how to make a coffee shop business plan

How To Start A Coffee Shop (2024 Guide)

Updated: May 1, 2024, 5:13pm

Table of Contents

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

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

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

Create a Business Plan

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

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

Featured Partners

ZenBusiness

$0 + State Fees

Varies By State & Package

On ZenBusiness' Website

Northwest Registered Agent

$39 + State Fees

On Northwest Registered Agent's Website

Tailor Brands

$0 + state fee + up to $50 Amazon gift card

Varies by State & Package

On Tailor Brands' Website

Choose Your Business Structure

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

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

Consider Costs: Funding and Finances

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

1. Have a Vision

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

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

2. Do Your Research

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

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

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

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

3. Identify Startup Cost and Equipment

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

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

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

4. Develop a Branding Strategy

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

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

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

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

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

5. Find a Location and Commercial Space

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Start an LLC Online Today With ZenBusiness

Click on the state below to get started.

6. File for Permits and Licenses

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

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

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

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

7. Choose the Right Coffee Supplier

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

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

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

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

Customer Service

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

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

8. Design Layout and Workflow

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Order Equipment and Supplies

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

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

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

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

10. Hire and Train Your Team

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

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

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

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

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

11. Market Your Brand

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

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

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

12. Open House

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

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

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

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

Invest in a Strong Point-of-Sale System

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

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

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

Stay Ahead of the Game

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

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

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

Opening an Independent Coffee Shop

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

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

Opening a Franchise Coffee Shop

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

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

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

Bottom Line

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

How profitable is a coffee shop?

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

Do I need any qualifications to run my own café?

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

How do I write a simple business plan?

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

• Best LLC Services
• Best Registered Agent Services
• Best Trademark Registration Services
• Top LegalZoom Competitors
• Best Business Loans
• Best Business Plan Software
• ZenBusiness Review
• LegalZoom LLC Review
• Northwest Registered Agent Review
• Rocket Lawyer Review
• Inc. Authority Review
• Rocket Lawyer vs. LegalZoom
• Bizee Review (Formerly Incfile)
• Swyft Filings Review
• Harbor Compliance Review
• Sole Proprietorship vs. LLC
• LLC vs. Corporation
• LLC vs. S Corp
• LLP vs. LLC
• DBA vs. LLC
• LegalZoom vs. Incfile
• LegalZoom vs. ZenBusiness
• LegalZoom vs. Rocket Lawyer
• ZenBusiness vs. Incfile
• How To Start A Business
• How to Set Up an LLC
• How to Get a Business License
• LLC Operating Agreement Template
• 501(c)(3) Application Guide
• What is a Business License?
• What is an LLC?
• What is an S Corp?
• What is a C Corp?
• What is a DBA?
• What is a Sole Proprietorship?
• What is a Registered Agent?
• How to Dissolve an LLC
• How to File a DBA
• What Are Articles Of Incorporation?
• Types Of Business Ownership

Next Up In Business

• Best Online Legal Services
• How To Write A Business Plan
• Side Hustle Ideas To Make Extra Money
• Starting An S-Corp
• LLC Vs. C Corp
• How Much Does It Cost To Start An LLC?

What Is SNMP? Simple Network Management Protocol Explained

What Is A Single-Member LLC? Definition, Pros And Cons

What Is Penetration Testing? Definition & Best Practices

What Is Network Access Control (NAC)?

What Is Network Segmentation?

How To Start A Business In Louisiana (2024 Guide)

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

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

• Restaurant Website Builder

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

What is A Coffee Shop Business Plan?

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

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

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

1. Clear Vision and Objectives

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

2. Financial Planning

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

3. Operational Efficiency

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

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

1. Executive Summary

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

What should you cover in an Executive Summary?

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

2. Coffee Shop Business Description

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

What should you cover in the Coffee Shop Description section?

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

3. Market Analysis

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

What should you cover in this section?

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

4. Organization and Management

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

What should you cover in the Organization and Management Plan?

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

5. Sample Menu

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

What should you consider when creating a Sample Menu?

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

6. Marketing Plan

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

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

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

7. Operations Plan

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

What Operational Issues should you address in your Business Plan?

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

8. Financial Plan

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

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Coffee Shop?

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

How Many Ways to Fund Your Coffee Shop?

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

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

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

9. Financial Projections

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

Break-even analysis:

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

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

Projected profit and loss statement:

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

Cash flow analysis:

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

Coffee Shop Business Plan Template

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

2. Description of the Coffee Shop

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

3. Menu Offer

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

4. Market and Competition Analysis

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

5. Investment Plan (Detailed Cost Analysis)

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

6. Financial Forecast

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

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

8. Marketing Plan

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

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

Tips For Writing a Business Plan For a Coffee Shop

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

1. how profitable is owning a coffee shop.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related Coffee Shop Resources

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

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

Menubly LLC 8 The Green Suite R, Dover, Delaware 19901

Privacy Policy

Terms of service

Cookie Policy

Profit Margin Calculator

Food Cost Calculator

BUSINESS STRATEGIES

How to write a coffee shop business plan

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

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

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

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

Top benefits of creating a coffee shop business plan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to create a coffee shop business plan in 6 steps

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

Executive summary

Business and domain names

Market analysis and research

Operations plan

Marketing and advertising plan

Financial plan

01. Executive summary

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

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

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

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

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

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

02. Company and domain names

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

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

When choosing a domain name consider the following best practices:

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

Choose a name that is easy to spell and remember

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

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

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

03. Market analysis and research

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

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

04. Operations plan

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

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

05. Marketing and advertising strategies

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

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

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

Learn more: How to make a website

06. Financial plan

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

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

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

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

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

Specify how you plan to secure funding

Highlight when you anticipate reaching profitability and generating positive cash flow

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

Coffee shop business plan examples

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

Coffee shop business plan template 1: Coffee Haven Café

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

Company and domain name

Company name: Coffee Haven Café

Domain name: www.coffeehavencafe.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Company name: Brew & Gather Coffee House

Domain name: www.brewandgathercoffee.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How profitable is a coffee shop?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why do coffee shops fail?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coffee shop business plan FAQ

How do you start a coffee shop business plan.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to create a bakery business plan

How to create a bar business plan

How to create a virtual assistant business plan

How to create an eCommerce business plan

How to create a cleaning business plan

How to create a plumbing business plan

How to create a trucking business plan

How to create a daycare business plan

How to create a food truck business plan

How to create a restaurant business plan

How to create a clothing line business plan

How to create a hair salon business plan

How to create a real estate business plan

How to create a contractor business plan

How to create a vending machine business plan

How to create a party planning business plan

Looking for another business idea?

How to start an online business

How to start a consulting business

How to start a fitness business

How to start a fitness clothing line

How to start a makeup line

How to start a candle business

How to start a clothing business

How to start an online boutique

How to start a T-shirt business

How to start a jewelry business

How to start a subscription box business

How to start a beauty business

How to start a flower business

How to start a car wash business

How to start a food prep business

How to start a DJ business

How to start a pool cleaning business

How to start a baking business

How to start a trucking business

How to start a construction business

How to start a landscaping business

How to start a food business

How to start a vending machine business

How to start a contractor business

How to start a coaching business

Coffee dropshipping

Looking to start a business in a specific state?

How to start a business in Arizona

How to start a business in South Carolina

How to start a business in Virginia

How to start a business in Michigan

How to start a business in California

How to start a business in Florida

How to start a business in Texas

How to start a business in Wisconsin

Related Posts

How to create a website from scratch in 11 steps (for beginners)

How to start a business in 14 steps: a guide for 2024

How to start a coffee shop in 7 steps

Was this article helpful?

Cafe Business Plan

Dreaming of starting a cafe business that becomes a favorite spot for everyone in the neighborhood? Your first step to making this dream a reality starts with a good café business plan. This plan is like a map for your journey into owning a café, showing you how to start and grow your business successfully.

A successful coffee shop business plan does several important things: it helps you define your café’s style and menu, sets clear goals, and shows banks or investors how your café will succeed. Whether you need funding, want to attract partners, or just plan your next steps, a detailed coffee shop business plan is key.

In this blog post, we will discuss what a café business plan includes, why it is important, and what details you need to add to make it strong. We will also include a coffee shop business plan template to give you a practical example of how to craft your own.  By the end of this post, you will know how to put together a plan that helps turn your café dream into a real, thriving business. Ready to start planning your café adventure? Let’s dive in!

Why a Business Plan is Important for Your Café

Starting a café can be an exciting venture, but without a clear plan, it can quickly become overwhelming. This is where a solid coffee business plan comes into play. Here’s why having a business plan cafe is crucial for anyone looking to open a café:

• Provides Clarity and Direction: A cafe plan helps you define the vision for your café, from the decor and atmosphere to the types of coffee and food you will serve. It lays a clear path for achieving your business goals, helping you stay focused and on track.
• Helps Secure Financing: Most banks and investors want to see a detailed cafe business model before they put their money into your project. Your business plan must show that you understand the market, have a solid strategy for attracting customers, and have a clear plan for financial success.
• Facilitates Better Planning and Resource Allocation: With a business plan for coffee shop, you can better estimate how much money you will need to start and run your café. It helps you plan where to spend and save, ensuring that you use your resources wisely.
• Identifies Potential Challenges: By outlining possible obstacles, a coffee house business plan allows you to develop strategies to overcome them before they happen. This proactive approach can save you a lot of time and money in the long run.
• Assists in Attracting Partners: A well-crafted business plan for a cafe can help you attract partners who bring additional skills or resources to your café. It shows potential partners that you are serious and have thought through the business comprehensively.
• Guides Growth and Expansion: As your café grows, your small cafe business plan will serve as a living document that you can adjust and expand. It provides a foundation for scaling up operations and can guide you through the expansion process.

What to Include in Your Café Business Plan

Creating a comprehensive business plan for a coffee shop involves covering several key components to ensure you have a thorough outline of how your business will operate, grow, and succeed. Here’s what to include in your business plan to make it effective when you start a cafe:

• Executive Summary: This section provides an overview of your café, highlighting the key points of your plan. It should include your business name, location, the concept of your café, and what makes it unique. Summarize your vision and objectives, along with a brief description of the products and services you will offer. This is essentially your coffee shop proposal condensed into a succinct format.
• Business Description: Dive deeper into the details of your café. Describe the coffee shop business model (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership), the café atmosphere, and the type of customers you aim to attract, such as answering which of the following would likely be the target market for a coffee shop that is located downtown. Explain why there’s a need for your café in the chosen area.
• Market Analysis: Provide an analysis of industry trends, starting a coffee shop business plan demographics, and the competitive landscape. Identify your main competitors, analyze their strengths and weaknesses, and explain how your café will differentiate itself from these competitors.
• Menu and Product Line: Outline what your café will offer. Include details about your coffee selection, food items, and any specialty products. Discuss the sourcing of ingredients, pricing strategy, and how your offerings will appeal to your target market.
• Marketing and Sales Strategy: When considering which of the following would likely be the target market for a coffee shop that is located downtown, think about the diverse mix of potential customers who frequent the area. Describe how you plan to attract and retain these customers. Include marketing techniques such as social media campaigns, local advertising, loyalty programs, and community events. Explain your sales strategy and how you will execute it.
• Operations Plan: In your cafe operations plan, detail the day-to-day management of your café. This should include your location, equipment needs, staff requirements, suppliers, and any other operational details. Explain how the café will be managed on a daily basis and what systems you will put in place to ensure smooth operations.
• Management Team: Introduce the key players in your business, including their roles, responsibilities, and backgrounds. Highlight the experience and skills they bring to the café that will contribute to its success. This section is crucial in the steps to open a cafe as it showcases the team that will drive the café forward.
• Financial Plan: This critical section of your business plan should include detailed financial projections like startup costs, monthly expenses, expected revenue, and profit margins. Add a break-even analysis, cash flow projections, and a balance sheet. A well-developed coffee shop financial plan will help you grasp your business’s economic aspects and show investors and lenders your coffee shop’s potential for viability and profitability.
• Appendices and Supporting Documents: Attach any additional information that can help support your coffee shop plan. This could include menus, architectural plans, supplier agreements, or management team professional resumes.

Cafe Shop Business Plan Example

Creating a café business plan is the first essential step in turning your dream of opening a café into a successful reality. This coffee business plan example will give you a clear structure of what each section of your business plan should look like, helping you organize your ideas and strategies.

1.0 Executive Summary

Café Tavern, (herein also referred to as “the café” and “the company”) co-founded by Mr. Jonathan Clark and Ms. Alicia Rhodes, is set to launch in the vibrant culinary hub of Austin, Texas. With its focus on artisanal coffees and local craft beers paired with farm-to-table snacks, Café Tavern aims to carve a unique niche in Austin’s dynamic food and beverage market. The café plans to offer a casual yet refined ambiance suited for both social gatherings and individual visits. The initial setup is backed by a $150,000 investment from Mr. Clark, supplemented by potential small business loans and local investors. This funding will cover startup essentials such as sophisticated brewing equipment, stylish interiors, and initial inventory. The café will operate daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM, accommodating a wide range of customers with both dine-in and take-out options.

Management will initially be handled by Ms. Rhodes, with Mr. Clark taking charge of the beverage program. As the business grows, the company plans to hire skilled culinary staff and baristas to expand the menu offerings. The café will also develop a line of signature craft coffees and locally sourced merchandise, available in-store and online, to broaden its market reach.

With a strategic location and a commitment to quality, Café Tavern is poised to become a cornerstone in Austin’s café scene, building a loyal customer base through excellent service and a distinctive product lineup. The goal is to foster community ties and ensure a memorable experience for all patrons.

2.0 Business Overview

Cafe Tavern is poised to enter Austin’s vibrant food and beverage scene, strategically selecting a location with high visibility and robust foot traffic to attract a steady flow of customers. The cafe will offer a distinctive menu of artisanal coffees, local craft beers, and farm-to-table snacks, focusing on unique, high-quality products in a warm, inviting atmosphere. The goal is to create an exceptional dining experience that encourages repeat visits.

Initially, Cafe Tavern will focus on building a loyal customer base by providing excellent service and consistently high-quality offerings. As it establishes itself as a notable destination in Austin’s dynamic culinary landscape, the cafe will expand its reach by developing a robust online presence to enhance customer engagement and extend sales beyond the physical location.

In its second year, Cafe Tavern plans to introduce a line of signature crafted coffees and locally sourced merchandise, available in-store, online, and through local vendor partnerships. This strategy aims to cement Cafe Tavern’s reputation as a premium, locally-inspired establishment while expanding its market reach. The phased approach ensures sustainable growth and maintains the cafe’s unique charm and core values.

2.1 Mission Statement

Our mission is to provide an exceptional gathering place where community and culture converge over premium, locally-sourced coffees and artisanal food

2.2 Vision Statement

Our vision is to become Austin’s premier café, celebrated for our unique blend of local flavors, artisanal products, and a commitment to sustainability and community engagement.

2.3 Core Values

Café Tavern is anchored by core values that inform its approach to business, emphasizing exceptional quality, personalized service, and active community involvement.

• Excellence in Quality : Café Tavern commits to the highest standards in every cup and plate it serves, sourcing premium, locally-sourced ingredients to craft exceptional coffee and artisanal meals.
• Personalized Customer Experience: The café focuses on making every visitor feel special and appreciated, ensuring a welcoming environment where service is attentive and tailored to individual preferences.
• Creative Innovation: Café Tavern constantly innovates its menu and service methods, embracing new ideas and techniques to keep its offerings fresh and exciting, standing out in Austin’s vibrant food scene.
• Inclusivity and Respect: The café promotes an inclusive atmosphere, respecting all individuals and celebrating the diversity of its staff and customers, which enhances its collaborative and creative café environment.
• Active Community Contribution: Café Tavern strives to be more than a café by actively engaging in community efforts, supporting local events and initiatives that enrich its neighborhood and forge lasting bonds with its patrons.

2.4 Goals and Objectives

3.0 Market Analysis

The café’s market analysis delves into significant trends and the impacts of specific regulatory frameworks that will guide its business strategies and operations.

3.1 Market Trends

The current market exhibits a heightened demand for specialty coffee and locally sourced, sustainable products, reflecting a broader consumer preference for high-quality and ethically produced goods. This trend is bolstered by a rising interest in café culture, where patrons seek distinctive, immersive dining experiences that offer both a social gathering space and a personal retreat.

Simultaneously, technological integration within the food service industry is becoming essential for competitive success. Innovations in mobile ordering systems, payment technologies, and digital marketing are transforming customer interactions, necessitating that the café leverages these tools to enhance service efficiency and customer engagement.

3.2 Government Regulations

• Federal Regulations: The café must comply with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines, which regulate food safety standards nationwide. It also needs to adhere to the Fair Labor Standards Act, which sets rules for wages and hours worked, ensuring that employees are treated fairly and legally in the workplace.
• Provincial Regulations: Locally, the café needs to follow the Texas Food Establishment Rules (TFER), which outline specific health and safety standards for food service operations. Additionally, business licensing and operation are governed by Texas state laws, which include regulations on sales tax, environmental compliance, and public health guidelines.

3.3 Competitive Analysis

Downtown Austin’s food services industry is highly competitive, with numerous independent cafés and restaurants serving a discerning clientele. To establish a niche in this vibrant market, Café Tavern has conducted a detailed competitive analysis to identify key local competitors and formulate effective differentiation strategies.

Let's Get Started!

• Your Name *
• Email Address *
• Phone Number

4.0 Products and Services

Café Tavern offers a wide range of products and services designed to cater to the diverse tastes of Austin’s cosmopolitan clientele. By combining high-quality ingredients with innovative culinary techniques, the café ensures each visit is both memorable and satisfying. 4.1 Menu

5.0 Sales and Marketing Plan

Café Tavern’s sales and marketing plan is designed to effectively reach and engage its target market while highlighting its unique selling propositions. This comprehensive approach will ensure a strong market presence and continuous customer engagement . 5.1 Target Customers Café Tavern aims to attract a diverse group of customers, including:

• Young Professionals: Aged 25-40, who appreciate quality coffee and a comfortable place for meetings or remote work.
• University Students: Seeking a quiet study spot with affordable food and beverage options.
• Local Foodies: Interested in unique, locally-sourced, and artisanal dining experiences.
• Tourists: Visitors to Austin looking for a local coffee shop experience.

5.2 Marketing Strategies

• Social Media Campaigns: Utilize platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase the café’s offerings and ambiance, run promotions, and engage with the community.
• Loyalty Programs: Implement a loyalty card system to encourage repeat visits and increase customer retention rates.
• Local Partnerships: Collaborate with local businesses and event organizers to offer catering services and co-branded promotions.
• SEO and Online Marketing: Optimize the café’s website for search engines and use targeted Google Ads to attract more local and tourist traffic.
• Community Events: Host monthly events such as art exhibitions or live music nights to create buzz and attract different customer segments.

5.3 SWOT Analyisis

6.0 Operational Plan

The operational plan for Café Tavern is designed to maximize efficiency and customer satisfaction by detailing the hours of operation, strategic location, and identifying potential risks with corresponding mitigation strategies. 6.1 Operational Hours

6.2 Location

Café Tavern will be strategically located at 1502 South Congress Avenue, a bustling area in Austin known for its vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment scene. This location benefits from high foot traffic, proximity to residential and business districts, and accessibility via major city thoroughfares, making it an ideal spot for both local and visiting patrons.

6.3 Risk Analysis

7.0 Organizational Plan

Café Tavern’s organizational plan ensures a structured approach to operations, emphasizing leadership in key areas to maintain high-quality service, effective management, and consistent growth.

7.1 Management Team

Mr. Jonathan Clark (Co-Founder/Owner) 

Mr. Jonathan Clark brings over 10 years of experience in the hospitality industry, having previously managed several successful cafés and restaurants. Mr. Clark’s role focuses on financial management, long-term strategy, and business development for Café Tavern. Jonathan is responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations and ensuring that the café meets its growth targets.

Alicia Rhodes (Co-Founder/Owner)  

Mrs. Alicia Rhodes has a background in culinary arts and café management. Mrs. Rhodes will be responsible for menu development, food quality control, and maintaining relationships with local suppliers. Alicia will also focus on creating a welcoming atmosphere and ensuring that customer service standards are consistently high.

7.2 Personnel Plan

• General Manager: Manages the café’s daily operations, staff scheduling, inventory control, and customer service quality. Reports directly to the owners.
• Head Barista: Oversees the coffee program, including drink preparation standards, coffee sourcing, and barista training. Reports to the General Manager.
• Kitchen Manager: In charge of the kitchen, ensuring food quality, menu updates, and inventory management for food-related items.
• Baristas and Wait Staff: Prepare drinks, serve customers, and maintain cleanliness and orderliness in the café.
• Cooks/Chefs: Responsible for preparing food items, including breakfast and lunch dishes, while maintaining food safety standards.
• Marketing and Social Media Manager (Part-Time): Manages the café’s online presence, social media accounts, and promotional activities to increase customer engagement and brand visibility.

8.0 Financial Plan

The following financial projections have been carefully crafted by the management team of the company. All projections are forward-looking and are dependent on securing the required financing. It is the audience’s responsibility to conduct all necessary due diligence.

Pro Forma Income Statement

Pro Forma Cash Flow Statement

Pro forma balance sheet.

The Path to a Thriving Café Business

Opening and managing a successful café requires careful planning, market awareness, and operational efficiency. From developing a strong business plan to understanding your target market, offering unique products, and maintaining efficient operations, every detail contributes to the overall success of the business. Whether it is creating brand awareness, engaging customers, or managing financial performance, a comprehensive strategy is key to standing out in a competitive market and ensuring long-term growth.

For business owners looking to launch or improve their café, having expert support can make all the difference. At BSBCON , our team of experts provides personalized guidance to help you craft a strong business plan, optimize operations, and implement effective marketing strategies. Contact us today to take the next step toward opening your successful café!

Have Questions? Looking To Get Started?

How can we help you.

Get in touch with us or visit our office

Expert business plan and financial models

Coffee Shop Business Plan Template & PDF Example

• September 4, 2024
• Food & Beverage

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

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

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

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

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

Coffee Shop Business Plan Template (Download)

Fully editable 30+ slides Powerpoint presentation business plan template.

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

Executive Summary

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

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

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

Coffee Shop Business Plan Executive Summary Example

Business Overview

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

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

Market Overview

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

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

Management Team

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

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

Financial Plan

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

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

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

Coffee Shop & Location

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

Operations & Offerings

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

Industry Size & Growth

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

Key Market Trends

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

Competitive Landscape

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

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

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

Identifying Your Coffee Shop’s Competitors

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

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

Coffee Shop Competitors’ Strategies

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

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

What’s Your Coffee Shop’s Value Proposition?

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

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

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

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

Marketing Plan

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

Marketing Channels

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

Digital Marketing

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

Local Advertising

Connect with the local community to increase foot traffic:

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

Promotional Activities

Attract customers with enticing offers and loyalty programs:

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

Sales Channels

Optimize  sales channels  to maximize revenue and customer satisfaction.

In-Store Upselling

Maximize each customer’s visit:

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

Subscription Services

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

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

Mobile Ordering and Pickup

Facilitate convenient ordering and pickup options:

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

Strategy Timeline

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related Posts

Steakhouse Business Plan Template & PDF Example

• Business Plan

Bubble Tea Business Plan Template & PDF Example

Bar Business Plan Template & PDF Example

Privacy overview.

• Credit cards
• View all credit cards
• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
• Personal finance
• View all personal finance
• Small business
• Small business guide
• View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

How to Open a Coffee Shop

Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who compensate us when you take certain actions on our website or click to take an action on their website. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

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

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

How to open a coffee shop in 7 steps

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

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

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

Completely start from scratch and open your own shop

Open a coffee shop franchise

Buy an existing coffee shop that's for sale

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

Step 2: Create a business plan.

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

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

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

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

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

Step 3: Find the right location.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Step 5: Find suppliers.

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

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

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

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

Step 6: Create a warm, inviting environment.

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

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

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

Step 7: Adopt a good inventory system.

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

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

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

How much do you need?

with Fundera by NerdWallet

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

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

How much does it cost to open a coffee shop?

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

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

LLC Formation

The bottom line

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

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

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

On a similar note...

LIMITED TIME OFFER

Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card

How To Write Your Coffee Shop Business Plan

How to write a coffee shop business plan.

Business Plan for Coffee Shops Series

Your business plan will serve as your road map that guides your thoughts and ideas into one detailed action plan. 

If you dream about opening a coffee business, you have many unique options to choose from. The ideas are nearly endless, from setting up a drive-thru coffee stand to opening a mobile coffee truck to buying an existing coffee shop!

After you settle on a feasible coffee shop concept , you will have no shortage of items on your to-do list.

Once you decide on your coffee business concept, the first thing to do is get your game plan together. One way to ensure you do everything right (and not miss anything) is to write a thorough coffee shop business plan .

Writing a business plan may seem daunting or tedious – but it doesn't have to be! Putting together your vision can be fun and exciting and an opportunity to showcase your ideas.

In today's post, we will discuss the benefits of a business plan, what's inside, and how to write your coffee shop business plan. Finally, we will answer common questions about a business plan impacting your success as you start your coffee business .

Is a Coffee Shop Business Plan Necessary?

Why write a coffee shop business plan.

Writing a business plan is often a necessity because three essential stakeholders require it:

• You (the owner)
• Potential Investors
• Property Managers

As the coffee shop owner, you must fully understand your vision, mission, and business path to success.

On the other hand, your investors (your partners, private lenders, or banks) will often require seeing a business plan, including your concept, startup budget, costs, financial projections, location, management team, and other essential items.

Your financials – your overall budget (startup and operational) and pro forma financial docs are essential to your business plan. Banking institutions will assess this to see if your coffee business is viable.

Additionally, property managers will likely require a business plan before considering your business for their retail space. Property managers or owners must fully understand the type of business occupying their space. They want to know what is being sold, how it's being sold, and whether they are allowing a sustainable business on their premises.

A business plan is needed by:

• Money lenders
• Property managers
• You (The owner)

Benefits of Putting Together a Plan

Business plans can effectively bring your thoughts and ideas in sync with your vision, budget, and other elements, resulting in a successful coffee shop business.

Writing a coffee shop business plan also has other benefits. 

Let's discuss the benefits below:

• A business plan increases the chances of success. 
• It propels you to develop a budget and stick to it (likely saving you money).
• Business plans help keep you (and your team) organized.
• Ensures nothing gets left behind.

Increases Your Chances of Success

Writing a business plan reduces the possibility of failure. It increases the chances of your coffee shop's success by forcing you to think through every aspect of your business before starting and spending any money. As many have found out in other important business projects, “winging it” isn't a strategy for success.  

Planning everything and writing it down in an “organic document” allows you to see where your strengths and weaknesses are – and address them. Having a cohesive plan can make a difference in achieving the desired results.

A Plan Will Save You Money 

When you start a coffee business, exceeding your original budget estimates is very easy. A business plan can help significantly reduce your costs and avoid big mistakes. This is because you'll know exactly what is needed, how much it will cost, and where it fits into your planning.

As you develop and write your business plan, you can look at the overall costs, develop a budget around your vision, and see what adaptations you need to make to ensure enough funding and a realistic outcome.

If you want to launch a coffee shop on a shoestring budget, the more you plan often equals saving more.

A Plan Will Keep You Organized

Keeping yourself organized will not only save you time and money but will also reduce your organizational headaches.

Knowing what you need (and don't need) based on your vision will help keep you on pace to finish within your established budget and timeframe.

There are often so many steps to be mindful of when starting a coffee shop that it would be nearly impossible to effectively manage every business detail without writing them down.

Ensures Nothing Gets Left Behind

Even if you have opened a business before, you know that many elements must be addressed before moving forward with the implementation process.

Necessary steps that can be easily left out or neglected can cause headaches and tremendous costs (in lost time and money) as you move forward. A coffee shop business plan ensures that all the essential parts of your business are addressed.

Details Your Budget

When you start a coffee shop, people love to first think about where they will get their coffee beans, equipment, and other menu items. These are extremely important, and they deserve the attention to plan. However, the less money you have, the more emphasis you should put on planning.

For some, figuring out a coffee shop's budgetary needs may be a significant hurdle because you may be unfamiliar with them.  However, taking the time to flesh out your budget, costs, and the money needed to open your coffee shop will provide you with tremendous insight into how your coffee business will function.

Business Plan: Your Budget and Cost Estimates

One of the most challenging parts of a business is developing your costs, budget, and estimates. We've written extensively on developing a coffee shop budget; you may find some of the articles below helpful.

• How to Start a Coffee Shop Budget
• How to Start a Low-Cost Coffee Shop
• Coffee Shop Funding Mix
• How to Prepare for a Coffee Shop Business Loan
• How to Determine the Cost of Selling 100 Coffees

Writing Your Business Plan Takes Time. A well-written coffee shop business plan will take time to write. Give yourself time to research and think through some of the decisions you will have to make.

My recommendation: You may want to write your business plan in chunks. The great thing about a business plan is that it's broken down into sections. Take a section you're thinking about, plan, and articulate your thoughts and actions. If you hit a temporary wall, go to the next section or get help.

Key Sections of Your Coffee Shop Business Plan:

The Executive Summary

Your Business Structure

Coffee Shop Financials

Unique Selling Proposition

Coffee Shop Startup Costs

Business Plan Description

Coffee shop business plan sections:.

Write a Coffee Shop Business Plan

Where do you start.

So, where and how do you start writing your plan?

First, you don't have to tackle each section in order. For example, the executive summary, which always comes first in a business plan, is often written last.

I would start writing your coffee shop business plan with the business description and concept. Second, I would develop an understanding of your target market and build your coffee shop menu around them. Third, I would write about the coffee equipment that I would need and the costs. Fourth, I would develop your coffee branding section. And then, I would start working on my coffee shop budget and cost breakdown.

This is my personal preference in writing business plans for coffee shops. However, you may have different methods. Whichever way works best for you and allows you to thoroughly plan and understand your coffee business is the one you should use.

Start Your Business Plan Writing With The Following:

• Develop your business concept (Describes Your Concept)
• Describe your target market
• Build your menu for your target customer.
• Detail your coffee equipment
• Create a coffee shop budget
• Develop a coffee shop funding mix
• Estimate revenue projections

Once you've settled on these business plan subjects, you can develop and write the rest of your business plan. Everything from your coffee shop branding, management, and barista training .

2024 Coffee Shop Business Plan Template

Writing a business plan can be challenging. Understanding each section and what should be discussed can seem daunting.

That's why we created an easy-to-use coffee shop business plan template for you. This free template details every business plan section and describes what should be in every section.

Our coffee shop business plan template (MS Word Format) is guaranteed to save you hours in research and conveniently allows you to fill in each section.

Trending Articles on Coffee Shop Startups:

Questions & Answers

Related Questions:

Is a business plan required for my coffee shop business.

No governmental agency requires a business plan, and it is not a coffee shop requirement . However, if you plan on borrowing money from a bank or renting a commercial space, those stakeholders may require a written business plan for their due diligence.

Do I need a business degree or be a lawyer to write a coffee shop business plan?

Fortunately, the simple answer is NO.

Writing a business plan is simply about getting your business thoughts down on paper in a structured and comprehensive way. In my opinion, hiring a lawyer to write out your coffee business concept may be overkill.

Now, you may decide to have a lawyer or business consultant review aspects of your coffee shop business plan – along with your property lease, trademarks, etc. I would highly discourage you from delegating the writing of your business plan to someone who doesn't know you or the business. 

Is a coffee shop business plan different from a “traditional” business plan?

Different businesses often require slightly different or modified business plans. A “coffee shop business plan” is unique from other business plans.

For example, having a business plan for a tech startup or manufacturing company will generally emphasize other key business areas when comparing them to a coffee shop business plan. Each requires a different emphasis because the audience will be different. Specifically, if your job is to create a kid-friendly coffee shop or a wine and coffee bar , you'll want something specific to that niche rather than a general business plan.

How Do I Use a Business Plan?

Your coffee shop business plan is a live and organic document.

In other words, your business plan will continuously change, evolve, and grow with you and your coffee business. Therefore, нour business plan will always change, adapt, and need to be modified.

Of course, we assume you will write your business plan using a computer and print it out. We recommend that you provide plenty of space in the margins to make edits, make additions, and eventually make changes on the computer.

Remember that your coffee shop business plan – is precisely that – a plan. A plan will change as your business changes – so having the ability to print out a physical copy, scribble notes, and cross out irrelevant information is vital as you move forward. For example, as your coffee shop budget and concept evolve, so will your business plan. 

We recommend keeping your business plan light enough for you to carry anywhere. Please place it in a thin 3-ring binder or keep it stapled but near you all the time.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Should i pay someone to write my coffee shop business plan for me.

I strongly recommend against this. People often consider having someone else write their business plan a good thing. But why waste the money on someone else thinking for you? While you may seek the help of someone reviewing elements of your plan, such as your coffee brand, coffee budget, and coffee shop location , the important decisions should be made by you.

Why you should write your business plan:

Your coffee business concept will emerge from your thoughts and ideas. Therefore, you're the best person to capture these ideas on paper.

A business plan will also help stimulate these mental muscles you may haven't used in a long time.

You will need this thought stimulation to execute your plan entirely and thoroughly. Most importantly, writing your business plan gives you a sense of real business ownership. After all, it's your business and should be your plan.

What Happens If I Don't Have a Business Plan?

Have you ever taken a long road trip without a proper map? You know it's probably not a good idea since you won't be sure where you'll end up going.

Sooner or later, not planning your trip and not having the tools you need to reach your destination will increase your expenses, frustrate you, and possibly lead you to failure.

Yet, while developing your business plan will take some work, it will help you get started confidently.

How Long Does a Business Plan Have To Be?

A coffee shop business plan can be as long as you want. Don't think of your business plan as a school assignment that needs to be turned in to your business teacher.

The length of your business plan depends on your coffee shop's complexity. Still, once completed, a thorough business plan can range from 15 to 60 pages (occasionally more, depending on the business's scope).

We recommend always using headings, subheadings, and spaces between paragraphs and sections when constructing your business plan.

A coffee shop business plan has several main sections. While there is no “right” order or structure for your typical business plan, they often include everything from your mission statement to the coffee shop equipment needed to your financial position, projections, and estimates.

Is there an easy way to start a coffee shop business plan?

Our Complete Coffee Shop Startup Kit contains a free business plan template for you to get started. All you have to do is fill it out and print our Coffee Shop Business Plan template, and you'll be ready to go!

Are You Ready To Get Started?

Unlock Your Dream Coffee Shop Business with Our Exclusive Coffee Shop Startups Kit!

Ready to transform your passion for coffee into a thriving business? Look no further! Our Coffee Shop Startups Kit is your key to brewing success. Here's why you can't miss this opportunity:

Includes Exclusive BONUS Material!

👉 Order Now and Begin Your Journey!

Don't let the complexities of starting a coffee shop overwhelm you. Our Coffee Shop Startups Kit is your ticket to entrepreneurial success. Take the first step towards owning a profitable and fulfilling coffee business today.

Join the thousands of successful coffee entrepreneurs who started with a dream and a great plan. Your journey to coffee shop greatness begins right here!

Comprehensive. Proven. Affordable.

The Complete Coffee Shop Startup Kit

(Instantly Delivered To You)

Coffee Shop Startups

Based in Seattle, Washington, USA, Coffee Shop Startups is dedicated to providing you with the most relevant information on how to start a coffee shop business successfully. Over the last 11 years, we've helped thousands of aspiring coffee business owners worldwide. We harness the experience, wisdom, and knowledge of many successful coffee shop owners to help you increase your chances of success and profits. We support business owners who want to start a coffee business by providing them with valuable information on starting their coffee business successfully.

• Coffee Blog
• Mobile Coffee Coaching
• Coffee Shop Business Course Info
• Testimonials
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Refunds, Terms & Conditions

All of our kits are delivered digitally. No physical delivery is made.

Based in Seattle, Washington, USA, Coffee Shop Startups is dedicated to providing you with the most relevant information on how to start a coffee shop business successfully.

Over the last 10+ years , we’ve helped thousands of aspiring coffee business owners worldwide. We harness the experience, wisdom, and knowledge of many successful coffee shop owners to help you increase your chances of success and profits.

Your trust in us is important. Buy securely online with our Teachable Payment System. We have a no-hassle 14-day refund policy. Email us, and we’ll refund your money within 14 days of your purchase. Please read our testimonials from satisfied customers!

Disclaimer: The information and advice presented through this site and its products should not be considered legal or financial advice. The information within the website, affiliated websites, blogs, and any communications (electrical or otherwise) are for educational purposes only.

The author and publisher make no representations or warranties regarding the outcome or the use of the information within this website and products and are not assuming any liability for any claims, losses, or damages arising from the information.

How to Create a Coffee Shop Business Plan

Sample plan illustrates the process

• Section 1: Executive Summary

Section 2: Business/Industry Overview

Section 3: market analysis and the competition, section 4: sales and marketing plan, section 5: ownership and management plan, section 6: operating plan, section 7: financial plan.

• Section 8: Appendices and Exhibits
• Small Business
• Online Business
• Home Business
• Entrepreneurship
• Operations & Success

Susan Ward has run an IT consulting firm and designed and presented courses on how to promote small businesses.

A simple coffee shop business plan can help you get your business off the ground by following a standard layout consisting of a single document divided into several sections. Included should be a description of the organization, market research, competitive analysis, sales strategies, capital, and labor requirements and financial data.

Business plans range from a few pages to hundreds of pages long depending on the size and scope of the business. For a relatively small business like a coffee shop, it is best to be succinct and keep the plan to 30 pages or less, especially if you intend to submit it to bankers or investors for debt or equity financing. Potential investors want to see solid research and analysis presented in a concise form.

To give your plan more visual appeal Include photos, designs, or site plans of prospective premises to give your plan more visual appeal. Charts and graphs help illustrate financial information such as revenue projections.

A basic business plan for a coffee shop can be done in eight sections, plus a title page.

Enter your business information starting with the legal name. If you already scouted a likely location or have a website in place, include the addresses. If you have a business logo, add it at the top or bottom of the title page. The title page also should include a table of contents that lists each section and the page number where it begins.

Business Plan

Java Jake's Coffee House

October 15, 2017

2303 Stewart St. East Clovervale 609-458-2020 email: jj@javajakescoffeehouse.com web: javajakescoffeehouse.com

Presented to: "Name" "Company or Financial Institution"

Table of Contents:

1. Executive Summary

2. Business/Industry Overview

3. Market Analysis and the Competition

4. Sales & Marketing Plan

5. Ownership and Management Plan

6. Operating Plan

7. Financial Plan

8. Appendices and Exhibits

Section 1: Executive Summary 

Place the executive summary near the beginning of the plan, but write it last. It should provide a short, concise, and optimistic overview of your business that captures the reader's attention and gives them an interest in learning more about it. The executive summary should be no more than two pages long, with brief summaries of other sections of the plan. 

Java Jake's Coffee House will be the go-to place for coffee lovers. We plan on serving the highest quality coffee and snacks in a trendy, comfortable atmosphere. Our convenient location and excellent customer service should build a steady repeat customer base.

Owners Jack Valdez and partner Juanita Sanchez each have more than a decade in the food service industry, including management experience.

Our main products will be higher margin gourmet coffee products such as espressos, cappuccinos, lattés, and a variety of snacks, including healthy alternatives.

Strategically located within easy walking distance from the technical school, nursing colleges, and a variety of office complexes, we intend to cater to students and young office workers by providing plenty of seating space and superior customer service with a trendy vibe. 

In the immediate area, our competition consists mainly of fast food vendors such as McDonald's and Dunkin. We plan on capturing the upper end of the local coffee market by serving gourmet, nonmachine-made coffee products at reasonable prices. Along with our superior atmosphere and great customer service, we intend to target sophisticated coffee consumers. 

The location we have selected has 2,000 square feet of space, room for an outdoor patio, and requires minimal renovations. The space has been vacant for several months and the owner is motivated and has offered a four-year lease with a fifth year free.

We expect sales revenue to grow from $200,000 in the first year of operations to $250,000 by the end of the third year. To minimize operating expenses, both of the principals will be onsite on a full-time basis to reduce staffing costs, supervise, and maintain quality control. We expect net profits to grow from $50,000 to $100,000 by year three.

$200,000 in startup funding is required for lease costs, renovations, equipment, and furniture. The principals have $100,000 in cash and will obtain the rest from commercial lenders.

Provide an overview of the coffee industry , the local market, and what makes your business unique.  

The Coffee Industry

According to analysis by Pew Research, millennials have overtaken baby boomers as America's largest living generation.   Millennials are more social and mobile than previous generations and prefer to have coffee with friends in trendy, public locations, increasing the popularity of high-end coffee shops. U.S. statistics indicate that:  

• Gourmet coffee's popularity is increasing across diverse demographics
• Americans consume more than 600 million cups of coffee per day  
• Retail sales of coffee exceed $47 billion per year  

Our Position in the Industry

East Clovervale is an affluent area with a high density of students and young professionals, an ideal market for a coffee shop such as Java Jake's Coffee House. People in this area can afford to spend money on specialty coffees and snacks and are willing to do so.

Our market research has shown that seven out of 10 people polled in East Clovervale consume at least three cups of specialty coffee per week. 

The Competition

While there currently are two other coffee shops within the immediate area, neither offer patio seating or substantial parking. One does not offer free wifi.

What Makes Java Jake's Coffee House Unique

Java Jake's Coffee House marketing strategy is to cater to the the young and young at heart with top quality products, great service, and plenty of seating indoors and out. We aim to be the place to meet with friends, relax, and enjoy a great cup of coffee. Ultrafast wifi will enable students and business people to readily communicate and work on school or business activities. 

Demonstrate that you have thoroughly analyzed the target market and that there is enough demand for your products to make your coffee business viable. The competitive analysis includes an assessment of the competition and how your coffee business will compete in the sector.

Given the proximity to schools and office complexes, our primary target market will be students and professional business people. Both groups are heavy consumers of coffee, tea, and snacks. 

Based on our customer surveys, there is a strong demand for a high-end coffee shop in a central location that serves great coffee and has both outdoor seating and available parking. The three most common complaints about the existing competition in the area are:

• Inconsistent product:  Discerning customers are reluctant to become regular patrons of a coffee shop that cannot consistently serve a high-quality product. 
• Lack of patio seating:  Many people prefer to consume their food and beverages outdoors on a sunny day.
• Lack of parking:  The lack of parking makes it difficult to attract vehicle commuters.

The local customer base consists of approximately:

• 3,000 students from two post-secondary schools
• 200 school staff
• 1,000 business people and office workers

Both schools have solid attendance and are expanding their student populations. The local business market is strong and has been relatively unaffected by previous economic downturns.

Compared to our compeition, we expect our revenues to grow strongly as we build our customer base:

Describe how you intend to entice customers to patronize your coffee shop, including advertising, promotion, pricing strategy, sales, and service. 

Our Product Offerings

The existing competition uses lower grade beans, inexpensive equipment, and does not properly train staff — resulting in inconsistent product quality and dissatisfied customers.

At Java Jake's we are passionate about coffee and intend to focus on consistently serving the highest quality product by:

• Sourcing premium beans and snacks and maintaining freshness at all times.
• Using a top-of-the line espresso machine and related equipment.
• Providing baristas with professional training.

By focusing on quality, consistency, and great customer service, we will build a steady repeat customer base.

Pricing Strategy

We intend to focus on specialty coffees including espresso, cappuccinos, mochas, etc. as the profit margins are much higher than regular coffee. To command a higher price for regular coffee, we will not use drip machines. Instead, each cup will be single served using a coffee press so that every cup is up-to-the-minute fresh and delicious. 

Our pricing will be competitive with the higher end of the market. We believe that customers will be happy to pay top prices for a great cup of coffee.

We will be offering counter service in a professionally designed, cozy, inviting interior space. Interior seating will be a mix of smaller individual tables for intimacy, and longer, bench-style ones for larger groups. Exterior seating will consist of weatherproof tables and chairs with available sunshade umbrellas. We intend to be open from 6:30 a.m.-9 p.m. on weekdays, and 7 a.m.-9 p.m. on weekends.

In addition to cash, credit, and debit, we also will be accepting Apple Pay for purchases.

Advertising and Promotion

To minimize costs and connect with our customer demographic, most of our advertising will be of the digital variety. We intend to aggressively promote our products using the following methods:

• Posters on the local campus billboards
• Our state-of-the-art website
• Daily specials announced on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter

Statistics demonstrate that loyalty cards are highly effective, and Java Jake's will use a custom-designed rewards card to promote repeat business.

Describe the legal structure, ownership, and (if applicable) the management and staffing requirements of your business. 

Ownership Structure

Java Jake's Coffee House is a private corporation registered in the state of Texas. The business is 100% owned by Jack Valdez and Juanita Sanchez:

• Jack Valdez: 60 Class A Shares
• Juanita Sanchez: 40 Class A Shares

Owners Jack and Juanita will co-manage the business, and at least one will be present at all times during open hours. Both owners have previous food service management experience and are trained and experienced baristas.

External Resources and Services

Melford's Design Services will be contracted for the interior design of the premises.

Jackson and Jackson will provide accounting services for the business.

Jody's Catering will supply the baked goods.

Outline the physical requirements of your business, such as retail space, equipment, inventory and supply needs, labor, etc. For a business such as a coffee shop that requires custom facilities, supply chains, specialized equipment, and multiple employees, the operating plan needs detail. 

The premises we have chosen are at 2303 Stewart St. The space features:

• 2,000 square feet of indoor space in a modern, well-maintained building in an excellent location
• Approximately 500 square feet of outdoor patio space, with lockup racks for bicycles
• Existing zoning for restaurant usage
• A four-year lease at $3,500/month with a fifth year free
• The building owner is responsible for trash collection, recycling, pest control, and security
• Utilities (water, electricity, gas, internet, phone) are estimated to be $800 per month

The previous tenant was a restaurant, and there are existing kitchen and washroom facilities already in place. The previous tenant has offered to sell used kitchen equipment at heavily discounted prices.

Two full-time and four to six part-time baristas will be hired at industry standard wages. Baristas will be trained at a regional barista training academy. The two full-time employees are previous employees of the owners. The part-time employees will be sourced from the local post-secondary institutions.  

Owners and staff will share all regular duties, including taking orders, making coffee/tea, clearing tables, restocking, dishwashing, maintaining washroom facilities, etc.

To increase employee loyalty, a bonus/profit sharing system will be put in place.  

The following equipment will be purchased:

• Commercial grade La Marzocco Espresso machine ($25,000)
• Espresso grinder ($1,500)

We currently are negotiating the purchase of used commercial equipment from the previous tenant, including:

• Glassdoor fridge ($1,000)
• Dishwasher ($1,500)
• Microwave ($700)
• Misc. shelving, storage bins, etc. ($500)

Maintenance contracts for the equipment will be negotiated with local vendors.

We have negotiated an agreement with Murphy's Coffee Wholesalers to supply premium gourmet Columbian coffee/espresso beans with two-day shipping. Milk, juices, soft drinks, fruit, etc. will be sourced from the local Costco.

Muffins, scones, cookies, yogurt fruit cups, and sandwiches will be supplied on a daily basis by Jody's Catering.

This is the most important section of the business plan, especially if you need debt financing or wish to attract investors. The financial plan has to demonstrate that your  business will grow  and be profitable. To do this you will need to create projected income statements, cash flow statements, and balance sheets. For a new business, these are forecasts, and a good rule of thumb is to underestimate revenues and overestimate expenses.

Include these financial statements:

• Income Statements:  These shows your projected revenues, expenses, and profits. Do this on a monthly basis for at least the first year for a startup business.
• Cash Flow Projections:  These show your monthly anticipated cash revenues and disbursements for expenses. It is important for demonstrating that you can manage your cash flow and will be a good credit risk.
• Balance Sheet:  This is a snapshot summary of the assets, liabilities, and equity of your business at a particular point in time. For a startup, this would be on the day the business opens. Note that a new business will have no accounts receivable entries on the balance sheet. Note also that the balance sheet is much simpler for unincorporated businesses without employees. Income tax, pensions, medical, etc. are only applicable to incorporated businesses, as are earnings/retained earnings.
• Breakeven Analysis : Including a breakeven analysis demonstrates to financiers or investors what level of sales you need to achieve to make a profit.

Section 8: Appendices and Exhibits

The appendices and exhibits section contains any detailed information needed to support other sections of the plan.

Possible appendix/xxhibit Items include:

• Credit histories for the business owners
• Detailed market research and analysis of competitors
• Resumes of the owners and key employees
• Information about your industry
• Information about your products/services
• Site/building/office plans
• Copies of mortgage documents, equipment leases, etc. (or quotes on these)
• Marketing brochures and other materials
• References from business colleagues
• Links to your business website
• Any other supporting material that may impress potential lenders or investors if you are looking for financing.
• How to Start a Successful Coffee Shop
• Small Business Saturday and What It Means for You
• The Most Common Business Plan Mistakes
• Best Business Opportunities for Retirees
• 9 Critical Steps to Writing a Business Plan
• Small Business Tutorials
• 7 Small Businesses You Don't Want to Start
• What Type of Business Plan Do You Need?
• What You Need In Addition to Passion to Successfully Start a Business
• 17 Small Businesses You Can Start for Under $100
• Business Plan Help for the Overwhelmed Small Business Owner
• The Best Small Business Opportunities
• 101 New Ideas to Inspire You to Start a Business
• SMART Goal Setting Tips for Small Business Owners
• Quick-Start Business Plan: Is Your Business Idea Viable?
• Businesses You Can Start With $10K or Less

Coffee Shop Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Business Plan Outline

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

Coffee Shop Business Plan

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

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

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

Sample Business Plan for a Cafe or Coffee Shop

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

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

Next Section: Executive Summary >

Coffee Shop Business Plan FAQs

What is a coffee shop business plan.

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

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

What Are the Main Types of Coffee Shops?

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

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

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

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

How Much Does it Cost to Start a Coffee Shop?

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

How Do You Get Funding for Your Coffee Shop Business?

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

How to Start a Coffee Shop?

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

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

• How to Start a Coffee Shop Business

Where Can I Get a Coffee Shop Business Plan PDF?

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

Free Shipping On ALL Orders | Guaranteed Lowest Prices | Defect Free Guarantee | Warranty on All Machines | Same Day Shipping

Sign in | Join

• Shipping & Return
• My Addresses

Recover password

Enter your email:

Remembered your password? Back to login

Create my account

Please fill in the information below:

Already have an account? Login here

Got a Question? Call Us

(888) 978-5224 Mon-Sun 9am-6pm Eastern

How to Plan a Coffee Shop Business: Effective Strategies for Success

Starting a coffee shop business can be an exciting venture for those passionate about creating a unique experience for customers in the bustling world of specialty coffee. As with any business endeavor, careful planning and preparation are essential for success. This article aims to provide helpful insights and guidance on how to plan a coffee shop business that meets your goals and satisfies the needs of your target audience.

A focused understanding of the coffee shop industry, target market identification, and creating a comprehensive business plan serve as crucial foundational steps. Additionally, scouting an ideal location, planning a delightful and diverse menu, designing the layout of your coffee shop, hiring a skilled staff, and implementing effective marketing and operational strategies will all contribute to the overall growth and sustainability of your business.

Key Takeaways

• A solid foundation, including industry knowledge and a comprehensive business plan, is essential for success.
• Thoughtfully selecting a location, designing your space, and crafting a menu cater to your target audience.
• Efficient management of daily operations and marketing strategies contribute to business growth and sustainability.

Understanding the Coffee Shop Industry

The coffee shop industry is a popular and continually growing sector, attracting a wide range of consumers and entrepreneurs. In order to plan a successful coffee shop business, it is crucial to understand the industry and its current market trends, as well as the key players that shape this competitive landscape.

Current Market Trends

In the coffee shop industry, several market trends have emerged in recent years:

• Consumer Preferences: Nowadays, customers are seeking unique coffee experiences, specialty drinks, and locally sourced beans. Offering a diverse menu and ethically sourced products can help meet these expectations.
• Healthy Options: As more consumers prioritize their health and wellness, integrating healthy and alternative food options into the menu is becoming increasingly important.
• Technology and Convenience: Online and mobile orders, along with contactless payment options, are becoming standard features in coffee shops. Utilizing technology to improve the customer experience is essential to remain competitive.
• Sustainability: Environmentally friendly practices and sustainable sourcing are gaining traction. Implementing eco-friendly methods and materials in your coffee shop will resonate with environmentally-conscious consumers.

Key Players

Understanding the key players in the industry allows new coffee shop owners to identify opportunities for distinguishing themselves from existing competition. Some major players in the coffee shop industry include:

• Large Chains: Companies such as Starbucks, Costa Coffee, and Dunkin' are leading chains in the industry. These corporations have established strong brand recognition and extensive global footprints.
• Franchise Models: Java Detour, Caribou Coffee, and The Human Bean are examples of franchises. Franchise opportunities provide prospective business owners with a proven model and support structure.
• Independent Coffee Shops: Smaller, local, and independent coffee shops enjoy a loyal customer base due to their unique offerings and personal connections to the community. Although they lack the resources and reach of larger corporations, they can differentiate themselves by offering a more intimate and authentic coffee experience.

By examining current market trends and recognizing the key players in the coffee shop industry, aspiring business owners can better position themselves in the market and create a solid foundation for success.

Creating a Business Plan

When planning a coffee shop business, the first step is to create a comprehensive business plan. This document will serve as a roadmap, detailing essential aspects of the business, from the mission statement to financial projections.

Mission Statement

The mission statement outlines the core purpose and vision of the coffee shop. It should be concise and clearly convey what the business stands for and its values. Some aspects to consider when crafting the mission statement include the target market, the unique selling proposition (USP), and the desired customer experience.

Financial Projections

It is crucial to estimate the costs and potential revenues for a coffee shop business. Financial projections should include:

• Startup costs : These are the initial expenses required to establish the business, such as acquiring equipment, renovation, permits, and initial inventory.
• Operating costs : These are ongoing expenses such as staff salaries, rent, utilities, and supplies.
• Sales projections : Estimate expected revenues by forecasting the number of customers, average transaction value, and anticipated growth rate.
• Break-even analysis : Calculate the point at which revenues equal costs, providing an estimate of when the business will become profitable.

When creating financial projections, it is essential to be realistic and conservative in assumptions, ensuring that the business can withstand variations in the market and unforeseen challenges.

In summary, a well-organized and comprehensive business plan will provide a solid foundation for building a successful coffee shop. By defining the mission statement and preparing realistic financial projections, entrepreneurs can set clear goals and better anticipate future challenges and opportunities.

Identifying Target Audience

When planning a coffee shop business, it's essential to recognize the target audience. An optimal understanding of the target audience enables the development of marketing and product strategies that cater to the customers' preferences. In this section, we will be discussing the significance of demographic research and customer preferences when identifying the target audience.

Demographic Research

Conducting demographic research ensures a deeper understanding of the potential customer base. These demographics include things like age, gender, income, and occupation. Demographic patterns may help you discover potential customer base pockets in your proposed location.

To conduct demographic research:

• Evaluate the population density and types present in the area where the coffee shop will be located
• Identify your target customer's age bracket, and gender preferences
• Look into income levels and occupation trends

Armed with this demographic information, you can craft marketing and product strategies tailored to your target audience.

Customer Preferences

Understanding customer preferences is equally crucial for setting up a successful coffee shop. Gather information on the types of drinks, food items, and atmospheres customers in your target market prefer.

Some key factors to consider when determining customer preferences:

• Preferred types of coffee drinks (espresso, cappuccino, drip coffee, etc.)
• Popular food offerings (pastries, sandwiches, salads, etc.)
• Atmosphere preferences (quiet and cozy, modern and minimalist, or lively and energetic)
• Interest in additional services (free Wi-Fi, loyalty programs, live music, etc.)

Analyzing demographic research and customer preferences ensures that you create a coffee shop tailored to satisfy your target audience's wants and needs. By doing so, you'll increase the likelihood of establishing a loyal customer base and reaching your business milestones.

Scouting Location

When planning a coffee shop business, finding the perfect location is essential for success. The right location can help bring in more customers and build a more profitable business. This section will discuss the importance of demographics and accessibility when selecting a location for a coffee shop.

Demographics Influence on Location

Understanding the demographics of an area plays a crucial role in determining the success of a coffee shop. Identify your target market, such as young professionals, students, or families, and make sure the neighborhood can cater to their needs. Find a location with your target audience already present, making it more likely your coffee shop will not only appeal to them but also develop a loyal customer base.

• Students : Look for locations near universities, colleges, or academic institutions.
• Young professionals : Stay near office areas, business parks, or city centers with a high concentration of companies.
• Families : Target residential neighborhoods with schools, parks, and community centers nearby.

Accessibility

Another crucial aspect to consider when choosing a location is accessibility. Your coffee shop should be easily reachable, either by foot, car, or public transportation. A visible and easy-to-find location will draw in more customers on their way to work, school, or shopping.

Some key factors to assess when evaluating accessibility include:

• Foot traffic : Select a location on a busy street or near popular landmarks, attracting customers passing by.
• Parking : If many customers are likely to drive, make sure there's sufficient parking nearby or consider a location with onsite parking.
• Public transportation : Proximity to bus, tram, or train stations can significantly increase foot traffic.

Selecting the right location for a coffee shop business is a significant step in ensuring business success. Pay attention to demographics and accessibility to improve your possibilities of becoming the go-to coffee shop in your neighborhood.

Menu Planning

When planning a coffee shop business, it is crucial to develop a well-rounded menu that will appeal to a wide range of customers.

Beverage Selection

Begin by selecting a range of core coffee offerings, including espresso-based drinks, such as lattes, cappuccinos, and Americanos, as well as drip coffee. Keep in mind that offering a variety of brewing methods, such as pour-over and French press, can elevate the perceived quality of your coffee shop. Don't forget to include non-coffee options like tea, hot chocolate, and specialty drinks like chai lattes for customers who may not be coffee drinkers. Additionally, offering a mix of dairy and non-dairy milk alternatives will cater to a wider audience.

Here's an example of a basic coffee shop beverage menu:

Espresso-Based Drinks

Non-Espresso Beverages

• Drip Coffee
• Pour-Over Coffee
• French Press Coffee
• Hot Chocolate

Food Pairings

Complement your beverage offerings with a selection of pastries and snacks that enhance the overall customer experience. Popular coffee shop accompaniments include:

• Danish pastries

Savory Items

For each item, consider offering a mix of classic and unique flavor options to create a memorable menu. Additionally, including a variety of options that cater to dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options, will ensure you serve a diverse clientele. Developing a menu that intuitively pairs well with your coffee and other beverage offerings will contribute to the overall appeal and success of your coffee shop.

Designing Your Coffee Shop

Interior design.

When planning the interior design of your coffee shop, it's crucial to consider both aesthetics and functionality. You'll want to create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere for customers while ensuring an efficient work environment for your staff.

• Color scheme: Choose a color palette that aligns with your brand identity and feels inviting. You can use neutral tones for a cozy feel or bolder colors to make a statement.
• Seating: Provide a variety of seating options, such as chairs, booths, or bar stools, to accommodate different customer preferences. Ensure that your seating layout allows for easy movement between tables and conforms to local regulations for accessibility.
• Lighting: Implement a mix of natural and artificial lighting sources, prioritizing energy efficiency and creating an ambiance that matches your brand image. For example, pendant lights or chandeliers can add style while providing adequate illumination.

Outdoor Setup

If your location permits, setting up an outdoor seating area can increase your coffee shop's appeal and capacity. However, you must consider the following aspects:

• Space allocation: Assess the available outdoor space and determine the appropriate seating arrangement. Ensure you have enough room for walkways, accessibility, and compliance with local regulations.
• Weather protection: Invest in pergolas, umbrellas, or awnings to provide shade and shelter from the elements. This will ensure comfort for your customers and prolong the life of your outdoor furniture.
• Furniture: Select durable and attractive outdoor furniture that complements your interior design. Materials such as aluminum or synthetic wicker are able to withstand varying weather conditions while maintaining their appearance.

Remember, the design of your coffee shop should reflect your brand while providing a pleasant and efficient environment for both your customers and your team. By considering these design aspects, you can create a space that encourages customers to return and bring others with them.

Hiring Staff

Training programs.

When starting a coffee shop business, it's crucial to establish effective training programs for your staff. This includes training on coffee brewing techniques, food handling, equipment usage, and safety procedures. By providing comprehensive training, you ensure that your employees are well-prepared to serve customers with high-quality products and services.

Consider implementing the following elements in your training programs:

• Hands-on training : Allow employees to practice their skills under the supervision of experienced staff members.
• Training videos : Create informative and engaging videos to teach important concepts and procedures.
• Regular evaluations : Assess the progress and competency of your staff on a consistent basis, providing feedback and additional guidance when needed.

Customer Service Expectations

Set clear customer service expectations for your employees to maintain a high level of satisfaction among your patrons. Your staff should be knowledgeable about the products offered and able to assist customers in making informed decisions. Additionally, they should remain friendly, welcoming, and attentive to the needs of your clientele.

To uphold customer service expectations, implement the following strategies:

• Role-playing exercises : Encourage employees to practice handling various customer interactions, including addressing complaints and special requests.
• Emphasize communication : Strengthen your team's communication skills through regular team meetings and open discussions.
• Reward exceptional service : Acknowledge and reward employees who consistently provide exceptional customer service, fostering a positive work environment and setting a high standard for all staff members.

Marketing and Promotion

A well-planned marketing and promotion strategy is essential for a successful coffee shop business. It helps to increase brand awareness, drive foot traffic, and build a loyal customer base.

Social Media Marketing

Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter offer an effective way to promote a coffee shop. By creating engaging content and regularly updating the business's social media profiles, owners can connect with their target audience and showcase what sets their coffee shop apart from competitors:

• Visual content : Share high-quality images and videos of coffee drinks, food items, and the shop's ambiance to entice potential customers.
• Special offers : Attract new and returning customers by promoting discounts, deals, or happy hour specials.
• Events : Announce upcoming events, such as live music performances, art exhibitions, or themed nights.
• Customer interaction : Engage with customers by responding to comments, questions, and reviews on social media platforms.

Local Partnerships

Forming local partnerships can be a mutually beneficial way to increase the coffee shop's visibility and strengthen its ties to the community:

• Collaborations with other businesses : Partner with nearby businesses, such as bakeries, bookstores, or coworking spaces, for cross-promotion or sharing resources. For example, sell pastries from a local bakery or display and sell books from a local bookstore.
• Community involvement : Sponsor events or participate in local initiatives, like charity fundraisers, cultural festivals, or neighborhood clean-ups. This can improve the coffee shop's reputation and help to attract socially-conscious customers.
• Local suppliers : Source coffee beans, ingredients, or merchandise from local suppliers to support the local economy and create a unique selling point for the coffee shop.

By combining both social media marketing and local partnerships, coffee shop owners can create a comprehensive marketing and promotion plan that boosts their business's visibility and builds genuine connections with customers and the community.

Managing Operations

Managing operations is a crucial aspect of running a successful coffee shop. In this section, we will discuss two important sub-sections: Supply Chain Management and Quality Control.

Supply Chain Management

Effective management of the supply chain is necessary to ensure a steady flow of inventory and maintain cost efficiency. Here are a few essential aspects of coffee shop supply chain management:

• Supplier selection: Identify the right suppliers for your coffee shop, considering factors like quality, price, reliability, and delivery times.
• Inventory management: Maintain an optimal level of inventory by establishing reliable systems to track usage and reorder supplies as needed.
• Cost control: Regularly review the cost of goods and negotiate pricing with suppliers to maintain profit margins.

Quality Control

Quality control is paramount in a coffee shop business, as it directly impacts customer satisfaction and repeat business. Here are some key areas to address:

• Regular tasting: Schedule routine tastings with your employees to ensure all coffee products meet the desired taste and quality standards.
• Training: Invest in employee training and skill development to ensure consistent preparation and presentation of menu items.
• Equipment maintenance: Regularly maintain and service coffee machines and other equipment to avoid malfunction and ensure consistent product quality.

In summary, effectively managing operations is essential for the growth and success of any coffee shop business. Prioritize supply chain management and quality control to ensure a seamless customer experience and maintain a healthy bottom line.

Frequently Asked Questions

What equipment is essential for starting a coffee shop.

Starting a coffee shop requires various essential equipment to ensure efficient operations and high-quality drinks. Key items include commercial espresso machines, coffee grinders, brewing equipment like pour-over stands and drip coffee makers, refrigeration units, and display cases. Additionally, sinks, ice machines, blenders, and hot water dispensers are crucial for offering a diverse menu. Upgrade your coffee shop or restaurant today by investing in high-quality machines to serve delicious cappuccinos, lattes, and flat whites.

How to choose the perfect name for a coffee shop?

Choosing the perfect name for a coffee shop involves understanding your target audience, incorporating your shop's identity and theme, and considering wordplay or puns. Research your competition and brainstorm names that represent your coffee shop experience, menu offerings, and location. Once you have a list, test your options among potential customers and seek feedback to make an informed decision.

Which licenses and permits are required to open a coffee shop?

Licenses and permits can vary based on location, but generally, the following are required to open a coffee shop: a business license, food service license, health department permit, building and zoning permits, fire department permits, and signage permits. Some areas may also require additional permits for outdoor seating, music, or alcohol sales. It's crucial to research local regulations to ensure compliance before opening.

What are the key steps in an opening a cafe checklist?

A cafe opening checklist should include the following key steps: creating a business plan, securing funding, finding the ideal location, obtaining necessary licenses and permits, negotiating a lease agreement, selecting and purchasing high-quality equipment, designing your cafe layout, hiring and training staff, establishing supplier relationships, and conducting marketing campaigns to attract customers.

What factors make a coffee shop a profitable business?

A profitable coffee shop focuses on providing top-notch customer service, offering a diverse and high-quality menu, maintaining a unique and inviting atmosphere, and optimizing operational efficiency. Factors contributing to coffee shop profitability include location, strong brand identity, cost management, efficient workforce management, and local market conditions.

What are some unique and innovative coffee shop business ideas?

Unique and innovative coffee shop business ideas include offering specialty and single-origin coffees, incorporating sustainability and green practices, integrating technology like touchless ordering systems, hosting community events and workshops, and providing a shared workspace for freelancers and professionals. Menu innovations like gourmet food offerings, signature cold brew concoctions, and non-dairy milk alternatives can also set your coffee shop apart.

Tony Barlow

Tony Barlow, with over a decade of experience in the coffee industry, is the go-to technical sales expert at Majesty Coffee. He's passionate about helping businesses find the right espresso equipment for their needs.

Featured products

MajestyCoffee Verified Customer Testomonials

If you've ever owned a product from the 1970s or older, you know what it means to own something that is solidly built. The Super Jolly V Up is SOLID. It performs, and has my faith that it will continue to perform for the next decade. Its nice to look at, and instills trust that my business is covered when it comes to a solidly built, grinder that won't fail. Plus, with a name like Super Jolly.... how can you not want this grinder!

Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine SILVIA-M

Working great very easy to setup. Set up in a small office people really like it

Incredible machine. Consistent, sleek, beautiful, well built espresso machine.

Ditting KR1403 Commercial Coffee Grinder

Delivered with care and works great. Very happy with this purchase.

Beaaaaautifulllllkk

Easy for consistency

Once I had the crane lift it into place things went smoothly. Caution: this grinder is very heavy. Other than that - it's pretty much perfect. No clumps, no mess, no hands. Weight is determined by grinding time; single, double, and manual settings. Build quality is next level. Powerful, quiet, fast, and heavy.

This grinder does a great job for my decaf espresso beans! Thanks Baratza!

I went from a Breville Barista Express to this dual boiler beauty and couldn't be happier with this purchase. Cost a pretty penny, but every espresso made makes me reassured about my purchase. Shipping took a few days longer than normal, but assumed that was due to the open box. Steams milk incredibly quick, and my lattes taste even better! Hope this is my last espresso machine purchase since I don't think my wallet can take another hit like this.

The grinder has all the desirable features for all types of coffee beverages. The price is good and worth paying for this high quality product

Lelit Fred Conical Burr Coffee Grinder PL044MMT

I've had my Quick Mill Silvano machine for 3 years now. I purchased it after 2 Breville consumer machines crapped out after 2 years... one stopped making steam, the other leaked. And neither made great tasting coffee or substantial crema. So I took the plunge and purchased this machine and I'm so happy I did. What I love about it: the PID display of boiler temp and brew time. The simplicity of the controls. The fact that I can froth at the same time as pulling shots. The quality of the parts and longevity of the machine. The ease of cleaning. Finally, and most importantly, the great taste of the espresso I get every morning from the Silvano.

• Opens in a new window.

Ditting KR1203 Commercial Coffee Grinder

Does what it's supposed to do. Pain to use, constantly listening for a beep upon which the roaster turns off unless you hit the timer button.

Coffee Shop Business Plan Ultimate Guide + Free Example

July 6, 2023

Adam Hoeksema

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

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

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

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

Coffee Shop Business Plan Outline

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

Example Coffee Shop Business Plan

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

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

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

I. Executive Summary

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

VII. Conclusion

How to do Market Research for a Coffee Shop Business Plan

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

What Will be the Cost to Advertise my Coffee Shop?

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

What Keywords are Customers Using in Their Searches?

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

How Seasonal are Coffee Shops?

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

How Many Customers Do my Competitors Receive Each Month?

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

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

How to Create Financial Projections for a Coffee Shop Business Plan

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

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

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

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

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

Coffee Shop Business Plan Template

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

VII. Conclusion 

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

Coffee Shop Business Plan FAQs

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the Author

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

Other Stories to Check out

8 ways to enhance your chances of getting approved for an sba loan.

Learn practical steps to increase your SBA loan approval odds. This guide offers 8 straightforward strategies from an experienced SBA loan officer.

Your Guide to the SBA Loan Application Process

Start your SBA loan application with confidence using ProjectionHub's comprehensive, free SBA Loan Application Checklist. Discover essential tips and resources from experienced professionals to streamline your loan process and enhance your approval chances.

How To Start a Self-Storage Unit Business and How Much Will it Make?

Self Storage facilities seem to be popping up all over the place recently and there's no slow down in sight. Follow this step by step to understand the basics of how to get your self storage business started, how much it will cost, and how much you stand to make!

Have some questions? Let us know and we'll be in touch.

• Get Started

Home >> #realtalk Blog >> Manage a business >> How to Write a Coffe…

How to Write a Coffee Shop Business Plan

By Homebase Team

Opening a coffee shop is an exciting endeavor. But before you can open your doors and pour that first cup of joe, you need a coffee shop business plan.

But what is a business plan? Why is it important? And do you really need one?

We’re breaking down everything you need to know so you can brew up your own coffee shop business plan with ease.

What is a business plan for a coffee shop?

A coffee shop business plan is a document that covers your business goals and everything you’re going to do to reach them. 

A business plan goes into all the details about your business, from the location of your coffee shop to where you’re going to source your coffee beans. Put simply, it breaks down how your coffee shop is going to be a success.

Plan for success.

Writing out a coffee shop business plan can feel a bit tedious and unnecessary. And we won’t lie, they do take a bit of time and effort. 

But every business, no matter big or small, should have a business plan in place. A business plan for your coffee shop will help you:

• Set business goals and keep you on track to reach them. A business plan acts as a roadmap to help your coffee shop business become (and stay) successful.
• Identify any gaps in your business ahead of time. We’re only human. We all miss things from time to time. A well-written business plan can help you catch any mistakes or potential problems before they cost you.
• Manage your to-do list before opening your coffee shop. Opening any business is a huge undertaking. A business plan covers all your bases from location to hiring , so you don’t miss anything before opening day rolls around.
• Secure any financing or loans you might need. Banks or investors often want to see a business plan before they’ll offer you loans or even financial products like a business credit card.

Things to consider before you start.

Now that you know that you need a business plan, it’s time to grab your favorite cup of coffee and start thinking about the important stuff.

To help, here are some things to consider before you start writing your business plan.

• What will make your coffee shop business successful? Will you offer a unique specialty coffee selection? Are you going to open in a location with a high demand for coffee?
• Who is the target audience for your business plan? Different stakeholders will likely have different goals when reading your business plan. Banks and investors might be more interested in your financial forecasts. Meanwhile, potential suppliers might care more about your product offering to make sure that your coffee shop is a good fit for their products 
• What information or research will you need to create an informed business plan? A coffee shop business plan will look different than that of a salon or even a bakery. Take some time to think about what information you’ll need to research. For example, before you can write your business plan, you’ll likely need to know the cost of a coffee maker or the average hourly wage of a barista .

How to write a coffee shop business plan in 7 steps

If you’ve never written a business plan before, it can feel more complicated than a grande mocha frappucino with extra whip, hold the syrup. But don’t worry, we’re breaking down the key sections of a coffee shop business plan, so you know exactly how to get started.

Here are the 7 steps and sections you’ll need to write your coffee shop business plan.

1. Executive summary

This is a high-level overview of your coffee shop business plan—the TL;DR of the business plan if you will.  Here, you’ll want to outline the important details in your business plan, but also tell an engaging story that makes the reader want to dive into the rest of your business plan.

Tip: This is the first section someone will read—but you don’t have to write it first. It can be helpful to come back to this section once you’ve finished the rest of your business plan.

2. Company overview and description

This next section in your coffee shop business plan is an overview of your business and your goals. 

In this section, you should answer questions like:

• Who’s the founder or business owner? (AKA who are you and what is your background?) 
• Why did you decide to start a coffee shop?
• What’s your vision for your coffee shop?

3. Market analysis

A market analysis in a business plan helps position your coffee shop against other coffee shops, You want to show how you measure up to competitors or similar businesses. 

For example, as a coffee shop owner you might identify competing coffee shops in the area, or even other competitors like fast-food chains. In your market analysis, you might even look at other successful similar businesses that you can use to show why your coffee shop will be a success. For example, let’s say you’re opening a coffee shop that’s open 24 hours. You can use examples of other 24-hour coffee shops in other areas that you can model your business after.

4. Business offerings

This is where things start to get exciting—you finally get to talk about coffee! 

The business offerings section of your business plan should include everything that you’ll offer to potential customers. For a coffee shop, this will likely include your potential coffee menu.  But if you have other products or services—like selling coffee beans or offering coffee machine repairs—you’ll want to include those here too.

5. Management and operations

Here’s where you’ll cover the day-to-day management and operation of your coffee shop. For example, you’ll want to outline details like: 

• The expected costs of operating your business 
• How many employees you’ll hire
• Your point of sale (POS) system
• How you’ll manage inventory

6. Marketing and public relations strategies

In this section, you should explain how you plan to spread the word. 

Will you hire a marketing agency ? Will you mail out flyers? Do you have any media connections that will help you earn PR?

Basically, you need to show that you have a plan for promoting your business.

7. Financial projections

Last but not least, it’s time to talk money. 

Financial projections provide insight into your revenue and expenses over the short and long term. They aren’t an exact science, but you’ll want to provide an educated estimate. Your financial projections should typically include:

• Your start-up costs: This includes any one-time costs that you’ll incur to open your doors. For example, renovating the interior of your coffee shop.
• Operating costs: This includes expenses like rent, marketing, and utilities. You’ll also need to consider materials and supplies, such as coffee and cups.
• Labor costs: This is the cost of employing any baristas, hosts, or cashiers. For example, wages, cost of employee benefits , and hiring costs.
• Forecasted revenue: This includes any money you’ll earn from coffee sales or any other products and services you might offer.

The goal is to show that your coffee shop business will be profitable.

Let’s get things brewing.

Business plan written and ready to go? It’s time to start growing your coffee shop. From hiring your first employee to opening your second coffee outpost, Homebase is here to help.

Homebase is an all-in-one employee management app that helps small business owners manage hourly employees better and smarter. 

With Homebase, you can:

• Create employee schedules in minutes
• Track employee time and run payroll right from your phone
• Hire and onboard employees for your coffee shop

Coffee shop business plan FAQs

Do you need to create a business plan for a coffee shop.

Yes. Every business, including a coffee shop, should have a business plan. Your business plan should include an overview of your business, what products and services you’ll offer, how you’ll manage and market your business, and financial projections.

How profitable is opening a coffee shop?

How profitable opening a coffee shop will be can depend on several factors. But generally, coffee shops can be a pretty profitable business. A business plan can help you project your revenue, costs, and profit—so you can feel confident growing your coffee shop.

How do you start a business proposal for a coffee shop?

Here are a few steps for how to start writing an effective business proposal for a coffee shop:

• Start with an executive summary.
• Create your coffee shop company overview and description.
• Do a market analysis of competitors and similar businesses.
• Decide on your business offerings.
• Put a plan in place for managing and operating your business.
• Create a marketing and PR plan.
• Forecast your sales and business costs.

Remember:  This is not legal advice. If you have questions about your particular situation, please consult a lawyer, CPA, or other appropriate professional advisor or agency.

Related posts

August 22, 2024

How to open a yoga studio that stands out: an in-depth guide

Thinking of starting your own yoga business, but unsure exactly how to open a yoga studio that will succeed? You’re…

July 15, 2024

How To Start A Small Business in 2024: 12 Simple Steps To Jump Start Your Dream

Considering starting a business in 2024? You’re not alone. There are over 6 million small businesses in the US, and…

Restaurant Business Plan Template: Grow Your Business the Right Way

Planning the best way forward for your new restaurant can be a daunting task. Whether you’re living the dream of…

Writing an Effective One-Page Business Plan: What You Need to Know (+ Free Template)

If you’ve started—or are starting—a small business, you’ve probably heard the words ‘business plan’ thrown around. That’s because a business…

July 3, 2024

Your go-to checklist for starting a small business (+ free download!)

Maybe it all started with your EZ bake oven marketing plan, and it’s been your long-time dream to start a…

June 26, 2024

How to Start a Construction Business in 8 Easy Steps

Being able to build something from the ground up is an incredible skill: a skill you can monetize into your…

Subscribe to our newsletter

Looking for ways to stay up to date on employment laws and small business news?

Homebase makes managing hourly work easier for over 100,000 local businesses. With free employee scheduling , time tracking , and team communication , managers and employees can spend less time on paperwork and more time on growing their business.

• Hiring & onboarding
• Team communication
• Employee happiness
• HR & compliance
• Integrations
• Food & beverage
• Beauty & wellness
• Medical & veterinary
• Home & repair
• Hospitality & leisure
• Education & caregiving
• Contact sales
• Become a Partner
• Careers – We’re hiring!
• #realtalk Blog

C corps and individuals extension deadline Oct. 15

Customer login

Tax Pro login

Business tips

How To Write A Business Plan For Your Coffee Shop In 2024

14 Minute Read

Copy Article URL

How to Write a Successful Coffee Shop Business Plan Template for 2024

Antonio Del Cueto, CPA

March 27, 2024

Embarking on the journey to open a coffee shop is akin to starting a new adventure in a vast coffee jungle, where the aroma of success lingers in the air, and each path leads to exciting possibilities. In this expedition, a coffee shop business plan template serves as your trusted map, guiding through the thickets of the coffee industry and unveiling the secrets to make your coffee shop a treasure trove of flavors and warmth.

This guide is designed for intrepid startup heroes, business owners with a dream in their heart, and baristas with magic in their hands. Those who want to open their own coffee haven will find the tools to navigate the complexities of payroll, understand the importance of a barista's qualification, and learn how to stand out in the bustling marketplace. Dive into this adventure with us, and let's brew success together.

How to Write a Coffee Shop Business Plan

Starting a coffee shop is exciting. Before you become the best coffee shop owner, you need a plan. This guide helps you write your coffee shop business plan easily. We cover everything from what to include to how to do your financial planning. Let's dive in!

Coffee Shop Business Plan Template

Need a coffee shop business plan? Use this free coffee shop business plan template. It's a starting point. The template helps you organize your ideas. It covers important parts like your coffee shop concept, the type of coffee you'll serve (like third-wave coffee), and more. Think of it as a map for your journey to opening your coffee shop.

Writing a Business Plan for Your Coffee Shop

Writing a business plan for your coffee shop might sound hard, but it's key to success. Start by describing the coffee shop you want to open. What makes it special? Will you have baristas making the best coffee? Include details about your location, the kind of shop you want to open, and your target customers. Your plan should also talk about marketing your coffee shop. This is how you tell people why they should come to your shop. A good business proposal shows your vision clearly.

Financial Planning for Your Coffee Shop

Every coffee shop owner must think about money. Financial planning is a big part of your business plan. You have to figure out how much money you need to start and keep your coffee shop running . This includes costs like renting a place, buying equipment, and paying your baristas. Also, think about how much money you expect to make from selling coffee and other items. Planning this well helps you keep your shop open for a long time.

Key Components for a Successful Coffee Shop Business

Opening a coffee shop is more than just selling cups of coffee. It's about creating a space where people want to come back. To make your coffee shop a success, you need a good plan. Here, we talk about important parts of your coffee shop’s business plan. Let's make it easy to understand what you need to do.

Defining Your Target Market

Knowing who will buy our coffee is the first step. This is about your target market. Think about who you’re opening your coffee shop for. Are they busy workers who need a quick coffee? Or maybe families who enjoy a cozy spot? Understanding this helps in creating a marketing plan. This section of the coffee shop business plan makes sure you know who you’re talking to.

Developing a Pricing Strategy

How much will your coffee cost? This question is about your pricing strategy. Your prices need to be fair so people feel good about buying your coffee. But, you also need to make money to keep your coffee shop running. Think about the cost of making a cup of coffee and how much people are willing to pay. This is a key part of your business operations section. It shows how your coffee business will make money.

Creating an Executive Summary

Every business plan starts with an executive summary. This part gives a quick overview of your whole plan. It talks about your coffee shop , what you want to do, and how you plan to succeed. Even though it's at the beginning of your business plan, you write it last. It sums up everything about your coffee shop’s plan in a few short paragraphs. This makes it easy for anyone to understand your business’ goal.

Steps to Starting a Coffee Shop

Starting a coffee shop is a journey. It's about creating a place where people love to be. This guide will show you the main steps you need to take. We will keep it simple and clear, so you know exactly what to do. Let’s start making your dream of opening a coffee shop come true.

Choosing the Right Location for Your Coffee Shop

Finding where your coffee shop should be is very important. You want a spot where lots of people pass by. Before you decide, conduct research. Look at where people spend time and what other shops are nearby. A good location can help your coffee shop become very popular. Remember, the place you pick is a big part of the experience you want to give your customers.

Building Your Management Team and Staff

Your coffee shop needs a great team. This includes everyone from managers to baristas. When you’re going, think about the skills you need. Your team should know how to make the best espresso and other drinks. They should also make customers feel welcome. Include details in your company overview about the team you want to build. This shows potential investors or lenders that you have a solid plan for your staff.

Understanding the Cash Flow Projection

Money matters a lot. You need to know how much does it cost to open and run your coffee shop. This is where cash flow projection comes in. It helps you see how money will come in and go out. Include information about costs like rent, supplies from your supplier, and paying your team. Also, add how much money you expect to make from selling coffee and food. Check the balance sheet and financials section of your business plan. This part is very important for lenders or investors. It shows them that you know how your coffee shop can succeed.

Each of these steps is part of the process of opening your coffee shop. They help you write the executive summary, create a sample menu, and choose the right POS (point of sale) system. Keep everything concise but informative. This way, everyone understands your plan and how your coffee shop will become a favorite spot.

Customizable Elements in a Coffee Shop Business Plan

Creating a coffee shop business plan is like drawing a map for an adventure. It shows you where you want to go and how to get there. But every coffee shop is unique. So, your plan should have parts that you can change to fit your dream. Let’s look at what you can customize to make your plan just right.

Including a Marketing Plan for Your Coffee Shop

Your marketing plan tells people why they should come to your coffee shop. It’s one section you can really make your own. Talk about using social media accounts to share photos and news. Think about email marketing to send special offers. Marketing also means having a clear idea of how to tell people about your shop, both online and in the real world. This way, more people drink your coffee and enjoy your place.

Developing a Unique Coffee Shop Concept

What makes your coffee shop different? This part is all about your idea. Maybe you want to create a place that also serves books and music. Or a spot where every cup of coffee comes with a story. Your concept should show what’s special about your place. This makes your coffee shop stand out and gives customers a reason to come back.

Integrating Pastry and Beverage Offerings

Food and drinks are the heart of your coffee shop. In this part, you decide what to serve alongside your coffee. Will you have pastries? What about other drinks? Maybe you want to offer food that has a special certification, like organic or gluten-free. This section helps you keep enough variety to make everyone happy and coming back for more.

Free Coffee Shop Business Plan Templates in 2024

Starting a coffee shop in 2024? Great! There are free b usiness plan templates that can help. These templates give you a structure. Then, you add your own details. Let’s see how to use these templates to your advantage.

Utilizing a Free Coffee Shop Business Plan Template

A free template is a great tool during the writing process. It shows you what sections your plan needs. For example, it has spots for your marketing plan, your concept, and your menu. Using a template means you don’t forget anything important. It’s a good base that you can add to and change as needed.

Personalizing Your Coffee Shop Business Plan

Even with a template, your plan should show who you are. Add your style to every part. If you’re great at digital marketing, highlight that. If your foodservice is going to be amazing, talk about it a lot. Make sure every section reflects your vision and goals.

Adapting the Business Plan for Different Types of Coffee Shops

Not all coffee shops are the same. Maybe you’re opening a cozy corner spot or a drive-thru. Your business plan should fit your type of shop. Change the template to match your needs. Think about what makes your coffee shop special and make sure your plan shows that. The final section should leave readers excited about what you’re creating.

Key Takeaways:

• Location : Where your coffee shop will be. Think of it as choosing the best spot in the park for your lemonade stand.
• Menu : What drinks and snacks you'll sell, like planning a snack bar for your friends.
• Target Customers : Who you want to visit your coffee shop, such as people who love reading books or using laptops in cozy places.
• Budget : How much money you need to open and keep the shop running, like planning your allowance for new games and snacks.
• Marketing Strategies : Ways to make people excited about your coffee shop, like inviting friends to your birthday party.

How can Taxfyle help?

Finding an accountant to manage your bookkeeping and file taxes is a big decision. Luckily, you don't have to handle the search on your own.

At Taxfyle , we connect small businesses with licensed, experienced CPAs or EAs in the US. We handle the hard part of finding the right tax professional by matching you with a Pro who has the right experience to meet your unique needs and will manage your bookkeeping and file taxes for you.

Get started with Taxfyle today , and see how finances can be simplified.

Legal Disclaimer

Tickmark, Inc. and its affiliates do not provide legal, tax or accounting advice. The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal, tax or accounting advice or recommendations. All information prepared on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be relied on for legal, tax or accounting advice. You should consult your own legal, tax or accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction. The content on this website is provided “as is;” no representations are made that the content is error-free.

Was this post helpful?

Did you know business owners can spend over 100 hours filing taxes, it’s time to focus on what matters..

With Taxfyle, the work is done for you. You can connect with a licensed CPA or EA who can file your business tax returns. Get $30 off off today.

Want to put your taxes in an expert’s hands?

Taxes are best done by an expert. Here’s a $30 coupon to access to a licensed CPA or EA who can do all the work for you.

Is this article answering your questions?

Thanks for letting us know.

Whatever your questions are, Taxfyle’s got you covered. If you have any further questions, why not talk to a Pro? Get $30 off today.

Our apologies.

Taxes are incredibly complex, so we may not have been able to answer your question in the article. Fortunately, the Pros do have answers. Get $30 off a tax consultation with a licensed CPA or EA, and we’ll be sure to provide you with a robust, bespoke answer to whatever tax problems you may have.

Do you do your own bookkeeping?

There’s an easier way to do bookkeeping..

Taxfyle connects you to a licensed CPA or EA who can take time-consuming bookkeeping work off your hands. Get $30 off today.

Why not upgrade to a licensed, vetted Professional?

When you use Taxfyle, you’re guaranteed an affordable, licensed Professional. With a more secure, easy-to-use platform and an average Pro experience of 12 years, there’s no beating Taxfyle. Get $30 off today.

Are you filing your own taxes?

Do you know if you’re missing out on ways to reduce your tax liability.

Knowing the right forms and documents to claim each credit and deduction is daunting. Luckily, you can get $30 off your tax job.

Get $30 off your tax filing job today and access an affordable, licensed Tax Professional. With a more secure, easy-to-use platform and an average Pro experience of 12 years, there’s no beating Taxfyle.

How is your work-life balance?

Why not spend some of that free time with taxfyle.

When you’re a Pro, you’re able to pick up tax filing, consultation, and bookkeeping jobs on our platform while maintaining your flexibility.

Why not try something new?

Increase your desired income on your desired schedule by using Taxfyle’s platform to pick up tax filing, consultation, and bookkeeping jobs.

Is your firm falling behind during the busy season?

Need an extra hand.

With Taxfyle, your firm can access licensed CPAs and EAs who can prepare and review tax returns for your clients.

Perhaps it’s time to scale up.

We love to hear from firms that have made the busy season work for them–why not use this opportunity to scale up your business and take on more returns using Taxfyle’s network?

by this author

Share this article

Subscribe to taxfyle.

Sign up to hear Taxfye's latest tips.

By clicking subscribe, I agree to Taxfyle's Terms of Service , Privacy Policy , and am opting in to receive marketing emails.

Get our FREE Tax Guide for Individuals

Looking for something else? Check out our other guides here .

By clicking download, I agree to Taxfyle's Terms of Service , Privacy Policy , and am opting in to receive marketing emails.

Taxes & bookkeeping.

Expert advisory.

Trust Taxfyle.

2899 Grand Avenue, Coconut Grove, FL 33133

Copyright © 2024 Tickmark, Inc.

From Beans to Business: How to Craft a Coffee Shop Business Plan

Are you looking to start your own coffee shop? Fantastic . Opening a cafe can be a lucrative investment that can generate anywhere between $50,000 and $250,000 annually ( Hotshot Coffee Sleeves , 2023). But to truly revel in the riches of a vibrant and profitable cafe, your business needs to be built on a robust coffee shop business plan. 

Without a business plan, your journey will be rudderless and you’ll struggle to assess whether the steps you’ve taken have brought you closer to or further away from your goal. 

Direction is crucial and your coffee shop business plan is a roadmap that will propel you to your business objectives whilst minimizing the stress, frustration, and confusion of running a business. 

But why is this important? 

Well here are some important coffee shop stats:

• Around 32% of people purchase coffee from a coffee shop one to three days a week ( Drive Research , 2023)
• There are approximately 38,411 cafes in the USA today ( Statista , 2022)
• 517 million cups of coffee consumed per day ( Coffee Affection , 2023)

The caffeine craze is real. If your cafe fails to meet expectations, your customers will turn to the one across the road. 

In an industry that's flourishing, yet fiercely competitive, we've outlined the important steps that you need to create an effective coffee shop business plan that will keep you on the front foot. 

What is a coffee shop business plan?

A coffee shop business plan serves as a blueprint for your coffee shop venture, outlining your goals, strategies, and the tactics to achieve them. It's a comprehensive document that guides you through every aspect of your business, from conceptualization to execution. 

Luck should not be your crutch, but rather, rational planning and informed decision-making will be the foundation on which your coffee shop's success is built.

The Building Blocks of a Winning Coffee Shop Business Plan

1. creating your coffee shop identity.

With nearly 50% of people between the ages of 18 and 24 drinking coffee, as well as 70% of seniors, coffee has become an integral part of our culture ( Toast , 2023). We don’t have to travel far to satisfy our caffeine cravings, which poses an important question for all coffee shop owners…

Why should customers buy from you?

If you want to stand out from the crowd, you’ll need to create a powerful brand identity that turns heads and pulls people to your cafe. First define your mission and values, and then build your coffee shop's identity around these foundational principles.

What messages do you want to communicate? What purpose do you want your coffee shop to serve for customers? What promises are you making to your customers?

Only once you’ve answered these questions will you be able to tell the story of your brand. 

2. Understanding Your Target Audience

The most successful brands in any industry’s niche understand their customers inside out. It’s one of the prerequisites to success and it’s no different in the coffee industry. The first step is to define your target market . 

Are they young professionals looking for a quick caffeine boost? Or are they more family-oriented? Pinpointing your target demographic will help you tailor the experience to their preferences and set the foundations for a loyal customer base. 

Try to go beneath the surface and investigate A-Z of your target market’s interests, personalities, and preferences. Once gathered, you’ll be able to align this data with your brand identity to create a captivating coffee shop experience that will resonate with your customers. 

3. Crafting a Compelling Menu Design

Your menu design isn’t just a list of food and drink items — it’s a powerful marketing tool used to influence spending decisions and boost profit. The very look and feel of one can set the tone for the cafe experience, either nudging a customer to reach for the muffin, the mocha, or the iced americano, or even leave . 

This means that you should use your menu as an opportunity to:

• Communicate your brand’s story
• Present items in a way that entices orders
• Promote your best products with higher margins
• Promote special offers and deals 

Here are some tips to follow:

• Prioritize readability
• Use the design to reflect your brand personality
• Be descriptive in your copy about your items — specificity drives persuasion
• Highlight potential allergies in item descriptions
• Don’t use dollar signs — studies show that customers are more likely to spend more when they just see the number representing the cost of the item ( Cornell Chronicle , 2009) 

4. Building the Right Interior Design and Ambiance

The most successful cafes are able to strike a balance between functionality and aesthetics to create the ultimate customer experience. It’s an opportunity to bring your brand personality to life and make it resonate with your target market, allowing you to build a loyal customer base that will boost your cash flow. 

Everything from the lighting and colors to materials and furniture will have an effect on the subconscious mind, so it’s crucial that you ensure the ambiance strategically aligns with the character of your brand. 

Here are some key design elements to focus on in your cafe business plan:

• The layout for optimal traffic flow
• Colors and lighting
• Decor and furniture

5. Hiring the Right Talent

Employees are the lifeblood that keeps your business alive. They’re the front line of communication with customers and are responsible for leaving a lasting impression that can either elevate your coffee shop or undermine its success. 

Poor customer service is enough to contaminate your brand image and create friction with your customer base, so it’s absolutely essential that you recruit the right talent . Below are the best practices to follow when hiring staff for your coffee shop.

Define Essential Roles

Identify critical roles for seamless coffee shop operations: skilled baristas, customer-engaging servers, and dedicated kitchen staff. These roles collectively create a stellar customer experience.

Prioritize Skill and Customer Focus

Highlight that your team represents the heart of your coffee shop. Their interactions mold perceptions, foster loyalty, and establish a welcoming atmosphere. Seek communicative, coffee-passionate individuals who value customer connections.

Strengthen Training and Retention

Explain your approach to building well-prepared teams. Outline training that maintains quality and service standards. Showcase your commitment to retention via competitive compensation, growth opportunities, and nurturing a positive workplace culture.

Note: Want a more efficient way of managing your workforce? Check out our coffee shop payroll and workforce management software to optimize employee management. 

6. Developing an Effective Marketing Strategy

A powerful marketing strategy is the bedrock of any successful coffee business. And being in the digital age, where people see anywhere between 4,000 and 10,000 ads per day, it’s crucial that your coffee shop’s messaging is strategically positioned to resonate and capture the attention of your customers. 

Without this, your coffee shop will struggle to be seen and you’ll feel the pressure of an inconsistent cash flow that will only guarantee stress. Below are the most important marketing tactics to include in your coffee business plan to accelerate growth. 

Include Your Plan for Reaching Your Target Audience

Outline the avenues through which you'll engage your intended customers. Define demographics, preferences, and behaviors to tailor your approach effectively. Whether it's young professionals, students, or families, your strategy should resonate with your audience.

Optimize Local SEO

If someone in the area is looking for a coffee shop, you want to be one of the first listings that appear. Optimizing your Google My Business Profile is a cost-effective and guaranteed way to put your business on the map (quite literally), getting more customers through the front door.

Here’s how to optimize your profile:

• Include target keywords 
• Gather 100+ citations 
• Ask for ratings from customers
• Have high-quality photos of your cafe 
• Portray brand personality in your description
• Include an updated menu with prices

Leverage Social Media, Local Events, and Collaborations

Leverage the power of social media platforms to showcase your coffee shop's uniqueness. Engage customers through captivating content, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and interactive posts. Additionally, tap into local events, festivals, and collaborations to introduce your coffee shop to a wider audience and build community relationships. ‍

Final Thoughts on Crafting a Coffee Shop Business Plan

Brewing the perfect cup of coffee won’t be enough to keep you at the forefront of today’s competitive and crowded coffee shop marketplace. It's crucial that you have a robust coffee shop business plan to build your unique identity, connect with your audience, and carve out a lasting niche in this bustling landscape.

By investing in a rigorous coffee shop business plan, not only will you remain competitive, but you’ll maximize your chances of creating a thriving coffee business with a loyal customer base that becomes the heartbeat of a vibrant community, rewarding you with more than just money. 

Want a fast and easier way of managing your coffee business?

Then book your free demo now to organize your workforce management in one place and eliminate the headaches of HR, payroll, scheduling, and so much more!

Table of content

You Might Also Like

6 Creative Coffee Concoctions

Refresh Your Menu: How to Make Iced Matcha for Your Startup Cafe

How to Design a Coffee Shop: A Balanced Blend of Tips and Strategies

Want to know more about how you could work more in on your business, save money with this easy all-in-one restaurant management tool, faster ‍ payroll and onboarding, hours saved ‍ per week, saved on labor costs, don't take our word for it, hear what our customers have to say.

“In the labor numbers, we were reporting about a $300 to $400 difference than what we were getting through Push!” ‍

‍ -Tara Hardie, ZZA Hospitality Group, 16 locations

Easily and quickly scale your restaurant with the all-in-one solution

Coffee Shop Business Plan

According to Statista, Americans consumed 26.5 million 60-kilogram coffee bags from 2018 to 2019. More than half of the US citizens relish the joy of good caffeine on a daily basis, which makes coffee shops a prominent deal in the country. This also makes a viable business venture. However, the question lies in whether or not you’ll make it as a coffee shop owner. Strategize your success with a reliable coffee shop business plan . This allows you to establish a formidable startup cafe through rigorous research and a thorough understanding of your objectives. Learn more about this in the article below.

6+ Coffee Shop Business Plan Examples

1. coffee shop business plan.

• Google Docs
• Apple Pages

Size: A4 & US

2. Coffee Shop Business Plan

Size: 250 KB

3. Sample Coffee Shop Business Plan

4. Coffee Shop Business Plan Example

Size: 96 KB

5. Coffee House Business Plan

Size: 578 KB

6. Coffee Shop Business Project Plan

Size: 702 KB

7. Printable Coffee Shop Business Plan

Size: 492 KB

What Is a Coffee Shop Business Plan?

A coffee shop business plan presents a comprehensive description of an entrepreneur’s cafe idea and plans to establish its operation. It provides a detailed account of the business sales and marketing ideas, competition evaluation reports , financial projections, and the nature of its services. On some occasions, a consulting business plan is presented by the owner to a prospective partner or investor in hopes of a sponsorship.

Why Have a Business Plan?

If you’re a startup in the cafe business, would you like to direct your focus first towards completing a load of paper works and research a.k.a your business plan? For most small-time business owners, it’s about getting things done head-on and directly setting up a small establishment, getting all the products in place, and waiting for the customers to start trickling in. Sometimes, it turns out well, but without a concrete sales and marketing business plan in place, it could result in the worst.

So, why have a business plan?

A business plan keeps everything organized. It helps you determine every detail of your business matters and helps you set up a process that will cater to them. This way, you won’t miss out on any requirements. This also helps you thrive in a competitive market because this demands you to look into your target market and the rest of your competition. Because a business plan requires you to oversee a financial analysis , this reduces the risk of you losing your funds because this helps you allocate your finances properly.

How to Make a Coffee Shop Business Plan

The coffee shop industry in the United States amounted to $47.5 billion in 2019 . This is a 3.3% increase from its rate in the previous year, which costs $45.4 billion. The coffee shop industry is steadily growing, with over 35,000 shops nationwide. Jumping into this massive and lucrative market will prove to be a struggle, especially when there are giant brands already in place. The only thing you can rely on to set you up to succeed has a well-prepared business plan. If you’re still learning how to do so, you might find the following guidelines helpful:

1. Commence with a Goal

There is never a plan without an objective. Your goals will serve as your plan’s pathway towards its success. Knowing where you want your business to end up will provide you with cues on how you’ll be able to make it happen. Start your plan by establishing a business goal-setting . Ask yourself how you want to see your coffee shop grow in a few years. To ensure that you’re treading on the right goals, make them SMART: specific, measurable, actionable, realistic, and timely. These criteria will help you craft an action plan that you can execute on a timeline.

2. Study Your Target Market and Competition

In any business venture across all industries, two points of view can greatly affect the way you do your business: your target market and your competition’s standard. These matters take a huge spot on your business plan, so be sure to work on them during the process. Observe your competitor’s strategy and identify their strengths and weaknesses. Then, assess your own through a SWOT analysis and compare how you’ll be able to top their performance in the field. As for your target market, it’s always best to employ a market analysis to understand what affects their purchasing behaviors and what strategies and trends rank best on their preferences.

3. Map a Marketing Strategy

Your marketing strategy is the result of your competition and market research plan . This will tell you how you’ll sell your product’s best and how you will introduce your establishment to the market. This is where your advertising plans and special promotions belong. If you’ve been in the business for decades and would want to upgrade into a more modern coffee shop image, this plan would undoubtedly be discussed under your marketing plan’s strategy.

4. Have a Financial Plan in Place

Now that you’ve studied deep into your marketing and sales, as well as your business objectives, it’s time to settle your financial plan . Your business plan’s financial aspect should help you decide how your funds will be circulated to meet the needs of the business. This will include resources, lease payments, maintenance fees, and daily operational expenses. This will also include your projected profit increase and the details of your cash flow . If you got a bank loan to fund your entrepreneurial venture, your debt should take a significant place in the equation. This helps you plan money matters so you can efficiently manage them while you run the business.

5. Prepare Your Executive Summary Last

A business plan’s executive summary is on the first part of the document, as this will showcase a comprehensive review of your entire plan’s content. By order of succession, an executive summary should be taken care of first, but this could be impractical. You’ll fail at adding all relevant information on your summary without first completing the rest of the parts. Be sure to make your summary appealing because it will be the first thing your audience will see. This will be your plan’s hook if you opt to gather the attention of prospective partners and investors.

What are the different types of business plans?

The different types of business plans are:

• Startup Business Plan
• Traditional Business Plan
• Strategic Business Plan
• Growth Business Plan
• Feasibility Business Plan
• Operation Business Plan

What are the different parts of a business plan?

A business plan has seven essential parts. They are as follows:

• Executive summary
• Business synopsis
• Product and service description
• Marketing analysis
• Sales and marketing strategy
• Organization and operation
• Financial plan

What are the characteristics of a good business plan?

According to Chron, a good business plan has:

• Ample significant information on financial matters
• Clear identification of the business’ industry
• Inclusion of the operational and management features
• Information on how the business’ sales and marketing will function

With coffee being almost everyone’s morning energizer, go-to first date order, and late-night companion, it comes with no surprise that coffee shops and their ultra-relaxing ambiance are a huge hit. If you aspire to start your own neighborhood coffee shop, success shouldn’t be a daydream you play in your head over and over again; act on your objectives. Have a reliable coffee shop business plan to back you up. You won’t need to bother starting from scratch because our business plan template collection is here for you. Download now!

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Create a study plan for final exams in high school

Develop a project timeline for a middle school science fair.

Sling is now Sling by Toast! Learn more

More Features

• Restaurants
• Get Started

How To Write a Coffee Shop Business Plan: Step by Step

• Templates & Guides

Want to open a coffee shop of your very own? Give it the best chance for success by writing a coffee shop business plan.

But, what exactly is a business plan, why do you need one, and what’s the best way to make such a plan?

In this article, we discuss the answers to those questions and how the right technology can help you run things smoothly once your coffee shop business plan becomes a reality.

Table of contents

What is a coffee shop business plan, do you need a coffee shop business plan, creating a coffee shop business plan.

A coffee shop business plan is a written document that describes:

• The nature of the business
• How the business is organized
• The business’s financial projections
• Goals the business would like to reach
• Strategies for reaching those goals
• The time frame for reaching those goals

In essence, a coffee shop business plan is a roadmap that provides structure and direction to an as-yet unformed operation.

Many first-time, prospective entrepreneurs wonder if they really need a business plan to get started. The answer is yes .

Without a business plan, it will be very difficult — some would say impossible — to get a loan from a bank or funding from an investor.

But, even if funding isn’t a major concern right now, a business plan provides clear direction on how you intend to get where you’re going and how to make your new endeavor a success .

Sure, we’ve all taken a road trip (or gone traveling) without a map or a plan, and sometimes that can be fun.

Starting a new business, though, demands much more of an investment than just picking a direction and heading out. Starting a new business can occupy all of your time, money, and energy for years to come, so you don’t want to commit yourself without a plan.

That’s what the coffee shop business plan is: a map to help you keep moving in the right direction when things are going smoothly and to show you how to get back on track when they aren’t.

As you get started writing your very own business plan, keep in mind that the document you produce doesn’t have to be the final draft right away, nor does it have to include every single detail about your business.

Yes, some business plans are hundreds of pages long. Yours may reach that level in the end, but don’t allow that fact to overwhelm you now or stop you from getting started.

Get the information on the page to the best of your ability, and then go back and edit as needed to make it the best it can be. A business plan is a living document that may change as your business grows. But it and your business can’t go anywhere until you write your first draft.

Here’s how to get started.

Step #1: Ask and answer questions

As we mentioned, some business plans can be chock-full of details and facts about the business itself, and many first-time owners wonder where all that information comes from.

The answer is simple: The details in your business plan are basically answers to questions you and anyone else may have about how to go about transforming your idea into reality.

Before you write one word, sit down and consider all of the questions you have about what you’re getting into.

For example, you may ask yourself:

• Who will run the business?
• What makes that person qualified to do so?
• What niche will the business fill?
• Who are the business’s target customers ?
• How will the business market and sell its food and beverage to them?
• What is the size of the market you intend to sell to?
• What is the business model for the business?
• How will the business make money?
• Who are the competitors?
• How will the business compete?
• Will the business have an advantage over the competition?
• How does the business plan to manage growth?
• What are the risks and threats confronting the business?
• What can you do to mitigate those risks and threats?
• What are the business’s financial requirements?

Go through the list and answer as many of those questions as you can in whatever level of detail you can muster.

The nice thing about starting with this step (instead of jumping right into word one of the main sections of the plan) is that you can use the answers you generate as the basis for what comes next.

Step #2: Write an executive summary

While the other sections in your coffee shop business plan can go in any order you choose, the first section should always be the Executive Summary.

This section gives a brief overview of the main elements of the coffee shop you plan on running, including:

• Overhead costs
• Labor costs
• Return on investment (ROI)

Keep in mind that this information is here at the start to give readers a quick introduction to the plan. If they want more detail, they can read on.

It’s also important to remember that you’ll likely repeat much of the information in the executive summary later on in your business plan.

That’s OK. You won’t be penalized if a reader finds the exact same details elsewhere in your document.

Step #3: Describe your company

Next, write a description of your company. More specifically, write about the who, what, why, where, and how of your coffee shop.

View the Business Description section as the physical details about the business you intend to run, including:

• Business name
• Your experience
• Contact information
• Partners involved (if any)
• The tax status of the business (e.g., sole proprietor, LLC/LLP, S-Corp)
• Intended or existing location of your coffee shop

It can also be helpful to include a brief mention of your coffee shop’s short- and long-term goals as well as your plan for achieving those goals.

Step #4: Conduct a market analysis

The next section to include in your coffee shop business plan is Market Analysis.

Most market analyses describe three distinct views of the business:

• The industry as a whole (in this case, the coffee shop industry)
• The competition your coffee shop will face (e.g. other shops in the area)
• The marketing you’ll execute to bring in customers

As with the previous two sections, the Market Analysis section can be a relatively brief discussion of these three concepts.

As your coffee shop business grows, you can add sections that address those concepts in more detail later on.

Step #5: Explain your coffee shop’s financials

Both you and your investors are going to want to know how much money it’s going to take to get the coffee shop set up, running, and turning a profit. That’s where the Financials section comes in.

While brevity is important (if not mandatory) in the first few sections on this list, when you explain your coffee shop’s financials, you want to be as detailed as possible.

This is especially true if you hope to secure bank funding or get involved with investors.

To provide the level of detail you need to make the Financials section as complete as possible, consider hiring an accountant to help you prepare this section so that it will be as accurate as possible.

Taking advantage of technology

As you research and write your coffee shop business plan, include information about the technology you’ll use to help run your business.

More specifically, find a software suite that makes it easier to manage and optimize your team.

The Sling app , for example, includes a long list of tools to help make your workforce management as efficient and productive as possible, including:

• Advanced employee scheduling
• Integrated time clock
• Comprehensive communication
• Flexible task management
• And much more

Try Sling for free today to get a better idea of the many ways it can help you once your coffee shop business plan becomes a reality.

Then, for further business management resources, help scheduling your employees, and tips for getting the most out of your team, visit GetSling.com today.

See Here For Last Updated Dates: Link

This content is for informational purposes and is not intended as legal, tax, HR, or any other professional advice. Please contact an attorney or other professional for specific advice.

Find the article useful? Share with others:

Related articles

How To Start A Coffee Shop | A Detailed Guide

What do you get when you cross a tireless entrepreneurial spirit with a love for...

Restaurant Business Plan: What To Include, Plus 8 Examples

Do you want to ensure the success of your new foodservice endeavor? Write a rest...

Food Truck Business Plan: The Beginner’s Guide For Success

Do you want to give your new mobile eatery the best chance for success? Write a ...

Get started today

Schedule faster, communicate better, get things done.

13 Tips to Open a Successful Coffee Shop

Candice Landau

12 min. read

Updated May 10, 2024

Free Download:  Sample Coffee Shop Business Plan Templates

Worldwide, experts estimate that people drink about 2.5 billion cups of coffee a day. Sales in the ready-to-drink market—which includes coffee shops—are forecast to grow by 67 percent between now and 2022.

Additionally, coffee and other ready-to-drink shops show incredible resilience in volatile markets, helping to eliminate some of the uncertainty associated with small business ownership.

If you’ve been thinking of combining your love of coffee with your entrepreneurial spirit, you may want to open a coffee shop.

• What You Need to Open a Coffee Shop

Aside from a love of that sweet java, you’ll want to get a few things in order to get your shop up and running. To help with this, Jack Wilson, owner of Radio Coffee and Beer in Austin, Texas, and Marc Renson, owner of Ambition Bistro in Schenectady, New York, stepped away from brewing and serving to offer 13 tips to prospective owners. Here’s what they recommend you consider when starting a coffee shop:

• Write a business plan
• Find the right location
• Develop a floor plan
• Hire an accountant
• Find local funding options
• Save money for your personal expenses
• Compare prices and quality on everything
• Network with lenders and other coffee makers
• Develop your marketing plan
• Focus on the Exterior
• Remain positive
• Hire slowly
• Set high standards

Brought to you by

Create a professional business plan

Using ai and step-by-step instructions.

Secure funding

Validate ideas

Build a strategy

• 1. Write a business plan for your coffee shop

One of the most vital steps you’ll take toward starting your coffee shop is to write a business plan. This document spells out:

• What your business is and who it serves
• How it will be profitable
• Your target market (primary customer demographics)
• Your competitors
• Sales and revenue projections
• Milestones and goals

Keep your business plan lean

Before you dive into creating a traditional, long-form business plan, we recommend creating a one-page pitch. This will allow you to quickly validate your business idea and get a good sense of who your market is, how you’re going to reach them, and find ways to differentiate yourself from your competitors. Will you serve pour-overs exclusively? Will you only use high-end coffee grinders and bean varieties? Will you include baked goods on your menu as well?

Similar to a thorough executive summary, this one-page pitch or plan  is a faster, more efficient way to plan your business.

Browse our free coffee shop sample business plans

Need help getting started? Check out our business plan templates for guidance. They’re free real-world examples for you to work from and are available to download and edit as Word documents. Whether you’re starting a little coffee and internet café or a coffee house bistro, there’s a business plan template—a sample business plan—to suit your coffee shop needs.

Coffee Kiosk Business Plan

Read how The Daily Perc opened drive-thru and mobile coffee stands, serving coffee drinks and other beverages to their target market: daily commuters and captive consumers.

Coffeehouse Business Plan

This sample business plan describes how Dark Roast Java attracted a diverse clientele with its Mediterranean art glass decor.

Internet Cafe Business Plan

The JavaNet Internet Cafe was a true visionary business sample plan when it was written, and with most coffee houses adopting some form of this plan, it’s obvious that it was an idea ahead of its time.

Cafe Bistro Coffeehouse Business Plan

The Watertower Cafe sample business plan describes how the cafe will establish itself as a “destination” of choice to the many residents of the greater Atlanta metropolitan area, as well as numerous out-of-town visitors by providing affordable high-quality food, coffee-based products, and entertainment.

Coffee Roaster Business Plan

Beanisimo Coffee is a startup coffee roaster in Salem, Oregon. Founder Frank Jones aims to bring old-world Italian traditions and recipes to meet the market need for premium coffees. His target market is coffee houses, restaurants, and grocery stores.

The key to making a sample business plan useful is to take the time to modify it so it’s right for your business. A lot of the benefit of creating a business plan is in the process of thinking through each part of the plan. Not sure if you need a plan? Check out this article on reasons why having a business plan is important.

• 2. Find the best location for your coffee shop

To be successful, you need the right location for your coffee shop. You want something that fits the following parameters:

• Centrally located and easy to access
• Highly visible and experiences consistent foot traffic
• A space that fits your vision

Jack Wilson, the owner of Radio Coffee and Beer, warns that finding this dream spot won’t happen overnight.

His team scoured city after city, scouting each location, even going so far as to count pedestrian traffic by hand. He was looking for a former restaurant space, so he didn’t have to remodel everything from scratch. Finally, one day when he dropped his keys on the sidewalk he noticed a tiny “for sale” sign in a former tavern window. After months of searching, he’d found his spot.

Keep in mind that effective restaurant spaces are highly sought after and difficult to find. It may take a while to find just the right spot, but for a business type that benefits from ease of access and casual traffic, it’s worth taking your time to find the right spot.

• 3. Create a floor plan

A solid and welcoming floor plan is vital for a coffee shop. You want customers to have space to form a line, employees to have the materials they need within reach for quick access and a comfortable seating area. As with finding a location, it will take some time to produce a good floor plan.

According to Wilson you should, “walk yourself through every scenario you can think of,” he says. “If you’re making coffee, what needs to be near you? If you’re a customer, what do you want in a seating area? Visualize everything you can and start putting those ideas down on paper.”

Design your cafe floor plan online

Here are a few free websites you can use to kickstart your planning process. Once you’ve drawn up an initial sketch on paper, get online and make it a reality.

Autodesk Homestyler (free): This is probably my favorite option. You can either start designing your floor from scratch or choose from a gallery of designs to personalize with your own look and feel. In fact, there’s even an option to experiment with real-world products and brands. When you’re done, you’ll be able to share the design as part of your planning process. It can even be used as part of your pitch to potential investors.

Floorplanner: This software is clean and simple to use, with plenty of drag-and-drop furniture and other items to fill out your design. It allows for both 2-D and 3-D visualization of your designs and can be easily printed out if needed.

Gliffy: While it may not be the go-to floor plan solution, I’ve included Gliffy on this list anyway, due to it being a well-known diagram and flowchart application. If you’ve used it before, you may want to give it a try to minimize the learning curve and jump right into designing. While you’re at it, you can even plot out your SWOT analysis.

• 4. Hire an accountant

One of the best pieces of advice Wilson says he can offer a new coffee shop owner is to turn your books over to an accountant. Aside from taking valuable time away from the business, having a numbers expert works in your favor.

“You won’t be as hard on yourself as you sometimes might need to be,” Wilson says. “Plus, you will make assumptions that an accountant wouldn’t make.”

In reality, your accountant is really your small business consultant. Make sure you find someone who believes in you and can help accomplish your business goals. If you’re unable to hire an accountant right away, you can also look to an online option like QuickBooks . The benefit of online accounting software is that you’ll have direct visibility into the day-to-day finances of your business.

Both are great options for managing your finances, and the decision fully depends on your situation and level of expertise.

• 5. Attain funding from local sources

Finding startup funds for a coffee shop can be difficult. Renson suggests talking with friends and family about investing in your coffee shop first. Present a solid business plan to them and ask them to invest in your business.

If funding via your family isn’t an option, or if you need more cash than your family can provide, Renson suggests looking into local loan options. In some cases, cities offer business assistance programs to offset costs. Consider an SBA-backed loan or see if a local bank or credit union is an option. Keep in mind that any bank loan will require you to show evidence that your business has some traction already. They want to know you’re a reasonable risk. So if you’re not up and running yet, there are other options for bootstrapping your business that you might consider.

• 6. Save money for your personal expenses

When identifying startup costs , don’t forget that you need to consider your own personal expenses alongside your business. All of your time and energy will be devoted to your new business, which potentially won’t be profitable for around six-months, even if you start bringing in revenue immediately.

So, plan ahead. Renson suggests making sure you set aside enough money to cover your personal expenses for at least six months if not longer. You’ll need to decide whether it’s possible to run your coffee shop while working another job or side gig or if you’ll be able to solely focus on your new business.

You will also want to understand the concept of cash flow . Considering that over half of the businesses that fail are profitable on paper when they fail, you’ll want to be sure you understand how much cash you’ll need on hand.

• 7. Shop around for everything

While you’re in the planning and funding stages and working through your finances,  keep a list or spreadsheet of all the startup expenses you’re looking at so you can compare prices.

Before you buy, try to get at least two price quotes for every item so you’re not losing money on basic necessities or recurring costs. Use the internet to your advantage and look for the best prices on everything from comfy chairs to espresso machines.

• 8. Network your heart out

Having a hot location and brewing superior coffee will only get you so far. You need to network to maintain a connection to the area and to attract more customers. Look into joining the local chamber of commerce, a business association, or partner with a local charity. Be visible in your local community and get dedicated partners long before you open your doors.

9. Develop your marketing plan — before you open

If you start marketing the day you open, you’re already behind. On opening day , you want people excited to come in. You’ll want to develop your marketing strategy and begin advertising to potential customers several months before opening.

Affordable marketing options to consider:

• Partner with other local businesses by providing free coffee in exchange for on-site advertising.
• Leverage social media as direct communication with your customers.
• Participate in local events, providing free specialty coffee samples leading up to your grand opening.
• Do a small direct mail or email campaign that sends coupons to local residents or businesses.
• Call everyone, including the media, to tell them about your plans to open the shop.

10. Don’t just focus on the interior of the building

It’s likely that you’ll stress over every little detail of your shop, from what paintings to hang on the wall to the point of sale system (POS System) you’ll use. That being said, it can be very easy to ignore the exterior of your shop or coffee cart which directly contrasts with choosing a location with heavy foot traffic.

According to Wilson, you’ll want to “pay attention to the landscaping, signage, and exterior appearance because that’s the first thing people see.” Some people decide whether or not to come in based on their first impression of the building, so make it count.

By creating a clean and unique exterior, you’ll begin to create a buzz in your community. People will start to wonder, who is setting up shop there? Every little thing you can do to attract attention to your coffee shop can serve as a marketing tool.

• 11. Have a positive attitude

Like every business, you’ll face challenges to get your shop off the ground. Renson says keeping a positive attitude when things aren’t going your way is a must. Not only does it benefit your outlook, but it showcases strong leadership to your employees and a welcoming presence for customers.

Fake it if you have to. If you get in the habit of keeping an optimistic attitude, even if it’s less than genuine to start, you’ll eventually teach yourself to stay upbeat and will keep those around you optimistic and ready to work.

• 12. Hire slowly

You need help manning the register, waiting on customers, and making drinks, but don’t hire too many people too fast. Renson suggests hiring a few friends, or neighbors who will volunteer to help you out for the first few weeks. Slowly, bring on staff as needed.

Hiring trusted staff can be tough. No matter how well someone does in an interview, you don’t know how well he or she fits until they’re on the floor. Keep a close eye on the register, Renson suggests, and don’t be afraid to let people go if they are hurting the business.

• 13. Set high standards

It’s okay to set high standards for your employees and overall business. That’s not to say that you should micromanage your employees. You’ll want to focus on effectively training your staff at the start and building an effective workflow that encourages collaboration and high-quality work. Their ability to make good coffee drinks quickly will have an impact on customer loyalty and satisfaction.

Starting an independent coffee shop is hard work, but that doesn’t mean it has to be a long-term struggle. If you focus on establishing these core pieces while developing your coffee shop business plan, you’ll set yourself up for success early on.

Candice Landau is a marketing consultant with a background in web design and copywriting. She specializes in content strategy, copywriting, website design, and digital marketing for a wide-range of clients including digital marketing agencies and nonprofits.

Table of Contents

• 9. Develop your marketing plan — before you open
• 10. Don’t just focus on the interior of the building

Related Articles

8 Min. Read

How To Transition From Corporate To Consultant and Win Your First Client

19 Min. Read

How to Start a Catering Business

How to Start a Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) Business

How to Start a Food Pantry in Your Community

The LivePlan Newsletter

Become a smarter, more strategic entrepreneur.

Your first monthly newsetter will be delivered soon..

Unsubscribe anytime. Privacy policy .

The quickest way to turn a business idea into a business plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

No thanks, I prefer writing 40-page documents.

Discover the world’s #1 plan building software