1. Executive Summary
This brief overview introduces your café’s:
- Name and concept
- Location
- Target market
- Mission and vision
- Funding needs
It should summarise your business idea and catch the interest of investors or lenders.
2. Business Description
Detail your café’s:
- Type (coffee shop, bakery café, vegan café, etc.)
- USP (unique selling point)—e.g., organic, locally sourced, themed décor
- Ownership structure (sole trader, partnership, limited company)
3. Market Analysis
Include:
- Market size and growth trends in the café industry
- Competitor analysis (local cafés, chains, mobile coffee units)
- SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats)
- Customer demographics and preferences
4. Target Audience
Define your ideal customers:
- Age, income, lifestyle
- Occupation (students, professionals, families)
- Habits (takeaway vs. dine-in, peak hours, dietary preferences)
5. Menu and Services
Outline your menu offering:
- Core products (coffee, tea, pastries, sandwiches)
- Specialty items (gluten-free, vegan, seasonal)
- Services (Wi-Fi, loyalty cards, takeaway, catering)
6. Location and Premises
Describe:
- Proposed location and why it was chosen
- Foot traffic, nearby businesses, parking access
- Lease or ownership status
- Seating capacity and layout
7. Branding and Marketing Strategy
Explain how you’ll build awareness and attract customers:
- Name, logo, colour scheme, and atmosphere
- Online presence (website, Instagram, Google Maps)
- Local advertising, events, loyalty programmes
- Launch promotions
8. Operations Plan
Include:
- Opening hours
- Supply chain (coffee roasters, bakery vendors)
- Daily operations, inventory management, hygiene standards
- Health and safety compliance
9. Staffing Plan
Outline your team structure:
- Roles (baristas, chefs, manager, cleaner)
- Recruitment plan
- Training and staff retention strategy
- Payroll and HR policies
10. Equipment and Fit-Out
List your equipment needs:
- Espresso machines, grinders, fridges, ovens, POS systems
- Furniture, signage, kitchenware
- Estimated cost of fit-out and setup
11. Legal and Compliance
Cover:
- Licences (food hygiene, alcohol, music)
- Business insurance (public liability, employer’s liability)
- GDPR and data handling (for customer emails)
12. Sustainability Measures (Optional)
Mention eco-friendly practices:
- Compostable packaging
- Waste reduction
- Local supplier partnerships
This appeals to environmentally-conscious consumers.
13. Financial Projections
Include:
- Startup costs
- Sales forecasts (daily/weekly turnover)
- Monthly expenses (rent, wages, supplies)
- Break-even analysis
- 3-year profit and loss projection
14. Funding Requirements
Explain how much funding you need:
- Amount and what it covers
- Loan vs investment
- Repayment strategy or investor return timeline
Include existing contributions or grant applications.
15. Appendices
Attach supporting materials:
- Sample menu
- Floor plan
- Market research data
- Supplier quotes
- CVs of key team members
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How much money do I need to start a café in the UK?
Startup costs range from £15,000 to £100,000+ depending on size, location, and concept.
Q2: Do I need a business plan to get funding?
Yes. Banks, investors, and grant agencies require a detailed plan before approving finance.
Q3: How do I forecast café sales?
Base estimates on foot traffic, pricing, hours of operation, and industry averages.
Q4: Is a café a profitable business?
Yes, with good location, strong branding, and efficient operations, cafés can be very profitable.
Q5: What licences do I need to open a café?
You’ll need food business registration, liability insurance, and possibly alcohol or music licences depending on your offerings.
Q6: Should I consider a mobile café instead?
A mobile café has lower startup costs and more flexibility—ideal for testing the market or reaching specific locations.
Conclusion
Creating a strong café business plan is the first step toward a successful coffee venture in 2025. By covering all critical elements—from your concept and market to finances and compliance—you’ll give your café the foundation it needs to thrive.