing Plan : Ideas for getting the word out and keeping customers coming back.
• Timeline : Major steps and goals from starting up to the first year.
• Management: Highlights Info on your leading team and their roles.
• Financial Plan : Predicts financials for 5 years, like how much you’ll make, spend, and keep as profit.

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Coffee Shop Business Plan

Fully editable 30+ slides Powerpoint presentation business plan template.

Download an expert-built 30+ slides Powerpoint business plan template

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Executive Summary

The Executive Summary presents a concise overview of your coffee shop’s business plan, encapsulating the essence of your establishment and its offerings. It should articulate your market positioning, the variety of coffee and related products you offer, its location, size, and a brief on the daily operations.

This section should also delve into how your coffee shop will carve its niche within the local community, including an analysis of the number of direct competitors in the vicinity, identifying who they are, as well as highlighting your coffee shop’s unique selling points that set it apart from these competitors.

Moreover, information about the management and co-founding team should be included, elaborating on their roles and the value they bring to the coffee shop’s success. Additionally, a synopsis of your financial projections, including anticipated revenue and profits over the next five years, should be provided here to offer a clear view of your coffee shop’s financial strategy.

Coffee Shop Business Plan Executive Summary Example

Business Overview

The  business overview  section should detail the coffee shop’s specific features, including its size, seating capacity, and concept. This is where you explain what makes your coffee shop unique, such as its focus on specialty coffees and local artisanal pastries, and how it operates.

Example: “Bean Haven,” located in the bustling Midtown area, spans 2,000 square feet and can seat 40 customers. It stands out with its range of gourmet coffees and fresh pastries, all sourced from local suppliers. The shop’s modern POS system ensures efficient service, enhancing the overall customer experience.

Market Overview

In this section, analyze the local and national coffee shop market. Discuss the size of the market, growth trends, and consumer preferences. This analysis should position your coffee shop within the broader industry context and highlight its potential to meet current consumer demands.

Example: Bean Haven enters a U.S. coffee shop market valued at $45.8 billion. In its neighborhood, known for a dense population of young professionals, Bean Haven’s focus on health-conscious options and its role as a community hub align with shifting consumer preferences, setting it apart from six main competitors in the area.

Management Team

This section outlines the experience and roles of your management team. Detail how their background and skills contribute to the success of the coffee shop.

Example: Bean Haven is led by a CEO with 10 years of experience in café management, overseeing daily operations and supply chain efficiency. The CFO, with a background in hospitality sector marketing, handles the shop’s financial strategies and marketing campaigns, ensuring robust business operations.

Financial Plan

Here, present your financial goals and projections. Include revenue targets and profit margins, providing a clear picture of your coffee shop’s financial aspirations and health.

Example: Bean Haven aims for $830,000 in annual revenue with an 11%  EBITDA  margin by 2028. This goal is supported by a focused approach on high-quality offerings, strategic marketing, and community engagement, positioning Bean Haven for success in the  competitive  market.

For a Coffee Shop, the Business Overview section can be neatly divided into 2 main slides:

Coffee Shop & Location

Talk about your coffee shop’s look and feel, highlighting cozy seats and nice lighting that make it welcoming. Mention its location, noting how easy it is to get there, like being close to shops or having easy parking. Explain why this spot is great for attracting customers.

Operations & Offerings

List the kinds of coffee and other items you sell, including snacks or light food. Discuss pricing, making sure it matches the quality of what you’re selling and suits your target customers . Share special features of your shop, such as using local products or offering unique coffee flavors. Mention any deals or events you have to keep customers coming back.

Industry Size & Growth

In the Market Overview of your coffee shop business plan, begin by exploring the size of the coffee industry and its potential for growth. This analysis is key to understanding the breadth of the market and pinpointing opportunities for expansion.

Key Market Trends

Next, discuss current trends in the coffee market, like the growing demand for specialty coffee, the appeal of ethically sourced and organic beans, and the innovation in coffee brewing techniques. Highlight the interest in offerings that cater to diverse preferences and dietary needs, such as plant-based milk options and artisanal blends, as well as the increasing importance of sustainability in the coffee industry.

Competitive Landscape

A  competitive analysis  is not just a tool for gauging the position of your coffee shop in the market; it’s also a fundamental component of your business plan.

This analysis helps identify your coffee shop’s unique selling points, which are essential for differentiating your business in a  competitive  market.

In addition, competitive analysis is integral in laying a solid foundation for your business plan. By examining various operational aspects of your competitors, you gain valuable information that ensures your business plan is robust, informed, and tailored to succeed in the current market environment.

Identifying Your Coffee Shop’s Competitors

The first step in conducting a competitive analysis for your coffee shop is identifying your direct and indirect competitors. Direct competitors include nearby coffeehouses or chains that offer similar services and products, while indirect competitors might encompass local juice bars, tea houses, or even convenience stores selling coffee.

Utilize tools like Google Maps to map out competitor locations and understand their distribution across your area. Online platforms like Yelp, Google Reviews, or social media channels provide invaluable insights into customer reviews and ratings, shedding light on competitor  strengths and weaknesses . For instance, if a rival coffee shop receives praise for its artisanal coffee blends and cozy ambiance, it signifies a notable strength.

Coffee Shop Competitors’ Strategies

To gain a deeper understanding of the competitive landscape, analyze various facets of your competitors’ strategies:

• Coffee Menu Offerings:  Assess the range and uniqueness of coffee offerings. For instance, if a local competitor, “Brew Masters,” is gaining traction with exotic single-origin coffees or specialty cold brews, it highlights a potential trend or gap in the market for distinctive coffee blends.
• Service and Ambiance:  Consider the ambiance and customer service. Perhaps a competitor, “Sip & Chill Café,” is known for its relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff, enhancing the overall customer experience.
• Pricing Strategy :  Compare your pricing with competitors. Are your coffee prices aligned with those of other local cafes, or do you position yourself as a premium establishment akin to “Gourmet Grinds,” offering artisanal blends at a higher price point?
• Marketing and Branding:  Analyze how competitors market their brand. Do they rely heavily on social media campaigns, influencer collaborations, or community events? Understanding their marketing tactics can help refine your promotional strategies.
• Innovative Offerings and Technology:  Look for innovative approaches. Are competitors embracing technology for online ordering or loyalty programs? For example, “TechBeans Café” might leverage an efficient app-based ordering system, catering to tech-savvy customers.

What’s Your Coffee Shop’s Value Proposition?

Defining your coffee shop’s  unique value proposition  is critical. Perhaps your establishment specializes in single-origin, ethically sourced beans, or you have a signature blend that customers rave about. Emphasize these unique offerings to distinguish your brand in the market.

Consider market gaps and evolving customer preferences. If there’s a growing preference for sustainable practices or an increasing demand for specific coffee types (organic, fair trade, etc.), tailoring your offerings to meet these needs can position your coffee shop favorably amidst competitors.

Tailoring your offerings to your location is essential. A coffee shop in a bustling business district might emphasize quick service and convenience for professionals on the go. At the same time, a suburban café could focus on creating a warm, family-friendly environment to attract locals seeking a relaxing spot for gatherings or leisurely coffee breaks.

Start by doing a SWOT analysis for the coffee shop. Point out Strengths (like skilled baristas and a variety of coffee options), Weaknesses (such as high running costs or lots of competitors), Opportunities (for instance, more people wanting unique coffee experiences), and Threats (like economic changes that might reduce how much people spend on coffee).

Marketing Plan

Then, make a marketing plan that shows how to draw in and keep customers. This could include ads aimed at the right people, deals to save money, an active and interesting online presence, and getting involved in the local area.

Marketing Channels

Utilize various marketing channels to reach and engage your audience effectively.

Digital Marketing

• Establish a Strong Online Presence:  Leverage social media platforms like Instagram for visually appealing coffee shots, TikTok for engaging short videos, and Twitter/Facebook for engaging with customers and sharing updates.
• Email Marketing:  Build an email list and send newsletters featuring new coffee blends, upcoming events, or promotions. Offer incentives for signing up, such as a discount on the first purchase.
• Website and SEO:  Develop a user-friendly website showcasing your menu, the story behind each coffee blend, and a blog section for brewing tips or coffee-related content. Optimize for local SEO to attract nearby customers.

Local Advertising

Connect with the local community to increase foot traffic:

• Flyers and Local Print:  Distribute eye-catching flyers in nearby offices, community centers, and partner businesses. Advertise in local newspapers or magazines to reach a broader audience.
• Community Engagement:  Host events like cupping sessions, live music nights, or art exhibitions to create a gathering space. Partner with local artists, musicians, or charities to foster community connections.
• Partnerships: C ollaborate with neighboring businesses, such as bakeries, bookstores, or gyms, for cross-promotions or joint events.

Promotional Activities

Attract customers with enticing offers and loyalty programs:

• Special Deals:  Launch seasonal or themed promotions to attract customers. For instance, during colder months, promote warm beverage options with discounts, or offer a summer-themed menu with refreshing iced coffees or specialty drinks.
• Loyalty Programs:  Implement a rewards system where customers earn points for every purchase. These points can be redeemed for free drinks, merchandise, or even exclusive experiences. This encourages repeat business and fosters a sense of loyalty among customers.
• Referral Incentives:  Encourage your existing customers to refer friends and family by offering incentives. This could be in the form of discounts or free beverages for successful referrals. Word-of-mouth remains a powerful tool in the coffee industry.

Sales Channels

Optimize  sales channels  to maximize revenue and customer satisfaction.

In-Store Upselling

Maximize each customer’s visit:

• Upsell Specialty Items:  Train baristas to suggest specialty drinks, pastries, or merchandise based on customers’ preferences or current promotions.
• Merchandising:  Display branded merchandise like travel mugs, brewing equipment, or specialty beans near the checkout counter to encourage additional purchases.

Subscription Services

Offer subscription-based models for regular income and customer retention:

• Coffee Delivery Subscription:  Introduce a coffee delivery subscription service where customers receive their preferred coffee blends regularly at a discounted rate. Customize subscription options based on frequency and quantity to cater to diverse preferences.
• VIP Memberships:  VIP memberships can provide exclusive benefits such as early access to new blends, members-only events, or personalized recommendations. These memberships create a sense of belonging and offer additional value to loyal customers.

Mobile Ordering and Pickup

Facilitate convenient ordering and pickup options:

• Mobile App Ordering:  Develop a user-friendly mobile app that allows customers to browse your menu, place orders, and make payments seamlessly. Offer incentives such as loyalty points or app-exclusive deals, to encourage app usage.
• Curbside Pickup:  Implement a curbside pickup option, allowing customers to order ahead and collect their beverages without leaving their vehicles. This convenience factor can attract busy individuals or those seeking contactless service.

Strategy Timeline

Lastly, set up a detailed timeline that marks important steps for the coffee shop’s start, marketing actions, growth in the number of customers, and goals for getting bigger. Make sure there’s a clear plan and goal for moving the business forward.

The Management section focuses on the coffee shop’s management and their direct roles in daily operations and strategic direction. This part is crucial for understanding who is responsible for making key decisions and driving the coffee shop toward its financial and operational goals.

For your coffee shop business plan, list the core team members, their specific responsibilities, and how their expertise supports the business.

The Financial Plan section is a comprehensive analysis of your financial projections for revenue, expenses, and profitability. It lays out your coffee shop’s approach to securing funding, managing cash flow, and achieving breakeven.

This section typically includes detailed forecasts for the first 5 years of operation, highlighting expected revenue, operating costs and capital expenditures.

For your coffee shop business plan, provide a snapshot of your financial statement (profit and loss, balance sheet, cash flow statement), as well as your key assumptions (e.g. number of customers and prices, expenses, etc.).

Make sure to cover here _ Profit and Loss _ Cash Flow Statement _ Balance Sheet _ Use of Funds

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Coffee Shop Business Plan Ultimate Guide + Free Example

July 6, 2023

Adam Hoeksema

When it comes to starting a coffee shop, writing a business plan may not be your top priority. You're probably eager to dive into the exciting world of brewing aromatic coffee and serving delicious treats, rather than spending days crafting a detailed plan.

However, it's important to understand that potential lenders and investors often require a business plan before they consider supporting your venture. So, while it may not be your first choice, having a well-prepared business plan with realistic financial projections is crucial to securing the financial backing you need.

So if you have to do it, this article is going to help you walk through the following:

• What Should be Included in a Coffee Shop Business Plan?

Coffee Shop Business Plan Outline

• Conducting Market Research for Your Coffee Shop Business Plan
• Creating Financial Projections for Your Coffee Shop Business Plan

Example Coffee Shop Business Plan

• Free Coffee Shop Business Plan Template Download
• Coffee Shop Business Plan FAQs

With that in mind as the path forward, let’s dive in. 

A coffee shop business plan should effectively convey to investors and lenders why customers would prefer to frequent your coffee shop, why you or your team are the ideal individuals to manage the coffee shop, and how the financial projections are structured to ensure a worthwhile return on their investment. Below is a comprehensive layout of our complimentary coffee shop business plan template.

I. Executive Summary

Ii. market analysis, iii. business concept, iv. marketing strategy, v. operations plan, vi. financial plan, startup costs and use of funds, annual sales, gross profit and net profit, key financial ratios, financial summary, income statement annual summary, cash flow statement annual summary, balance sheet annual summary, vii. management team.

VII. Conclusion

How to do Market Research for a Coffee Shop Business Plan

Central to any coffee shop business plan is market research. You need to comprehend your position in the market and aim to validate that there is ample demand for your specific coffee shop concept, location, and pricing structure. You can explore more about our coffee shop market researc h approach here, but ultimately, you aim to understand your competition, gain insights into potential customer footfall, select an optimal location, and anticipate any seasonal trends that might influence your business. Here are some instruments and strategies for conducting market research for your proposed coffee shop.

What Will be the Cost to Advertise my Coffee Shop?

We recommend using Google Keyword Planner to assist you in determining which keywords to advertise for attracting customers to your coffee shop's website. The tool also provides an estimate of how much each click will cost when advertising for various keywords, as seen below:

What Keywords are Customers Using in Their Searches?

We utilize both Google Keyword Planner and Ahrefs to discover which keywords are channeling traffic to your competitors' websites. For instance, you can run a report on a competitor's website to see the keywords they rank for and the amount of organic traffic each keyword brings. This information can help streamline your SEO efforts.

How Seasonal are Coffee Shops?

We use Google Trends to identify how seasonal your coffee shop concept might be. As an example, you can see below that the search volume for “coffee shop near me” in the United States is somewhat seasonal in nature.   January is consistently the low point, with the summer and fall tending to be the high point of the season.

How Many Customers Do my Competitors Receive Each Month?

Lastly, we find it beneficial to generate foot traffic reports on your competitors to ascertain the typical number of customers they receive at their coffee shops. You can see an example below that indicates the number of visits per month for a specific location:

In the end, the potential customer base for your coffee shop will be a critical assumption that will form the backbone of your financial projections. Therefore, understanding the footfall of your competitors can aid you in estimating potential traffic to your coffee shop.

How to Create Financial Projections for a Coffee Shop Business Plan

Once you've conducted thorough market research, it's time to develop financial projections for your coffee shop. Our coffee shop financial projection template is designed to help you estimate revenue based on customer traffic, taking into account factors such as seating capacity and the efficiency of your kitchen operations. These projections serve two important purposes: demonstrating your ability to repay a loan and showcasing the potential return on investment for potential investors. To achieve this, consider the following steps:

• Estimate startup costs for your coffee shop
• Forecast revenue
• Project food and labor cost
• Estimate your operating expenses like rent and utilities
• Calculate how much investor or loan capital you will need to open

Our coffee shop projection template offers guidance in this process and provide a standardized format that meets the requirements of investors and lenders. Typically, a comprehensive set of projections for a startup coffee shop should include an integrated income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow forecast.

Remember, while writing a business plan and developing financial projections may seem daunting, they are essential steps in securing the necessary funding and creating a roadmap for your coffee shop's success. By following these guidelines and utilizing our templates, you'll be well-equipped to present a compelling case to potential investors and lenders.

Below is the content of our example coffee shop business plan. You can also access a Google Doc version of this coffee shop business plan template here , allowing you to personalize it to suit your needs. In addition, you can follow along with this video walkthrough designed to assist you in adapting the business plan to your specific coffee shop concept.

Coffee Shop Business Plan Template

Brewtopia is a specialty coffee shop located in the heart of downtown, offering customers a unique and elevated coffee experience. Our target market is young professionals and coffee connoisseurs who are looking for high-quality coffee and a comfortable, chic atmosphere. Our goal is to differentiate ourselves from other coffee shops in the area by offering a unique selection of specialty coffee drinks and a curated menu of pastries and small bites, made with locally-sourced ingredients. In addition to traditional espresso-based drinks, Brewtopia will offer Nitro cold brew on tap and a variety of flavored lattes made with natural syrups. With a focus on quality, customer service, and community involvement, Brewtopia aims to become a staple in the downtown community and to provide customers with a memorable coffee experience.

The coffee industry is a rapidly growing market, with revenue in the US estimated at $48 billion in 2021. Within the industry, the specialty coffee segment is growing even faster as consumers are willing to pay more for a premium experience. 

Our target market is young professionals, ages 25-40, who value convenience and quality in their coffee choices. The downtown area, where Brewtopia will be located, has several coffee shops, but none offer the same level of specialty drinks and baked goods that we will offer. With a focus on quality and a unique experience, Brewtopia is well-positioned to capture a significant share of the growing specialty coffee market in the downtown area.

Brewtopia's concept centers around providing customers with a unique and elevated coffee experience. 

Our menu will include a variety of specialty coffee drinks made with high-quality, responsibly-sourced beans, as well as a curated selection of pastries and small bites made fresh daily using locally-sourced ingredients. In addition to traditional espresso-based drinks, Brewtopia will offer Nitro cold brew on tap and a variety of flavored lattes made with natural syrups, differentiating ourselves from other coffee shops in the area. Our chic and modern decor will provide a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for customers to work, relax, and socialize.

Brewtopia's marketing strategy will focus on building brand awareness and attracting customers through a strong presence on social media, targeted advertising, and community involvement. We will maintain a strong presence on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, showcasing our products and connecting with customers. 

Our targeted advertising will focus on reaching young professionals in the downtown area through channels such as local publications and online ads. In addition, Brewtopia will be active in the community, hosting events and supporting local organizations, helping us to build relationships with our customers and establish ourselves as a part of the downtown community. 

We will also offer loyalty programs and special promotions to encourage repeat business. Our pricing strategy will be competitive with other specialty coffee shops in the area, but slightly higher to reflect the premium quality of our products.

Brewtopia will be open 7 days a week, from 7am to 7pm. Our team of baristas will be trained to provide exceptional customer service and to prepare a wide range of specialty coffee drinks. We will use a point-of-sale system to manage orders and track inventory, and all baked goods will be prepared fresh daily on-site. 

Brewtopia will occupy a 1,500 square foot space in the downtown area, which will include a kitchen for preparing food, a bar for coffee preparation, and seating for 20-25 customers. The space will be designed to be modern and chic, creating a welcoming atmosphere for customers.

The start-up costs for Brewtopia are estimated at $200,000, which includes the costs of leasing a space, equipment and supplies, marketing and advertising, and initial inventory. We plan to finance the startup costs through a combination of personal savings, a small business loan, and investments from friends and family.

All of the unique financial projections you see here were generated using ProjectionHub’s coffee shop financial projection template . Use PH20BP to enjoy a 20% discount on the template. 

Watch how to create financial projections for your very own coffee shop:

Brewtopia will be owned and operated by Jane Doe, a seasoned coffee professional with over 10 years of experience in the coffee industry. Jane will manage the daily operations of the business and provide exceptional customer service, while also training and supervising a team of baristas. Additionally, Jane will be responsible for the financial management of the business and the development of our marketing strategy.

VII. Conclusion 

Brewtopia is poised to fill a gap in the specialty coffee market in the downtown area. With a focus on quality, customer service, and community involvement, we aim to become a staple in the downtown community and provide customers with a memorable coffee experience. With a solid financial plan and a seasoned management team, Brewtopia is well-positioned for success in the growing specialty coffee market.

Coffee Shop Business Plan FAQs

What are the essential elements to include in a coffee shop business plan.

A coffee shop business plan should include sections on executive summary, company description, market analysis, target audience, menu and pricing, marketing and promotional strategies, location and facilities, staffing and management, and financial projections.

How can I determine the ideal location for my coffee shop?

When selecting a location for your coffee shop, consider factors such as foot traffic, proximity to offices or residential areas, competition in the area, parking availability, and visibility. A bustling area with a high concentration of your target customers can be an ideal location.

How can I estimate the financial projections for my coffee shop?

Financial projections for a coffee shop should include estimates for start-up costs, monthly expenses (such as rent, utilities, ingredients, and employee salaries), projected sales revenue based on customer traffic and average spending, and a break-even analysis to determine when your coffee shop will become profitable.

About the Author

Adam is the Co-founder of ProjectionHub which helps entrepreneurs create financial projections for potential investors, lenders and internal business planning. Since 2012, over 50,000 entrepreneurs from around the world have used ProjectionHub to help create financial projections.

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Coffee Shop Business Plan Template

If you want to start a coffee shop business or expand your current one, you need a business plan.

Over the past 20+ years, our coffee shop business plan template has helped over 7,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their coffee shops.

Below is an example coffee shop business plan template that will help you write your own coffee shop business plan:

2. Company Overview – Your company overview should include a detailed explanation of the company’s concept, location, products/services offered, customer profile and market size.

3. Industry Analysis – This section involves researching various aspects of the coffee industry such as its size, competitive environment, key players and trends.

4. Customer Analysis – The customer analysis should include a description of your target audience, their needs and how you plan to attract and retain these customers.

5. Competitive Analysis – This should include a description of your competitors, their strengths and weaknesses and how you plan to compete with them.

6. Marketing Plan – Your marketing plan should outline the strategies and tactics for achieving your specific marketing objectives.

7. Operations Plan – This should outline the day-to-day operations of the business, its personnel structure, hierarchy and supplier relationships.

8. Management Team – This section should include a description of the key players in the company, their skills and responsibilities.

9. Financial Plan – The Financial Plan should include your businesses’ financial statements and funding requirements.

Next Section: Executive Summary >

Coffee Shop Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my coffee shop business plan, where can i download a sample coffee shop business plan pdf, what is a coffee shop business plan.

A coffee shop business plan is a formal document that outlines the goals, strategies, and tactics for launching and operating a coffee shop. It describes in detail how the business will operate, including the types of products and services provided, the target market, the proposed location, and the projected financials. It serves as a roadmap for the business and helps to ensure that all aspects of the business are considered and planned for in advance.

It also includes a full financial plan including five year financial projections, your income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statements.

Why Do You Need a Business Plan?

A business plan is an essential document that captures your vision, outlines your market, and provides the financial blueprint for your entire operation.  It is a guide to your overall business planning process and is important for all of these reasons:

1. A business plan sets a clear direction: Perhaps the most significant benefit of having a business plan is that it gives you a clear direction and purpose. It outlines your goals and objectives, how you plan to achieve them, and the timeline and resources required. A well-written business plan also clarifies your target audience and helps you understand their needs and preferences. With a solid business plan, you’ll have a better idea of where to focus your efforts and resources, which can save you time, money, and frustration.

2. Helps secure funding: Opening a coffee shop requires a significant investment in equipment, inventory, rent, and staffing, among other expenses. To secure funding from investors or lenders, a business plan is essential. It demonstrates your knowledge of the industry and market trends, your marketing strategy, financial projections, and how you plan to mitigate risks. A well-thought-out business plan can help convince potential investors that you have a viable idea and are a good investment.

3. Provides a roadmap for growth: A business plan is not just for starting your coffee shop; it’s also essential for long-term success. It’s a roadmap that can help you navigate the ups and downs of running a business. A good plan should contain measurable goals that you can track and adjust as needed. It should also have contingency plans if things don’t go as expected. As your coffee shop grows and evolves, refer to your business plan to ensure that you stay on track and adapt to changing market conditions.

4. Attracts and retains employees: In addition to investors and lenders, your business plan can also help attract and retain employees. A clear business plan shows potential employees what your vision is and what you want to achieve. It also shows them how they can contribute to your success and how you plan to reward them for their efforts. Once you have your team in place, refer to your business plan to ensure everyone is aligned with your goals and objectives.

5. Enhances credibility and professionalism: Finally, a business plan can enhance your credibility and professionalism. It shows that you have thought through your ideas and have a clear plan for how to execute them. This level of detail and preparation can go a long way in building trust with potential investors, lenders, employees, and customers. A well-written business plan can also make you stand out from your competition by demonstrating your attention to detail, industry knowledge, and commitment to success.

What Are the Sources of Funding for a Coffee Shop?

The main sources of funding for a coffee shop are bank loans and angel investors. With regards to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to confirm that your financials are reasonable. But they will want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business and ultimately help you secure funding.

The second most common form of funding for a coffee business or cafe is angel investors. Angel investors are wealthy individuals who will write you a check. They will either take equity in return for their funding, or, like a bank, they will give you a loan. Venture capitalists will not fund a coffee shop. They might consider funding a chain, but never an individual location. This is because most venture capitalists are looking for millions of dollars in return when they make an investment, and an individual location could never achieve such results.

COFFEE SHOP BUSINESS PLAN OUTLINE

• Coffee Shop Business Plan Home
• 1. Executive Summary
• 2. Company Overview
• 3. Industry Analysis
• 4. Customer Analysis
• 5. Competitive Analysis
• 6. Marketing Plan
• 7. Operations Plan
• 8. Management Team
• 9. Financial Plan
• 10. Appendix

Start Your Coffee Shop Plan Here

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

BUSINESS STRATEGIES

How to write a coffee shop business plan

• Nirit Braun
• Oct 30, 2023
• 14 min read

A coffee shop business plan is a detailed and strategic document outlining the essential aspects of starting and operating a coffee-focused business. It encompasses a comprehensive analysis of the business's goals, target audience, competitive landscape, marketing strategies, financial projections, operational procedures and more. This plan acts as a roadmap that guides entrepreneurs through the various stages of establishing and running their coffee shop, providing clear direction and a solid foundation for success.

When starting a business, especially in the competitive and dynamic realm of the coffee industry, creating a comprehensive and clear business plan is of paramount importance.

Ready to get your business brewing? Take Wix’s website builder for a whirl.

Top benefits of creating a coffee shop business plan

A well-crafted business plan helps entrepreneurs articulate their business goals, whether it's about offering unique coffee blends, creating a cozy ambiance or supporting sustainable sourcing practices. At the same time, a business plan requires entrepreneurs to identify and understand their target audience. This insight helps tailor marketing strategies, menu offerings and the overall customer experience to meet the specific preferences and needs of the intended customers.

Here's an overview of some key advantages to creating a coffee shop business plan:

Attracting investors and funding: A well-structured business plan acts as a persuasive tool when seeking investors or raising money for your business . It showcases your thorough understanding of the coffee industry, market trends and your strategies for success. This level of preparedness increases your credibility and instills confidence in potential investors, making them more likely to support your coffee shop venture.

Clear resource requirements: Writing a business plan prompts you to identify the specific resources, supplies and staff necessary to launch and operate your coffee shop. This includes everything from coffee beans and brewing equipment to furniture and interior decor.

Strategic financial planning: A comprehensive business plan outlines your financial projections, startup costs, operating expenses and revenue forecasts. This level of financial planning helps you determine how much funding you need to start a business . It also guides you in setting prices, managing cash flow and assessing profitability.

Market understanding and differentiation: Through market research and analysis, a business plan allows you to understand your target audience's preferences, behaviors and expectations. This knowledge helps you tailor your coffee shop's offerings, ambiance and marketing strategies to effectively attract and retain customers.

Risk mitigation: The process of creating a business plan prompts you to identify potential risks and challenges that your coffee shop might face. By acknowledging and addressing these risks early on, you can develop contingency plans and strategies to mitigate their impact.

Operational efficiency: A business plan outlines the operational processes required to run your coffee shop smoothly. It includes staffing plans, inventory management strategies and quality control measures. By establishing efficient procedures from the outset, you can minimize wastage, optimize resource allocation and ensure consistent customer satisfaction.

Goal setting and tracking: Your business plan serves as a benchmark against which you can measure your coffee shop's performance over time. By setting clear goals and key performance indicators (KPIs), you can track your progress and make necessary adjustments to stay on course toward achieving your objectives.

How to create a coffee shop business plan in 6 steps

Now we’ll walk through the six essential steps for crafting a coffee shop business plan tailored to your company's unique needs.

Executive summary

Business and domain names

Market analysis and research

Operations plan

Marketing and advertising plan

Financial plan

01. Executive summary

Your executive summary is a concise and compelling overview of your coffee shop business plan. It encapsulates the key elements of your plan and provides a snapshot of your business concept, strategies and financial projections. While appearing at the start of the business plan, it's often written last, as it draws from the content of the entire document.

A clear executive summary for a coffee shop business should include:

The essence of your coffee shop: What makes it unique? What kind of experience will customers have when visiting your establishment?

Market potential and your target audience: Explain why your coffee shop is well-positioned to capture this opportunity.

Competitor landscape: Identify what sets your coffee shop apart from the competition. This could be your specialty coffee blends, unique ambiance, sustainable practices or exceptional customer service.

Example executive summary for a coffee shop: "Bean Haven Coffee is a meticulously crafted coffee shop that aims to provide not just beverages, but an immersive coffee experience. We pride ourselves on our curated selection of ethically sourced beans, offering customers the finest hand-crafted brews in a cozy, rustic ambiance. Our competitive edge lies in our commitment to sustainability, from our bean-sourcing practices to our eco-friendly packaging. With a strong emphasis on community engagement and partnerships with local artists, we are set to become a cultural hub that brings people together over a shared love for exceptional coffee. Through strategic marketing campaigns, leveraging social media and collaborating with nearby businesses, we aim to establish Bean Haven Coffee as the go-to destination for coffee enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. Our projected financials indicate that we will reach profitability within the first 18 months of operation. We seek funding to cover initial startup costs and our business model is designed to achieve sustainable growth and profitability."

02. Company and domain names

Knowing how to name a business is crucial for a coffee shop venture and a key step before you register your business . A strong and memorable name can resonate with customers and differentiate your coffee shop from competitors. Use descriptive words that reflect your coffee shop's essence, whether it's about taste, ambiance or values.

Utilizing a business name generator like the one from Wix can provide inspiration and spark creativity. Play with different combinations of words and ideas until you find a name that feels right. Once you've settled on a name, check its availability for domain registration. A domain name that matches your company name is essential for an effective online presence.

When choosing a domain name consider the following best practices:

Ensure that the domain name reflects your coffee shop's identity and offerings

Choose a name that is easy to spell and remember

Opt for a timeless name that won't become outdated quickly

If possible, include relevant keywords in the domain to improve search engine visibility

Steer clear of names that are easily confused with competitors or other brands

03. Market analysis and research

With more than 38,000 coffee shops in the U.S. alone, there are plenty of competitors to analyze. Including a comprehensive market analysis in your business plan is essential for understanding the competitive landscape and formulating effective strategies. Research your local coffee market, identify existing competitors and analyze their strengths and weaknesses. Determine your target audience's preferences, behaviors and demographics to tailor your offerings and marketing campaigns accordingly.

A well-rounded market analysis can guide your business strategy, helping you position your coffee shop effectively, develop compelling value propositions and devise strategies to capture your desired market share.

04. Operations plan

The operations plan is a crucial section of your coffee shop business plan. It outlines the practical aspects of running your coffee shop. Use it to describe your chosen location and its significance for foot traffic, accessibility and target audience reach.

Then, take the opportunity to detail the interior design, layout and ambiance of your coffee shop to create a welcoming atmosphere. Next be sure to list the equipment needed for brewing, food preparation and service. Ensure it aligns with your menu and production capacity. Finally define the roles and responsibilities of your staff, from baristas to managers, and outline their qualifications and training needs.

05. Marketing and advertising strategies

The marketing and advertising portion of your business plan outlines your strategies for promoting your coffee shop and attracting customers. Depending on your target audience and brand positioning for this type of business , consider a mix of traditional and digital marketing methods. This means using social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to showcase your coffee creations, engage with customers and share your coffee shop's story. Collaborate with influencers, local organizations or other businesses to expand your reach and tap into new customer segments.

Additionally, you can choose to participate in community events, farmers' markets and collaborations with other local businesses to increase your visibility. Also consider implementing loyalty programs that reward repeat customers and incentivize them to visit regularly.

You’ll need to develop a suite of brand assets to use in your marketing as well, starting with a company logo. You can use a free logo maker to get a professional design in minutes.

Learn more: How to make a website

06. Financial plan

The cost to start a coffee shop business can range from $50,000 for a mobile operation to over $400,000 for a brick-and-mortar location with booth seating and a drive-thru. This hefty expense is just another reason why a financial plan is so important.

The financial plan is the backbone of your coffee shop business plan. It outlines your startup costs, operating expenses, revenue projections and funding strategy. Investors and lenders will closely scrutinize this section to assess the viability of your coffee shop venture, so remember to do the following:

Detail the initial investment required for equipment, interior design, licenses and permits

Estimate ongoing costs such as rent, utilities, supplies and salaries

Provide realistic revenue forecasts based on your expected capacity and customer traffic

Specify how you plan to secure funding

Highlight when you anticipate reaching profitability and generating positive cash flow

By meticulously planning your finances, you demonstrate a solid understanding of the financial aspects of your coffee shop business and showcase its potential for success.

Coffee shop business plan examples

Below we’ve put together business plan templates for two hypothetical coffee shop businesses, including all the sections discussed in our previous how-to steps.

Coffee shop business plan template 1: Coffee Haven Café

Coffee Haven Café is a charming coffee shop dedicated to delivering a premium coffee experience in a cozy and inviting setting. Our unique blends, ethically sourced beans and commitment to sustainability set us apart in a competitive market. By fostering community engagement and partnering with local artists, we aim to become a cultural hub that brings people together over exceptional coffee. Through strategic marketing efforts and a strong online presence, we project profitability within 18 months.

Company and domain name

Company name: Coffee Haven Café

Domain name: www.coffeehavencafe.com

Our marketing analysis revealed a growing demand for specialty coffee in our target location. We've identified key competitors and highlighted their strengths and weaknesses. Our target audience consists of young professionals and students who value quality and ambiance. By understanding these dynamics, we can tailor our offerings and marketing strategies effectively.

Location: Centrally located in a busy commercial area with high foot traffic

Premises: Rustic and inviting interior design that promotes relaxation and conversation

Equipment: High-quality espresso machines, grinders, brewing equipment and display cases for baked goods

Staffing: Experienced baristas, friendly waitstaff and a dedicated manager to oversee operations

Social media: Engage customers through Instagram, Facebook and X with enticing coffee shots and behind-the-scenes content

Local events: Participate in local festivals, art exhibitions and collaborate with nearby businesses for cross-promotions

Content marketing: Regular blog posts on coffee trends, brewing tips and spotlight features on local artists

Loyalty programs: Offer a loyalty card program with rewards for frequent visitors

Partnerships: Collaborate with nearby bookstores for reading sessions and local influencers for social media endorsements

Startup costs: $70,000 for equipment, furnishings, licenses and initial inventory

Operating expenses: Estimated monthly costs of $12,000 covering rent, utilities, supplies and staff salaries

Revenue projections: Projected revenue of $300,000 in the first year, growing to $450,000 in the second year

Funding strategy: Initial funding from personal savings and a small business loan from a local bank

Profitability timeline: Aim to achieve profitability within 18 months of operation

Coffee shop business plan template 2: Brew & Gather Coffee House

Brew & Gather Coffee House is a community-focused coffee shop aiming to create a warm and inclusive space for coffee enthusiasts. Our commitment to locally sourced ingredients and artisanal brewing techniques sets us apart. By fostering partnerships with neighboring businesses and hosting regular events, we aim to become a staple in the neighborhood. Our projected financials indicate profitability within the first two years.

Company name: Brew & Gather Coffee House

Domain name: www.brewandgathercoffee.com

Through extensive market research, we've identified an opportunity to serve a diverse community seeking an authentic and welcoming coffee experience. We've assessed competitors' offerings and identified an untapped niche. Understanding our target audience's preferences and values will guide our menu and marketing strategies.

Location: Situated near a local park, providing an oasis for relaxation and community gatherings

Premises: Modern yet cozy interior design with flexible seating arrangements to accommodate groups and individuals

Equipment: State-of-the-art espresso machines, pour-over stations and an open bakery display

Staffing: A blend of skilled baristas, friendly hosts and a community engagement coordinator

Social media: Utilize Instagram and TikTok to showcase brewing techniques, share customer stories and host virtual coffee-tasting sessions.

Local events: Host open mic nights, book clubs and workshops to engage the community.

Content marketing: Publish a monthly newsletter featuring coffee culture insights, staff spotlights and local partnerships.

Loyalty programs: Introduce a tiered membership program offering exclusive discounts and early access to events.

Partnerships: Collaborate with local farmers, artisans and musicians to create a truly immersive community experience.

Startup costs: $100,000 for leasehold improvements, equipment, permits and initial inventory

Operating expenses: Projected monthly expenses of $15,000, covering rent, utilities, wages and supplies

Revenue projections: Anticipate revenue of $350,000 in the first year, with a 15% increase in the second year

Funding strategy: Initial investment from personal savings and a crowdfunding campaign targeting the local community

Profitability timeline: Aim to reach profitability within the first two years of operation

How profitable is a coffee shop?

The profitability of a coffee shop can vary depending on a number of factors, including location, business model and marketing strategy. However, in general, coffee shops can be quite profitable.

According to a report by IBISWorld, the average profit margin for coffee shops is 8.33%. This means that for every $100 in revenue, coffee shops generate $8.33 in profit.

Some coffee shops are even more profitable. For example, coffee shops located in high-traffic areas, such as airports and office buildings, can generate profit margins of up to 15%. And coffee shops that sell specialty coffee drinks and food items can also generate higher profit margins.

Here are some tips for increasing the profitability of your coffee shop:

Choose a good location. A good location is essential for success. Look for a location that is convenient for potential customers and has high visibility.

Offer a unique selling proposition. What makes your coffee shop different from others? What can you offer that your competitors cannot?

Provide excellent customer service. This is essential for building a loyal customer base. Make sure your staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and that they are always willing to go the extra mile for your customers.

Market your coffee shop effectively. Let potential customers know about your coffee shop and the unique offerings you have. You can do this through online marketing, social media and word-of-mouth.

Control your costs. Coffee shops have high costs, so it's important to control your costs as much as possible. This means negotiating good deals with your suppliers, managing your inventory carefully and keeping your labor costs under control.

Why do coffee shops fail?

There are a number of reasons why coffee shops fail. Some of the most common reasons include:

Poor location: A coffee shop in a bad location won't attract enough customers to be successful. Coffee shops need to be located in areas with high foot traffic, such as near office buildings, universities and parks.

High overhead costs: Coffee shops have high overhead costs, such as rent, utilities and labor. If a coffee shop can't generate enough revenue to cover its overhead costs, it will eventually fail.

Poor management: Poor management can lead to a number of problems, such as low customer satisfaction, high employee turnover and financial difficulties. Coffee shop owners need to have a strong business plan and be able to manage their finances effectively.

Lack of marketing: Coffee shops need to market themselves effectively to attract new customers and keep existing customers coming back. Coffee shop owners need to develop a marketing plan and budget, and they need to track their results to see what is working and what is not.

Competition: The coffee shop industry is very competitive. Coffee shops need to offer something unique to stand out from the competition.

Coffee shop business plan FAQ

How do you start a coffee shop business plan.

To start a coffee shop business plan, you need to consider the following factors:

Location: Choose a location that is convenient for potential customers and has high visibility.

Target market: Identify your target market and tailor your business plan to their needs and preferences.

Menu: Develop a menu that includes a variety of coffee drinks and food items that will appeal to your target market.

Pricing: Set prices that are competitive and generate a sufficient profit margin.

Operating costs: Estimate your operating costs, such as rent, utilities, labor and inventory.

Marketing: Develop a marketing plan to reach your target market and generate awareness of your coffee shop.

How many cups of coffee does a coffee shop sell per day?

Is a small coffee shop profitable, what percentage of coffee shops are successful, want to cook up another business plan.

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How to Write a Business Plan for Opening a Cafe

• by Lightspeed

minute read

Think of your plan as a roadmap for your entrepreneurial adventure—one that’s easier to create than you might think! In this article, we’ll show you how to write a business plan that will set your cafe up for success.

How to write a business plan for opening a cafe

What is a cafe business plan, start with your vision, study other business plans, building your business plan template, section 1: the executive summary, section 2: how will your cafe business succeed, section 3: study your competition, section 4: analyze your target market, section 5: tell us what you’ll sell and how you’ll sell it, section 6: create a marketing plan, section 7: ownership structure, section 8: your operations plan.

• Section 9: Financial planning

Section 10: Plans for growth

Finally, we’ll end with an example business plan to show you what it looks like in action. 

Streamline your cafe’s workflow with the right technology

Watch the free demo to see how Lightspeed’s restaurant POS can optimize and adapt to your cafe’s specific operations.

  Want a quick summary of what to include in your cafe business plan? Consult this handy table. 

At its core, a cafe or coffee shop business plan is a document that explains what your business idea is and how it will succeed. It answers questions like how much it costs to set up shop, how those costs will be funded and how much money you expect to make from your cafe. A coffee shop business plan includes information about your competitors, target market and pricing structure.

When it’s finished, your business plan can be shown to potential investors, bankers, partners and anybody else who will help you open your cafe. As you can probably tell, it’s an extremely important document, so it’s worth your time and effort to get it right. First, you’ll learn about all the different pieces of information that will go into your business plan and then we’ll help you pull the pieces together.

A business plan is the first step in making your cafe-ownership dream a reality, so take time to dream by laying out your vision for your future cafe or coffee shop. What will your cafe look like? How will it be decorated? Where will it be located? Which items will you sell? Who will frequent it? How will your customers navigate your cafe, from the moment they walk through the door to the moment they swip e or tap their credit card to check out?

Pull inspiration from cafes you love, images you’ve seen, your favorite films or books, even your travels. Then write it all down or post pictures on a wall to create an inspirational mood board . As you spend hours working on your business plan, it will be incredibly motivating to glance up at your initial vision and be reminded of the finish line.

Before you pen your masterpiece, look at business plan examples from your industry: cafes, coffee shops and quick-serve restaurants. Study how they planned their business and make sure that your cafe is on the right track.

Real-world examples from business owners are also invaluable. Seek out current or former coffee shop owners or even franchise owners in your town and ask them how they succeeded and what they would have done differently. While you’re at it, you can seek recommendations for, say, an accountant who can help you write your business plan. Even if local business owners are your future competition, they might be willing to share their experiences.

A blank page can be overwhelming, but there are countless business plan templates available online to help get your started. We’ve outlined the basic sections you should include in your business plan below, as well as further tips on how to build out each one. 

At the end of the day, your template doesn’t have to be fancy or include imagery. The most important thing is that it contains all the necessary information and is logically organized so it’s digestible to anyone reading it.

When a reader opens your business plan, they will see the executive summary first. This gives a high-lev el overview of all the sections in your business plan. A well-written executive summary will get your foot in the door, so be sure to read examples to get a feel for how the summary is worded and to see how all the information is presented.

Just as you thought about the customers who will visit your soon-to-be-open cafe, consider who will read your business plan and tailor the opening paragraphs to your audience. As you’re preparing to open your cafe, your executive summary is the most important marketing tool your cafe has.

It’s designed to capture the attention of your reader, and give them an overview that’s brief and compelling. Here are some tips on writing a strong executive summary:

• Clearly state the purpose and unique value proposition of your business at the start
• Highlight what sets you apart from competitors
• Take your audience and potential investors into consideration as you write
• Summarize the business opportunity you’re presenting

The second section answers questions like, “What problem does your cafe solve?” and “How will your cafe be the solution?” Maybe there is no coffee house or cafe in a busy retail center near you. Or maybe a restaurant just closed downtown.

This summary provides a brief overview of your industry, mentions where your cafe will be located and describes how it will stand out. Will your shop specialize in breakfast sandwiches near an airport? Sell your locally famous pie? You’ve envisioned how your future cafe will be a success. Make sure the readers of your business plan understand that too.

You can talk about the following in this section:

• Your cafe’s unique selling points (these could relate to your menu, brand, other offerings, etc.)
• Your location strategy (how will you maximize foot traffic? What factors were involved in your decision?)
• What your menu will look like compared to competitors 
• A sneak peek into your marketing strategy (more on that later, though)
• How you’ll optimize your operations for efficiency, cost-effectiveness, etc.

The next part of your business plan is usually referred to as the competitive analysis . It explains how your cafe will compete with similar food and beverage businesses—including big coffee chains like Starbucks and fast food giants like McDonald’s. Nearby restaurants, coffee shops and even public gathering areas like movie theaters are all your competition. So now is the time to do the research of visiting your potential competitors and making a note of who their customers are, as well as what’s for sale and how much it costs.

By understanding the pricing strategy for similar businesses, you’ll know how much you need to charge for your coffee, pastries, sandwiches and whatever else you’re selling in order to remain competitive in your particular market. Gross margins (the amount of money you make based on what you sell) for cafes and coffee shops can be high, but small cafes have notoriously small operating incomes (read: profits) due to the high cost of overhead.

However, if you put in the time to undertake a thorough analysis of your competition, your cafe has a higher chance of being successful. By writing down how your cafe will compete against similar businesses, you will convince your reader (and, most importantly, yourself) that your goal of opening a restaurant or cozy cafe is realistic and sustainable.

In order for your cafe to succeed, it needs a steady flow of customers. Unfortunately, attracting foot traffic is not quite as easy as “if you build it, they will come.” In your business plan, your future customers are known as your market , the number of potential customers is your market size and how you’ll reach them is your marketing plan. 

In your cafe or restaurant business plan, you’ll then take your market and divide it further into market segments . For example, if your coffee shop or cafe is close to an elementary school, a market segment might be parents or caretakers who stop by for high-end coffee after dropping their children off at school. Or college students studying for exams as they swig espresso. 

Now that you know what the competition charges, it’s time to create a pricing strategy for your cafe. 

When creating your menu and prices , be smart. You’ll be buying ingredients in bulk, so try to use the same ingredients in many different dishes. Are you thinking of selling wine at your cafe? Liquor, like coffee, offers some of the largest profit margins in the industry, but a liquor license will cost you money and there may be a waiting period, so you might want to start with non-alcoholic beverages.

Don’t be afraid to get creative. If you charge less for a croissant and coffee combination than you do for those items alone, you’ll encourage customers to buy more and cut down on food waste . Once you open for business, you’ll probably end up making changes to your menu. But for the purpose of a business plan, you’ll need to know how much you will charge for the coffee or soup you plan to sell, which you’ll determine by breaking down the ingredients needed to make each item and researching your competition.

Take Toronto cafe and bakery Le Beau , for instance. They’re known for their freshly baked croissants, which come in many different flavors. People go to the cafe specifically for their famous croissants, and of course usually end up buying other items as well. If you want to cultivate this type of loyalty, you’ll have to start early. 

Your marketing plan can be part of your sales plan or it can be a separate section. Will you advertise your specials every morning on social media ? Will you partner with another local business for special promotions? In addition to marketing, this is also a great section to explain your plans for retaining your customers. Will you offer loyalty programs or have your employees give your top customers a free cookie on their birthday? With a cafe point of sale system , it’s easier than ever to reward—and keep—the customers who will frequent your cafe. 

It’s also important to create a strong brand identity. Allow this to guide your marketing plan so that the reader is confident that your business will be able to create more successful marketing campaigns. 

You can also include information about:

• Using your online presence to market your business
• Whether you’ll implement customer loyalty programs 
• Events you plan to host to boost your business profile
• The programs and tools you’ll use to monitor the progress of your marketing initiatives

Your business plan will include the ownership structure of your business. Explain how much experience you and your partners bring to the table and why you’re the right person (or people) to go into business.

Clearly outline the legal structure of your business and what form that will take. That could be an LLC, corporation, sole proprietorship or partnership. To further legitimize your business plan, identify the roles and responsibilities that each owner or partner will take on. Explain how you’ll work together to ensure effective management and decision-making. 

You could even include any plans or contingencies for future ownership, as well as the governance structure of your business and how decisions will be made. 

In this section, you’ll include information about your facilities, employees, equipment and supplies. Think about the direct costs of rent, barista wages, ingredients like coffee beans and technology. Try to get many services out of individual tools, like a POS system that lets your customers check out, your part-time employees clock in and also manages the inventory of your cafe. This will maximize your efficiency and allow you to run your business from one platform, which your employees and customers will also benefit from. 

Approximate how often you’ll need to reorder ingredients like flour and eggs. Carefully considering your operating costs during the business planning stage pays off. For instance, a coffee roaster is an upfront start-up cost, but roasting your own coffee at your cafe can save you operating costs in the long run. Save money where you can (secondhand chairs, anyone?) and don’t scrimp where it’s important, like your espresso machine.

Section 9: Financial planning 

Now you’re ready to craft a financial plan for your cafe. This is usually the most time-consuming and important section of your business plan, especially for lenders and investors. It should include an overview of your start-up costs, an income statement, projected cash flow, a balance sheet and a break-even analysis .

Startup costs

You’ve heard the adage that it takes money to make money, and this is because most businesses need initial funding to get them off the ground. A major reason you might be writing a business plan in the first place is to secure funding, like a business loan, for your cafe, but remember that your start-up funds can come from anywhere. How much money do you need to borrow? Will you dip into your savings? Crowdfund from your fans? No matter where you find your initial financing, a business plan lays out how your cafe will be funded and how that money will cover your business start-up costs.

Income statement

Once you know your start-up costs, operating costs, pricing strategy and target market, you are ready to lay out all this information into an easy-to-digest income statement . Take all of your expenses (mainly operating costs) and your projected sales volume (the amount that you are selling each month based on your pricing strategy and market research) to prove that your cafe business will turn a profit. In your case, create a projected monthly income statement for the first year your cafe will be in business. Explore some examples of income statements to see what your final analysis will look like.

Looking ahead to the future

A big part of writing a business plan for your cafe is figuring out the projected cash flow your cafe will earn over time. Depending on the audience for your business plan, you may have to project your cafe’s cash flow up to five years in advance, broken up into months or quarters. Though this exercise might seem difficult, it’s not impossible. You’ve already completed most of the financial legwork.

Combine those crunched numbers with your personal experience as a customer and a worker to project how much money your cafe will make in the future. Consider seasonal differences, like a spike in business around the holidays if you’re in a busy shopping district, or a lull in business during the summer if your cafe caters to college students. Just like your income statement, these cash flow projections will go into your business plan as easy-to-view statements.

Balance sheet

A balance sheet details the assets, liabilities and equity of your cafe business on the day it opens. It’s generally used to determine how much money a business has to work with. For a small cafe, it’s not as important as the income statement, but it’s useful as a realistic snapshot of the financial health of your restaurant.

Breaking even

Now that you’ve detailed how you will make a profit and you know how much money you are working with, you can approximate how long it will take your cafe to turn a profit. This is called the break-even point.

Did you know? Lightspeed offers funding to businesses through Lightspeed Capital, our merchant cash advance program. Eligible Lightspeed customers can use the funding for any business purpose.

Section 10: Planning for growth

Include a section that discusses potential avenues for expansion in the future. This will show important stakeholders you’ve already started thinking about the future direction of your business.

Review the scalability of your business model and operations to support expansion efforts effectively. Determine whether the infrastructure, systems, and processes you’ll start with can support your visions of growth.

The opportunities you mention could include opening additional cafe locations in new neighborhoods or cities, expanding your product offerings to include catering services or packaged goods, or diversifying into related businesses such as coffee roasting or wholesale distribution.

Example business plan

We’ve created a business plan for a hypothetical cafe called Sip & Savor Café. Keep in mind that it’s shorter than is typical. 

Section 1: Executive summary

Sip & Savor Café is a quaint yet vibrant coffee shop nestled in the bustling downtown district. Our vision is to create a welcoming space where patrons can indulge in artisanal coffee, delectable pastries, and light bites while fostering connections and savoring moments of tranquility amid the urban hustle. With a dedication to exceptional service and a commitment to community engagement, Sip & Savor Café aims to become the preferred destination for coffee enthusiasts and locals seeking a reprieve from the daily grind.

Section 2: How Sip & Savor will succeed

Sip & Savor Café will differentiate itself by offering a curated selection of specialty coffees, locally sourced ingredients, and unique menu offerings that reflect the diverse tastes and preferences of our customers. Our prime downtown location, near office buildings and shopping centers, will maximize foot traffic and visibility. We will optimize our operations for efficiency and cost-effectiveness by selecting suppliers carefully and using a streamlined tech solution while maintaining a strong emphasis on quality and customer satisfaction.

Section 3: Competitive analysis

Through a comprehensive competitive analysis, we have identified key competitors in the area, including national coffee chains and independent cafes. By offering personalized service, a welcoming atmosphere, and distinctive menu items, Sip & Savor Café will differentiate itself from competitors and attract a loyal customer base. We’ll also create a strong loyalty program for our customers to rival the likes of big chains.

Section 4: Our target market

Our target market includes urban professionals, students and local residents seeking a convenient and comfortable place to enjoy coffee and light meals. We’ll create a space that encourages people to sit, stay and work. By understanding the preferences and behaviors of our target market segments, we will tailor our offerings and marketing efforts to effectively reach and engage with our customers. 

Section 5: What we’ll sell

Sip & Savor Café will offer a diverse menu of specialty coffees, teas, and seasonal beverages, accompanied by a selection of freshly baked pastries and sandwiches. We will implement a smart pricing strategy, utilizing high-quality ingredients and creative combinations to maximize value for our customers. Our menu will evolve based on customer feedback and seasonal trends, ensuring a dynamic and appealing selection of offerings.

Section 6: Our marketing strategy

Our marketing plan will focus on building brand awareness, driving foot traffic, and fostering customer loyalty. Strategies include social media campaigns, local partnerships, community events, and loyalty programs to engage customers and generate buzz around Sip & Savor Café. We will also prioritize customer retention through personalized service and rewards programs.

Sip & Savor Café is structured as a partnership between founders Emma and Liam, who collectively bring over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Each partner holds a 50% ownership stake and shares responsibility for day-to-day operations, strategic decision-making and financial management.

Section 8: Operations plan

Our operations plan outlines efficient workflows, staffing requirements, inventory management systems, and quality control measures to ensure smooth and consistent operations. We will invest in modern equipment, staff training, and technology to optimize efficiency and deliver a superior customer experience.

Section 9: Financial plan

Sip & Savor Café will require initial funding to cover startup costs, including leasehold improvements, equipment purchases, and initial inventory. We have secured financing through a combination of personal savings, small business loans, and investor contributions. Our financial projections indicate steady revenue growth and profitability over the first three years of operation, supported by growing customer traffic and cost-effective operations.

As Sip & Savor Café establishes itself as a local favorite, we plan to explore opportunities for expansion, including additional locations and new menu offerings. By maintaining a focus on quality, customer satisfaction, and community engagement, we aim to sustain long-term growth and success in the competitive cafe market.

Keeping the restaurant dream alive

Though creating a business plan can seem complicated, remember that it’s an important step you should take before starting a cafe. A thoughtful business plan proves to others (and yourself) that your cafe can be successful. 

Looking to invest in the right tools for your cafe? Chat with one of our experts to see how cloud software can make your day-to-day more efficient.

1. How profitable is owning a cafe?

Profitability varies, but successful cafes can generate healthy profits with the right management, location, and business model.

2. How do I start a cafe business?

Start by creating a solid business plan, securing financing, finding a suitable location, obtaining necessary permits/licenses, hiring staff, sourcing suppliers, and marketing your cafe.

3. Is a cafe a successful business?

Cafes can be successful if managed effectively, offering quality products, good customer service, and a welcoming atmosphere.

4. How do I write a business proposal for a cafe?

Include sections on your concept, target market, location analysis, marketing strategy, financial projections, and management plan.

5. What is the failure rate of coffee shops?

Failure rates vary, but some studies suggest around 60% of new coffee shops close within the first five years due to various factors like location, competition, and mismanagement.

6. How much do small cafe owners make?

Earnings vary greatly depending on factors like location, size, and business model, but small cafe owners may make anywhere from modest incomes to substantial profits.

7. How much does it cost to run a coffee shop per month?

Costs can vary widely based on factors like rent, utilities, staff wages, inventory, and marketing expenses, but estimates range from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars per month.

8. Are cafes a good investment?

Cafes can be a good investment if carefully planned and managed, offering opportunities for profitability and growth in the food and beverage industry.

9. Are cafes more profitable than restaurants?

Profitability depends on various factors including location, target market, and operating expenses. While cafes may have lower overhead costs than full-service restaurants, profitability can vary widely between individual establishments.

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How To Create A Coffee Shop Business Plan: Step By Step

Opening a coffee shop is both exciting and challenging.

If you want your business to succeed, learning how to write a coffee shop business plan is important .

Coffee shop owners enjoy a great deal of freedom when it comes to the products and services they offer, the decor within the establishment, the people they hire, and many other aspects of the business.

Even small coffee shops can turn a substantial profit. Why?

Well, coffee shops also add value to the surrounding community, giving residents a safe, uplifting place to gather.

However, some coffee shops will fail .. In fact, the U.S. Small Business Administration reports that approximately one-third of small businesses will fail within the first two years.

By the end of five years, half of all small businesses will fail. To give your coffee shop the best chances of success from the first moment the doors open, you need a solid business plan. To create an effective business plan, follow the steps below.

Competition

Company overview, exit strategy, step 1: brainstorming and market research.

Before you begin writing your coffee shop business plan, spend some time learning about business plans in general. Business plans for all types of businesses usually have six different sections: executive summary, opportunity, execution, company and management summary, financial plan, and appendix.

You should have an executive summary at the beginning of your business plan, although it may well be the last part of the plan that you write.

It is also a good idea to spend some time brainstorming basic ideas for your new coffee shop and performing market research. Write down any ideas you have for the business so you can refer to them later. As you research the market, be sure to focus on your specific region for the best results.

If other people will have a stake in the business, consider including these individuals in the process of brainstorming and writing the business plan.

Step 2: Opportunity Section

The next step in completing your business plan involves constructing the opportunity section of the document. This section focuses on defining several key components of your business, including the products you intend to provide, the problems you will solve within the community or market, your target consumer, and your competition.

Identifying Problems And Solutions

Begin this part of the plan by outlining the problem you will solve for consumers and how your solutions will be different from the competition. Some examples of problems a new coffee shop may solve include:

• Consumers have no access to gourmet coffee within a reasonable driving distance.
• Consumers lack good places to congregate in town.
• Consumers have access to inferior coffee and/or bakery options only.
• The area’s coffee shops have poor service, high prices, or some other characteristic that causes problems for customers .

Now, describe the strategy you will use to solve the problem you have defined.

For example, if you are establishing the town’s first coffee shop, you may be hoping to provide consumers with access to gourmet coffee and bakery products closer to home. On the other hand, if you will be competing with other coffee shops in the area, you may be hoping to provide better quality products, a better atmosphere, and/or better prices.

Target Market

Your business plan’s opportunity section should also define your target market. Although you may be hoping that your new coffee shop will appeal to everyone in the area, you need to narrow down this target market, so you can focus your efforts on the people most likely to frequent your establishment.

For example, your target market may be young adults between the ages of 18 and 35.

Alternatively, you may be looking to advertise as a family-friendly establishment, focusing your efforts on people with children. In some cases, you may define two or more market segments you hope to target.

To complete the opportunity section of your business plan, take some time to research and describe your coffee shop’s competition. Are there other businesses in the area offering the same types of solutions?

Examples may include small coffee shops, as well as chains. If you plan to sell baked goods along with coffee, you may consider local bakeries or counter service restaurants as competition as well.

Step 3: Execution Plan

The execution section of your business plan focuses on the exact strategies and tools you will use to bring your coffee shop vision to life. This section will include information about marketing plans, sales strategies, the specifics of your operations, and your goals and objectives for the business.

This section of your business plan is one of its most important components, as it gets into the details as to how you plan to run your business and achieve success.

Marketing Plan

The purpose of this part of your business plan is to determine how you will reach your target market and draw them into your coffee shop. This plan should include details about the pricing structures you will use for the different products you serve, as well as information about your advertising strategies.

Begin the marketing plan by crafting a position statement. This statement describes how you will present your coffee shop to customers and how you will set yourself apart from the competition.

For example, your position statement may describe your business as a high-end gourmet establishment with quality products that aren’t available anywhere else.

On the other hand, if you are hoping for a more casual coffee shop, your position statement may describe your establishment as low-key and more affordable than other options in the area.

Your marketing plan also must include a pricing structure. As you determine prices for the different products you intend to sell, remember that prices should cover your costs, comply with market rates for the same product, and turn a profit. Your pricing structure will be intricately tied to your positioning statement as well.

Finally, spend time developing a strategy for advertising and promoting your coffee shop to the public.

The operations section of the business plan lays out the details of your business’s day-to-day operations. Having a solid operational strategy will make a significant difference in the efficiency and profitability of your establishment. Subsections that should be covered in this part of the business plan include:

• Sourcing – Before opening a coffee shop, you will need to find sources for the ingredients in your products, including coffee and any food products you want to serve.
• Milestones – Your milestones are your planned goals that indicate what you want to accomplish with your coffee shop over time. For example, you may indicate that you want to open by a certain date or serve a specific number of customers within a certain amount of time.
• Metrics – The metrics section of operations will indicate how you plan to measure your coffee shop’s performance. Examples of metrics include revenue, profit, number of customers served, and number of repeat customers.
• Assumptions and risks – The assumptions and risks section outlines the factors you assume will support your business, as well as the factors that threaten the success of your business.

Step 4: Company And Management Summary

The company and management summary covers the structure of your business and names the key players. In a smaller coffee shop, this section of the business plan may be relatively short. However, you should still list the people who are invested in the success of the establishment.

Team Overview

The team in charge of your coffee shop may consist of the owner as well as the people you have hired to act as managers. If you have not yet hired anyone to act as a manager, you can list the qualifications you hope to see in prospective managers instead.

In fact, if you haven’t hired anyone yet, constructing this part of the business plan is an exercise that will help you figure out exactly how many people you will need to hire before your coffee house can have its grand opening.

In this section, you can include a mission statement that describes the way you will approach customer service. Ideally, this statement should be only one or two sentences in length.

Your company overview can also include information about the business’s location and its legal structure. If your coffee shop has an interesting backstory, you can include a subsection on company history as well.

This section is optional for many coffee shop businesses, but it is a good opportunity to solidify your business’s identity and purpose. If you are seeking help from investors, including this section in the business plan can improve your chances of success.

Step 5: Financial Planning

The last major part of your coffee shop business plan deals with finances. For many people, this is the most difficult part of the plan to write. However, because it will play an important role in the success of your coffee shop, having a solid financial plan is essential.

In order to construct your financial plan, you need to draft several financial statements. These statements include:

Sales Forecast

The coffee shop’s sales forecast is designed to predict how your sales revenue will look over the first few years of your business. If you don’t have much experience in the coffee business , it may be difficult to guess how much you will expect to sell.

If you are not sure how to begin, you can start with average sales information for other businesses in the area and adjust it based on different factors, such as the fact that your business will be new and won’t have regular clientele immediately.

When constructing your sales forecast, remember to take the direct expenses you will incur to make your sales into account. These expenses, which are also known as the “cost of goods sold,” will include any expenses you incur when creating your menu items.

Examples of direct costs include the cost of ground coffee, syrups, and bakery product ingredients. Do not include expenses that are not directly related to products, such as the cost of business insurance or the wages you pay to employees.

Personnel Plan

The personnel plan you create for your coffee shop will include detailed information about the expenses related to employees. These expenses include the wages you will pay as well as other costs such as insurance and payroll taxes.

Although larger businesses may break this information down based on categories of people, smaller coffee shops will usually list employee costs on an individual basis.

Profit And Loss Statement

Your profit and loss statement is the financial statement that demonstrates whether your business is making a profit. If your business does not make a profit, this statement will demonstrate the size of the loss.

Because you have not yet started operating your coffee shop, all of the information on this sheet will be hypothetical when you create your business plan. However, this statement still has value for planning purposes.

Your profit and loss statement will pull information from the two financial statements you have already created (the sales forecast and personnel plan). It will also incorporate other information that hasn’t been covered yet, such as the other expenses you will incur while running your business. Examples include building rent, utilities, and insurance expenses.

In addition, your profit and loss statement should include a final figure that takes all of your hypothetical revenue and expenses into account and calculates either a profit or a loss.

Specific components of a profit and loss statement include:

• Income – This will include the estimated amount of money you expect to bring in from coffee sales and any other source.
• Cost of goods sold – This figure will include the cost of ingredients and other items you must purchase in order to make and serve your coffee, bakery items, and anything else your coffee shop sells.
• Operating expenses – These expenses are indirect expenses associated with running your coffee shops, such as the cost of insurance, rent, and wages paid to baristas.
• Gross margin – Your coffee shop’s gross margin can be calculated as the cost of goods sold subtracted from its total sales.
• Miscellaneous expenses – If you have expenses related to depreciation, taxes, interest, or a similar cost, list them here.
• Total expenses – This figure is the total of all operating expenses and miscellaneous expenses for your coffee shop.
• Operating income – The operating income is your coffee shop’s earnings before taxes, interest, and other such expenses have been subtracted. To calculate this figure, start with your sales total and subtract the cost of goods sold and total operating expenses.
• Net profit or loss – Your net profit or loss is the bottom-line figure that tells the exact amount of profit or loss for your coffee shop.

Balance Sheet

Your coffee shop’s balance sheet is a basic overview of the business’s financial health . This statement will list all of your company’s assets as well as its liabilities. Assets may include a building (if owned) and equipment. Liabilities include any unpaid debts, such as business loans and outstanding employee wages.

Cash Flow Statement

Your business’s cash flow statement is designed to track the flow of cash in and out of your business over time. Most cash flow statements will begin with the amount of cash you currently have on hand. The statement also incorporates anticipated income and expenses.

The coffee shop’s cash flow statement will help you anticipate how your business’s buying power and needs will change over time, so you can make wise financial decisions.

The final section of your financial plan is your exit strategy, which will include details about how you will end your business. If you are just starting out and as such don’t have any plans to sell your business, this section could be omitted or kept very short.

If you decide to include this section, it should describe your ideal situation for leaving the coffee shop business. For example, your exit strategy may involve merging with another coffee shop or chain. Alternatively, you may hope to sell your business to a new owner.

Step 6: Executive Summary

Although the executive summary is usually listed first in a business plan, it is easier to construct this component of the plan after the other sections have been completed. The executive summary section will introduce your coffee shop and provide an overview of the remainder of your plan.

Your executive summary be suitable as a standalone document if necessary. As you construct your executive summary, be sure to include: As you construct your executive summary, be sure to include:

• The problem your coffee shop solves
• The way your coffee shop solves the problem
• The coffee shop’s target market
• The coffee shop’s competition
• An overview of your management plans
• A summary of your finances
• The milestones you hope to meet

The Final Word On Your Coffee Shop Business Plan

Constructing a detailed, useful coffee shop business plan takes time and research. If you are having trouble getting started, consider reaching out to a professional for help. You may also be able to find a business plan template online to help guide your writing.

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Aisling is an Irish food and drinks writer and journalist fueled by coffee and herbal tea. She followed up her journalism degree with nutrition studies. Find Aisling on LinkedIn .

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It's been a few decades since Starbucks emerged from Seattle to take over the world and made a coffee shop on every corner the norm. As a result, the way Americans drink coffee has changed drastically.

This has also created a window for entrepreneurs looking to start a business. While the big coffee chains have expanded, so have specialty, independently run shops. According to an article in the New York Times , Americans drink less coffee today than we did in the 1930s, but we’re drinking higher quality, better-brewed cups. As such, many entrepreneurs today might wonder how to start a coffee shop to serve their own high-quality brews.

How to open a coffee shop in 7 steps

Wondering how to start a coffee shop of your own? These seven steps will take you through everything you need to know.

Step 1: Decide whether you want to open your own shop, a franchise, or buy an existing business.

When it comes to starting a business you usually have at least two ways to go about doing it, and with coffee shops, you've got three. When it comes to how to open a coffee shop you can do one of the following:

Completely start from scratch and open your own shop

Open a coffee shop franchise

Buy an existing coffee shop that's for sale

Each of the options has its pros and cons and varying degrees of work required by you. If you choose to open a franchise you'll be bound by many of the aspects of that franchise like the beans they use and the decor of the actual shop. If you buy another coffee shop you might have less construction to do to set up the space as a coffee shop. These options come with limitations as well.

Step 2: Create a business plan.

A well-thought-out business plan is key to creating any business, and a coffee shop is no exception. If you want to open a coffee shop, you probably already have a love of good coffee. To create a successful coffee shop you have to decide how you'll get other people to love coffee as much as you do. A business plan will help get your ideas focused and in one place. Besides the basics of what your coffee shop will be and the products you'll sell, a business plan also includes a marketing and sales plan, as well as financial projections.

An important consideration you'll need to take care of in the early stages, and that you'll include in your business plan, is to decide on the business structure you want your company to operate as. There are several business entity options you can choose, including a sole proprietorship, LLC, C-corp, and more—and the entity you choose will have both tax and legal implications for your business. It's always a good idea to seek the advice of a business attorney when making these big decisions as you start your coffee shop. if you choose to open a franchise, you might already have a business entity that you have to use.

While creating your business plan, you'll have to come up with a name for your business and an idea of where you want to open your coffee shop. Once you find the perfect location be sure to add it to your business plan, it might happen before or after you've written the plan.

You'll also want to outline the pricing of your products, what goods you want to offer, the type of coffee shop you want to have (sit-down, drive-through), and more. It's a lot to think about, but a business plan is where you can get all of these plans down in one place. Beyond that, if you'll need outside capital to make your coffee shop dreams a reality, you'll need to provide a business plan for funding consideration.

Luckily, there are several options for business loans for a cafe, and whether you're looking for funding to start your coffee shop or want to leave the option open for expansion down the road, having a solid business plan from the start will make the process easier.

Step 3: Find the right location.

This step can not be glossed over and you should take your time and consideration when completing it. The location of your coffee shop can make or break it in terms of success. There are some things to look for when looking for a coffee shop location. Coffee shop location considerations:

Size: You want to make sure enough people can fit in the space without feeling cramped. Coffee shops are relaxing areas where people tend to hang out with friends or colleagues and you want the space to be accommodating.

Accessibility: Make sure your cafe is accessible and anyone can enter.

Parking: Will you be dependent on foot traffic? If not you're going to want to make sure there's somewhere for your customers to park either a lot or street parking nearby. If biking is popular in your area, consider adding a bike rack.

Seating: Will customers be limited to seating indoors or is there some outdoor seating you could set up when the weather is right for it?

Rent: This should be one of your top considerations when deciding on a location. How much a business location will cost you is going to be a significant chunk of your budget and you should be sure to include this in your business plan.

Step 4: Register your business and get the proper licenses and permits.

The city or county where you plan to open your coffee shop will dictate the specifics of registering your business, what taxes you'll be responsible for, any necessary licenses and permits, and more. The details of registering a business vary from state to state, but you will need to apply for an employer identification number (EIN) and establish your business structure before you can start the registration process.

You also need to make sure that since you'll be serving coffee, and most likely some food, that you have the right business licenses and permits for that, as well. Usually, health licenses and permits are necessary for serving food. Other types of business licenses include building, zoning, and land-use permits. Be sure you consult with your local business resources so you have the proper documentation in place before you open your coffee shop.

Step 5: Find suppliers.

Customers are looking for a quality experience when they come into your coffee shop. That means quality ingredients and coffee, but also quality service and experience.

While it’s tough to produce the same quality every time, this is crucial in the coffee business, especially in a time when people are becoming more knowledgeable about specialty coffee. Having consistent and quality providers, from the beans to cups and everything else customers interact with can help keep your coffee shop running smoothly and customer experiences consistent.

When you're first starting your coffee business, don't be afraid to spend the necessary time finding the right coffee supplier for your business. Though if you're starting a franchise, they'll take care of this step for you by having their specific grounds. You may have to try a lot to find the right one that will work for the products you want to offer, at the right price, with the perfect taste.

The other way to create consistency is by training employees extensively. If you want patrons to walk past all the other coffee shops on the block and go into yours, you need to offer consistent quality.

Step 6: Create a warm, inviting environment.

A coffee shop is never just about a good cup of coffee. Many people frequent coffee shops as a place to do work, catch up with friends, or to take a break from the workday.

You want your coffee shop to have a warm and inviting atmosphere that's conducive to meetings, relaxing, and chit chat, but also one that's easy to keep clean and orderly. When choosing how to design the shop, be sure to take into account how many people you want the shop to fit and the kind of atmosphere you're looking to create for them all.

Remember when we were talking about the location of your shop? Here's where that comes in because the location can only do so much work for you. The work you do to design the cafe on the inside will also greatly matter. You're creating an entire atmosphere that also serves a purpose.

Step 7: Adopt a good inventory system.

Pay attention to your inventory. At first, you won't really know how much you need when it comes to things like beans and baked good, you probably won't even know how many cups you need a day. So track these things carefully at first so you can get a good handle on how much you're using.

There are a number of inventory management apps available to small business owners who need a way to manage their inventory and budget. Some point of sale systems also offer inventory management, which is something you might want to consider when choosing one. There are specific coffee shop POS systems out there to consider.

No matter what you choose, you want to make sure you have a way to manage what you need for your business so you don't run out of customer favorites or over-order on what you don't need.

How much do you need?

with Fundera by NerdWallet

We’ll start with a brief questionnaire to better understand the unique needs of your business.

Once we uncover your personalized matches, our team will consult you on the process moving forward.

How much does it cost to open a coffee shop?

We've gone over many of the expenses you'll face when opening a coffee shop. The rent of the location, everything for the interior design, the machinery, the supplies like beans and cups, employees and more will all add up. Some of these things may cost far more than you're expecting them too, a good espresso machine along can run you up $20,000.

In all you can expect that opening a coffee shop will likely cost you upward of $200,000 when all is said and done. This goes for some franchises as well, Dunkin' for example, requires that you have $250,000 in liquid assets to start a franchise with them. You could consider starting smaller, with a coffee cart or a small pop-up location if you're unsure of the cost or if you don't want to dive in headfirst. But know that none of these options will be cheap or require no money up front.

LLC Formation

The bottom line

Running a small business is no easy feat, but for all of those coffee enthusiasts who have dreamed of opening a cafe of their own, now might be the time. Consumption and interest in the specialty coffee culture has increased steadily in recent years and doesn’t seem to be stopping any time soon.

While competition from bigger chains might have been a problem at one time, modern consumers prefer to support local neighborhood shops—especially if they’re offering what the big chains can’t. So if you've been wondering how to start a coffee shop, start thinking about the above steps to see if this is a feasible business venture for you.

This article originally appeared on JustBusiness, a subsidiary of NerdWallet.

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How to Write a Coffee Shop Business Plan?

You are a smart entrepreneur. You don’t jump right in and open a coffee shop just because you decoded the secret of making perfect cups of steaming delicious coffee.

Instead, you wait and plan to write a unique business plan that resonates with your coffee shop’s concept.

But hey, writing a business plan is actually complex. Without any structural format or direction, you may end up making a hotchpotch of your business idea.

To ensure that your business concept translates properly into a plan, we created this step-by-step guide that will prompt you to write an insightful coffee shop business plan in great detail.

Also, get a free coffee shop business plan template that has all the relevant examples for you to get started.

So get yourself a cup of coffee and decode the secrets of writing a stellar plan in easy steps.

Let’s get started.

Why Prepare a Coffee Shop Business Plan?

A lot of variables play together to write the success story of your coffee business.

From choosing a shop location to remodeling it as per your unique concept, hiring staff, determining sales strategy, acquiring licenses and insurance, and planning operations-you need to undertake multiple activities, consecutively at a time, to start and run a coffee business.

A business plan will guide you like a map in the right direction. It will ensure that all the business objectives are achieved without breaking a compliance code.

It forces you to assess the viability of a coffee shop idea before you invest the money in it. You can strategically plan the coffee shop’s success by making detailed financial projections relating to the company’s sales, revenue, costs, and expected expenses, and cash flow.

And most important of all, a business plan will help you acquire the required funds by winning the trust of potential investors.

How to Write a Coffee Shop Business Plan: A Complete Guide

Let’s walk through the process of writing a coffee shop business plan with detailed step-by-step instructions.

1. Write an executive summary

An executive summary is like a north star of your business plan. It will act as a guiding light for stakeholders to understand your journey ahead.

Investors will read the executive summary of your coffee shop business plan before even allowing you a presentation.  So definitely it needs to be compelling and converting.

Keep your executive summary concise but detailed enough that it summarizes the key points of your entire plan. Include the problems you would be solving and the solutions you have to offer. Adapt a storytelling tone and focus on highlighting the business goals, financials, objectives, and overall business strategy.

Now, move ahead and visit this part when you are done writing for the entire plan. Summarizing becomes much easier and more effective when you are aware of the entire plan’s details.

Also, two pages are more than enough for writing a capturing executive summary.

2. Conduct a competitive and market analysis

Build a strong foundation for your coffee business by diving deep into the market research of the coffee industry, competitors, target audience, market trends, and your attainable target market.

Analyze the coffee shop industry from a macro viewpoint and then gradually narrow it down to your particular market. For instance, the revenue in the US coffee market size was $85.2 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow by 3.21% between 2023-2028.

Now, identify your targeted available market (TAM) from this and analyze the growth potential of your particular coffee shop. Overall, try to show that the coffee shop business has a thriving opportunity to grow in the market.

The market analysis for a coffee shop business must include the study of the following:

Customer analysis

Customer analysis is essential to identify your target customers. Having a thorough understanding of your target market will help formulate the business and market strategies appropriate for your business.

Create the buyer persona of your ideal customer. Focus on these details to outline your ideal customer:

• Customer demographics: Age, gender, location, income, occupation, and ethnicity of the customers who will visit your coffee shop.
• Customer psychographics: Beliefs and values of your ideal customer, their interests, spending pattern, and their media consumption.

For instance, the ideal customer for Steamy Sips is 23-38 years old and works in a corporation. He/ She likes to spend money on coffee regularly and prefers fresh roasted seasonal brews, is socializing, and loves working in a cafe remotely.

Competitors analysis

After determining your target market, look around and identify your potential competitors.

Begin by identifying the top competitors of your coffee shop. This can be neighboring coffee shops, kiosks, or coffee karts that offer similar services to your business.

Now conduct a SWOT analysis of these coffee shops by analyzing their strengths and weaknesses. Also, analyze your strengths against competitors and highlight your competitive edge in the market. Be realistic with your assessment as this will form the foundation of your related business policies.

Lastly, identify if there are any stellar opportunities for you to leverage in this market.

Collect data from highly authoritative websites, data publications, and local studies specialized in the coffee industry. For instance, SBA , SCA coffee , Mintel , Business Wire , COFFEEBI , etc.

This section is your chance to prove to the potential investors that you are aware of the market challenges and there exist favorable chances for your coffee shop to thrive and grow.

3. Prepare a company overview

Just like the executive summary of your coffee shop business plan, this section includes a brief business description of your coffee shop. It offers readers a peek into your business structure, goals, mission, and company values.

Depending on your market analyses choose the type and structure of your business concept. Clearly describe whether you will start a cafe or coffee shop, coffee kart, coffee bar, or coffee house and whether the business structure will be LLC, partnership, or sole proprietorship.

Further include your mission statement, coffee shop objectives, and goals to complete the company overview section.

Mission statement: A mission statement highlights the purpose of your coffee shop’s existence and its long-term objective.

For instance, Steaming Sips’ mission is to cultivate a culture of freshly roasted coffee, serving a welcoming space for young individuals to connect, create, and unwind with every cup of our brews.

Coffee shop objectives: In this part, highlight your business objectives in terms of milestones, growth goals, revenue goals, sales numbers, etc.

For instance, Steaming Sips aims to open 3 branches across San Fransisco by the end of 2025.

4. Present your sample menu

The market research earlier helped you understand your potential audience in great detail. Now, it’s time to decide what to offer on your menu.

A sample menu is an important component of your coffee shop business plan. With a menu, investors will know what exactly you will be serving and what makes you different.

A coffee shop can stand apart selling just coffee drinks. However, there are many coffee shops that sell coffee and food products together. Depending on your coffee shop concept and the target market, decide the menu items.

Here are a few things to consider while making your menu and establishing yourself as a specialty coffee shop.

• Different types of coffee drinks that suit your customer’s taste. For ex. filtered coffee, frappuccino, brewed coffee, hot coffee, etc.
• The type of coffee beans to produce high-quality coffee, e.g. organic coffee beans.
• Different types of coffee roasts, e.g. dark roast, medium roast, light roast.
• Different types of milk, e.g. plant-based milk options and dairy milk.
• Seasonal coffee specialties.

Strategically place the items in your menu and add the prices alongside. Incorporate branding elements of your coffee shop in the menu as well.

5. Coffee shop design and layout

Till now, the coffee shop idea was just a business concept, jumbled randomly across your mind. Writing a business plan will help you to sort those ideas, one section at a time.

The design and layout section helps potential investors visualize the appearance of your coffee shop. It is your chance to help them understand your coffee shop concept and the aspects that set you apart from other coffee shops.

Begin by highlighting your coffee shop location in this section. Briefly explain how the location is suitable for your potential customers.

Also, present the moodboard of your coffee shop and highlight the branding and visual elements of its design.

Overall, explain how you will create a welcoming atmosphere for your customers by incorporating design and decor elements in your shop.

6. Prepare a coffee shop marketing plan

Now that you have the concept, design, and menu for a coffee shop, it’s time to work on its marketing plan . The coffee market is intensely competitive and only a solid marketing action plan can differentiate your business from other coffee shops.

Using your market research, identify the best marketing strategy for your business. Ideally, coffee shops build a cohesive brand image using a mix of digital marketing practices.

For instance, a website can be used to build a robust web image, while social media can be used to connect with your target audience organically. Similarly, your coffee shop emails can focus on special offers and promotional invites while paid ads can help you target the wider audience.

In this section, you also highlight various promotional activities for your cafe such as karaoke evenings, art workshops, musical nights, happy coffee hours, etc.

Overall a comprehensive marketing plan must answer the following questions:

• How will you draw coffee enthusiasts to your coffee shop?
• What will be the pricing strategy of your coffee shop?
• What will be your marketing budget?
• What marketing channels will you use and who will undertake the marketing activities?
• Will there be any promotional events at the cafe? If so, what type of events?

7. Introduce your management team

In this section, you will introduce the management team that will ensure the smooth functioning of your coffee shop business.

Begin by introducing the coffee shop owners and their relevant experience in the coffee market. Also, clarify if you will work both as owner and manager or hire a coffee shop manager to look after the day-to-day operations.

If you are going to hire a manager, introduce them and their key responsibilities in the section. Offer a brief description of their skills, experience, and expertise that can help your coffee shop business.

Overall, this section shows the potential investors that you have all the right people in a team to drive your coffee shop toward success.

8. Outline your operational plan

Operation section of a coffee plan offers brief details of everyday business processes that will guide you to build and run a successful coffee shop.

An operations plan includes a lot of details, answering some of these prominent questions.

• Inventory and stock management: How will you manage and track the inventory? Who will be responsible for stock management? How often would you restock the inventory?
• Production: Who will develop the recipes for coffee beverages? Will there be recipe cost cards for coffee preparation? Will there be kitchen staff working with food orders or will you outsource that?
• Coffee shop equipment: What equipment will you buy for the coffee shop, i.e. espresso machine, coffee grinders, etc? Will that be a new purchase or a second-hand one? How much will the equipment cost?
• Management: Who will serve the food and coffee in the shop? Who will look after customer complaints? What is the conflict resolution system at your coffee shop?
• Technology: What technologies will you use at your coffee shop? Which payment and POS system will you use? Will there be an ordering kiosk?

A well-planned operations plan demonstrates your ability to run a coffee shop to your readers. So keep it detailed and revamp it as and when needed.

9. Create a Financial Plan

A financial plan helps assess the viability of your business idea by evaluating its financial aspects. It’s an important part of your coffee shop business plan whether you want to seek funding or not.

A well-built coffee shop financial plan is presented in numbers, graphs, and charts and includes the following:

• Evaluation of startup costs: Identify the startup costs of your proposed coffee shop. Take into account the costs for lease rental, licenses, equipment, remodeling as well as operating expenses for the first few months.
• Sales forecasts and pricing: Determine the drink sales for your coffee shop and your pricing structure by conducting market research.
• Operating costs: Your financial projections should include a thorough calculation of operating expenses to run a coffee shop business.
• Balance sheet: A balance sheet will help investors assess your assets and liabilities and the liquidity of your business.
• Cash flow statement: Make cash flow projections and demonstrate the inward and outward flow of money in the business.
• Income statement: The figures in this sheet help evaluate the profitability of your business
• Break-even analysis: The calculations here will help determine the sales level after which your coffee shop will start making a profit.

Now, making all these financial projections and calculations is a bit taxing. Not only that, you will have to create visual reports to make the financial section appealing and insightful.

Well, let’s make things easier with our financial forecasting tool. Simply enter your assumptions in a tab and our tool will generate important key reports for your business.

Don’t stress. You don’t need to worry about the visual reports anymore. Go, check your dashboard. You will have all the visual reports ready to be added to your financial plan.

And that’s your detailed guide to writing your coffee shop business plan. Now, let’s check the latest industry trends ruling the coffee shop market. 

Coffee Shop Industry Highlights 2023

Let’s dive further deep into market analysis with these latest industry trends in the coffee shop market:

• Coffee shop industry: The US coffee shop industry grew from $36 billion to 45.8 billion dollars between 2020-2022.
• Number of coffee shops: According to Statista , in 2022 there were a total of 38.4 thousand coffee shops in the US.
• Coffee drinkers: A performed market research indicates that the top coffee consumers aren’t youngsters, but seniors. Nearly, 70% of seniors consume coffee regularly.
• Employment growth rate: The total number of people employees in the coffee shop industry in th US increased on average by 4.9% between 2018-2023.
• Specialty coffee market: According to Grandview research , the US specialty coffee market is expected to grow at 10.9% CAGR between 2023-2030.
• Price per cup: According to Business Insider , the average price per coffee cup in the coffee shop is almost $5, making it an affordable luxury for people.

Download a sample coffee shop business plan

Need help writing your business plan? Let’s ease your plan writing process with our coffee shop business plan pdf . Download it for free and customize it as per your needs.

This modern intuitive template offers a step-by-step guide that will help you write a comprehensive and actionable business plan. It’s designed specifically for coffee shop businesses and includes examples relevant to your industry.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

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Whether you are starting your own coffee shop or taking over an existing coffee business, Upmetrics’ insightful guides and resources will help you craft a compelling business plan in easy steps.

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Frequently asked questions, what are the key components of a successful coffee shop business plan.

The key elements of a coffee shop business plan are

• Executive summary
• Business overview
• Coffee industry and market analysis
• Sample menu
• Coffee shop design and layout
• Marketing and sales plan
• Key management team
• Operations plan
• Financial plan

Should we consider franchising our coffee shop?

Yes, you can. Franchising is a proven way of increasing the reach and profitability of your coffee business. Moreover, it’s easy to scale your business through a franchise business model.

What is a traditional business plan for a coffee shop?

A traditional plan is very similar to modern business plans. It includes a summary of the company’s goals, objectives, business values, marketing objectives, and financial plan. The modern plans, however, are intuitively designed to be more suited to investors interest.

Do I need a business plan to secure funding for my coffee shop?

Yes. Investors and investing firms will ask for a business plan before giving you a chance to present the coffee shop concept. By studying your plan, they will gauge the viability of your coffee business, and depending on the analysis they will decide whether to invest or not.

What should I include in the financial projections section of my business plan?

The financial projections of your coffee shop plan must include the following:

• Sales forecast
• Startup cost estimates
• Operating costs
• Balance sheet
• Income statement
• Cash flow statement
• Break-even analysis

About the Author

Upmetrics Team

Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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Coffee Shop Business Plan

Executive summary.

In order to fulfill our vision for [COFFEE SHOP] we will require [DOLLAR AMOUNT] in capital, which will be allocated roughly according to the following table:

If we are fully capitalized, we hope to be profitable by [TIME PERIOD] .

Marketing plan

Our Clientele

Our Competition

Our Specific Marketing Plan

Product description.

Operations plan

Our Suppliers

Our Personnel

Expense Projection

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COFFEE SHOP & COFFEE ROASTERY

Seminole, fl | st pete, fl, welcome to driftwood, coffee shop & coffee roastery.

Driftwood Coffee Shop & Roastery is a locally owned and operated coffee shop and roastery with locations in Seminole and Saint Petersburg, Florida, that was built out of a love of coffee and coffee-related drinks. As an extension of our passion for coffee, we also strive to give back to communities around the globe where our beans are sourced. This helps provide running water, food, and shelter in these areas. We aspire to impact communities worldwide as well as domestically.

IN-HOUSE COFFEE ROASTING

At Driftwood, we roast our coffee beans in house, inspecting every bean before roasting. That means the quality of our coffee is the best around .

COFFEE & TEA

In the roastery, fresh coffee beans.

ST PETE DRIFTWOOD

ADDRESS: 740 Central Ave, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701

HOURS: Monday – Thursday 7AM – 12AM Friday – Saturday 7AM – 12AM Sunday 8AM – 12AM

PHONE: 727-440-6026

SEMINOLE DRIFTWOOD

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New coffee shop in Lemoyne offers more than java

Cris Collingwood // August 16, 2024 // // -->

Consciousness Coffee held a ribbon cutting with the West Shore Chamber of Commerce Thursday. PHOTO/CAMPBELL COMMERCIAL PARTNERS

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Solid grounds - The pick of St. Petersburg's coffee shops

Traditionally, it wasn't coffee but tea (and vodka, obviously) that kept Russia's social wheels greased and its great creative minds invigorated. Nowadays, however, you won't have to go far in St. Petersburg to find a great cup of coffee.

It took a while for the coffee revolution to reach St. Petersburg, with the first Starbucks arriving in the city less than a decade ago, and only a handful of specialty coffee shops plying their trade at the time.

In the past few years, however, coffee has really arrived in the city, with innovative baristas, enthusiastic bloggers, and ardent amateur aficionados all contributing to a rich local culture that offers plenty for the visitor to explore and discover. The result is a host of varied and vibrant local coffee bars, our favorites among which are listed below.

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• 10 Best Coffee Shops in St. Petersburg, FL 2023
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• Jul 20, 2023

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• Bandit Coffee Co St. Petersburg FL , Best Coffee Shops St Petersburg FL , Best Coffee St Petersburg FL , Blush Tea and Coffee St. Petersburg FL , Coffee Shops St Petersburg FL , Craft Kafe St Petersburg FL , Grove Surf and Coffee St. Petersburg FL , Gypsy Souls Coffee St. Petersburg FL , Intermezzo St Petersburg Fl , Kahwa Coffee St. Petersburg FL , Paradeco Coffee St. Petersburg FL , Patrona St. Petersburg FL , The Blend Coffee St. Petersburg FL

Written by Haley Haman

Over 5 years ago, I left my hometown in Illinois and made my way down to sunny Florida. I’m always bouncing around to the latest hot new restaurants and hidden gems in St. Pete. After years of experiencing the food scene and over 100 food reviews, I have become a go-to gal for restaurant and bar recommendations for friends and tourists alike.

I recently started my own business as a social media marketing manager and photographer at Sunny Social where my passions collide. I’m building an evolving company, a thriving portfolio of food photography and reviews with St. Petersburg Foodies, and a beautiful life!

Likes: Bottomless mimosas and trying new food (okay, that ones obvious!).

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Fresh Corn Polenta with Pickled Shrimp brings together the sweetness of summer corn and the tangy notes of pickled shrimp.  This recipe offers a brighter twist on traditional comfort food. This take on polenta acts as an idyllic canvas for the zesty shrimp which are pickled and marinated in a myriad of ingredients which include, but are not limited to: rice wine vinegar, citrus, crushed red pepper flakes and garlic. It’s a perfect dish for highlighting popular ingredients that are used a lot in summer cooking. Creating the fresh corn polenta could not be more simple and only requires a few ingredients that you probably already have on hand. I first made this polenta a couple of weeks ago after I picked up some corn from a farmer’s market in the area. I was told that the corn had just been harvested the day prior from a farm here in Florida. The method for making the fresh corn polenta was something that I had been wanting to experiment with. It all starts by peeling the corn and then grating it with the large holes on a boxed grater. From there, the grated corn mixture is then simmered with a couple of pats of butter and some salt until the polenta thickens a bit. This process only takes about ten minutes. The polenta is then finished with a squeeze of fresh lime. Initially, I had planned to top the fresh corn polenta with poached lobster and some chive butter (which I will be trying soon), but then I found some inspiration for pickled shrimp from a recent episode of a food-related show on television (The Lost Kitchen, for those interested). The shrimp are first poached in some water, lemon and salt. Then, they are placed in a pickling mixture in the refrigerator for a few hours (and up to 24 hours). The pickling mixture makes for tangy and flavorful shrimp that not only work well on this polenta, but also with many other things. These shrimp would work well on some toasty sourdough, tossed in a salad, nestled in some rice or simply on their own as an easy appetizer. For the shrimp, I always strive to use wild caught, but use whatever you can find. Rollin’ Oats has great quality frozen shrimp by Baywinds and Wixter Seafood. Simply thaw the shrimp and devein them with the shells on if they aren’t already deveined (this is easier to do than you think – use a wooden skewer or toothpick, poke it through the side of the shrimp in the middle towards the top and slowly thread and pull the vein out – give it a google for a tutorial). You can also use shrimp that are already peeled and deveined too, but cooking the shrimp with their shell on adds to the flavor and prevents overcooking of the shrimp. Fresh Corn Polenta with Pickled Shrimp Recipe Put summer's fresh corn to good use with this fresh corn polenta recipe. The pickled shrimp add a zesty zing when served atop the creamy polenta. glass bowl or glass Tupperware Poaching the Shrimp12 shrimp (medium to large in size – shell on, but deveined (optional, you can use peeled shrimp if you prefer))6 cups water6 cups ice1 lemon (cut in half)2 1/2 tbsp saltPickling the Shrimp3/4 cup rice wine vinegar2 tbsp sugar2 garlic cloves (peeled and smashed)1/2 tsp crushed red pepper1 dried bay leaf1/2 cup olive oilt tsp worcestershire 1 tsp salt1/2 tsp hot sauce (use your preference – I usually opt for Diamond Crystal)1/2 lemon (sliced into small wedges)1/4 cup red onion (sliced thin)Fresh Corn Polenta4 ears corn (husk and silk removed)2 tbsp butter1/2 tsp salt (plus more to taste)1/2 limeDish Assemblymicro-greens (for garnish – fresh dill would work well too (optional)) Pickling the ShrimpAdd vinegar, sugar, garlic, crushed red pepper and bay leaf to a microwave-safe bowl or glass measuring cup. Heat mixture for two minutes, stir to combine and cool completely in the refrigerator (30 minutes to an hour).When mixture is cool, stir in olive oil, worcestershire, hot sauce and salt. Then, mix in lemon wedges and sliced onions. Set aside until poached shrimp are ready.Poaching the ShrimpAdd water, juice lemon and lemon halves and salt to a medium pot and bring to a boil.Add deveined shrimp, remove pot from heat and allow shrimp to poach for 5 minutes (or until they turn pink).Add in ice and allow to sit for another 10 minutes.Remove shrimp from pot and discard water and lemon. Peel shrimp (leave tails on if desired, optional) and place into glass bowl or Tupperware for pickling.Pour prepared pickling mixture over the shrimp. Cover shrimp and place in the refrigerator for at least three hours and up to 24 hours.Fresh Corn PolentaGrate corn on the cob with the large holes of a box grater over a medium-size bowl.Heat grated corn, butter and salt over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until corn mixture thickens – about ten minutes. Taste and season with more salt as needed (polenta should now taste a bit more rich). Remove from heat and stir in juice of 1/2 lime.AssemblyTo plate, add 1/4 corn polenta mixture to each bowl, top with pickled shrimp and garnish with micro-greens or fresh dill. Appetizer, Dinner, Main DishAmericanFresh Corn Polenta, Pickled Shrimp

It’s the weekend and time to treat yourself to a terrific brunch, but where should you go? We have compiled a list of the best brunches in St. Pete to help with your decision. Before we get into the list, an important thing you should be aware of is that there are other publishers of “best of lists” that do not actually go to the establishments, or actually eat the food. We absolutely DO. (How can anyone recommend something they never experienced?) Unfortunately, we’ve seen it a lot—from national and local publishers. We are also aware of a local publisher that offers paid placement in best-of-lists. There is no paid placement here. WE PERSONALLY ATE ALL OF THIS FOOD, AND WENT TO ALL OF THESE PLACES, AND THESE ARE ALL OUR PHOTOS. Best Brunch Spots in St. Pete Chosen by Locals 2024 Wild Child 2710 Central Ave St. Petersburg, FL 33712 (727) 954-7425 Wild Child Website Wild Child was overwhelmingly recommended in our Facebook Group, and now we know why. All of the food was so astoundingly delicious that it seems like they are working with some type of special magic over there. The Potato Latkes with crema, dill, chives and an added caviar bump was incredible. The crunchiness and texture along with the flavor, and contrast with the crema made this an experience in eating. The Korean Fried Chicken Sandwich is one of the stars of the show at Wild Child. It consists of kimchi mayo, shredded cabbage, house dill pickles, and comes with fries. Note that the photo has a brioche bun, but it is actually a Martin’s potato roll that it comes on now. At this point we were so full, but we had to try the BEC – bacon, egg, American cheese, English muffin, chili lime crema and home fries, and we couldn’t stop eating it.   Social Roost 150 1st Ave N St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 202-6113 Social Roost Website Social Roost is one of our top three favorite brunches in St. Pete. Lori said, “Brunch today at Social Roost Kitchen and Bar was beyond phenomenal! I must say that they have the most inventive and incredible menu for brunch that I have ever seen. So much more to go back for. We didn’t get it this time but they have shakshuka…wow! We started with bubbles and three hours later we finished with bubbles. But in between you will see the most incredible food!”   Sauvignon Wine Locker & Trattoria 241 Central Ave St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 827-7896 Sauvignon Website Sauvignon Wine Locker opens for brunch on Sundays at 10:30. They have some spectacular Italian and American dishes on the regular menu that can be ordered during brunch, and the brunch items will blow you away as well. Two of my favorites are the Biscuits & Sausage Gravy and the Oxtail Hash. Biscuits & Sausage Gravy –  house made pork sausage, creamy sausage gravy poured over flaky biscuits. If I was making biscuits and gravy, this is how I would do it, though I’m not sure I could do it this well. So many times when I order biscuits & gravy at other places, I’m reminded of the old Wendy’s ad with the old lady shouting, “Where’s the beef!?!?!” – except it would be “where’s the sausage?”. That’s not the case at Sauvignon. This is packed with delicious chunks of sausage, and the biscuits are to die for. Oxtail Hash – braised oxtail, pan fried with potatoes, onions & sweet peppers. This one is one of the real stars of the show. We were told it has become a crowd favorite and we know why. It has everything going for it – deep, rich flavors of slow-cooked meat – crispy, crunchy and unctuous at the same time – and then you mix in the runny egg yolk. It’s eyes roll back in your head foodie heaven. Sauvignon Full Review of Brunch   Good Fortune 260 1st Ave S #100 St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 287-3881 Good Fortune Website Good Fortune is just a couple of weeks shy of one year old, and we have been loving them since day one. If you know me, you know I LOVE all Asian food, and I can certainly eat it for breakfast, or brunch in this case. There is a specific Sunday brunch menu for Seoul Sunday with a festive atmosphere provided by a live DJ, and a Tigress dancer. They also offer the entire regular menu as well. I went with a couple of brunch items and Lori was feeling like sushi and sashimi. For me and Lori, every brunch starts with a Mimosa and a Bloody Mary. It’s obvious that the Bloody Mary recipe is a house creation, as it tastes great, and unlike any other Bloody Mary I’ve ever had. The Prickly Pear Mimosa is quite sweet, so if you like candy-coated drinks, this one is for you. It was too sweet for Lori, but she soldiered on, drank some out and had the bartender add more bubbles to lighten it up. I started off with Shrimp Toast with Avocado – classic shrimp toast topped with avocado, togarashi, pickled shallots, and micro greens. This one is pure comfort food for me as I grew up eating it at the sit-down Chinese restaurants I frequented as a kid in New Jersey in the 1970s. Good Fortune has elevated it and updated it by marrying it with avocado toast, which is brilliant. It was some of the best shrimp toast I have ever had. I wasn’t done yet. Next up was Bacon and Eggs – glazed pork belly, chili crisp eggs, Japanese sweet potato hash, milk bread toast. This dish was spectacular. The “bacon” as you see from the description was glazed pork belly. Unfortunately, they are hidden under the milk bread in the photo. I wish I had thought to get a shot of them. There were three pieces about 2½ inches long and about […]

It’s only natural that Florida visitors, and locals alike are interested in where they can get the best seafood. The state is surrounded by water with the Atlantic Ocean on the east and the waters of the Gulf of Mexico to the west. According to the Florida Department of Agriculture, Florida fishermen catch more than 84% of the nation’s supply of grouper, pompano, mullet, stone crab, pink shrimp, spiny lobsters and Spanish mackerel. Some of the most popular fish to eat in Florida are Wahoo, Yellowfin Tuna, Hogfish, Snapper, Grouper, Cobia, Swordfish, Mahi-Mahi, and Kingfish. Of course, warm-water lobsters, stone crab, and Key west Pink Shrimp and Gulf Shrimp are also quite popular. Best Seafood Restaurants in St. Petersburg and St. Pete Beach 2024 Sea Salt St. Pete 183 2nd Ave N St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 873-7964 Sea Salt Website Sea Salt is an upscale eatery in downtown St. Pete at the Sundial Shopping Center. They always have a great selection of oysters. This assortment consisted of Chef’s Creek (British Columbia), Fiddler’s Cove (Massachusetts), Evening Cove (British Columbia) and Lucky Lime (P.E.I.). They were all sublime. The Chef’s Creek were creamy with a high brininess and sweet flavor. The oysters from Fiddler’s Cove had the perfect balance of salty and sweet, with a silky, buttery finish. The Evening Cove oysters had a fresh, clean, mildly briny flavor and a watermelon finish. Finally, the Lucky Lime bivalves had a balanced flavor of seaweed, with a silky citrus-tone finish. The Mediterranean Tuna with quinoa and hummus is another favorite of ours. The hummus utilizes the Moroccan spice blend Ras-el-Hanout with Calabrian chili oil on top. It has such great flavor and is different than any other hummus I’ve had before. The perfectly seared tuna has a rub of Szechuan peppercorns and paprika that is wonderful, and the quinoa with grain mustard was a delight. Some people think that Szechuan peppercorns are spicy since Szechuan cuisine is spicy, but they are not. They are floral in taste and aroma. There’s not enough here to cause the numbing or tingling of your lips and tongue that they are famous for. They provide flavor and color on the tuna.   Trophy Fish 2060 Central Ave St. Petersburg, FL 33712 (727) 258-7883 Trophy Fish Website Trophy Fish is a casual outdoor only space in the Grand Central District, but the vibes and decor make you think you’re at the beach. They have delicious creative drinks, with the Fin & Tonic being our favorite. We always get the smoked fish spread when we go to Trophy Fish. It’s one of the best in town, and smoked right there. You can see and smell the smokers going. With a jalapeño slice and a squeeze of lemon it’s the perfect bite. Whatever comes in fresh off the boat is what’s on the menu that day. They usually have mahi-mahi and grouper amongst other fresh Florida seafood. The crispy rosemary potatoes are addictive.   Snapper’s Sea Grill 5895 Gulf Blvd St Pete Beach, FL 33706 (727) 367-3550 Snapper’s Website Owned by a local fisherman, Snapper’s Sea Grill on St. Pete Beach is a local hotspot with a casual atmosphere and elegant seafood. (Please note that they do not take reservations.) As you walk up to Snapper’s there are lit tiki torches and mature palm trees lining the walkway bringing you to the front doors, which are made of beautiful stained glass in the shape of fish swimming in the ocean. When you walk inside dark wood and etched glass artwork continue the sea life theme. Snapper’s signature Stuffed Gulf Grouper comes prepared with a shrimp, scallop, and crabmeat stuffing over a locally caught Grouper filet and finished with a Champagne cream sauce. While the dish sounds heavy… and is heavy, the Champagne sauce and fresh Grouper added a lightness to the dish that rounds out the heaviness of the cream and stuffing. The puff pastry potato is a glutton’s dream, with creamy chopped potatoes cooked inside a golden puff pastry. The Risotto Oceana comes with a roasted garlic, creamy Parmesan risotto topped with pan seared diver scallops, jumbo shrimp, lemon-basil oil, diced tomatoes, and leeks. The risotto, scallops, and shrimp were flawlessly cooked. The risotto creamy and cheesy, and the scallops beautiful and golden. All the flavors came together to create the perfect bite.   Hookin’ Ain’t Easy 3660 22nd Ave S St. Petersburg, FL 33711 (727) 592-1388 Hookin’ Ain’t Easy Website Hookin’ Ain’t Easy is a seafood market with a food truck, bar and live music in the back outdoor area. The ambiance is relaxed and friendly, neighborhood-like as you order from a food truck and listen to live music either on a picnic table or at the tiki bar. Matthew, the owner is passionate, friendly and welcoming. Also he’s hilarious as he was showing us around and telling us that he catches the majority of the seafood on the menu and knows where everything comes from, he called himself a “busy hooker”.  Funny. Some of their menu items include Smoked Mullet, Fish and Chips, Shrimp Basket, Grouper Nuggets, Grouper Sandwich, and more.   I.C. Sharks Seafood Market 10020 Gandy Blvd N St. Petersburg, FL 33702 (727) 914-4087 I.C. Sharks Website I.C. Sharks Seafood Market has been a staple in St. Pete since 2004. They are a seafood market with an outdoor bar and seating area offering a succinct seafood menu. They provide fresh-off-the-boat grouper, snapper, mahi, hogfish, oysters, scallops, clams, blue crab, stone crab, and more.   Sea Worthy Fish + Bar 1110 Pinellas Bayway S Tierra Verde, FL 33715 (727) 623-0468 Sea Worthy Website At Seaworthy Fish + Bar they serve top tier cuisine. Chef Jason Ruhe is known to go fishing in the local gulf waters in the morning, breaks down the fresh catch himself, and serves it up for dinner. Speaking of the Gulf of Mexico, Sea Worthy sits right on the water in Tierra Verde with great sunset views. Most of the […]

Nestled in the heart of Tampa Heights, Rocca stands as a beacon of culinary excellence, proudly boasting a coveted Michelin star. This elevated Italian eatery seamlessly blends traditional flavors with contemporary techniques, offering diners a premium gastronomic experience. From the moment you step inside the establishment, Rocca’s idyllic ambiance and impeccable service set the stage for a memorable dining journey. With a menu that celebrates Italian cuisine, complemented by an impressive wine and cocktail selection, Rocca is the ultimate destination for those seeking a taste of Italy in Tampa. The restaurant is located on the ground level of the The Pearl apartment complex on Palm Avenue which is across the street from Armature Works. Rocca was brought to life in October of 2019 by the talented executive chef and owner/partner Bryce Bonsack. Bryce attended the Culinary Institute of America and spent time working in some impressive kitchens. Before Rocca opened, Bryce traveled to the Piedmont region of Italy for a year where he trained in a celebrated restaurant which is operated by the Rocca family (the inspiration behind the restaurant’s name). The chef’s different experiences and vast culinary knowledge shines through immensely throughout Rocca. From the astonishing food and awe-inspiring wine and cocktails to the spirited atmosphere and extraordinary service, every piece of  Rocca is exceptional. At Rocca, the attention to detail is remarkable in every sense. When you first enter the establishment, you’re greeted at the host stand and the energy of the dining room immediately strikes you. It is then that you know that you’re in for an unforgettable restaurant experience. The dining room is fairly large and almost always filled to capacity. Invigorating music can be heard from the speakers which adds to that spirited vibe that can be felt throughout the restaurant. The bar area is very lively and upbeat and seats in this part of Rocca are available on a first come first serve basis. If you’re looking to dine in this section, simply put your name in at the host stand and they will send you a text when seats open up. This is always where my husband and I prefer to dine as we enjoy watching the action behind the bar. While waiting for seats to open up here, we typically head across the street to Armature Works to grab a drink while we wait. When the text arrives, you then have ten minutes to head back to the host stand to claim your seats. The wait time for us on average is usually only 30 minutes to an hour and this is usually on a Friday or Saturday night between 6-7:00PM. Because reservations at Rocca are tough to come by, this is a great alternative. Rocca nails a lot of things and one of those things is the service on all levels. It starts at the host stand and carries over to the service throughout the entirety of the meal. Every person who touches the table is attentive, knowledgeable and always the utmost pleasant. This, I’m sure, was one of the many factors that went into Rocca landing their first Michelin star in 2023. Rocca is one of only three total restaurants in the Tampa Bay area that has landed a highly sought after star. As I briefly mentioned earlier, Rocca has an outstanding wine and cocktail program. The wine cellar can be seen on display in the dining room and it holds a large array of delectable wines. If you’re having a difficult time landing on a selection, Rocca’s knowledgeable and well-versed wine experts are happy to help guide you. While wine is always an excellent selection for a meal at Rocca, the cocktails should not be overlooked. There’s something for everyone on their cocktail menu – you’ll find both interpretations of the classics and new and inventive concoctions. Rocca also has some non-alcoholic options on the menu, like an Aperitivo Spritz  and The Lime in the Coconut with lime cordial, giffard coconut and carbonated water. One of my favorites from the cocktail menu (which has a rotating selection of seasonal options) was the Grilled Dirty Martini which was served with these delicious grilled olives, though it is not on the current menu. A great substitute for that currently is the Salted Tomato Martini with tomato water, sea salt and vodka. The menu at Rocca is pasta-focused and all of the pastas are made in house at this highly-celebrated restaurant. Every pasta dish is composed in such a beautiful way. Some favorites on my list are the Agnolotti with salame calabrese ricotta filling, cherry tomato and garlic bread crumbs, the Tagliolini al Ragu with beef ragu, basil and 30 month parmigiano and the Raviolini del Plin with veal filling, demi glace and rosemary. Over the years, this Italian eatery has had an array of other wonderful pastas on the menu. Below you’ll find pictures of a few outstanding examples. You can’t possibly go wrong with any of the pasta dishes or menu items, in general. Currently, there are eight pasta dishes on Rocca’s menu and they don’t change too much for the most part. Though, there are some pastas that make their way onto the menu based on the seasons and ingredient availability. The Gnocchi is a great example of this. Right now, the current gnocchi dish is Gnocchi alla Norma with eggplant, tomato and ricotta salata. Last month when I visited Rocca, the Gnocchi was served with spring garlic pesto, gorgonzola and walnuts. Another one of Rocca’s gnocchi variations that I had the pleasure of enjoying in August of 2022 was comprised of brown butter, asparagus, trout roe and garlic cream. This rendition of their gnocchi was the first of the three mentioned that I ate (and is perhaps my favorite, thus far). There are a few pastas that can be ordered that are off-menu items – one of those pastas is the Cacio e Pepe. It’s the best preparation of the dish that I have ever had and […]

The Sourdough Co. is located in the former Baum Ave Market building in the vibrant Edge District, and adjacent to Intermezzo. The Sourdough Co. is a bright, airy haven for food lovers. With its high ceilings and abundant natural light, this charming eatery creates an inviting atmosphere that draws you in from the moment you step through the door. I visited on a busy Saturday at 11:30 am, and nearly every table was occupied—a promising sign of the culinary delights to come. The menu at The Sourdough Co. is a tribute to the art of simplicity and freshness. From breakfast and lunch sandwiches made with their signature house sourdough bread to wraps, soups, salads, and an array of baked goods, there’s something for everyone. And let’s not forget the excellent coffee and teas from Teabella to complement your meal. One of the standout features of this place is the commitment to using fresh, never frozen ingredients. The portions are generous, ensuring you leave fully satisfied. Most dishes are straightforward, allowing the quality of the ingredients to shine.   Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich This was a winner! The sourdough bread was perfectly toasted, creating a delightful crunch with every bite. The grilled chicken was juicy and bursting with flavor, and the bacon was crisped to perfection. The sharp cheddar, mixed greens, tomato, and onion added a fresh, vibrant touch. My only (minor) gripe? I could have used a bit more ranch. But that might just be my love for the creamy dressing talking. Sourdough Italian Sandwich Another home run. This sandwich featured a delicious mix of ham, salami, prosciutto, provolone, mixed greens, tomato, onion, mayo, and a housemade Italian sub sauce, all enveloped in that fantastic toasted sourdough. Each bite was a combination of flavors that left me craving more. English Muffin Sandwich A delightful breakfast option. The sourdough English muffin was light yet satisfying, holding together a perfectly fried egg, cheddar cheese, mayo, and bacon. It’s a simple combination, but when the ingredients are this fresh, simplicity is all you need. Baked Goods Galore The Sourdough Co. boasts an impressive range of baked goods, all with a sourdough twist. Here’s a quick rundown of what I tried: Crumb Cake: Perfectly sweet with a delightful crumb topping. Cosmic Brownie: A high-quality version of the classic kid’s treat. Chewy and chocolatey. Chocolate Chip Cookie: Almost cake-like in texture. Very soft, but I wished for a bit more texture. Excellent when combined with the brownie in their Brookie. Brookie: The perfect marriage of brownie and cookie. Blueberry Lemon Loaf: Light, fresh, and bursting with citrusy flavor. Cinnamon Pop Tart: Nostalgic and delicious with a modern twist. While the pastries were enjoyable, the sandwiches truly stole the show for me. The balance of fresh, flavorful ingredients, generous portions, and the unbeatable sourdough bread make The Sourdough Co. a must-visit. Whether you’re there for a hearty lunch or a sweet treat, you’re in for a delightful experience. I’ll definitely be back to explore more of their menu!

Picture this: a warm summer evening with a sizzling grill and the aroma of a perfectly cooked steak wafting through the air. These grilled steak and avocado tacos combine the smoky and rich character of grilled steak with the contrast of the lightly seared, yet smooth and creamy nature of the avocado. Though, the true star of the show is the gochujang-tahini sauce. It adds a unique and spicy kick to each bite. If you’ve never experience grilled avocado, welcome! It’s a summer dream. We eat at least one avocado per day in our household, mostly in smooth or salad from, so this expression of the fruit is a delight. If you’re really into spice, feel free to add more gochujang; though, you may need to thin the sauce out with more water. Street-style tacos (the smaller almost bite-size tortillas) are our preference, but you can use whatever tortillas you like. Rollin’ Oats has a supreme selection of both corn and flour tortillas that range in size. Additionally, you can also find grain-free tortillas that are made with almond flour, etc. from brands like Siete (a favorite of ours). When it comes to steak, everyone has their own preference. For this steak taco recipe, you can use whatever you like and prefer to cook. My preference is a New York Strip or a Ribeye, but if you prefer the latter, fret not – the cook time is the same. One non negotiable for me when it comes to steak, no matter the cut, is if it’s organic/grass-fed – that’s a requirement. Luckily, that is something that Rollin’ Oats also takes into consideration. They offer quality grass-fed and organic meats from brands like Thousand Hills and Dakota. Grilled Steak and Avocado Tacos with Gochujang-Tahini Recipe This is a less traditional take on a taco, but the combination of ingredients fully deliver with flavor. If you're really into spice, add as much Gochujang to the tahini sauce as desired. Gochujang-Tahini Sauce1/4 cup tahini1 1/2 tbsp gochujang2 tbsp water (plus 1 tsp, if needed)1 1/2 tsp salt (plus more, to taste)1 tsp rice wine vinegar1 lime (juice only)Steak & Taco Assembly1 avocado (ripe but still semi firm – cut into half moon slices)1 steak (New York strip or Ribeye)8 tortillas (for 2 tacos per person (use more if desired))1/4 cup white onion (diced)1/4 cup cilantro (roughly chopped (optional – scallions would also be great))2 tbsp olive oilsaltlime wedges (to serve, optional) Gochujang-Tahini SauceWhisk all ingredients together until smooth but drippy. Season with more salt as needed. Set Aside until ready to assemble tacos.Steak & Taco AssemblyOne hour (at least) before you plan to cook your steak, salt it heavily all over and place it on a plate. Refrigerate for one hour. Take it out to sit at room temperature 20 minutes before grilling.Heat grill to high for 15 minutes. Brush steaks all over with 1 tbsp olive oil and salt both sides. Grill steaks for 5 minutes, flip and grill for another 3-5 minutes for medium rare. Remove steaks from the grill, tent with foil and allow them to rest for 5-7 minutes. While the steaks rest, brush avocado slices with remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil and season with salt on both sides. Grill avocado slices for 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.After steak has rested, slice it against the grain. To assemble the tacos, top with 1-2 pieces of steak, avocado and onion. Drizzle the gochujang-tahini sauce on top and garnish with cilantro or scallions. Dinner, Main CourseAmerican, MexicanGrilled Steak & Avocado Tacos with Gochujang Tahini  

Elevate your next dinner situation with crispy chicken cutlets topped with charred sweet peppers, homemade hot honey and a shower of minced chives. It’s a crunchy, hot, sweet, tangy dish that is chock-full of flavor and certain to leave you full of happiness and content after consumption. This recipe takes classic chicken cutlets to a new level, offering a crispy and golden exterior that encases juicy and tender meat. The charred sweet peppers perfectly complement the sweet heat from the hot honey and make for the perfect cutlet accessories. Minced chives assist in making these crispy cutlets next level with their fresh and vibrant characteristics. If you can’t be bothered with making your own hot honey, Rollin’ Oats carries Mike’s hot honey which is superb. I promise you though, making your own hot honey is a breeze. I suggest making it with honey that is raw and/or organic. Each stovetop is different, so the cook time for the chicken will vary. Keep a close eye on the chicken while in the oil as they do brown and cook quickly. Our cutlets took approximately 1 1/2 minutes to cook on each side on our stove. If you’re looking for an additional side to pair with the cutlets, I recommend a light and fresh side like an arugula salad dressed in lemon and olive oil. Crispy Chicken Cutlets with Hot Honey Recipe Savor this delightful combination of crispy chicken cutlets, hot honey with a punch and charred mini sweet peppers for your next easy yet crowd-pleasing dinner. Hot Honey1/2 cup honey (preferably raw and organic )1 jalapeno (sliced into thin rounds)1 1/2 tbsp crushed red pepper1 tsp red wine vinegar1/4 tsp saltCharred Sweet Peppers1 cup mini sweet peppers (sliced into thin rounds)1 tbsp olive oil1/4 salt (I always use pink Himalayan )Chicken Cutlets2 chicken breasts (each one split to make 4 total chicken breast cutlets)1/2 cup olive oil (or other oil of choice)1 cup all purpose flour1 cup panko breadcrumbs1/3 cup parmesan cheese (finely grated)2 eggs1 tsp salt (plus more for seasoning)pepper1/4 cup chives (minced) Hot HoneyCombine honey, jalapeno and crushed red pepper in a small pot. Place the pot over medium heat. As soon as the pot comes to a gentle simmer, remove the pot from the heat and allow the chilis to infuse the honey for 15 minutes. Strain the honey mixture through a fine mesh sieve. Set aside until chicken is complete. Leftover honey can be stored in a container in the refrigerator for one week. Charred PeppersHeat oil in a large pot or dutch oven over medium high heat (this will be the same pot that you will fry the chicken in). Add the peppers and salt and saute for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pepper rings are charred. Remove peppers from heat and place in a bowl until ready to serve.Chicken Cutlets & PlatingOne at a time, place each cutlet between two pieces of plastic wrap. Pound them out until they are 1/4" thick. Season each cutlet with salt and pepper on both sideslPlace the flour, whisked egg and panko-parmesan-salt mixture into three separate bowls.Dredge each pounded cutlet in the flour, followed by the egg (allowing excess to drip off), followed by the panko mixture. Place on a clean plate.Heat oil in the pot or dutch oven and heat over medium high heat. One at a time, fry each chicken cutlet for four minutes (1 1/2 to 2 minutes per side – keep a close eye on them), until cutlets are golden, crispy and cooked throgh.Place them on a wire rack that is stacked on a parchment-lined baking sheet.To serve, place a cutlet on a plate, top with some peppers, drizzle with hot honey and garnish with lots of chopped chives. Dinner, Main CourseAmericanCrispy Chicken Cutlets with Hot Honey

Indulge in this spring/summer recipe delight of Grilled Shrimp Tostadas with Mango & Papaya Salsa. The spice-coated shrimp are kissed by the flames of the grill and are accompanied by a refreshing mango & papaya salsa, creamy avocado sauce and zesty lime-dressed watercress. All of these components are layered atop a beautifully crisped organic corn tortilla. While there are a few different elements to assemble for this tostada recipe, don’t let them intimidate you. Each one comes together in no time with very minimal effort. The only step that may be a bit demanding is the peeling and deveining of the shrimp. However, this can be avoided by purchasing shrimp that are already peeled and deveined. For your convenience, Rollin’ Oats carries two types of frozen ready to cook shrimp – a 12oz bag by Wixter and a 32oz bag by Baywinds. The quality of both products is top notch. In this recipe, I have included two different ways of transforming the corn tortillas into crunchy tostadas. Feel free to prepare them in whichever way feels more comfortable to you. The first way is perhaps the most popular – on the stove by frying with some canola oil or another oil with a high smoke point. The second method is the easier of the two and requires less steps and ingredients and this is by utilizing the grill. If you choose to go this route, just make sure to keep an eye on the tortillas as they can burn quickly (I did this my first try). Make sure to have each part of the grilled shrimp tostada recipe prepped and ready before heading to the grill to cook your shrimp. The salsa, avocado sauce and tostada shells should be ready for assembly and the shrimp should be tossed in their oil and spices and threaded onto skewers. Grilled Shrimp Tostada with Mango & Papaya Salsa Recipe This grilled shrimp tostada recipe is bursting with lively flavors and in season ingredients. Prepare your salsa, avocado sauce and tostada shells before you head to the grill. The cook time is quick and assembly is a breeze. large bamboo skewers Papaya & Mango Salsa1/2 cup papaya (diced into small pieces)1 mango (ripe, diced into small pieces)1/2 cup red onion (diced)1/2 cup frozen sweet yellow corn (cooked per package instructions and cooled)1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)1 jalapeno (minced)1 lime1/2 tsp salt (plus more, to taste)Avocado Sauce1 avocado (ripe, discard pit and skin)1 lime1/4 cup water (plus more for a thinner sauce)1/4 cup cilantro (roughly chopped)1/2 tsp salt (plus more, to taste)Shrimp & Tostada Assembly12 shrimp (peeled and deveined)1/2 tsp smoked paprika1/2 tsp garlic powder1/2 tsp salt1/4 tsp cayenne1 tsp olive oil4 corn tortillas1/2 cup canola oil2 cups watercress1 lime (divided – use 1/2 for watercress and cut the remaining half into small wedges for serving)cilantro (optional, for serving) Papaya & Mango SalsaCombine all ingredients in a medium bowl, season to taste with salt and refrigerate until ready to assemble tostadas.Avocado SauceCombine all ingredients in a high-powered blender like a Vitamix. Blend until the mixture is smooth. Add water, 1 tsp at a time, to thin the sauce as much as you'd like. Season to taste with salt. Refrigerate until ready to assemble tostadas.TostadasThere are two ways to turn your tortillas into tostadas – frying in oil or simply on the grill. To fry in oil, heat oil in a medium pot or dutch oven over medium heat. Line a plate with a paper towel. Fry one tortilla at a time for about 3.5-4 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tortilla's are crisp and begin to take on some golden color. Place on paper towel-lined plate and repeat with remaining tortillas.To grill, heat the grill over medium-high heat to about 350F. Add tortillas and grill for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until tortillas begin to crisp and take on some color. Keep the grill on for the shrimp.Shrimp & Tostada AssemblySoak bamboo skewers in water for at least 10 minutes. Toss shrimp in a bowl with olive oil and spices. Thread three shrimp onto each skewer.Place skewers over medium hight heat and cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until shrimp are cooked through. Remove shrimp from grill and skewers and prepare to assemble tostadas.Toss watercress with juice of 1/2 of lime. Begin tostada assembly by spreading a dollop of avocado sauce on the tostada shell.Top sauce with lime-dressed watercressSpoon over some salsaTop each tostada with 3 pieces of shrimpGarnish tostadas with cilantro and serve with lime wedges (optional) Dinner, Main DishMexicanGrilled Shrimp Tostadas

This zero-fuss bacon and spinach quiche recipe should be your new weekend go-to brunch. The effort required to craft this crowd pleaser is minimal and the reward is quite high. Additionally, you can transform this quiche into anything you want with the mix-ins. In my opinion, the bacon and spinach combination are fantastic, but feel free to get creative. I recommend limiting the mix-ins to just two and be sure not to exceed two cups in total. Sausage, onion, asparagus, ham and bell pepper would also work well in this quiche recipe. Another customizable component to this quiche is the cheese. The recipe calls for one total cup of grated cheese, but that’s the only guideline that you need to follow. I used a 50/50 blend of sharp white cheddar and a creamy fontina and it turned out better than expected. I initially planned to use gruyere in place of the fontina, but the fontina is what I came across first at Rollin’ Oats and I simply couldn’t resist it. They carry both cheeses though – they have Finlandia and Emmi brand gruyere and Belgioso fontina. Other types of cheese I suggest using are feta, swiss and even mozzarella. If you’re up for it, you can absolutely make your own pie crust; however, store bought frozen crusts will make your life much easier. Just make sure to allow for 20 minutes or so of thawing time. Rollin’ Oats carries a set of two organic pie shells by Wholly Wholesome brand and they’re delicious. They also have gluten free shells available by the same brand and they’re equally as good. Bacon and Spinach Quiche Recipe Use this quiche recipe as a base for making any quiche. Feel free to get creative with the mix-ins, but don't use too many (I wouldn't go beyond three). 1 pie crust (store bought, thawed)4 eggs1/2 cup heavy cream1/2 cup whole milk1/2 cup bacon (cooked and crumbled)1 1/2 cups spinach (fresh)1 cup cheese (shredded, plus more for serving/topping before baking – I used sharp cheddar and fontina, but feel free to use what you love. )1/2 tsp salt1/4 tsp black pepper Heat oven to 375F. Place a piece of parchment paper on the thawed pie crust and weigh down with pie weights (or small oven-safe utensil – I used a small skillet). Bake for 15 minutes. Remove parchment and weights and poke holes all over the bottom of the crust with a fork. Bake for another 6 minutes or until the crust begins to turn golden.Reduce oven heat to 350F. Combine eggs, heavy cream, milk, salt and pepper in the bowl of a stand mixer and mix on high for one minute.Stir in cheese, crumbled bacon and spinach.Carefully pour quiche mixture into partially baked pie crust. Top with more grated cheese (optional).Bake quiche for 45-50 minutes, or until quiche is set and no longer jiggly and crust is crisp and golden. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving. Slice quiche into 4 even pieces and serve. Breakfast, Brunch, Main DishAmericanBacon and Spinach Quiche

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Money blog: Bakery chain under fire for selling day-old croissants for 95p more

Welcome to the Money blog, a hub of personal finance and consumer news/tips. Leave a comment on any of the stories we're covering in the box below - we round them up every Saturday.

Friday 16 August 2024 16:00, UK

• Fines for parents taking children out of school to increase next month
• Gail's under fire for selling day-old croissants for £1 more
• Mortgage product shelf life drops significantly in sign of volatility
• The UK's highest-earning roads revealed

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Each week we feature comments from Money blog readers on the story or stories that elicited most correspondence.

Our weekend probe into the myriad reasons for pub closures in the UK prompted hundreds of comments.

Landlords and campaigners, researchers and residents revealed to Sky News the "thousand cuts" killing Britain's boozers - and what it takes to survive the assault.

Here was your take on the subject...

I've been a publican for 19 years. This article is bang on! It's like you've overheard my conversations with my customers - COVID, cost of living, wages - the traditional British boozer going out of fashion. (My place: no food, no small children). Hey Jood

I own a small craft ale bar or micropub as some say. The current climate is sickening for the whole hospitality sector. This summer has been ridiculously quiet compared to previous ones. Micropubs were on the rise pre-COVID, but not now even we're struggling to survive… Lauren

I am an ex-landlord. It's ridiculous you can buy 10 cans for £10 or one pint for £5 now. It's not rocket science, it's a no-brainer: reverse the situation. Make supermarket beer more expensive than pub beer, then people will start to go out and mix again rather than getting drunk at home. Ivanlordpeers

Bought four pints of my regular drink at a supermarket for less than one pint in our local pub. It's becoming a luxury to go to a pub these days. Torquay David

Traditional pubs are being taken over by conglomerates who don't sell traditional beer, only very expensive lager, usually foreign, and other similar gassy drinks. How can they be called traditional pubs? Bronzestraw

The main reason for pubs closing is twofold! 1: The out-of-reach rents that the big groups charge landlords. 2: Landlords are told what stock they can hold and restrict where they can purchase it from. Strange, but most pubs belonged to the same groups! A pub-goer

Less pubs are managed now, pub companies are changing them to managed partnerships, putting the pressure onto inexperienced young ex-managers. Locals complain that their local pub has gone. but they don't use them enough. Can government regulate rents and beer prices for business owners? John Darkins

I was a brewery tenant in Scotland for many years and sequestrated because of the constant grabbing at my money by greedy brewers who wanted more and more. I made my pub very successful and was penalised by the brewery. James MacQuarrie 

The only reason pubs are closing is locals only use them on Boxing Day, New Year's Eve, and one Sunday a year. Plus breweries don't need pubs, they sell enough through supermarkets! Use them or lose them. Peter Smith

The closing of pubs is a terrible shame. I still go to my local and have great memories of getting drunk in many in my hometown. They are important places in society. As someone once said: "No good story ever started with a salad." Kev K

It's the taxman killing pubs. £1 of every £3 sold. Utter disgrace. Stef

I go with my girlfriend, Prue, every day to my local. It's a shame what's happening to prices. It used to be full of people and joy but now it's a ghost town in the pub since prices are too high now. I wish we could turn back time and find out what went wrong. Niall Benson

Minimum wage is around £11 and the tax threshold is £12,600 per year. How can you possibly afford a night in a pub out when a pint costs between £3 and £8 a pint on those wages? Allan7777blue

Unfortunately, the very people who have kept these establishments going over the years (the working man) have been priced out, and they're paying the price. Dandexter

The pubs are too expensive for people to go out regularly as we once did a decade or so ago. People's priorities are on survival, not recreation. Until the living wage increases beyond an inflation that wages haven't risen above in years, then we will see shops, pubs, etc. close JD

Who wants to spend hard-earned money going into a pub that's nearly always empty. It takes away one of the main attractions - socialising. Michael

Monzo has been named the best bank in the UK for customer satisfaction, according to a major survey. 

More than 17,000 personal current account customers rated their bank on the quality of its services and how likely they would be to recommend to friends or family. 

Digital banks made up the top three, with Monzo coming out on top, followed by Starling Bank and then Chase. 

Some 80% of Monzo customers said they would recommend the bank. 

The digital banking app said topping the tables "time and time again" was not something it would "ever take for granted". 

Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) was bottom of the ranking for another year. 

The banks with the best services in branches were Nationwide, Lloyds Bank and Metro Bank. 

Gail's bakery chain has come under fire for repurposing unsold pastries into croissants and selling them for almost £4 the next day.

The retailer lists the "twice baked" chocolate almond croissants as part of its "Waste Not" range, which means it is made using leftover croissants that are then "topped with almond frangipane and flaked almonds".

The scheme has been hit with criticism online, with many pointing out the £3.90 price tag is 95p more than the original croissant.

One X user said: "The audacity of bragging about it being part of their 'Waste Not' range like we should be grateful to them and proud of ourselves for contributing to reducing food waste when they could just sell it for less money – not one pound more than yesterday.

"Unsure whether to be impressed or horrified that someone has come up with a concept to capitalise on yellow sticker goods to make more profit."

It should be added, however, that the practice was not invented by Gail's - and almond croissants were originally created by French boulangeries to reuse day-old croissants and stop them going stale.

When factoring in the extra ingredients (almond frangipane and flaked almonds) and baking time, the bakery chain would likely defend the increased price by pointing to the additional costs incurred.

It comes as locals in a trendy London neighbourhood signed a petition against a Gail's bakery setting up shop in their area.

After (unconfirmed) rumours began circulating that the chain was looking to open a site in Walthamstow village, more than 600 have signed a petition opposing the plans.

The petition says the village "faces a threat to its uniqueness" should Gail's move into the area (see yesterday's 11.54am post for more).

Gail's has been contacted for comment.

British retailers saw a rise in sales last month after a boost from Euro 2024 and summer discounting, according to official figures.

High street retailers said sales of football shirts, electronics such as TVs, and alcoholic drinks were all stronger amid the Three Lions' journey to the final.

Total retail sales volumes rose by 0.5% in July, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said. It was, however, slightly below predictions, with economists forecasting a 0.7% increase.

It followed a 0.9% slump in volumes in June as retail firms blamed uncertainty ahead of the general election and poor weather.

ONS director of economic statistics, Liz McKeown, said: "Retail sales grew in July led by increases in department stores and sports equipment shops, with both the Euros and discounting across many stores boosting sales.

"These increases were offset by a poor month for clothing and furniture shops, and falling fuel sales, despite prices at the pump falling."

The data showed that non-food stores saw a 1.4% rise, driven by a strong performance from department stores, where sales grew by 4% for the month as summer sales helped to stoke demand.

However, clothing and footwear shops saw a 0.6% dip, whilst homeware retailers also saw volumes fall 0.6%. Food stores, meanwhile, saw sales remain flat for the month.

There are fears that the £2-cap on single bus fares could be scrapped after the government declined to say whether the policy would continue past December.

Bus companies said it was vital the cost of using their services is kept low for young people to "enhance their access to education and jobs".

Alison Edwards, director of policy and external relations at industry body the Confederation of Passenger Transport, said: "Bus operators are working closely with the government so that together we can find a way to avoid a cliff edge return to commercial fares.

"Analysis has shown that supporting fares, which can be done in a range of different ways, is great value for money and can support many other government objectives.

"For example, keeping fares low for young people would enhance their access to education and jobs, while also encouraging them to develop sustainable travel habits to last a lifetime."

Transport Secretary Louise Haigh said in a recent interview with the PA news agency that her officials were "looking at various options" in relation to the cap, including whether they could "target it better".

It's been a busy week on the economic front.

There was no major shift in the overall outlook - since Monday we've had it confirmed that the UK economy has lower inflation and more growth than the last two years, while wages have grown faster than the overall pace of price rises.

On the back of all that news the pound is at the highest rate since early this month against the dollar, worth $1.2882, and the highest since July when it comes to buying euro with one pound equal to €1.1733. 

Signs of a recovery from the global market sell-off of Monday last week can be seen in the share prices of companies listed on the London Stock Exchange.

Share prices have grown among the most valuable companies on the stock exchange, those that comprise the Financial Times Stock Exchange (FTSE) 100 list of most valuable companies.

Today though, this benchmark UK index fell 0.19% but finishes the week higher than the start.

Also finishing the week higher than the start are the more UK-based companies of the FTSE 250 (the 101st to the 250th most valuable firms on the London Stock Exchange).

On Friday morning that index was up 0.08%. 

With tensions in the Middle East and Eastern Europe high as Iran mulled a retaliatory strike on Israel and Ukraine made incursions into Russian territory, there had been concern about energy price spikes.

But the benchmark oil price has remained steady at $80.13 dollars for a barrel of Brent crude oil.

Gas prices have remained below the Monday high of 100 pence a therm (the measurement for heat) and now are 94.50 pence a therm. 

A Cabinet Office minister has said it is "unfair" to suggest other public sector workers will be queuing up for a pay rise after the government's offer of a 15% increase for train drivers and junior doctors.

"I think that's an unfair characterisation as well," paymaster general Nick Thomas-Symonds told Times Radio.

"I think what is absolutely crucial here is we are a Government again that is sticking to the promises we made in opposition.

"We promised we would sit down and find solutions, and people expressed scepticism about that, but actually that is precisely what we have done in Government."

Last month, the government and the British Medical Association struck an improved pay deal for junior doctors in England worth 22% on average over two years.

Meanwhile, train drivers will vote on a new pay deal following talks between representatives of drivers' union ASLEF and the Department for Transport.

The new offer is for a 5% backdated pay rise for 2022/23, a 4.75% rise for 23/24, and 4.5% increase for 24/25.

The Dartford Crossing is the highest-earning toll road in the UK, new data shows. 

The Kent to Essex route raked in £215.9m in the last year - 2,159 times more than the Whitney toll bridge in Hereford. 

The crossing, which was supposed to stop charging customers in 2003, costs between £2 and £6 to use (depending on the vehicle you're driving) between 10am and 6pm every day. 

Car finance company Moneybarn found it earned just over £209m in 2022. 

It topped the chart of 13 toll roads in the country, making over £100m more than the second highest-earning road in 2023 - the M6 Toll in the West Midlands. 

In third place was the Mersey Gateway Bridge between Halton and Cheshire, which made £48.9m. 

You can see how the other toll roads fared below... 

Fines for parents who take their children out of school will increase this upcoming term as the government continues with plans to improve attendance. 

From next week, fines for unauthorised absences will go up by as much as £40.

Under the new system, the cost of a penalty charge notice will rise from £60 to £80 if paid within 21 days, and from £120 to £160 if paid within 28 days . 

This marks the first increases since the system was introduced in 2013. 

So, when do parents get fined? 

Children are only allowed to miss school if they are unwell, or they have been given permission from the school in advance. 

Parents can make an absence request to take their children out of school, but there needs to be "exceptional circumstances" and the headteacher needs to authorise it. 

Currently, it's the responsibility of the local authority to decide when to issue fines, meaning the process varies from council to council.

But, under the new rules which were created by the Conservative government, all schools will be required to consider a fine when a child has missed at least five days of school for unauthorised reasons.

What happens if you keep getting fined? 

If a parent receives a second fine for the same child within any three-year period, this will be charged at the higher rate of £160.

A parent can only receive two fines within any three-year period, and once this has been met, other actions can be considered. 

This includes a parenting order or prosecution. 

Parents who are prosecuted and attend court because their child hasn't been attending school, can be fined up to £2,500.

Where is the money spent?

Government guidance states any money collected from fines should be used by the local authority to cover the costs of administering the system. 

Any surplus after that should be spent on "attendance support". 

Any cash remaining at the end of the year must be paid to the education secretary.

A Department for Education spokesperson said: "High and rising school standards are at the heart of our mission to break down barriers to opportunity and give every child the best start in life. Strong foundations of learning are grounded in attendance in the classroom.

"Tackling the root causes of absence is a major priority for the government. 

"Our support-first approach outlined in our guidance is designed to help parents to meet their responsibility to ensure their child attends school.

"However, in some cases, including term-time holidays, it may be necessary to issue penalty notices." 

Every Friday we take an overview of the mortgage market, speaking to those in the industry before getting a round-up of the best rates courtesy of the independent experts at  Moneyfactscompare.co.uk .

Over recent months and years, the release of monthly inflation data has had a big impact on forecasts for interest rate cuts - but not this week.

Following a slight uptick in inflation to 2.2% in July, announced on Wednesday, markets were pretty unmoved at pricing in a 63% chance of a base rate cut next Monday.

Investors still think there will be two further cuts this year, bringing the base rate down to 4.5% by Christmas.

On the high street, rate cuts we've mentioned for a month or two now continued this week, with the lowest five-year fixed available now 4.83% - with NatWest, Barclays and Nationwide all settling there for now.

Moneyfacts finance expert Rachel Springall said: "Nationwide Building Society was one of many mutuals to cut fixed rates this week - it now offers a five-year fixed as low as 3.83%. NatWest also cut rates by up to 0.20% and Virgin Money made similar reductions."

Looking specifically at home movers, Springall has some data that shows the difference between now and this point five years ago.

"Home movers who want to lock into a longer-term fixed mortgage will find the average overall five-year fixed rate is much higher than it was back in August 2019, which was 2.84%. Week on week, the overall average two-year and five-year fixed rate mortgage fell to 5.66% and 5.29% respectively."

Away from rate changes from some of the big lenders, one of the most telling insights into the mortgage market this week came with statistics about the average shelf-life of mortgage products.

Springall said: "The volatility within the mortgage market was made clear by the notable drop in the average shelf-life of a mortgage to just 17 days, down from 30 in June. 

"There are expectations for rates to fall further in the weeks to come, particularly as the market reflects on the 0.25% base rate cut, the first cut in over four years."

Here's a look at the look at the best rates currently on offer for house purchases...

Moneyfacts also looks at what it calls "best buys" - which considers not just the rate, but other costs and incentives. These are their top picks this week...

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