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Starting a Coffee Shop Business in South Africa – Business Plan (PDF, Word & Excel)

Posted by BizBolts | All Articles , Business Ideas , Business Plans , Retail Industry

When it comes to coffee, there’s no doubt about it: the country is one of the world’s coffee hotspots. Based on recent market research reports, the consumption of coffee has gone up over the years. A coffee shop is a profitable business to start in South Africa. As the average income has risen steadily, there has been an increase in coffee consumption. This increase in coffee sales  in recent years is due to the growing middle class which has resulted in a growing coffee and café culture. Younger, and upwardly mobile consumers drink coffee as a beverage of choice. It is evident that this is a business market that you can explore. South African coffee consumers are becoming more and more interested in the full coffee experience. Coffee is not only an essential beverage for starting your day; it can be seen as a social drug that promotes cohesion and recreation. Instant coffee remains an absolute favorite amongst many South Africans, and that’s how the commercial market supposedly took off. Just like any other country, the coffee culture is growing and finding a foothold in the South African market. This article will outline how to start a coffee shop business in South Africa, and the coffee shop business plan – PDF, Word and Excel.

A coffee shop is a lucrative business, providing income for many South African entrepreneurs, but there are some essential factors you need to consider before you venture into this business. You need to decide on the size of your coffee shop; location, the various beverages, the accompaniments you will provide, plus your target market. These factors will be affected by the amount of capital you have. Thus, you should carry out a feasibility study, market research and have a good coffee shop business plan before you venture into this business.

Business Model

A coffee shop’s business model is similar to that of a retail store , where the coffee shop has direct access to customers, who are usually local people from the neighborhood. When it comes to your brand, you can offer popular types of coffee such as Assagay Coffee, Douwe Egberts, Jacobs Kronung, and Frisco, to name a few. You can even stand out by providing coffee imported from other countries. There are various other beverages that you can offer, such as herbal teas, various brands of hot and iced tea, and hot and cold chocolate. In addition to providing hot beverages, you can offer snacks, cakes, confectionaries, and entertainment. You can also consider hosting events such as documentary screenings, book readings, and art displays with live music that can appeal to several people. It is important to note that your coffee shop is not just about offering food and beverages to your clients. You are selling an experience; people should be drawn to your shop because of the quality of your coffee as well as the great customer service you provide. This experience is also enhanced by the location you choose for your coffee shop. It is important that you set up your coffee shop in a safe neighborhood where potential clients can find you without hassle.

Market Research

For you to establish a successful business, you need to research your market. You must know who your potential customers are, especially if you are setting up a brick-and-mortar shop. Factors to study include the demographics, needs, and preferences of your potential customers. You must understand your customers’ spending patterns as well as their specific needs. You can obtain this information by talking to people in the area, visiting other coffee shops, restaurants, and cafes. Speaking to managers of different establishments can provide you with a lot of insight. By figuring out your potential customers’ behaviors, you can better position yourself in the market. You need to know who your competitors are and what they offer in order to improve your customer experience. Understanding the industry in terms of both competitor behavior and customer behavior will help you outline your unique competitive advantage. There are plenty of cafes, coffee shops, and restaurants that sell similar products and services. Even though the market is saturated, you can always find ways to differentiate yourself.

Location & Premises

This is an important decision to make before you start a coffee shop business. It’s important that you locate your coffee shop close to your target market. Consider the amount of road traffic, find an easily accessible location where people can stop and quickly get service. There are several possible locations, including shopping centres, malls, and the CBD. Opening a coffee shop close to places that typically have potential for traffic such as near schools could be ideal depending on your target market. It is important to be strategic about your neighboring businesses because you are more than likely to feed into each other instead of competing. The cost of buying or leasing the premises should be included in your coffee shop business plan.

Equipment For Coffee Shop Business

You need various equipment for your coffee shop business. The equipment you need will depend on the size of your coffee shop and the kind of products you will be selling. Some of the required equipment includes automatic coffee makers, espresso machines, roasters, stoves, ovens and brewers to name a few. You may need to buy delivery bikes especially if you plan on selling baked goods and other complimentary products to enable you to transport the meals for deliveries. Your coffee shop business plan should cater for such costs including the equipment you will need for your coffee shop.

Licenses, Insurance, and Business Bank Account

When it comes to the Businesses Act in South Africa, any business that offers food and beverages in the form of meals for consumption on or off business premises, or any perishable foodstuffs should have a license. As such, you need to apply for a business license for your coffee shop. As for a certificate of acceptability, you need to provide information about the nature and type of food you handle on the premises, as well as the nature of the handling. This could be preparation, packing, processing, or certain other information regarding your coffee shop. Another important aspect when it comes to setting up a coffee shop is insurance. You need to have property insurance, which helps you cover your coffee shop premises, equipment, and stock. You also require general liability in order to cover legal expenses if someone gets hurt in your coffee shop. Insurance can help you pay for equipment if it breaks down or gets damaged. You must have insurance to protect you from direct physical loss to your coffee shop as well as your personal property due to accidents. Make sure that you separate your business bank account from your personal bank account. Businesses’ expenses, cash flows, and taxes must not mix with your personal finances.

Your target niche will determine if your coffee business products will sell. The most popular beverages in most coffee shops and cafés in South Africa are brewed hot coffee and iced coffee, blended coffee, herbal teas, various brands of hot and iced tea, plus hot and cold chocolate. So, it will be advantageous to have all these various beverages in addition to other complimentary products. It is also wise to provide complimentary services such as free Wi-Fi to attract and retain customers.  In addition to selling beverages you can also sell breakfast, baked goods, and other snacks. Another essential factor in running a coffee shop is selecting the right suppliers for your coffee shop. Consider suppliers who can provide affordable and quality ingredients consistently. Your coffee shop business plan should outline the various products and services you will provide.

Competitive Analysis

There are a number of restaurants, cafes, and coffee shops in South Africa, so in order for your coffee shop to succeed, you need to know your competitors. It’s important that you conduct a competitive analysis that identifies who your direct and indirect competitors are. Find out what other coffee shops’ strengths and weaknesses are and what you can emulate.  Visit their establishments to understand who their clientele is and how they draw customers. After the assessment, determine your coffee shop’s competitive advantage after assessing your strengths and weaknesses. A competitive analysis will help you determine your place in the market in order to grow your business.

Staff & Management

As a customer-centric coffee shop business, it’s important that you hire employees that are friendly and efficient. Your employees should be passionate about serving the clients. If you want to hit the ground running it’s better to hire a team of people who have experience in this business. Your baristas should be able to brew quality coffee, and your staff members should be able to serve customers efficiently on a regular basis.  Inexperienced staff members need to get extensive training before they can be given intricate brewing or baking tasks. Depending on the size of your shop, the actual number of your staff will vary however, you will need baristas, chefs, cooks, waiters, cleaners, and till operators, security as well as management. Your coffee shop business plan should cater for the salaries and day to day expenses of the business.

Some of the day-to-day operations of this business involves:

• Brewing, cooking/baking
• Serving Customers and doing deliveries
• Liaising with suppliers
• Managing Staff
• Marketing and advertising

When you are handling food products and beverages you should always remain aware and alert by paying attention to how the food and beverages are prepared. Food contamination can cause serious health issues. It is also crucial to adhere to all industry related safety measures in place. These safety measures cover the cleanliness of your environment; how your staff members dress plus how and where food is prepared and stored. Businesses related to the preparation and serving of food can be a great risk that is why adhering to health and safety regulations is important.

Sales And Marketing Strategies

Marketing a coffee shop is different compared to other businesses; it requires you to be more subtle. A coffee shop provides a highly social experience that relies on word-of-mouth advertising and personal recommendations from other customers. Your coffee shop will benefit from creating a wide, customer-friendly suite of services, since word-of-mouth can be an effective way to turn people into loyal customers. Make sure that you offer free Wi-Fi in your shop and that you install electrical outlets at each table for laptops and phone chargers. Take advantage of live entertainment and regularly book local artists in your shop. Consider hosting poetry readings and other events that have a community feel. This will make your coffee shop stand out in a place that has more than one coffee shop option in the area.  Make sure your coffee shop offers a drink, snack, or meal that is not offered by other restaurants or cafes so that your regulars will bring their friends.

The demand for coffee in South Africa is huge and increasing. The demand for instant coffee especially among the younger working class has been driving up the demand for coffee consumption in the country. This can be seen by an increase in the frequency with which new coffee shops are opening in the country. The South African market for specialty coffee, is relatively small. There are only a handful of local roasters sourcing and producing coffee of a standard that could be considered specialty. Also, research has shown that the market for coffee especially specialty coffee is limited by the high costs of equipment and the general running of the coffee shop. That being said, the rise of the coffee culture, with big international brands like Starbucks competing locally with independent South African coffee franchises like Vida e Caffee, Mugg & Bean and Bootleggers indicates great potential in the beverage. A majority of consumers’ do not simply drink coffee, instead many of them want to have a coffee experience. Having coffee has become a daily ritual for many students and professionals. Many coffee lovers require a caffeine boost at different times of the day or simply have it as a way to connect with friends and colleagues at a favourite coffee shop.

Is A Coffee Shop A Good Investment?

There is no denying that there is a reasonable number of coffee shops with a large market share in South Africa. Nonetheless, it is still possible for you to own your own coffee brand or even go the less riskier route by becoming a franchise. Many might find operating as a franchise limiting but being a franchisee can help you operate your business as part of an existing chain. Of course, building your own brand from scratch is more rewarding if done well. Whatever route you decide to take, investing in a coffee shop is a profitable venture, but obviously, this will depend on many factors such as your target market. The input costs of making coffee and other hot beverages is relatively lower compared to running a restaurant for example, so it is possible to make huge profit margins. Apart from the obvious advantages of becoming financially independent and becoming your own boss, running a coffee shop can be a rewarding way of uplifting your community.

Given that the South African market is one of the leading emerging economies on the African continent there is potential for high growth. The food and beverages sector in the country has been growing steadily for the past 10 years, thus opening a coffee shop is a good investment. Whether you are a young entrepreneur, a professional seeking to start your own business or someone who needs a retirement plan, investing in a coffee shop is something worth considering. One thing that can set you apart before investing in any venture is developing a business plan. A well thought out business plan will help you in both the short term and long term for your investment. There are various risks associated with running a coffee shop, like any other venture, your coffee shop business plan should clearly outline the risks involved and ways to minimise them.

PRE-WRITTEN COFFEE SHOP BUSINESS PLAN (PDF, WORD AND EXCEL): COMPREHENSIVE VERSION, SHORT FUNDING/BANK LOAN VERSION AND AUTOMATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For an in-depth analysis of the coffee shop business in South Africa, purchase our coffee shop business plan. We decided to introduce the business plans after noting that many South Africans were venturing into the coffee shop business without a full understanding of the industry, market, how to run the business, the risks involved, profitability of the business and the costs involved, leading to a high failure rate of their businesses.

Our business plan will make it easier for you to launch and run a coffee shop business successfully, fully knowing what you are going into, and what’s needed to succeed in the business. It will be easier to plan and budget as the coffee shop business plan will lay out all the costs involved in setting up and running the coffee shop business. The business plan is designed specifically for the South African market.

USES OF THE COFFEE SHOP BUSINESS PLAN (PDF, WORD AND EXCEL)

The coffee shop business plan can be used for many purposes including:

• Raising capital from investors/friends/relatives
• Applying for a bank loan
• Start-up guide to launch your coffee shop business
• As a coffee shop business project proposal
• Assessing profitability of the coffee shop business
• Finding a business partner
• Assessing the initial start-up costs so that you know how much to save
• Manual for current business owners to help in business and strategy formulation

CONTENTS OF THE COFFEE SHOP BUSINESS PLAN (PDF, WORD AND EXCEL)

The business plan includes, but not limited to:

• Market Analysis
• Industry Analysis
• 5 Year Automated Financial Statements [ Income statements, cash flow statements, balance sheets, monthly cash flow projections (3 years monthly cash flow projections, the remaining two years annually),break even analysis, payback period analysis, start-up costs, financial graphs, revenue and expenses, Bank Loan Amortisation]
• Marketing Strategy
• Risk Analysis
• SWOT & PEST Analysis
• Operational Requirements
• Operational Strategy
• Why some South Africans in the coffee shop business fail, so that you can avoid their mistakes
• Ways to raise capital to start your coffee shop business in South Africa

The Coffee Shop Business Plan package consist of 4 files

• Coffee Shop Business Plan – PDF file (Comprehensive – 99 pages)
• Coffee Shop Business Plan – Editable Word File (Comprehensive – 99 pages)
• Coffee Shop Business Plan Funding Version – Editable Word File (Short version for applying for a loan – 48 pages)
• Coffee Business Plan Automated Financial Statements – (Editable Excel file)

Testimonial 1

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The business plan has a highly professional look and feel. The research really helps me look deep into the market that I am targeting, it’s well suited for the South African market. The business plan clearly outlined everything I need to start the business and the costs. It’s now easier to budget and plan. Thank you very much.

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The business plan was very helpful, you did a great job of taking ideas and putting them into words as well as pointing out other aspects of the business plan I wouldn’t have thought of. I got funding using your business plan and it’s now 4 months since I started my poultry business, and everything is going well.

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GET THE COFFEE SHOP BUSINESS PLAN (PDF, WORD AND EXCEL) - R500 Only.

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About The Author

BizBolts (Pty) Ltd is a business research company based in Johannesburg, South Africa. We sell prewritten business plans for various industries including livestock production, crop farming and retail businesses. BizBolts also publishes articles on business ideas, business news, business tips, personal finance, and entrepreneur profiles.

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Coffee Shop Business Plan Sample

• Fill the Form to Download Coffee Shop Business Plan Example

The coffee shop business plan is an essential tool for coffee shop owners and those who want to open a coffee shop.

A coffee shop business plan will give you an idea of how much a coffee shop will cost, how those costs will be funded, and how much money you expect to make from it. 

When it’s ready, you can show it to investors, banks, partners, and anyone else who can help you open a cafe. Getting this document right is worth your time and effort, so make sure you do it right.

After helping entrepreneurs in the USA launch more than 400 independent coffee shops , we know that a business plan is vital for success.

We are here to help you write a coffee shop business plan.

Here’s a business plan sample pdf and a template that will give you some inspiration for what should be included in your coffee shop business plan.

Coffee Shop Business Plan Template

1. Business Plan Title Page

2. executive summary, 3. market overview, 4. competitive analysis, 5. swot analysis, 6. marketing plan, 7. funding request, 8. management summary, 9. financial highlights, coffee shop business plan sample. faqs:, coffee shop business plan powerpoint presentation, download coffee shop business plan example pdf.

A coffee shop business plan template should include the following sections. Let’s look at a coffee shop business plan template and discuss what each section should include.

1. Business Plan Title Page 2. Executive Summary 3. Market Overview 4. Competitive Analysis 5. Swot Analysis 6. Marketing Plan 7. Funding Request 8. Management Summary 9. Financial Highlights

Start with the legal name of your business. Provide the address of a likely location or website if you already have one. Include your company logo at the top or bottom of the title page. On the title page, there should also be a table of contents listing each section and its page number.

What makes a great cover page for a business plan?

Visit our page on business plan cover page examples to download our free business plan cover page templates and create a beautiful cover page yourself.

The Coffee Shoppe will be a business service provider based in Miami, Florida. Founded by Mrs. Nancy Harrigan.  The Coffee Shoppe will offer a menu of services which include coffee, lattes, capacinos, expressos, deli sandwiches and baked goods.

While these services will comprise the initial market entry core, long-term plans call for the integration of storage and relocation capabilities to the business mix.

The local area has been in dire need of a service of this type for some time and The Coffee Shoppe plans to adequately serve them through the consistent delivery of real-time hospitality. 

The market is definitely filled with opportunities but in order to capitalize on them, a strong infusion of working capital must be acquiesced. 

The founder projects needing 100K for their business venture with repayment being made out of the profits that are driven annually. Funding that is secured will be used in a variety of areas including marketing, logistics, management, site procurement as well as the day to day operations of the organization.

The marketing for The Coffee Shoppe will be done through a variety of mediums including the Internet, mass media, print and networking. Internet efforts will center on the creation of a user-friendly website that clearly list all of the core services that will be offered. 

To read the full executive summary, click here to download the PDF

Read more: Executive summary examples

Financial Highlights

The Company is entering the market at a time when the industry in which it operates is experiencing substantial growth. According to market research firm IBIS World, the Coffee & Snack Shops Industry has seen an average annual growth rate of 5.8% over the last five years, positioning industry revenue to be around $47.7 billion in

2018. The Coffee & Snack Shops industry is projected to see an average annual growth rate of 1.4% over the next five years, placing industry revenue at $51 billion in 2022.

Market Analysis

Target Market

The following is a listing of the primary competitive advantages of the Companv upon entering the market

• Congenial customer service
• A central location wit greater foot traffic Parking facility available for customers
• Soothing ambiance for calm eating
• Excellent visibility from the road
• Aggressive marketing campaian
• Understanding visitors food choices and integrating the same in the menu
• Inviting feedback from customers
• Key understanding of trends and flavor
• The company will hire experienced management and staff

The following is an analysis of the  SWOT analysis of the coffee shop business as well as the opportunities and threats present in the market.

• Location. The location is one of the primary strengths of the The Coffee Shoppe business model as there are currently no other organizations that have the capabilities to offer the types of services that will be introduced to the market.
• The founder. Founder Nancy Harrigan is a seasoned, strategic business professional with an eye towards success, profit and achievement. These qualities will form the basis of the The Coffee Shoppe brand and be a catalyst that propels the success of the operation.
• Servicing of a need. The services that will be brought to the local residents of Miami are one that is truly needed. The fact that The Coffee Shoppe will be satisfying this need will endear the organization to the customer base and allow for consistently strong growth.
• Lack of funding. Funding is the sole weakness of the The Coffee Shoppe business venture. While funding is a weakness it should be noted that the founder is confident that if adequate funding is secured, she will be able to develop a viable business.

Opportunities

• Limited competition. The limited amount of local competition is the primary opportunity for The Coffee Shoppe as it will give the organization the opportunity to develop a loyal customer base while erecting barriers to entry.
• Small business growth. The projected growth of small businesses will provide another opportunity and will feed opportunities directly into the The Coffee Shoppe pipeline.
• Larger organizations. Larger organizations could possibly realize the opportunities that can be found in the local region and begin entering the market. While this is a threat, the founder believes that with strategic marketing, community efforts and customer service, this threat can for the most part be mitigated.

Free: Business Plan Examples

Do you need help creating a business plan? Check out these six free, proven business plan examples from different industries to help you write your own.

Marketing for The Coffee Shoppe will be done through a variety of mediums with television, print and the Internet being the primary drivers. The website will have SEO capabilities and will be developed using all of the latest in web and graphics technologies.

In addition to the home website, plans also call for the creation of a strong social media presence using Facebook.com and Twitter.com with regular updates occurring on each of the aforementioned pages.

Commercial time has already been purchased through ABC and commercial production will begin immediately following funding acquisition. Print marketing will consist of advertisements being placed in publications that are typically read by members of the targeted audience including small business owners and corporate types.

Networking will round out the The Coffee Shoppe marketing mix with the founder joining various networking groups that give her the ability to champion the brand that she has created.

Read more: how to do market research research

Read more: ways to find investors for your business

Financial Indicators

To learn more about financial indicators, click here to download the pdf

Break even analysis

Profit and Loss Statement

Projected Cash Flow

Projected Balance Sheet

Starting a coffee shop can vary greatly depending on location, size, and concept. On average, the initial investment can range from $80,000 to $300,000. This includes lease deposits, equipment purchases, inventory, permits, and marketing expenses.

The specific permits and licenses needed will vary based on your location and local regulations. Common requirements include health department approvals, business permits, food service licenses, and zoning permits. It’s crucial to research and comply with all necessary legal requirements.

A successful marketing strategy is essential for attracting customers. Utilize social media platforms, collaborate with influencers, and host events to create buzz around your coffee shop. Offering unique beverages, outstanding customer service, and a welcoming ambiance will keep customers coming back.

While it’s not mandatory, offering organic or fair trade coffee can attract environmentally conscious consumers. It also reflects your commitment to sustainable and ethical practices, which can build a loyal customer base.

Track key performance indicators (KPIs) such as sales revenue, customer retention rates, average ticket size, and social media engagement. Analyzing these metrics will help you gauge the success of your coffee shop and identify areas for improvement.

Implementing a loyalty program, offering personalized perks, and providing excellent customer service are effective ways to retain customers. Engage with your audience on social media, respond to feedback, and continuously improve your offerings based on customer preferences.

Our free real sample business plans will show you how to write a plan that looks as polished and professional as this one.

Click to view the coffee shop business plan sample. Our experienced business plan writers professionally write each business plan and work with you to develop a winning plan.

We will show you some real-world business plan examples so you may know how to write your own, especially if you are seeking a bank loan or an outside investment and need to use SBA-approved formatting.

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Starting a Coffee Shop Business Plan (PDF)

Coffee is a delicacy that’ll never get out of style because many people love it. The consumption of coffee is steadily and consistently growing and thus making a coffee shop business very lucrative. The beauty of the coffee shop business is that you can offer many remarkable coffee blends and associated food products that you don’t typically find in homes. This therefore means that as much as people might make coffee at home they would still prefer uniquely-made coffee from coffee shops. It’s also a common trend for people to meet-up for a business meeting or a date over coffee. So a coffee shop business is definitely a worthy undertaking that wields huge prospects. This article will outline how to start the coffee shop business, and the coffee shop business plan – PDF, Word and Excel.

Business Model

The coffee shop business is basically a retail type of business. As such the most common business model for a coffee shop is direct sales. The common items sold in a coffee shop are coffee and certain food snacks. There is room of course to expand the product and service range. For instance, you can find juices, smoothies, and fast foods being served in a coffee shop. The thrust is always to have diverse offerings so as to draw in more customers.

Market Research

Coffee consumption trends tend to be location-specific and highly segmented. There are even possible scenarios where introducing the idea of a coffee shop will be a very new idea to the target market in question. This all means that extensive research must be done to ascertain that a steady stream of customer inflows will be guaranteed.  It’s very possible that after setting up a coffee shop you can fail to get substantial customer inflows so be diligent in research. You must study your competitors. Find out what products or services they’re offering, operating hours, niching approaches, marketing strategies and pricing strategies. You must study the target market to have an idea of their average income levels and coffee consumption habits. The failure to plan is the beginning of business failure. You should ensure that you have a detailed coffee shop business plan before you venture into this business.

Location And Premises

A coffee shop should ideally be located at a place that has high volumes of vehicle and human traffic. In your choice of a location, ensure that you factor in the size of the pool from which potential customers will come from. Be absolutely sure about the income levels of people in that pool. Coffee shops are best situated at shopping centres, in residential areas, shopping malls, central business districts or strategic standalone locations. A coffee shop must be clearly visible to anyone moving up and down in the vicinity.

Your premises must be spacious enough to have parking space that adequately accommodates your customers. The building should be large enough to accommodate all your equipment, offices, and space for customers. Staff and customers must be able to move around without any inconveniences. Your coffee shop business plan should cater for the costs of buying or leasing the premises.

Competitive Analysis

The coffee shop is quite competitive in most places. There are numerous notable coffee shop brands you must consider. That does depend on where your coffee shop business will be located. In some parts of the world you might have to contend with the likes of Starbucks. You have to consider at least 3 significant coffee shops who are your direct competitors. Check out the type of services and products they offer. Study their customers and find out their preferences. Look into why they choose the locations they are using. Find out about their prices and payment options.

Study how they reach out to prospects and how they retain customers. You are doing all this to figure out your competitors’ strengths and weaknesses. It also helps to study the dynamics around those who make their coffee at home. Understanding that can inspire strategies you can employ to appeal to that pool. There are many people who make their coffee at home so it a competition element you must study. That is why conducting some poll or survey to better understand people’s needs, comes in handy.

Equipment for a Coffee Shop

If you want to run a cutting-edge coffee shop then there’s a wide range of specialized equipment that you’ll need. Your equipment plays a major role in how your coffee shop will perform. You’ll require things like drip coffee makers (preferably automatic ones), espresso machines, coffee grinders, freezers, refrigerators, storage containers, ovens, toasters, POS system, cooking and baking gadgets plus utensils and blenders, amongst other equipment.  It’ll also be necessary to have cold counter displays or just basic display platforms or containers. So there’s a significant amount of money that’ll be required to purchase the equipment. Obviously tables, chairs, countertops, plates, saucers, spoons, cups, glasses and so on will be needed. The costs of purchasing the furniture and equipment should be included in the coffee shop business plan.

Permits/Licenses, Insurance & Business Bank Account

Start off with formally registering your coffee shop business. Get in touch with your local authorities to get guidance on applying for an operating license. Be prepared for some rigorous assessments which are typical when applying for a license to operate a food business. Contact reputable insurance providers to weigh your options in terms of getting the coffee shop business insured. It is financially prudent to open a separate business bank account for the coffee shop business. It is important that you separate your personal finances from the coffee shop business.

The major product of virtually any coffee shop is coffee or coffee-based beverages. There are also several other types of beverages and wide ranges of foods which are sold in coffee shops. A study of other players or your competitors will give you an idea of what products or services are popular in your area. Your menu has an effect on the number of customers that your coffee shop will attract, so you have to thoroughly research on this aspect. Some of the popular offerings are lattes, espressos, cappuccinos, americano, tea and different types of coffee (gourmet, flavoured, iced or specialties). There are other accompanying treats that can be included such as bread, cakes, bagels, cookies, sandwiches, donuts, croissant, pastries, salads, beverages, blended drinks (e.g. smoothies). The products that you will be offering should be included in your coffee shop business plan.

Staff And Management

Having expert baristas is vital for you to guarantee the production of high quality coffee. From the beginning you should have exceptional baristas working in your coffee shop. Focus on getting passionate and driven staff with hospitality and catering experience. The number of staff needed will depend on the size of your coffee shop and the range of services or products that you offer. Waiters plus cashiers will be needed – they must be passionate about customer care and service. Management size again depends on size of operations but to keep human resource costs low you can start with a lean management. Other required staff include accountants, supervisors, security team, stock controllers and managers, though this depends on the size of your coffee shop.

Your coffee shop should have sufficient number of well trained staff. This is because repeat purchases and ever-growing customer inflows are a product of swift and quality service from the staff. Having a small or skeletal staff makes it very difficult to provide swift service. Remember we are living in a fast-paced world where people don’t want to be kept waiting for too long. The salaries of all your employees must be catered for in the coffee shop business plan.

Marketing And Sales Strategies

Build a digital footprint.

This entails setting up a website and social media accounts. Then you have to actively post and engage with your audience. Your content must be characterised by alluring food visuals. You also have to incorporate online ordering and online payment options. You also have to include delivery options. This will go a long way in driving sales for your business. Regularly hold online contests meant to generate leads. Get notable social media influencers associated with your coffee shop business.

Hosting Events

You can offer a service where people can pay to host events at your coffee shop. This would entail them paying to use the venue and also paying for your food services. You can realize more money in a shorter time this way. Examples of events you can host can be luncheons, parties, weddings, presentations, and the like. Especially if your coffee shop is big and or has a big backyard, you can cash in on this. At the same time, this will put your coffee shop business’ name out there.

Attending Strategic Events

There are a number of events you can attend to showcase your coffee shop business. Such events serve a dual purpose i.e. brand awareness and revenue generation. For example, you can attend trade fairs, expos, entertainment events, and so on. Whilst marketing your coffee shop business you will also be generating revenue.

The market for coffee is huge and ever increasing. Demand for coffee continues to be dominated by instant coffee supported by consumers’ changing lifestyles, particularly amongst the younger generation, which is increasingly opting for convenience to suit their busy lives. More consumers are drinking coffee and spending time and money in restaurants and coffee shops. Some professionals and businesspeople make use of coffee shops for their meetings whilst some like to hang out in coffee shops during their breaks. You should invest lots of time and effort in marketing your business especially on the internet and social media. A proper marketing strategy should be included in the coffee shop business plan.

Keys To Profitability

Personalization or customization is key.

Customers prefer coffee shops that tailor their products or services to their needs. Coffee shops which are rigid and provide generic offerings will not cut it. Make it possible for customers to specify their needs and you should be able to provide them. Nowadays customers are keen on getting personalized or customized services. This is especially so for a coffee business so ensure you can provide that. Build a system that enables data collection and analysis. For instance, having an electronic point of sale system (EPOS) helps in this. This make is easier to know customer preferences and buying patterns informed by data. It will also be essential to inventory management which is pivotal in the coffee shop business.

Customer Loyalty Programme

Customer loyalty can be a huge driver of brand awareness for your coffee shop business. Customer loyalty needs to be encouraged and rewarded. Once customers know their loyalty gets rewarded they will actively spread word of mouth. They will work towards making referrals. The rewards you can offer can be discounts or certain goodies they can win. This marketing strategy is highly effective since most people prefer to try a food service recommended by someone. Customer loyalty programmes are also much cheaper than other marketing strategies. Profitability is boosted by effectively setting up a customer loyalty programme for your coffee shop business.

It is important to appreciate that niching in vital for a coffee business. Your coffee shop business must have a clear brand identity that appeals to a specific niche. Quality, convenience, and speed are core aspects you must ensure in your coffee shop business.

Pre-Written Coffee Shop Business Plan (PDF, Word And Excel): Comprehensive Version, Short Funding/Bank Loan Version and Automated Financial Statements

For an in-depth analysis of the coffee shop business, we encourage you to purchase our well-researched and comprehensive coffee shop business plan. We introduced the business plans after discovering that many were venturing into the coffee shop business without enough knowledge and understanding of how to run the business, lack of understanding of the financial side of the business, lack of understanding of : the industry, the risks involved , costs and profitability of the business; which often leads to disastrous losses.

The StartupBiz Global coffee shop business plan will make it easier for you to launch and run your coffee shop business successfully, fully knowing what you are going into, and what’s needed to succeed in the business. This is a complete business plan for a coffee shop. It will be easier to plan and budget as you will be aware of all the costs involved in setting up and running the coffee shop business.

Uses of the Coffee Shop Business Plan (PDF, Word And Excel)

The coffee shop business plan can be used for many purposes including:

• Raising capital from investors/friends/relatives
• Applying for a bank loan
• Start-up guide to launch your coffee shop business
• As a coffee shop business proposal
• Assessing profitability of the coffee shop business
• Finding a business partner
• Assessing the initial start-up costs so that you know how much to save
• Manual for current business owners to help in business and strategy formulation

Contents of the Coffee Shop Business Plan (PDF, Word And Excel)

The business plan for coffee shop includes, but not limited to:

• Marketing Strategy
• Financial Statements (monthly cash flow projections, income statements, cash flow statements, balance sheets, break even analysis, payback period analysis, start-up costs, financial graphs, revenue and expenses, Bank Loan Amortization)
• Industry Analysis
• Market Analysis
• Risk Analysis
• SWOT & PEST Analysis
• Operational Requirements
• Operational Strategy
• Why some people in the coffee shop business fail, so that you can avoid their mistakes
• Ways to raise capital to start your coffee shop business

The coffee shop business plan package consists of 4 files

• Coffee Shop Business Plan – PDF file (Comprehensive Version – 85 Pages)
• Coffee Shop Business Plan – Editable Word File (Comprehensive Version – 85 Pages)
• Coffee Shop Business Plan Funding/Bank Loan Version- Editable Word File (Short version for applying for a loan/funding – 42 pages)
• Coffee Shop Business Plan Automated Financial Statements – (Editable Excel File)

The business plan can be used in any country and can be easily edited. The financial statements are automated. This implies that you can change eg the markup, salaries etc, and all the other financial statements will automatically adjust to reflect the change. 

Click below to download the Contents Page of the Coffee Shop Business Plan (PDF)

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StartupBiz Global provided a very professional and comprehensive business plan which I used for my business. The business plan was easy to edit, and I was able to get the funding which I wanted. I highly recommend their business plans.

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Get the Coffee Shop Business Plan (PDF, Word And Excel)

Click Buy Now  below to purchase using Paypal, Credit Card, or Debit Card. After you have purchased, you will immediately see the download link for the business plan package on the screen. You will also immediately get an email with the business plan download link. The Pre-written business plan package (PDF, Word, and Excel) costs $30 only!

If you want to purchase multiple business plans at once then click here: Business Plans Store.

The business plan package is a zipped compressed file containing the PDF, Word and Excel documents. To open the package after downloading it, just right click, and select Extract All. If you have any problems in downloading and opening the files, email us on [email protected] and we will assist you.

We wish you the best in your coffee shop business! Check out our collection of business plans  , and more business ideas .

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How To Start a Coffee Shop in South Africa

Starting a coffee shop in South Africa requires more than just an inspiring brand origin story. You need smart business sense, hospitality experience, and strong social networking skills to survive in this competitive environment. This guide will offer practical advice on how to start your own coffee shop.

Setting Up Your Coffee Shop

What is your niche?

Starting a business selling coffee isn’t as simple as appealing to South Africa’s coffee lovers with claims of pouring the best-brewed coffee in the land. In South Africa’s competitive small business landscape, you need a robust entrepreneurial mindset as well as a USP (unique selling proposition) that sets your business start-up apart.

In New York, coffee lovers are enjoying Crypto Baristas , where a cup of coffee is sustainable, environmentally friendly, and linked to NFTs (non-fungible tokens) and cryptocurrency. Closer to home, we have Community Coffee from Rwanda that use coffee beans which are processed anaerobically, providing much-needed economic stability for farmers in the war-torn region.

There are plenty of interesting local niches out there to spark imagination for your own business:

Kofi Afrika is a coffee shop in Soweto, on the famous Vilakazi Street, selling ethically sourced African bean coffee and a beetroot latte. 4WKS in Cape Town delivers fully compostable coffee pods featuring your favourite South African local roaster to your door - to name just two Mzansi ideas.

Do you need any training or industry knowledge?

Yes. Every successful coffee brewing business requires industry knowledge and some requisite training. This is partly because the South African coffee market is discerning and well-developed. This is a country that consumed 606,000 x 60 kg bags of coffee in 2017/2018!

The Speciality Coffee Association of Southern Africa (SCASA) endeavours to uplift South Africa’s coffee industry by offering exciting coffee-related events and products to the public. They are a non-profit organization, and an excellent place to start if you’re a business owner. Members enjoy access to a large network of professional coffee producers, roasters, retailers and equipment manufacturers.

They are also aligned with the Speciality Coffee Association (SCA) whose mission it is to engage, inspire, and expand a sustainable global specialty coffee community through leadership in events, education, and research.

Suppose your business plans involve serving food alongside your coffee as a way to make more money. Plan to get the appropriate food hygiene certification and licenses when you start your business so that you don’t run afoul of local law once your sole proprietorship is up and running.

Food safety in South Africa is regulated by different governmental bodies, including:

• the Department of Health
• the Department of Trade and Industry
• and the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries

Lastly, a reputable marketing course will teach you everything you need to know about appealing to your target market, be it pour-over coffee or single serve.

A bookkeeping course enables the small business administration to run smoothly as you remember that your business needs are one part making money and one part accounting for where it’s all gone!

Where can you register your coffee shop?

Once you have your coffee shop's business name, you can register it with CIPC (Companies and Intellectual Property Commission). Then approach your local municipality for a trading licence, and a fire and health inspection.

Considering tourism's huge role in our country, get your business graded by the Tourism Grading Council to fast-track your word-of-mouth success to local and foreign coffee aficionados.

The costs involved in starting your coffee shop

Starting a new business in a highly competitive, niche industry requires writing a business plan where you calculate your costs – both start-up and running – to then work out an average cost per cup. You can then set a reasonable retail price with a clear per unit profit margin front of mind.

Good business principles require doing all your coffeemaker number crunching beforehand. Your start-up cup costs should include:

• Imported roasting machine = R500,000
• Espresso coffee machines = R60,000 – R500,000
• Coffee beans = R250 – R500 for a 1kg bag (which works out to 112 single-serve 8g espresso shots, taking into account losses and grinder fails)
• Drip coffee maker or french press = R200 – R15,000
• Domestic burr grinder for whole bean coffee = R600 – R15,000
• Mugs = R50 each
• Sugar or sweetener = 25c to 50c per sachet

Don’t forget to add milk (organic oat milk can get expensive) – and we’ve only begun to cover the hard cup costs!

Entrepreneurship can be an unforgiving vocation, and most start-ups fail within the first year. Create a business plan that leaves no stone unturned as you add up the costs of renting a shop in an area with high footfall (R3,000 – R6,000 per square metre), and POS software and equipment (R10,000 plus monthly operating costs of R900).

Our advice would be to stick to your core strengths. Roasting your own beans for long hours will leave you tired. It’s not easy to pour coffee, upload photographs, serve customers and analyse your expenses at the end of the business day on your own.

A good accountant is recommended for a VAT registered business. You could pay around R5,000 minimum a month. A starting salary for a trained barista is around R6,000 per month.

Proprietorship is pricey if you go at it alone. Your business start-up could set you back somewhere between R300,000 – R650,000 if you’re trying to get your own mobile coffee vending unit set up, and you’ll be looking to pour around 300 cups a day on average to make it financially viable.

If you’re looking to start a coffee shop in a mall or area with high footfall, expect to pay upwards of R100, 000 a month to cover the floor space rental, staff hire, equipment, and products, as well as affiliated marketing and accounting expenses.

Getting funding

It’s clear then, that starting your own business requires capital. Most start-ups fail because they lack the initial capital to keep their business running.

This is when the business idea needs to meet the business plan head-on in a well-articulated funding proposal document that outlines your business structure and shows that you’ve done your research on what it takes to create a business in the burgeoning coffee industry.

Our small business grants guide is your next port of call if your business demonstrates potential – but you don’t have the financial means to see it grow.

Likewise, you can take a look at our guide on small business loans , if that is a route you are considering.

Find out more: Need funding? Check out our guide on small business grants.

The Nuances of Starting Your Coffee Shop

Having done our number crunching, we can turn our attention to some of the more nuanced business ideas and considerations that go into starting a coffee shop in South Africa.

If you’re looking to start a franchise over time, then the Starbucks model of ‘cluster marketing’ (whereby you open a few outlets within walking distance of each other) would suggest keeping affordable street corner retail in mind as you have room to grow. You might want to be close to a taxi rank or school (parents love their early morning coffee, as do commuters).

Tribe Coffee is one of Cape Town’s most beloved foundries and roasteries, and it has secured its fanbase by operating out of the heart of the artistic district of Woodstock, where food markets and art galleries thrive.

Likewise, Motherland Coffee is a popular brand up north that positions its branches in the heart of each neighbourhood. Being close to the action is key to successfully integrating your brand into the community.

If you want a coffee shop that affords you the lifestyle luxury of a midday surf, then look no further than the plethora of coffee sellers offering single-serve from beach parking lots and the entrance to popular tourist destinations.

Suppliers and quality control

Maintaining a healthy, long-term relationship with your suppliers is a pragmatic way to keep abreast of industry trends and develop trust regarding payment and delivery times. Someone will always offer you cheaper beans, but is it worth burning a bridge? These are the things you need to weigh up as you survive monthly, and then try to grow year on year.

Quality control in the coffee industry requires strict adherence to cleanliness, pouring times, and all aspects of the coffee chain involved in coffee flavour. The odd burnt bean can taint a roast flavour, just as a cup that’s not been appropriately rinsed can leave a poor aroma in a customer’s palette.

Fair trade is important too, with South Africa being affiliated with Fairtrade Africa that rewards the ethical and sustainable sourcing of cocoa beans. Bean There Coffee is South Africa’s first Fairtrade Certified coffee and other companies have since followed suit.

Employees need to be passionate about everything coffee. Friendly, approachable staff that have been well-trained will feel empowered in their knowledge of coffee tastes and be able to share that knowledge with the right customer.

From your cold-brew brewers to your Chemex pour-over, your manager to your waitrons, employees in a coffee shop are fuelled by solid leadership that starts with you as the small business owner. Free coffee to the staff doesn’t hurt either!

Get your legals sorted out

Hawker’s licenses are notoriously difficult to get in popular roadside locations, so assess the viability of a plan like this before embarking on a mobile coffee outlet that is destination specific. If you’re serving food alongside your coffee, you must visit your local municipality and apply for a food trader’s license. The cost will depend on the type of business you are embarking on.

Speak to a lawyer to ensure that you have limited liability (i.e. that your private assets are not at risk if the company fails). While not essential, displaying your barista and tourism grading certification prominently at your place of work will establish an aura of respectability as you grow your brand.

Marketing Your Coffee Shop

The importance of an online (and offline) presence for your coffee shop

Understanding your target market in the digital age requires establishing a daily rapport with your audience as you share stories and reels from your social media account about your coffee business and its culture as it grows. Everybody loves a great South African small business success story – you just have to start telling it.

Nothing is more powerful when it comes to marketing these days as ‘social proof’ - the idea that customers are more inclined to overlook price if they believe that their friends and the people they admire are buying a particular brand. Put your brand in your customers’ hands and let them speak about its value.

Loyalty schemes (one free coffee for every ten bought) and other incentives such as customer referrals or leaving a five-star online review are great ways to gain digital traction. As your brand soars up the SEO rankings through regular online interaction and website hygiene, so will your sales.

Attending trade shows such as Hostex , where events such as barista competitions and a dedicated coffee market are on offer, brings the industry together under one roof. They allow you to network and strengthen your marketing strategy by learning about the latest industry trends.

Find out more: Need more advice on this sector? Read our sector-specific articles.

Starting a Coffee Shop Is Not Your Only Option

If pursuing the start-up route seems like a risky venture, you don’t have to worry. There are other options available to become your own boss.

You can consider buying a coffee franchise as another appropriate route to business ownership. For example, Vida e Caffè has a local business success story that started in Kloof Street, Cape Town, and is now a multinational brand with franchise opportunities. Investors in South Africa find the franchise model less riskier than a start-up, so you might find it easier to secure financing this way.

Buying an existing coffee shop and turning it into a franchise could also be a feasible option for you. If you’re only considering this option and would like to conduct more research, you can reading our buying a business guide .

Regardless of the route you choice to take, you’ll need to understand what it takes to run a coffee shop successfully, so we recommend reading our dedicated article on running a coffee shop in South Africa.

We hope that you found this guide useful, and if you have any questions or you’d like to speak to a member of our team, please don’t hesitate to connect with us .

Wishing you a triumphant and successful business journey!

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A guide to opening a coffee shop.

Are you considering opening your own coffee shop? SME South Africa’s guide outlines everything you need to know as a new coffee shop owner – from industry trends to the legalities.

Industry Overview

South Africa has seen a rise of the coffee culture, with big international brands like Starbucks competing locally with independent South African coffee franchises like The Daily Coffee Café, Vida e Caffee, Mugg & Bean and Bootleggers, to name a few.

Other local coffee shop brands that have made a name for themselves, according to lifestyle magazine EatOut’s coffee snob list , are The Bean Green Coffee Company, 4th Avenue Coffee Roasters and Department of Coffee in Khayelitsha, Cape Town. The list also includes Grind Coffee Company, which is credited with creating the most ‘instagrammable’ coffee concept in the world – the Coffee In a Cone, which is cappuccino and espresso served in a chocolate coated ice-cream cone.

Coffee production globally is estimated to have reached a record 174.5 million 60kg bags in the 2018/2019 season, which represents an increase of 15.6 million 60kg bags compared to the 2017/2018 season, according to Bizcommunity.com .

The South African coffee market achieved a compound annual growth rate of 2.0% from 571,000 60kg bags in 2014/15 to 606,000 60kg bags in 2017/18.

Beyond coffee, the majority of coffee shop entrepreneurs offer a variety of products such as teas and smoothies, as well as food stuffs like muffins and sandwiches. Other trends are the hosting of events such as coffee tastings, book clubs and weekly game nights , and according to the 2019 South African Coffee Industry Landscape Report by Insight Survey, another key trend within the market, especially among premium coffee industry players, is the use of coffee culture to drive socio-economic change and positively influence local communities. Vintage Coffee based in Centurion, for example, offers customers the opportunity to vote for the non-profit organisation (NPO) programme they would like to see receive the proceeds when they purchase an item at the shop.

Getting Started

SME South Africa speaks to Tumi Khobane, general manager of Monate Coffee , which was co-founded by Moss Mashishi and mother, Tidi Khobane in 2017, and Siki’s Koffee Kafe founder, Sikelela Dibela, launched in 2016. Both businesses were bootstrapped.

Setup Costs

The startup costs for a coffee business are largely dependent on one’s positioning strategy – where you want to lie in the value chain. From roasting to distributing to owning a cafe – each space speaks to a different costing structure.

Understand your input costs and work from there. Although a starting point, it is not the only thing that needs to be considered. It is fundamental to determine the feasibility/financial viability and sustainability of the business.

More advice

To estimate your startup costs, Santam suggests the following:

Arrange your business expenses into once-off costs and continuous monthly expenses. Prioritise what is absolutely necessary – like electricity and rent – versus nice-to-have like business cards.

Your initial costs can include the following:

• Phone(s) • Security (gates, burglar bars, cameras) • Equipment • Furniture • Start-up inventory (stock) • Shop fittings/signage • Rent • Loan repayments • Electricity and water • Phone connection and monthly bill • Cellphone(s) • Internet connection • Salaries and wages • Website hosting

WebstaurantStore offers a comprehensive list of equipment you will need for your coffee shop:

– Consumables – including coffee, espresso, tea, hot chocolate, water, milk, sugar (packets), sweetener, napkins, paper cups and lids (for take aways), straws and stirrers, plastic cups and lids (for smoothies), ice for smoothies or ice coffees or sodas.

– Tools (for sit down customers) which can include tea cups, cappuccino cups and americano cups, saucers for cups, sugar pourers, creamers, cutlery, serving trays, a coffee machine, a coffee grinder, Espresso machine, Espresso grinder, Espresso tampers, frothing pitchers, coffee brewer, frappe and smoothie blenders, hot water urn, Point-of-Sale software and/ or Snapscan, cooking equipment like an oven or microwave if you serve light breakfast or lunch, measuring cups and spoons, coffee and beverage labeling, menus, aprons, waste bins and/ or recycle bins, coffee filters, coffee equipment cleaners and coffee pot cleaners, Espresso equipment cleaners, milk frother / steam wand cleaners, cutting boards and knives for sandwiches and salads, display case for baked goods, sink.

– Furniture such as two-seater tables or big tables for customers (depending on your decor design) to have their coffee at, work stations, countertops, shelves, refrigerator, décor and signage for the store.

Laws & Regulations

In terms of the Businesses Act (1991), any business that sells or supplies any foodstuff in the form of meals for consumption on or off business premises, or any perishable foodstuff, is required to hold a business license. Therefore, any person who wishes to start a new restaurant, even if it is a take-away restaurant, will need to apply for a business license under the Businesses Act.

More on licensing and permits for the food and beverage service industry .

Regulations also require a food business to possess a certificate of acceptability. For a certificate of acceptability, you will generally be required to provide information regarding the nature and type of food being handled on the premises, the nature of the handling (e.g. preparation, packing, processing etc), and certain other information.

I transformed a garage into a coffee shop, we have a court yard where customers can be seated at tables and chairs. At first it was strange for the customers to see a coffee shop that is not inside a mall. We also have WiFi now to attract customers. My business is on a (commercial) property in an area zoned for business.

Location is important. People enjoy convenience, comfort and safety. Unfortunately, even when you may think you have covered [all the] bases, the location may still not work. This is where you will really have to challenge yourself to find ways to either give people no choice but to find and follow you, or become more innovative and dynamic in the way you choose to use your space.

“First look at the geographic area and look at how many coffee shops are there in that area,” advises Sihle Magubane, founder of  Sihle’s Brew Roasting Coffee, a range of coffee beans sourced from Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania. The brand was so successful that he went on to open his own coffee shop, Sihle’s Brew Barista Love, located in Johannesburg in 2012. The coffee brand is also sold by various Food Lover’s Market retailers.

He continues, “If there are no coffee shops, don’t put your coffee shop there. You’re not going to make it. You must have competition, it’s healthy. Look at the people around, how many people are likely to buy your product and the age average. That will give you an idea of whether it’s viable to start the business”.

Opportunities Available

– We have a variety [of products] on the menu because a lot of our customers don’t come for the coffee. We sell muffins, brownies, sandwiches and smoothies. We have WiFi as well.

– We sell our own blends of packaged coffee .

– Events – I work in collaboration with other entrepreneurs. For example, I hosted a ghetto session with a friend for a community-based poetry event – this was to connect people to one another.

– Merchandise items such as tote bags, carrier bags and t-shirts.

– Coffee products . Our product range includes seven different options, two of which are flavoured (Amarula Cream and Macadamia Nut), as well as a choice of decaf that provides a perfect substitute for those who prefer not to, or can’t, indulge in caffeine.

– Events – we provide coffee for both private and public occasions, as well as intimate and large set ups.

– Tasting Room – an experiential space [and experience], which looks to take our consumers on an educational and sensory journey. [As part of the experience Eighteen13 Boutique Wine Shop offers an array of South African wines and Monate Coffee serves blends for every preference, proudly sourced from our continent.

– Gifting for corporate or personal use.

Industry Challenges

– Access to finance or funding and access to markets (having sufficient customers).

The coffee industry is highly competitive and it’s not enough to only exist – to compete you must bring something different to the table and find innovative ways to stand out.

Sales & Marketing

– On the first day (of starting my business) I gave away 80 free cups of coffee just to give customers a taste. Only three people come back after that first day. I had to do a lot of word-of-mouth marketing. I also had to learn how to narrate my story and to share my vision.

– Our brand is experiential and we strive to communicate not just through words, but through actual lived experience. Thus, we spend a great amount of our time direct marketing – engaging and interacting with prospective clients/customers.

Social media is a great way to market a coffee brand, says Dayne Levinrad, owner of The Grind Coffee Company and the brains behind the most ‘instagrammable’ coffee concept in the world – the Coffee In a Cone, available at their coffee shop located in Melrose Arch and various coffee shops in the Gauteng, Western Cape and Kwa-Zulu Natal provinces. ​

“We were very fortunate with social media and analytical reporting, we can see who our demographic is. Our product is a very sexy product, people want to pose and take selfies with it, so we were clear where our target and demographic needed to be. In this day and age with social media, you don’t have to guess anymore. It’s very targeted”.

Industry Support

– You don’t necessarily have to have specific training to start a coffee business. An understanding of business would help though. Although there are coffee-related courses. Business can be learned without necessarily engaging within formal certified training. As long as you keep an open mind and make understanding and consistent learning a part of your everyday, there is a great deal that can be achieved.

– I learned [from my experience] in the industry and didn’t go to business school. I did a lot of research on my own time. I also asked mentors for help – you have to be outspoken. I also read up on the history of coffee and everything coffee-related. We have conversations about coffee with our customers, educating them on the history of coffee for example.

More organisations 

– The Speciality Coffee Association (SCA) – offers coffee professionals and enthusiasts the opportunity to share their wealth of coffee knowledge and experience with one another. SCA also offers a Coffee Diploma System, of which there are four different modules in different disciplines on offer at Ciro Coffee Academy.

–  Coffee Importers and Roasters Organisation (Ciro) – offers expert services in sourcing, roasting, blending, packaging, training, equipment, technical support, national and international distribution and market trend analysis. They are also behind Ciro Coffee Academy which offers courses and certifications in barista skills, brewing and roasting.

– Speciality Coffee Association of Southern Africa (SCASA) – the licensed body of the World Barista Championship in SA, hosts events like South African Barista competitions, the Cup Tasters Competition and Latte Art Competition.

– African Fine Coffees Association  – a regional non profit, non political, member-driven association representing coffee sectors in 12 member countries, including South Africa.

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2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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?

8. 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.

9. Outline your operational plan

This 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.

10. 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 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.

Related Coffee Shop Resources

• Coffee Shop Operational Plan
• Coffee Shop Financial Plan
• Coffee Shop Marketing Plan
• Latest Coffee Shop Business Trends

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.

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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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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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Table of Contents

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
• 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)

Investment Cost (One-off): $75,000

• Equipment: $30,000
• Renovations: $20,000
• Initial Stock: $10,000
• Licenses: $5,000
• Miscellaneous: $10,000

Operating Costs (Monthly): $17,000

• 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.

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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Coffee Shop Business Plan

Our Coffee Shop Business Plan Template includes a detailed overview of the coffee shop industry in South Africa, analysis of the target market, competitors, and a marketing and sales plan to attract and retain customers. The financial plan includes start-up costs, funding sources, financial projections, cash flow management, and key performance indicators.

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If you’re planning to start a coffee shop in South Africa, then our Coffee Shop Business Plan Template is the perfect tool to help you get started. This professionally designed template provides all the essential components needed to create a comprehensive business plan that will impress investors and lenders.

With this business plan template, you can easily customize the content to reflect your unique vision and goals for your coffee shop. The organizational structure, operational processes, and supply chain logistics are all included to ensure your coffee shop runs smoothly and efficiently.

Using our template, you can save time and money by avoiding costly mistakes and creating a solid foundation for your coffee shop business. Our template also includes a SWOT analysis to identify potential market gaps and opportunities for growth.

By downloading this Business Plan Template, you will have access to a complete guide that can help you navigate the complex process of starting a coffee shop in South Africa. Our user-friendly template is easy to use and understand, even for those who have no prior experience in writing a business plan.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to launch a successful coffee shop business in South Africa. Download this Business Plan Template today and take the first step towards achieving your entrepreneurial dreams.

In addition to this Business Plan, Mega Business Plans offers a variety of industry-specific business plans for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Our selection includes plans for electricians, plumbers, contractors, and many other service-based businesses. Each plan is designed to provide a comprehensive roadmap for success in your industry, including market analysis, financial projections, and operational strategies. With Mega Business Plans, you can confidently start and grow your business with a clear understanding of your market, competition, and path to profitability.

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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?
• Growthink’s Ultimate Coffee Shop Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily complete your business plan.
• Where Can I Download a Sample Coffee Shop Business Plan PDF?
• You can download our coffee shop business plan PDF template here. This is a coffee shop business plan example that you can use in PDF format.
• What Is a Coffee Shop Business Plan?
• Why Do You Need a Business Plan?

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.

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.

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

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Business Plan Proposal for Coffee Shop: A Coffee Lover’s Blueprint

Coffee shops have become more than just places to grab a quick cup of joe. They have evolved into social hubs, community gathering spots, and creative sanctuaries. With the ever-increasing demand for high-quality coffee and the rise of the café culture, opening a coffee shop presents a compelling entrepreneurial opportunity.

A business plan proposal for a coffee shop covers market analysis, unique selling proposition, menu, location, marketing, operations, and financial projections. Brew with a strong comprehensive plan to win the hearts of the coffee industry!

In this article, I will outline the key components necessary for launching and running a great coffee shop.

Table of Contents

1. Executive Summary

The executive summary is a crucial section within your business plan as it encapsulates the essence of your coffee shop venture. It provides a concise yet comprehensive overview of your business plan, highlighting key elements that investors and partners seek. In this section, you will outline the concept of your coffee shop, emphasizing its unique selling points and the experience you aim to deliver to customers.

Additionally, the executive summary delves into your target market, identifying the specific demographics, preferences, and needs of your potential customers. It highlights the competitive advantage your coffee shop possesses, whether it’s through superior quality, innovative offerings, exceptional customer service, or a combination of factors that sets you apart from existing market players.

Furthermore, the executive summary includes a glimpse into your financial projections, showcasing the potential profitability and return on investment for interested parties. By providing a snapshot of the anticipated revenue, expenses, and profitability, you can attract potential investors and partners who are keen to support your coffee shop venture.

In essence, the executive summary acts as a captivating hook, designed to pique the interest of potential investors and partners by succinctly communicating the most compelling aspects of your coffee shop business plan. It serves as a persuasive tool, enticing stakeholders to delve further into the details of your comprehensive proposal.

Read more about: Business Plan for Small Coffee and Juice Shop: Juice Up Your Business

2. Market Analysis

In order to achieve greatness in the coffee industry, a deep understanding of the market and target audience is essential. Conducting a comprehensive market analysis becomes the foundation for making informed business decisions. By analyzing the industry, you can identify emerging trends that shape consumer preferences and demands. This knowledge enables you to tailor your offerings and stay ahead of the competition.

Examining local demographics is another critical aspect of market analysis. Understanding the age groups, income levels, and lifestyle preferences of the target market allows you to align your coffee shop’s offerings with their specific needs and desires. For example, if the area has a younger population with a preference for specialty coffee, you can focus on providing unique and artisanal coffee options.

Furthermore, evaluating the competitive landscape helps identify gaps and opportunities for your coffee shop. By studying existing competitors, you can learn from their strengths and weaknesses and position your business strategically. This analysis enables you to offer something different or better than your competitors, whether it’s through superior quality, innovative products, or exceptional customer service.

3. Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

In a highly saturated market, setting your coffee shop apart from the competition is crucial. To achieve this, it is vital to define and emphasize your coffee shop’s unique selling proposition (USP). Your USP is what distinguishes your business and makes it stand out in the minds of customers.

Consider various factors that can contribute to your USP. It could be a specific coffee brewing method that creates a distinct flavor profile, a signature blend crafted from premium beans sourced directly from growers, or a strong commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing practices. Whatever aspect you choose, it should be something that resonates with your target audience and aligns with their values and preferences.

Once you have defined your USP, the next step is to clearly communicate it to your target customers. Incorporate your USP into your branding, marketing materials, and messaging. Highlight it in your menu descriptions, signage, and social media presence. By effectively communicating your USP, you create awareness and attract customers who are specifically looking for what your coffee shop offers.

Your USP becomes the foundation of your coffee shop’s identity and serves as a compelling reason for customers to choose your establishment over competitors.

4. Menu and Product Offering

To create an enticing coffee shop experience, it is important to craft a diverse menu that caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. In addition to the classic espresso-based drinks like cappuccinos and lattes, consider incorporating alternative brewing methods such as pour-over, French press, or cold brew. This variety allows customers to explore different flavors and brewing techniques, adding depth to their coffee experience.

Expanding beyond beverages, it is beneficial to develop a selection of artisanal pastries, light meals, and healthy snack options. Freshly baked croissants, muffins, and scones can complement the coffee offerings and entice customers with their delicious aroma. Additionally, offering options like salads, sandwiches, and wraps caters to those seeking a light and satisfying meal.

To appeal to conscious consumers, emphasize the quality and sourcing of your ingredients. Highlight any organic or locally sourced components used in your menu items. Transparently communicate your commitment to sustainable and ethical practices, such as fair trade coffee beans or environmentally friendly packaging.

You create a coffee shop that appeals to a broad range of customers by curating a diverse menu that incorporates various brewing methods, artisanal pastries, light meals, and conscious ingredient sourcing. This attention to variety and quality enhances the overall coffee experience and fosters customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Read more about: Business Plan for Selling Coffee: Wake Up and Smell Business

5. Location and Facilities

Seek out areas with bustling foot traffic, such as busy shopping districts or near offices and educational institutions, to maximize visibility and attract potential customers. Additionally, a vibrant community atmosphere can contribute to a steady flow of patrons.

When evaluating potential locations, carefully consider the size of the space. It should be spacious enough to accommodate both seating areas for customers and a well-organized production area for coffee preparation. This ensures efficient workflow and a comfortable environment for both staff and customers.

Creating an inviting ambiance is equally important. Opt for comfortable seating arrangements that encourage customers to relax and enjoy their coffee. Incorporate aesthetic decor that aligns with your brand image, creating a visually appealing and memorable atmosphere. Maximizing natural light not only enhances the overall ambiance but also contributes to a pleasant and welcoming environment.

A strategically chosen location with high foot traffic, proximity to key establishments, and a warm and inviting ambiance sets the stage for attracting customers and fostering a loyal customer base.

6. Marketing and Promotion

To ensure the longevity of your coffee shop, it is essential to develop a robust marketing strategy that effectively raises awareness and attracts customers. A combination of online and offline marketing channels can be leveraged to reach a broader audience.

Online platforms, such as social media, play a crucial role in modern marketing. Utilize platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to showcase your coffee offerings, share engaging content, and interact with customers. Consider running targeted ad campaigns to reach specific demographics in your area. Additionally, collaborating with local influencers or establishing partnerships with complementary businesses can expand your online reach and tap into new customer segments.

Offline marketing efforts can be equally effective. Participating in community events or sponsoring local initiatives helps to build brand recognition and foster connections within the community. Distribute flyers, place ads in local publications, and engage in word-of-mouth marketing to reach potential customers in your vicinity.

Engaging with customers is key to building loyalty. Implement loyalty programs that reward repeat visits and offer personalized discounts. Regularly introduce specials, seasonal promotions, or limited-time offers to keep customers engaged and entice them to try new offerings.

7. Operations and Management

When outlining the operational aspects of your coffee shop, it is crucial to address staffing, training, and day-to-day processes. Clearly define roles and responsibilities for each team member, placing strong emphasis on providing exceptional customer service and product knowledge. Implement efficient inventory management systems to ensure a smooth supply chain and establish reliable relationships with suppliers.

Prioritize staff development and continuous improvement through regular training and feedback sessions to maintain a consistently high standard of service. By effectively managing these operational aspects, your coffee shop can create a positive work environment, deliver exceptional customer experiences, and establish a strong foundation for long-term growth.

Read more about: Business Plan for Selling Coffee Online: From Farm to Digital Cup

8. Financial Projections

To ensure the financial stability of your coffee shop, it is crucial to create a detailed financial plan. Consider all startup costs, including equipment, renovations, permits, licenses, marketing expenses, and working capital.

Project your revenue based on estimated daily sales, factoring in pricing, average customer spend, and the number of transactions. It’s essential to conduct a break-even analysis to determine the point at which your sales cover all expenses.

Additionally, outline your profitability targets and set financial goals to drive growth and sustainability. By meticulously planning your finances and regularly monitoring your performance, you can make informed decisions, optimize your operations, and achieve long-term profitability for your coffee shop.

9. Risk Assessment

By anticipating these risks, you can develop contingency plans and strategies to mitigate their impact.

One potential risk is changes in consumer behavior. Stay updated on trends and preferences within the coffee industry to ensure your offerings align with evolving customer demands. Additionally, intense competition is a constant challenge. Differentiate your coffee shop through unique offerings, exceptional customer service, or targeted marketing campaigns to stand out from the competition.

Unforeseen events can also pose risks, such as pandemics or economic downturns. In response to such challenges, develop contingency plans that allow your coffee shop to adapt and thrive. This could involve diversifying revenue streams, such as offering online ordering or delivery services, or implementing cost-cutting measures during lean times.

Regularly reassess and update your risk management strategies to stay prepared for any potential challenges that may arise. By being proactive and agile in your approach, you can effectively navigate risks and position your coffee shop for long-term achievement even in the face of uncertainties.

Opening a coffee shop requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a passion for providing an exceptional coffee experience. By crafting a comprehensive business plan that addresses market analysis, differentiation, operations, and financial projections, you will be well-positioned to navigate the competitive landscape and brew popularity in the coffee industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much does it cost to open a coffee shop?

A: The cost of opening a coffee shop can vary depending on factors such as location, size, equipment, and renovations. On average, it can range from $80,000 to $300,000.

Q: Do I need prior experience in the coffee industry to start a coffee shop?

A: While prior experience can be beneficial, it is not a requirement. With proper research, training, and a passion for coffee, you can learn the necessary skills and knowledge to run a great coffee shop.

Q: What permits and licenses are needed to open a coffee shop?

A: Generally, you will need business licenses, health permits, food handling permits, and possibly liquor licenses if you plan to serve alcohol. It’s important to research and comply with local regulations.

To learn more on how to start your own coffee shop, check out my startup documents here.

Disclaimer: The information provided by  StartMyCoffeeShop.com  (“The Site”) is for general informational purposes only. All information on the Site is provided in good faith. However, we make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of any information on the Site. Under no circumstance shall we have any liability to you for any loss or damage of any kind incurred as a result of the use of the Site or Reliance on any information provided on the Site. Your use of the Site and reliance on any information on the Site is solely at your own risk. This blog post is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a legal expert to address your specific needs. Terms and Conditions. ( https://startmycoffeeshop.com/terms-and-conditions/ )

Hi! I’m Shawn Chun

My adventure in coffee began when I first launched my first coffee shop back in the early 2000s. I had to figure out so many things on my own and to make it worse within 2 years of opening two large corporate coffee chains moved in just blocks away from me!

As I saw smaller and even some larger coffee shops in the neighborhood slowly lose customers to these giant coffee chains and slowly close up shop, I knew that I had to start getting creative…or go out of business.

I (like you may be) knew the coffee industry well. I could make the best latte art around and the foam on my caps was the fluffiest you have ever seen. I even had the best state-of-the-art 2 group digital Nuova Simonelli machine money could buy. But I knew that these things alone would not be enough to lure customers away from the name brand established coffee shops.

Eventually, through lots of trial and error as well as perseverance and creativity I did find a way to not only survive but also thrive in the coffee/espresso industry even while those corporate coffee chains stayed put. During those years I learned to adapt and always faced new challenges. It was not always easy, however, in the end, I was the sole survivor independent coffee shop within a 10-mile radius of my location. Just two corporate coffee chains and I were left after that year. All told the corporate coffee chains took down over 15 small independent coffee shops and kiosks and I was the last one standing and thriving.

Along the years I meet others with the same passion for coffee and I quickly learned that it is not only “how good a barista is” that makes a coffee shop successful, but the business side of coffee as well.

Hence why I started this website you are on now. To provide the tools and resources for up and coming coffee shop owners to gain that vital insight and knowledge on how to start a coffee shop successfully.

Stick around, browse through my helpful blog and resources and enjoy your stay! With lots of LATTE LOVE!

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Coffee Shop Business Plan Template [Updated 2024]

Coffee Shop Business Plan Template

If you want to start a Coffee Shop or expand your current Coffee Shop, you need a business plan.

The following Coffee Shop business plan template gives you the key elements to include in a winning Coffee Shop business plan.

You can download the Coffee Shop business plan template (including a full, customizable financial model) to your computer here.

Coffee Shop Business Plan Sample

I. executive summary, business overview.

[Company Name], located at [insert location here] is a new, hip coffee shop focusing on providing a variety of high-quality coffee drinks and teas, locally-made pastries, and snacks. Our product line fits nicely for those who seek a snack and drink to take to go or to sit in our seating area.

Services [Company Name] will offer a wide range of coffees and coffee drinks, teas, and a selection of food items. A small seating area will allow social meetings within the coffee shop. Several products on the menu will be highlighted as being our specialties, using recipes developed by the coffee shop’s founders.

Customer Focus [Company Name] will primarily serve the residents who live within a 2-mile radius of our coffee shop and workers within a quarter mile radius. The demographics of these customers are as follows:

• 27,827 residents
• 1,750 workers (who do not live the neighborhood)
• Average income of $54,700
• 38.9% married
• 49.6% in Mgt./Professional occupations
• Median age: 34 years

Management Team [Company Name]is led by [Founder’s Name] who has been in the food service business for 20 years. While [Founder] has never run a coffee shop himself, he has waited at area restaurants for 5 years, been a cook for 5 years, and taught cooking classes at the local culinary institute for 5 years. As such [Founder] has an in-depth knowledge of the food service business including the operations side (e.g., running day-to-day operations) and the business management side (e.g., staffing, marketing, etc.).

Success Factors

[Company Name] is uniquely qualified to succeed due to the following reasons:

• There is currently no hip coffee shop targeting the younger demographic in the community we are entering. In addition, we have surveyed the local population and received extremely positive feedback saying that they explicitly want to frequent our business when launched.
• Our location is in a high-volume area with little direct traffic, and will thus be highly convenient to significant numbers of passersby each day.
• The management team has a track record of success in the restaurant business.
• The coffee shop business is a proven business and has succeeded in communities throughout the United States.
• Market trends such as the growth in coffee as an American drink spearheaded by Starbucks support our business opportunity.

Financial Highlights

[Company Name] is currently seeking $360,000 to launch. Specifically, these funds will be used as follows:

• Coffee shop design/build: $180,000
• Working capital: $180,000 to pay for marketing, salaries, and land costs until [Company Name] reaches break-even.

II. Company Overview

Who is [company name].

[Company Name] located at [insert location here] is a new, hip coffee shop focusing on providing a variety of high-quality coffee drinks and teas, locally-made pastries, and snacks. Our product line fits nicely for those who seek a snack and drink to take to go or to sit in our seating area.

[Company Name] was founded by [Founder’s Name]. While [Founder’s Name] has been in the foodservice business for some time, it was in [month, date] that he decided to launch [Company Name]. Specifically, during this time, [Founder] took a trip to Fort Lauderdale, FL. During his trip, [Founder’s Name] frequented an independently-owned coffee shopthat enjoyed tremendous success, even in the neighborhood of a Starbucks. After several discussions with the owner of the restaurant, [Founder’s Name] clearly understood that a similar business would enjoy significant success in his hometown.

Specifically the customer demographics and competitive situations in the Fort Lauderdale location and in [insert location here] were so similar that he knew it would work. Furthermore, after surveying the local population, this theory was proven.

[Company Name]’s History

Upon returning from Fort Lauderdale, surveying the local customer base, and finding a potential retail location, [Founder’s Name] incorporated [Company Name] as an S-Corporation on [date of incorporation].

[Founder’s Name] has selected three initial locations and is currently undergoing due diligence on each property and the local market to assess which will be the most desirable location for the coffee shop.

Since incorporation, the company has achieved the following milestones:

• Developed the company’s name, logo and website located at www…
• Created the menu
• Determined equipment and inventory requirements
• Began building relationships with coffee, tea, and pastry suppliers to the local region

[Company Name]’s Services

Below is [Company Name]’s initial menu. As you can see all items are classified under the following five main categories: 1. Coffee & Espresso 2. Tea 3. Pastries

III. Industry Analysis

You can download the Coffee Shop business plan template (including a full, customizable financial model) to your computer here. [Company Name]directly or indirectly competes with all foodservice providers nearby our coffee shop that offer similar dining experiences. Competition will come from supermarkets, restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries and other retail establishments. Direct competition will come from companies offering brewed coffee and grab n’ go food products similar to [Company Name].

Industry Statistics& Trends

The following industry size facts and statistics bode well for [Company Name].

• According to CoffeeResearch.org, there are over 108 million coffee consumers in the United States who spend an average of $164.71 per year on coffee.
• 54% of the adult population in the United States drinks coffee daily.
• An additional 25% of Americans drink coffee occasionally, but not daily. This represents a $9.2 billion retail industry.
• Among coffee drinkers, coffee consumption in the US is 3.1 cups of coffee per day
• Men drink 1.9 cups per day on average and women drink 1.4 cups per day on average
• 17% of adult U.S. population consumes a gourmet beverage on a daily basis
• Consumption of iced coffee has risen significantly in recent years
• 61% of coffee drinkers believe coffee improves their mental acuity

IV.Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

[Company Name]will serve the residents of [company location] and the immediately surrounding areas as well as those who work in [company location].

The area residents and workers we serve are affluent and hard-working and are expected to drink coffee more often and regularly than the national averages.

The precise demographics of the town in which our retail location resides is as follows:

Customer Segmentation

We will primarily target the following three customer segments:

• Couples: The restaurant will attract couples looking for a spot to meet between and before meal times.
• Local workers: Approximately 1,750 individuals work in offices or stores within a quarter mile of our location and we expect a fair portion of these individuals to frequent us before starting in the morning, on lunch breaks, and after leaving work.
• Shoppers: Due to our location on a traditional main street, visiting shoppers from the town and beyond will visit when they tire from walking or are in need of a snack while window shopping.

V.Competitive Analysis

Direct & indirect competitors.

The following coffee shops are located within a 2 mile radius of [Company Name], thus providing either direct or indirect competition:

Joe’s Coffee Shop

Joe’s Coffee Shop is described by local press reviews as “a working man’s coffee shop” and has been in business for 32 years. Joe’s offers basic options for coffee and drinks, as well as sandwich options.

Joe’s offers lunch which encourages those on a meal break or taking a meal for the day at work, but has limited beverage options. Joe’s is also located on the outskirts of town and caters primarily to commuters who enter the town for work. It is not characterized as a sit-down establishment, with a focus on to-go service from the counter.

Old Time Organic Café

Old Time Organic Café has been in business for 5 years. Old Time offers a variety of baked goods, organic teas and coffees, and sandwiches served to-go.

While Old Time Organics’ food is entirely organic, they have a very limited selection of items. The location only has four sit down tables and is thus targeting to-go customers that are either stopping for a quick breakfast or picking up baked goods and coffee for work.

Starbucks opened a location in the shopping district of [Company location] one year ago. Starbucks has been successful, especially with visitors from out-of-town, but is also victim of a backlash. There was a high level of controversy when it moved to town, with a large and vocal group of townspeople condemning it moving into town.

[Company Name] has several advantages over Starbucks including:

• Starbucks does not offer as extensive a rotating menu of flavored coffees
• Starbucks’ specialty coffees will not be as high quality as [Company Name]’s house blends
• Starbucks is avoided by a growing number of townspeople who hate the idea of chain establishments moving into their town.

We expect that Starbucks will continue to thrive based on its location and excitement about a recognizable chain among some townspeople and most visitors. However, we expect that more and more customers will frequent [Company Name] based on the high-quality ingredients we use, product selection, and the fact that we are independently owned and operated.

Competitive Advantage

[Company Name] enjoys several advantages over other coffee shops. These advantages include:

• High Quality Ingredients: [Company Name] will work with the best local suppliers for its coffees, teas, and pastries, and take special care to create and market test its own house blends which will be appreciated by gourmet coffee drinkers.
• Management: Our management team has years of business and marketing experience that allows us to market and serve customers in a much more sophisticated manner than our competitors.
• Relationships: Having lived in the community for 25 years, [Founder’s Name] knows all of the local leaders, newspapers and other influencers, including the local leaders who fought the Starbucks opening two years ago. As such, it will be relatively easy for us to build branding and awareness of our coffee shop.

VI.Marketing Plan

The Marketing Plan describes the type of brand [Company Name] seeks to create and the Company’s planned promotions and pricing strategies.

The [Company Name] Brand

The [Company Name] brand will focus on the Company’s unique value proposition:

• Offering high-quality beverage and food items including coffee, teas, iced drinks, pastries, and more
• Offering a unique and wonderful house coffee blend
• Offering a convenient location that offers both eat-in or take-out options
• Providing excellent customer service

Promotions Strategy

[Company Name] expects its target market to be individuals working within a quarter mile radius and living within a 2-mile radius of its café. The Company’s promotions strategy to reach these individuals includes:

Direct Mail

[Company Name] will blanket neighborhoods surrounding its locations with direct mail pieces. These pieces will provide general information on [Company Name], offer discounts and/or provide other inducements for people to frequent the restaurant.

Public Relations

We will contact all local and area newspapers and television stations and send them a press release describing the opening and unique value proposition of [Company Name].

Advertising

[Company Name] will initially advertise in local newspapers and sponsor community events in order to gain awareness.

[Company Name] employees will initially give free coffee samples to passersby to enable them to taste the quality of our house blend and learn about us.

Ongoing Customer Communications

[Company Name] will maintain a website and publish a monthly email newsletter to tell customers about new events, products, and more.

Pre-Opening Events

Before opening the restaurant, [Company Name] will organize pre-opening events designed for prospective customers, local merchants and press contacts. These events will create buzz and awareness for [Company Name] in the area.

Pricing Strategy

[Company Name]pricing will be moderate so customers feel they receive great value when patronizing the restaurant. Pricing will be higher than Joe’s Coffee Shop, and on par with Starbucks and Old Time Organics Café.

VII.Operations Plan

Functional roles.

In order to execute on [Company Name]’s business model, the Company needs to perform many functions including the following:

Administrative Functions

• General & administrative functions including legal, marketing, bookkeeping, etc.
• Sourcing and storing ingredients
• Hiring and training staff

Kitchen Functions

• Food preparation
• Coffee brewing and blending

Retail Functions

• Order taking and fulfillment (for take-out and eat-in)
• Customer service
• Janitor/maintenance personnel to keep the coffee shop clean

[Company Name] expects to achieve the following milestones in the following [] months:

VIII. Management Team

Management team members.

[Company Name]is led by [Founder’s Name] who has been in the foodservice business for 20 years.

While [Founder] has never run a coffee shop himself, he has taught cooking classes as the local culinary institute for 5 years. Two courses that he taught included:

• This course was designed to give students an overall understanding of basic dishes that could be cooked for everyday healthy home-style meals
• This course was designed to give students an overall understanding of how to grind and blend coffee beans to create distinctive flavors

[Founder] has also worked part-time at restaurants throughout the region. Specifically, he has worked for Gianna’s Patisserie and Mike’s Place, where he was responsible for overseeing kitchen quality.

[Founder] graduated from the University of ABC where he majored in Communications and from the local culinary institute with a certificate in foodservice management.

Hiring Plan

[Founder] will serve as the coffee shop manager. In order to launch the coffee shop, we need to hire the following personnel:

• Wait staff (3 full-time equivalents to start)
• Busboy (1 to start)
• Part-Time Bookkeeper (will manage accounts payable, create statements, and execute other administrative functions)

IX. Financial Plan

Revenue and cost drivers.

[Company Name]’s revenues will come from the sale of drinks and food to its customers.

The Company will have eat-in and takeout systems to cater to a broad spectrum of customers in its target market.

The major costs for the company will be food and drink supply costs, salaries of the staff, and rent for a small, but prime location. In the initial years, the company’s marketing spend will be high, as it establishes itself in the market.

Capital Requirements and Use of Funds

[Company Name] is seeking a total funding of $360,000 to launch its coffee shop. The capital will be used for funding capital expenditures, manpower costs, marketing expenses and working capital.

Specifically, these funds will be used as follows:

• Coffee shop design/build: approximately $180,000
• Working capital: approximately $180,000 to pay for Marketing, salaries, and lease costs until [Company Name] reaches break-even

Key Assumptions& Forecasts

Below please find the key assumptions that went into the financial forecast and a summary of the financial projections over the next five years. Please see the Appendix for more detailed financial forecasting information.

5 Year Annual Income Statement

5 Year Annual Balance Sheet

5 Year Annual Cash Flow Statement

Coffee Shop Business Plan FAQs

What is a coffee shop business plan, do i need a coffee shop business plan, what should be in a coffee shop business plan.

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Coffee shop business plan template

Download this coffee shop business plan template in PDF or Word format, or tailor it to your project directly in our business plan software.

Discover our coffee shop business plan template

Our coffee shop business plan template gives you the structure to write a professional plan.

Not accustomed to writing business plans? Our coffee shop business template will turn a typically challenging process into a total breeze.

Modelled on a complete business plan of a coffee shop in Normandy, our template features both the financial forecast and the written part that presents the project, its team, the local market and the business strategy implemented by the management.

Cast your eyes on this template to achieve a better understanding of what your bank and investors would like to see, so that you can create a business plan that meets their expectations.

7 day free trial. No credit card required. Coffee shop business plan template available with paid plans only.

How to use this coffee shop business plan template

Edit the coffee shop business plan template online, or download it.

There are 3 ways to use this template:

• Edit it online: you can adapt this template to your business idea by changing the text or the financial forecast directly in our business planning software
• Download in PDF: if you're just after a little inspiration, you can download the coffee shop business plan template in PDF to read over it
• Download in Word format: want to edit your plan on Word? Simply export the coffee shop business plan template to Ms Word (.docx) format

Coffee shop business plan template content

This template includes a complete coffee shop business plan example, with a financial forecast and the following sections:

• Executive summary: the executive summary gives the reader a clear and concise overview of your business idea
• Company: this section lays out the structure of your business, including its location, management team and legal form
• Products and services: here, you'll give an overview of the services or products offered by the company
• Market analysis: the market analysis is where you’ll demonstrate that there is a strong demand for your products and services through a thorough assessment of the industry (customer profile, hot trends, regulation, competition, etc.)
• Strategy: this section highlights the company's game plan when it comes to pricing, marketing and mitigating risks along the way
• Operations: this step lays out the company's operational organisation, including the recruitment plan
• Financial plan: the financial plan includes a table of sources & uses (initial funding plan), and complete financial statements (P&L, balance sheet and cash flow statements).
• Appendices: this part provides the opportunity to include multiple financial appendices generated by our software (debt maturity profile, monthly financial statements, financial analysis, etc.).

Executive summary of the coffee shop's business plan

The executive summary gives the reader a clear and concise overview of your business idea.

Our coffee shop business plan example's executive summary is formed of the following subsections:

• Business overview: in this subsection, we outline who the coffee shop founders are, what legal form they've chosen for the business, and the rationale behind the choice of their location
• Market overview: in this subsection, we summarize the conclusions of the market analysis performed by the coffee shop's owners and explain which type of coffee lovers they aim to target
• Financial highlights: in this subsection, we give an overview of the forecasted financial performance of the coffee shop over the first 3 years of operation
• Our ask: in this subsection, we outline the amount of financing required to start the coffee shop and how it's going to be funded (the founders are seeking a bank loan to start their coffee place)

Company overview included in our coffee shop business plan sample

This section lays out the structure of your business, including its location, management team and legal form.

Our coffee shop business plan template's company section is formed of the following subsections:

• Structure & Ownership: in this subsection, we outline who the coffee shop shareholders are, what legal form they've chosen for the business
• Location: in this subsection, we present the area surrounding the location chosen for the business and the layout and main features of the premises
• Management Team: in this subsection, we give an overview of the background of each of the coffee shop's founders and explain how they met and why they decided to start a company together

Products and services offered by the coffee shop

The products and services section is where you will present the different types of food and beverages sold by your coffee shop.

In our coffee shop business plan template products and services section, we cover:

• Hot drinks: ranging from classic expressos to "latte art coffees" signed with a unique design made of foamy milk
• Cold drinks: ranging from fresh juices and smoothies to iced and chilled coffees
• Seasonal drinks: a special hot drink each season, including a pumpkin latte in autumn, hot chocolate with Christmas spices in Winter, etc.
• Food menu: a selection of different homemade pastries and sandwiches

Market analysis for the opening of the coffee shop

The market analysis is where you’ll demonstrate that there is a strong demand for your products and services through a thorough assessment of the industry (customer profile, hot trends, regulation, competition, etc.)

Our coffee shop business plan example's market analysis section is formed of the following subsections:

• Demographics and Segmentation: in this subsection, we explore the market in depth. We look at the supply and demand sides both at the national and local level, analyse the hot trends perceived by the founders, and the key statistics that will help the founders build their positioning
• Target market: in this subsection, our founders explain which types of coffee lovers they view as their ideal customers and why they chose to target them
• Competition: in this subsection, we take a look at the direct (coffee shops nearby) and indirect (other ways of getting coffee) local competition to ensure we have a differentiated positioning and that the market is large enough to accommodate the arrival of new coffee shop
• Regulation: in this subsection, we give an overview of the main regulation applicable to our coffee place

Setting the strategy for our coffee shop

This section highlights the company's game plan when it comes to pricing, marketing and mitigating risks along the way.

Our coffee shop business plan template strategy section is formed of the following subsections:

• Pricing: in this subsection, we explain how we set the prices of our main categories of products (pastries, coffees, other beverages) and the rationale behind our choice
• Marketing plan: in this subsection, we explain what action we'll put in place to build awareness and loyalty among the customers of our coffee
• Milestones: in this subsection, we give an overview of the main goals we set for ourselves for the next 3 years
• Risks and Mittigants: in this subsection, we perform an assessment of the medium and long-term risks that could jeopardize the financial viability of our coffee place and outline how we intend to mitigate them

Operations section of the coffee shop business plan template

This part lays out the company's operational organisation, including the recruitment plan.

Our coffee shop business plan example's operations section is formed of the following subsections:

• Personnel plan: in this subsection, we explain what our opening hours will be and explain the responsabilities of each of our coffee place's staff member
• Key assets and IP: in this subsection, we list the assets and intellectual property rights which are critical to our business operations and explain how we will secure and protect each of these
• Suppliers: in this subsection, we give an overview of the main suppliers we will use our what commercial terms have been negotiated with them

Financial plan included in our coffee shop business plan template

This section presents the expected financial performance of the coffee shop over the next 3 years.

Our coffee shop business plan example's financial plan is formed of the following subsections:

• Start-up funding: in this subsection, we list the cost of each item required to launch the coffee shop
• Important assumptions: in this subsection, we explain the methodology and the main assumptions used to build the coffee shop's financial forecast
• Sales forecast: in this subsection, we detail the expected revenues and growth rate for our coffee place in the coming years
• Cost structure: in this subsection, we list all the expenses required for our coffee shop to operate smoothly
• Projected Profit & Loss statement: in this subsection, we analyse our forecasted P&L and comment on the expected profitability of our coffee shop over the next 3 years
• Projected cash flow statement: in this subsection, we analyse the expected cash generation of the coffee place
• Projected balance sheet: in this section we give an analysis of the liquidity and solvability implied from our balance sheet

Appendices of the coffee shop business plan template

This part provides the opportunity to include multiple financial appendices generated by our software (debt maturity profile, monthly financial statements, financial analysis, etc.).

Our coffee shop business plan template's appendices include:

• A Maturity profile chart showing the principal repayments of their loans over the next 3 years
• A monthly cash flow forecast: showing how much cash is being generated or consumed each month over the first 3 years of operations

Coffee shop business plan template sample

Executive summary, business overview.

Cuppa Coffee will be a coffee shop located in the city of Caen, offering a wide selection of coffees, hot drinks, cold drinks, sandwiches, snacks and pastries.

Our coffee shop will specialise in the art of coffee-making, thanks to our barista-trained staff. All of our pastries and sandwiches will be made on-site with interchangeable seasonal recipes.

Cuppa Coffee will be located in the rue de Geôle, in the heart of Caen city centre, close to the city's main tram and bus station, as well as the castle and the Quatrans house.

Cuppa Coffee is a limited company with a share capital of €10,000. The company will be managed by two partners: Viviane D. who holds 60% of the shares and Amélie C. who holds 40% of the shares.

Each of the partners benefits from having the experience and professional background required to help them see the project through to its final stages.

Viviane has solid operational experience. She lived in London for 7 years where she worked as a barista and then managed a centrally located coffee shop. She also trained at the London School of Coffee, before coming back to France to open Cuppa Coffee.

Amélie has a strong background in management and marketing. She also lived in London for 5 years, where she met Viviane whilst working in a digital marketing agency.

Market Overview

Domestic Market

83% of French people are self-proclaimed coffee lovers. Although coffee is consumed regularly at home, especially at breakfast, it also provides an opportunity for people to meet and catch up with friends and family.

While the French's enthusiasm for coffee is universally acknowledged, the American takeaway coffee culture is gradually developing, with 9% of the population calling into coffee shops every day for their caffeine fix.

Adjustments in working hours and shorter lunch breaks mean the French have less time to sit in a restaurant to enjoy a coffee, hence the appeal of coffee shops.

The French coffee shop market is dominated by three franchises which together hold nearly 60% of the market share: Colombus Café, Nescafé, and Starbucks.

Besides location, the most important criterion for a coffee shop is the quality of its services, both in terms of customer service and the overall atmosphere of the shop, as well as the quality of the drinks and food on offer.

In terms of figures, the annual turnover of an independent coffee shop open 11/12 months of the year is estimated at €194,850 (excl. tax) with an average spend of around €7 (incl. tax) per customer.

People aged 25 to 34 make up the majority of coffee shop customers. After that comes once-off customers who are passing by, placing an emphasis on the importance of the location in attracting tourists or office employees on the go.

The least receptive to the French coffee shop concept are people over 50 years old. While 92% of them drink coffee, they prefer drinking it in a restaurant or at home. There's still a long way to go before changing their perceptions of the takeaway coffee culture.

Local Market

In 2015, Caen was estimated to have 106,260 inhabitants. A population of 40,889 students was also recorded from 2017-2018, solidifying the presence of many potential coffee shop customers.

The city centre is an attractive point of focus. With a heavy influx of people making their daily commute between the city centre and the outskirts, its popular shopping district also attracts a wide variety of people both during the week and on weekends.

Students who live centrally tend to travel by tram to university, making them much more likely to opt for a takeaway coffee to accompany them on their commute each morning.

Finally, the vast number of tourists in Caen should not be overlooked. With 438,000 visitors to the Caen Memorial in 2014 and 10,029 visitors to the Abbaye aux Hommes, tourists fall within one of our target groups.

Financial Highlights

We expect to be profitable in our first year of activity with sales of €202,132 and an EBITDA of €11,515 (with a 5.70% margin) for year 1.

We expect to be able to continue to grow our business to reach €206,015 in sales and €21,842 in EBITDA (with a 10.60% margin) by year 3.

We anticipate positive cash generation over the plan as a whole, and the company should be sufficiently capitalized to be able to meet its loan repayments while maintaining a margin to deal with unforeseen events.

The opening of our coffee shop will require an investment of €81,000.

The partners have planned to contribute €36,000 (44% of the total), with a share capital contribution of €10,000 and a director loan of €26,000.

We would like to obtain a loan of €45,000 to finance the remaining amount.

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Quite frankly excellent because I was able to finalize my business plan in less time than expected. This software offers a very coherent and complete approach to writing your project.

It is a very well designed software that allows you to visualise each step of your project, understand if the idea is viable or not and think about the steps needed to start your business.

The software is just impeccable. Of course, it meets the requirements of people starting a business. In addition to having a tool for putting together a proper financial forecast, there is also a tool to help write the business plan.

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Coffee shop business plan template faq.

A coffee shop business plan is a written document that sets out the commercial, operational and financial objectives of the company over the next 3 to 5 years.

It consists of two main parts:

• A written part that presents, in detail, your coffee shop business, the team, your strategy, and your medium-term objectives.
• A financial forecast that highlights the expected profitability of the coffee shop and the initial funding requirements.

The lack of business planning is one of the main reasons why more than 50% of startups fail within 5 years. If you're starting a coffee shop, writing a business plan is a must-have in order to reduce the risk of failure of your project.

Business plans are also required by most lenders and investors in order to secure financing, therefore a business plan is also highly recommended if you're seeking a loan or equity investment for your coffee shop.

Writing a coffee shop business plan without The Business Plan Shop can be both error-prone and time-consuming - whether you're new to entrepreneurship or experienced:

• You'll need to research the structure of a business plan, what to include in each section, and what key elements investors and lenders expect to see
• You may encounter writer's block (especially if it's the first time you're writing a business plan for your coffee shop)
• You'll need to create a financial forecast on a spreadsheet which requires a solid understanding of accounting and financial modelling in order to be done without error
• You'll need to spend hours formatting financial data on Excel or Sheets before it's ready to integrate into your business plan
• Any updates to your coffee shop business plan or financial forecast will need to be done manually

Luckily for you, The Business Plan Shop's online platform and coffee shop business plan template guide you through every stage of writing a business plan, so that you can spend more time managing and growing your business instead.

Our editor follows a best-in-class structure for professional business plans. Each section and subsection includes examples and instructions to help you, while our business plan templates provide further inspiration if you're stuck.

Our financial forecasting software helps you create a forecast and integrate it into your business plan with ease. Anytime you update your data, your business plan automatically updates.

And with our forecasting software all the calculations are done for you, without errors.

The budget to start and run a coffee shop will depend on the exact concept and location.

A small local coffee doing mostly takeaways with limited seating requires a limited investment. A bigger place with a large seated area, fresh food and table service will require a larger upfront investment and more staff to operate.

As an example, in our coffee shop business plan template the total initial funding requirement amounted to €81,000, with the founders contributing €36,000.

In order to assess the exact budget for your coffee shop idea, you need to do a financial forecast using a financial projection tool such as the one we offer .

The package we offer at The Business Plan Shop goes way beyond a simple blank template you need to fill. With our platform you get:

• Access to one of the best business plan software on the market
• Access to our coffee shop business plan template which contains a complete example of a written business plan and financial forecast to start a coffee shop
• Access to our entire business plan templates library - giving you dozens of examples to take inspiration from
• Access to our financial planning and analysis platform so that you can track the actual performance of your business against what you had planned in your business plan and re-plan easily

But you shouldn't take our word for it: try our solution for free and make your own opinion!

The free trial enables you to try the software for free during 7 days in order to verify that it meets your requirements before buying.

Some features are limited during the free trial, the main limits are:

• You can only create one business plan
• The financials of the first year are visible, but data for other years are hidden
• You can export your plan in PDF but not in Word or CSV
• No access to our business plan templates

You can create your account and start your free trial here .

Access to our template is included with all our paid subscriptions.

Please visit our pricing page to learn about this in more detail.

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