Where to start? I want to start a coffee shop!

We started this page because many people ask us where to start when opening a coffee shop. What is the first step? Who to contact first? This is a tricky question because it depends on your circumstances but we try to answer it the best we can.

The first thing is obviously to think real hard. Ask yourself why you want to open a coffee shop. Is is because you like coffee? Or is it because you want to be independent? Are you making it sound better than it might be? Do you really understand the hard work that it involves and the hours it takes? Are you sure that you want to make coffee all day and deal with staff issues? If your answer is a definite yes, then GREAT.

We recommend to find a good location first. Think about the size that you are looking for and go out and look for the To Let signs above the shops. Decide on a town or region and research. Then research some more!

Make sure that you are absolutely 100% happy with the location because it's quite hard to change. And the location is key!

After you have found a good location, work on business plan and you could do the following:

1) Accountant

Your accountant is helpful at the beginning with setting up the right style of company. Accountants are usually very helpful people.


2) Bank Manager

Ensure your finance and set up your business banking. Work out the good deals and build a good relationship with your bank manager.


3) Solicitor

Time to see the solicitor. Your solicitor is very helpful for negotiations with your landlord.


4) Landlord

The landlord can be time consuming. It takes a lot of negotiating to get to a good agreement. Do not settle to quickly.


5) Council for planning

Don't wait to long with this. Councils are usually not the quickest so contact the council as soon as possible regarding any permissions such as outside seating.


6) Shop Fitters or Architect

A very important contact. Find someone who you feel very comfortable with. This doesn't have to cost too much, you might be able to do a lot of the work yourself.


7) Suppliers & Consultants

Very important obviously. Suppliers can be contacted throughout the whole procedure. Barista training should be done long before opening and it is really recommended to talk to people who deal a lot with coffee shops, such as barista trainers.

Remember: this is just a suggestion!