How much does it cost to start a coffee shop?

This is not exactly easy to answer as it will depend a lot on the size and standard of your coffee shop. However, most people who start a coffee shop which will be around 50 to 60 sqm and has 40 to 60 covers will spend around £30k. 

The lowest amount you could probably get away with is £20k. A big coffee shop on the high street could easily cost you £50k and of course you could spend even more if you want to. 

Think about your return on investment and keep your cost down whenever you can. Spend your money on the right things and focus on what is important to you.

The important thing is to put your heart into it and try to do most of the work yourself. Find local builders and do good research before you make any decision. 

You can purchase lease equipment to keep the initial cost down. Most espresso machines can be leased for about £5 per day. A full setup of espresso equipment could cost £4k to £10k for a high quality espresso machine and grinder so leasing might be a good option to keep your initial cost down. 

Initial cost for the lease (rent) could also take up a large part of your budget. See if you can get a rent-free period. 

Some examples of cost

These are just rough estimates and there will be many more things to spend your money on but we hope it gives you a rough idea.

  • £2,500 - £10,000 for espresso equipment
  • £1,000 - £2,500 for dishwashers
  • £1,000 - £2,000 for flooring
  • £500 - £2,000 for ceiling
  • £100 - £500 for painting
  • £500+ general building work
  • £500 - £3,000 for AC
  • £250 - £1,000 for crockery
  • £250 - £2,000 for a till
  • £500 - £1,500 for accountancy
  • £500 - £2,000 for solicitor
  • £500 - £1,500 for insurance
  • £1,000 - £3,000 for initial stock
  • £100 - £2,000 for signs and marketing
  • plus working capital, deposit, rent, rates, planning applications, change of use, professional advice etc etc

Always have a contingency budget, somewhere around 20%. And ensure that you have a working capital when you open your doors. Also remember that you are paying out quite a bit of VAT and it might take a while before you can reclaim this.

Please do your research carefully and don't forget every fork and tea spoon. It all adds up. 
OMG! I would not be opening a coffe shop if it wasn't for these guys! My coffee course was so informative and interesting, well done Stu, and the after care and service has been second to none! Youri and Samantha were so interested in my business it was a joy to talk to them and Bex always answers my desperate calls with such a lovely happy voice! All I can say is thanks and any time you're up my way, you better call in! Thank you so much. SJ xx