Choose whether you want to sell conventional baked goods, or a more niche product like organic, gluten-free, or vegan (e. g. , egg- and dairy-free) products.
Online bakeries are a good way to start if you’re low on capital. You can work from home and sell your goods through a website. You’ll need to hire a web designer and figure out a system for ordering online. A counter-service bakery is a small commercial space where you sell baked goods to customers over a counter. You’ll likely need at least one other employee. Sit-down bakeries have an area where customers order their baked goods, and tables and chairs where they can eat. [2] X Research source
Check with the local consumer health department, which is responsible for setting regulations. Make sure you have included all necessary items in your list.
Define your business. Think about the products and services you provide, and your target customers (working professionals, busy mothers, catering businesses, etc. ). Set goals about how much profit you’ll make over the first few years, and any expansions you hope to make to your product line, services, or business space. Make a plan to generate revenue. You’ll need to calculate the cost of producing your goods and how much you’ll sell them for. For example, coffee can have a 500% markup, while specialty baked goods like vegan, gluten-free cupcakes might have a mere 50% markup. [3] X Research source Calculate startup costs. These are one-time expenses, but you’ll need to figure out how you’re going to survive financially before you start making a profit. [4] X Research source Calculate the costs of your location, supplies, staff, taxes, and marketing. Balance them against your projected income to determine how much you’ll need to sell in order to make a profit.
Be very choosy as you look for locations. Look at several, compare prices, talk to local business owners, and research the area(s) to find the best fit for your bakery. [5] X Research source
To-go items for counter-top bakeries, including boxes, coffee cups, and napkins. Tables and chairs for sit-down bakeries. (You’ll also need plates, cups, and utensils. ) Business items like a telephone, fax machine, and cash register. If you plan to make deliveries, you may need a delivery truck, and portable refrigeration and/or warming units.
Remember to factor in baking hours, which extend your work day.
Keep a blog: writing about baking topics or sharing recipes can generate interest in your customer base. Use social media. Announce your bakery’s opening on social networking sites, and create a page for your bakery. This makes it easy for customers to get information about what you offer, where you’re located, and when you’re open. You can also offer discounts for visitors to your page. Establish relationships with other local businesses. You may be able to put up fliers in their lobbies, for example, or offer them free samples to get the word out. [7] X Research source
If you’re ready to diversify your business, look into taking online orders, adding a food truck, or working with catering companies. [9] X Research source
