What Do You Need To Open A Coffee Shop

Opening a coffee shop is an exciting venture — but behind every perfectly poured latte is a lot of planning, preparation, and the right equipment.

1. A clear business plan 

Your target market (students, commuters, remote workers, etc.)

Menu concepts (espresso drinks, cold brew, specialty teas, pastries)

Startup costs and funding plan

Pricing strategy

Competitor research

2. The right location 

High footfall (near offices, schools or shops)

Good visibility from the street 

Adequate parking

Affordable rent relative to sales 

3. Quality Equipment 

To serve consistently great coffee, invest in the right tools:

1. Espresso machine & grinder
2. Water softener
3. Drip brewer or pour-over setup
4. Coffee scales & tampers
5. Commercial refrigerator & freezer
6. POS (point-of-sale) system

4. Coffee & Supplies 

Work with trusted roasters with sustainable and ethical backgrounds. Stock essentials like:

• High-quality coffee beans

• Tea selection

• Milk & alternative milk options

• Syrups and flavorings

• Cups, lids, stirrers, napkins

If you’re building your own brand, white label coffee packaging bags can make your retail sales stand out while keeping beans fresh.

5. Brand and Menu Design 

Your brand is more than just a logo — it’s the story you tell:

• A memorable name and visual identity

• Menu design that reflects your concept

• Consistent color scheme and tone of voice

Packaging tip: Even your retail coffee bags should reflect your café’s personality — clean, stylish designs leave a lasting impression.

6. Staff & Training 

Hiring baristas who are passionate about coffee (and great with customers) is key. Provide:

• Coffee preparation training

• Customer service guidelines

• Food safety education

A knowledgeable team can turn first-time visitors into loyal regulars.

Opening a coffee shop takes dedication, planning, and investment — but with the right foundation, you can build a space people love to visit. From securing your licenses to choosing the perfect coffee packaging, every detail matters.

And if you need premium, customizable coffee packaging bags to sell your beans in-store or online, check out our Coffee Packaging Collection. Our bags keep your coffee fresh and help your brand shine.