How To Open A Coffee Shop

For people who prefer to be their own boss and be in control of their salary, learning how to open a coffee shop may be just the right thing to do. Although the streets are lined with Starbucks and a myriad of other coffee shops, there's always room for a small, intimate coffee shop with sofas and tables for lounging. Add in a few nights of open mike, karaoke, or acoustic guitar and you'll have built in regulars who will support your coffee shop over the conglomerates.

1. You shouldn't open a coffee shop without having a strong, well written business plan. Besides laying a sketch of your business idea, a business plan should detail what the goals for the coffee shop are and when you expect to reach them. Put a lot of thought into your business plan as anyone who is interested in investing to get your started is going to want to review it.
2. Figure out how much money you'll need to open a coffee shop. Figure in rent, utilities, and equipment along with salaries and supplies. If your coffee shop is small enough, you might be able to get away with just one employee besides you. Buy the best coffee brewers, cups, and, of course, coffee you can find. You want to make an impression of quality on your customers. A good bone china coffee cup will make your shop stand out above the competition.
3. Obtain financing if needed. Approach friends and family members only if you're on good terms and know they may be in a position to help. People may feel funny about being approached with your new idea, so select your potential financiers carefully.
4. Once you have some money in hand, rent a location for your cafe. Choose a location that has good walk-in traffic and good ingress and egress from the parking lot. Locating your coffee shop by a college will give you built in clientele.
5. Before you open your cafe to the masses, hold a few 'friends and family' nights so that you can work out any kinks. Ask everyone what their honest opinion of the coffee, service, and cafe is and listen carefully. Make any necessary changes before holding your grand opening.