1. Average Cost to Open a Cafe in the UK
Opening a cafe in the UK typically costs between £20,000 and £100,000+, depending on location, size, concept, and whether you’re leasing, buying, or starting from scratch.
2. Premises and Fit-Out Costs
- Rent deposit and first month: £3,000–£10,000+
- Shopfitting and renovations: £5,000–£30,000
- Furniture (tables, chairs, decor): £3,000–£10,000
- Signage and branding: £500–£2,000
Costs vary significantly by location (e.g., London vs. small town).
3. Equipment Costs
- Espresso machine: £1,500–£5,000
- Coffee grinder: £300–£800
- Refrigeration: £1,000–£3,000
- Oven, grill, or hob: £1,000–£3,000
- Dishwasher/sink: £500–£1,500
- POS system and till: £500–£2,000
- Small appliances: £1,000–£2,000
Total: Expect £8,000–£20,000+ for full kitchen and barista setup.
4. Licences and Permits
- Food business registration: Free (via local council)
- Food hygiene training: £50–£200 per person
- Music licence (PPL/PRS): £200–£500/year
- Alcohol licence (if applicable): £100–£1,900
- Business insurance: £300–£800 annually
5. Stock and Supplies
- Initial food and drink stock: £1,000–£3,000
- Packaging, cups, and napkins: £500–£1,500
- Cleaning supplies: £200–£500
6. Marketing and Branding
- Logo and branding design: £300–£1,000
- Website and domain: £500–£2,000
- Social media marketing: £200–£1,000 (initial launch)
- Local advertising or flyers: £100–£500
7. Staffing Costs
- Wages for baristas/kitchen staff: £10–£13/hour
- Initial wages buffer (1–3 months): £5,000–£10,000
- Uniforms and training: £500–£1,000
8. Legal and Professional Fees
- Accountant or business consultant: £500–£2,000
- Legal fees (leases, contracts): £500–£1,500
9. Contingency Budget
Set aside 10–20% of your total budget for unexpected costs:
- Delays in fit-out
- Extra staffing needs
- Equipment repairs or upgrades
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a cafe with £10,000?
It’s challenging but possible with a very small setup, mobile unit, or kiosk and second-hand equipment.
Is it cheaper to buy an existing cafe?
Yes, sometimes. You may save on equipment and permits but pay a premium for goodwill or brand.
Do I need a licence to sell coffee?
You need to register as a food business and follow hygiene standards, but no specific licence just for coffee.
What’s the biggest cost in opening a cafe?
Typically, rent, equipment, and fit-out costs make up the bulk of initial expenses.
How long before I make a profit?
Many cafes take 12–18 months to break even, depending on foot traffic, pricing, and cost control.
Can I get funding to open a cafe?
Yes. Options include Start Up Loans, business grants, crowdfunding, and personal investment.
Conclusion
The cost to open a cafe depends on many variables, but budgeting between £30,000 and £70,000 offers a solid foundation for most small UK cafes. With smart planning, cost control, and community engagement, your cafe can be both a fulfilling and profitable venture.