coffee roasters business plan

Coffee Roaster Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their coffee roaster businesses. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through a coffee roaster business plan template step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What is a Coffee Roaster Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your coffee roaster business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for a Coffee Roasting Business

If you’re looking to start a coffee roaster business, or grow your existing coffee roaster business, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your coffee roaster business in order to improve your chances of success. Your coffee roaster business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Coffee Roaster Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a coffee roaster business are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans and angel investors. With regards to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to confirm that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings is the other most common form of funding for a coffee roaster business.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

If you want to start a coffee roaster business or expand your current one, you need a business plan. Below are links to each section of your coffee roaster business plan template:

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your coffee roasting business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of coffee roaster business you are operating and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a coffee roaster business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a coffee roaster business in multiple markets or regions?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. For example, give a brief overview of the coffee roaster industry. Discuss the type of coffee roaster business you are operating. Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers. Provide a snapshot of your marketing plan. Identify the key members of your team. And offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Analysis

In your company analysis, you will detail the type of coffee roaster business you are operating.

For example, you might operate one of the following types of coffee roaster businesses:

• Retail Coffee Roastery : this type of roastery sells roasted coffee to individual consumers, either online or through a brick-and-mortar storefront.
• Wholesale Coffee Roastery: this type of roastery sells roasted coffee to other businesses, such as grocery stores, restaurants, hotels and resorts.

In addition to explaining the type of coffee roaster business you will operate, the Company Analysis section of your business plan needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to question such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of customers served, number of positive reviews, total number of bags of coffee sold, etc.
• Your legal structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry analysis, you need to provide an overview of the coffee roaster industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the coffee roaster industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your strategy, particularly if your research identifies market trends.

The third reason for market research is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your coffee roasting business plan:

• How big is the coffee roaster industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential market for your coffee roaster business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your coffee roaster business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: individual consumers, grocery stores, restaurants, hotels and resorts.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of coffee roaster business you operate. Clearly, individual consumers would respond to different marketing promotions than grocery stores, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, include a discussion of the ages, genders, locations and income levels of the customers you seek to serve. Because most coffee roaster businesses primarily serve customers living in their same city or town, such demographic information is easy to find on government websites.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can understand and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.  

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other coffee roaster businesses.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t direct competitors. This includes coffee shops and grocery stores. You need to mention such competition as well.

With regards to direct competition, you want to describe the other coffee roaster businesses with which you compete. Most likely, your direct competitors will be roasteries located very close to your location.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their businesses and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as:

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What types of coffee do they sell?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide better roasted coffee?
• Will you provide features or services that your competitors don’t offer?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a coffee roaster business plan, your marketing plan should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of coffee roaster company that you documented in your Company Analysis. Then, detail the specific products you will be offering. For example, in addition to selling roasted coffee, will you sell brewed coffee, sell teas, provide barista event services, or provide any other products or services?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your marketing plan, you are presenting the services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the location of your coffee roaster company. Document your location and mention how the location will impact your success. For example, is your coffee roaster business located in a busy retail district, shopping plaza, mall, etc. Discuss how your location might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your coffee roaster marketing plan is the promotions section. Here you will document how you will drive customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertising in local papers and magazines
• Reaching out to local websites
• Social media marketing
• Local radio advertising

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your coffee roaster business, including purchasing supplies, performing inventory, marketing, roasting coffee, and selling and/or delivering coffee.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to sell your 1,000th bag of coffee, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your coffee roasting business to a new city.

Management Team

To demonstrate your coffee roaster business’ ability to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing coffee roaster businesses. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act like mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing coffee roasteries or successfully running small businesses.

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statements.

Income Statement : an income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenues and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you gain one new customer per month or per quarter (as a wholesaler), or will you sell 100 bags of coffee per day or per week (as a retailer)? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets : Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your coffee roaster business, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a bank writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement : Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and make sure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

In developing your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a coffee roaster business:

• Location build-out including design fees, construction, etc.
• Cost of equipment and supplies
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Taxes and permits
• Legal expenses

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your roastery location lease or descriptions of roasts you are working on.

Putting together a business plan for your coffee roaster is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will have an expert coffee roasting business plan; download it to PDF to show banks and investors. You will really understand the coffee roaster industry, your competition, and your customers. You will have developed a marketing plan and will really understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful coffee roaster business.

Coffee Roaster Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my coffee roaster business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily complete your Coffee Roaster Business Plan.

What is the Goal of a Business Plan's Executive Summary?

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of coffee roaster business you are operating and the status; for example, are you a startup, do you have a coffee roaster business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of coffee roaster businesses?

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Coffee Roaster Business Plan

Is the aroma of freshly roasted coffee your favorite? Then starting a coffee roasting business might be the best course of action for you.

According to the National Coffee Association, about two-thirds of American people drink coffee every day, making it the fourth most popular beverage in the world.

However, how do you launch your own coffee-roasting company? The solution is, to begin with, writing a business plan.

Need help writing a business plan for your coffee roaster business? You’re at the right place. Our coffee roaster business plan template will help you get started.

Free Business Plan Template

Download our free business plan template now and pave the way to success. Let’s turn your vision into an actionable strategy!

• Fill in the blanks – Outline
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How to Write a Coffee Roaster Business Plan?

Writing a coffee roaster business plan is a crucial step toward the success of your business. Here are the key steps to consider when writing a business plan:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the first section planned to offer an overview of the entire business plan. However, it is written after the entire business plan is ready and summarizes each section of your plan.

Here are a few key components to include in your executive summary:

• Introduce your Business: Start your executive summary by briefly introducing your business to your readers.This section may include the name of your coffee roaster business, its location, when it was founded, the type of coffee roaster business (E.g., specialty coffee roaster, wholesale coffee roaster, retail coffee roaster), etc.
• Market Opportunity: Summarize your market research, including market size, growth potential, and marketing trends. Highlight the opportunities in the market and how your business will fit in to fill the gap.
• Products and Services: Highlight the coffee roaster services you offer your clients. The USPs and differentiators you offer are always a plus.
• For instance, you may include roasted coffee beans and private labeling as products & services and mention custom blends as USP.
• Marketing & Sales Strategies: Outline your sales and marketing strategies—what marketing platforms you use, how you plan on acquiring customers, etc.
• Financial Highlights: Briefly summarize your financial projections for the initial years of business operations. Include any capital or investment requirements, associated startup costs, projected revenues, and profit forecasts.
• Call to Action: Summarize your executive summary section with a clear CTA, for example, inviting angel investors to discuss the potential business investment.

Ensure your executive summary is clear, concise, easy to understand, and jargon-free.

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2. Business Overview

The business overview section of your business plan offers detailed information about your company. The details you add will depend on how important they are to your business. Yet, business name, location, business history, and future goals are some of the foundational elements you must consider adding to this section:

• Business Description: Describe your business in this section by providing all the basic information:
• Specialty coffee roaster
• Artisanal coffee roaster
• Wholesale roaster
• Contract roaster
• Retail roaster
• E-commerce roaster

Describe the legal structure of your coffee roaster business, whether it is a sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership, or others.

• Owners: List the names of your coffee roaster business’s founders or owners. Describe what shares they own and their responsibilities for efficiently managing the business.
• Mission Statement: Summarize your business’ objective, core principles, and values in your mission statement. This statement needs to be memorable, clear, and brief.
• Business History: If you’re an established coffee roaster business, briefly describe your business history, like—when it was founded, how it evolved over time, etc.
• Additionally, If you have received any awards or recognition for excellent work, describe them.
• Future Goals: It’s crucial to convey your aspirations and vision. Mention your short-term and long-term goals; they can be specific targets for revenue, market share, or expanding your services.

This section should provide a thorough understanding of your business, its history, and its future plans. Keep this section engaging, precise, and to the point.

3. Market Analysis

The market analysis section of your business plan should offer a thorough understanding of the industry with the target market, competitors, and growth opportunities. You should include the following components in this section.

• Target market: Start this section by describing your target market. Define your ideal customer and explain what types of services they prefer. Creating a buyer persona will help you easily define your target market to your readers.
• For instance, cafes, coffee shops, restaurants, hotels, or offices would be an ideal target audience for a coffee roaster business.
• Market size and growth potential: Describe your market size and growth potential and whether you will target a niche or a much broader market.
• Competitive Analysis: Identify and analyze your direct and indirect competitors. Identify their strengths and weaknesses, and describe what differentiates your coffee roaster business from them. Point out how you have a competitive edge in the market.
• Market Trends: Analyze emerging trends in the industry, such as changes in customer behavior or preferences, etc. Explain how your business will cope with all the trends.
• For instance, sustainability and ethical sourcing has a growing market now; explain how you plan on dealing with this potential growth opportunity.
• Regulatory Environment: List regulations and licensing requirements that may affect your coffee roaster company, such as food safety regulations, HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points), etc.

Here are a few tips for writing the market analysis section of your coffee roaster business plan:

• Conduct market research, industry reports, and surveys to gather data.
• Provide specific and detailed information whenever possible.
• Illustrate your points with charts and graphs.
• Write your business plan keeping your target audience in mind.

4. Products And Services

The product and services section should describe the specific services and products that will be offered to customers. To write this section should include the following:

• Single-origin beans
• Unique blends
• Flavored coffee
• Decaffeinated coffee
• Quality measures: Describe the steps you take to make sure every batch of coffee beans that you roast satisfy your high-quality standards, such as cupping and tasting procedures, quality checks, or certifications.
• Additional Services: Mention if your coffee roaster company offers any additional services. You may include products or services like brewing supplies, coffee accessories, some courses, etc.

In short, this section of your coffee roaster plan must be informative, precise, and client-focused. By providing a clear and compelling description of your offerings, you can help potential investors and readers understand the value of your business.

5. Sales And Marketing Strategies

Writing the sales and marketing strategies section means a list of strategies you will use to attract and retain your clients. Here are some key elements to include in your sales & marketing plan:

• Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Define your business’s USPs depending on the market you serve, the equipment you use, and the unique services you provide. Identifying USPs will help you plan your marketing strategies.
• For example, single-origin focus, ethical sourcing, or customization could be some of the great USPs for a professional coffee roaster business.
• Pricing Strategy: Describe your pricing strategy—how you plan to price your services and stay competitive in the local market. You can mention any discounts you plan on offering to attract new customers.
• Marketing Strategies: Discuss your marketing strategies to market your services. You may include some of these marketing strategies in your business plan—social media marketing, Google ads, brochures, email marketing, content marketing, and print marketing.
• Sales Strategies: Outline the strategies you’ll implement to maximize your sales. Your sales strategies may include direct sales calls, online sales, partnering with other local businesses, etc.
• Customer Retention: Describe your customer retention strategies and how you plan to execute them. For instance, introducing loyalty programs, discounts on bulk orders, personalized service, etc.

Overall, this section of your coffee roaster business plan should focus on customer acquisition and retention.

Have a specific, realistic, and data-driven approach while planning sales and marketing strategies for your coffee roaster business, and be prepared to adapt or make strategic changes in your strategies based on feedback and results.

6. Operations Plan

The operations plan section of your business plan should outline the processes and procedures involved in your business operations, such as staffing requirements and operational processes. Here are a few components to add to your operations plan:

• Staffing & Training: Mention your business’s staffing requirements, including the number of employees or roaster operators needed. Include their qualifications, the training required, and the duties they will perform.
• Operational Process: Outline the processes and procedures you will use to run your coffee roaster business. Your operational processes may include roasting, sourcing & selection, inventory management, etc.

Adding these components to your operations plan will help you lay out your business operations, which will eventually help you manage your business effectively.

7. Management Team

The management team section provides an overview of your coffee roaster business’s management team. This section should provide a detailed description of each manager’s experience and qualifications, as well as their responsibilities and roles.

• Founders/CEO: Mention the founders and CEO of your coffee roaster company, and describe their roles and responsibilities in successfully running the business.
• Organizational structure: Explain the organizational structure of your management team. Include the reporting line and decision-making hierarchy.
• Compensation Plan: Describe your compensation plan for the management and staff. Include their salaries, incentives, and other benefits.
• Advisors/Consultants: Mentioning advisors or consultants in your business plans adds credibility to your business idea.
• So, if you have any advisors or consultants, include them with their names and brief information consisting of roles and years of experience.

This section should describe the key personnel for your coffee roaster business, highlighting how you have the perfect team to succeed.

8. Financial Plan

Your financial plan section should summarize your business’s financial projections for the first few years. Here are some key elements to include in your financial plan:

• Profit & loss statement: Describe details such as projected revenue, operational costs, and service costs in your projected profit and loss statement . Make sure to include your business’s expected net profit or loss.
• Cash flow statement: The cash flow for the first few years of your operation should be estimated and described in this section. This may include billing invoices, payment receipts, loan payments, and any other cash flow statements.
• Balance Sheet: Create a projected balance sheet documenting your coffee roaster business’s assets, liabilities, and equity.
• Break-even point: Determine and mention your business’s break-even point—the point at which your business costs and revenue will be equal.
• This exercise will help you understand how much revenue you need to generate to sustain or be profitable.
• Financing Needs: Calculate costs associated with starting a coffee roaster business, and estimate your financing needs and how much capital you need to raise to operate your business. Be specific about your short-term and long-term financing requirements, such as investment capital or loans.

Be realistic with your financial projections, and make sure you offer relevant information and evidence to support your estimates.

9. Appendix

The appendix section of your business plan should include any additional information supporting your business plan’s main content, such as market research, legal documentation, financial statements, and other relevant information.

• Add a table of contents for the appendix section to help readers easily find specific information or sections.
• In addition to your financial statements, provide additional financial documents like tax returns, a list of assets within the business, credit history, and more.These statements must be the latest and offer financial projections for at least the first three or five years of business operations.
• Provide data derived from market research, including stats about the coffee roaster, user demographics, and industry trends.
• Include any legal documents such as permits, licenses, and contracts.
• Include any additional documentation related to your business plan, such as product brochures, marketing materials, operational procedures, etc.

Use clear headings and labels for each section of the appendix so that readers can easily find the necessary information.

Remember, the appendix section of your coffee roaster business plan should only include relevant and important information supporting your plan’s main content.

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This sample coffee roaster business plan will provide an idea for writing a successful coffee roaster plan, including all the essential components of your business.

After this, if you still need clarification about writing an investment-ready business plan to impress your audience, download our coffee roaster business plan pdf .

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Frequently asked questions, why do you need a coffee roaster business plan.

A business plan is an essential tool for anyone looking to start or run a successful coffee roaster business. It helps to get clarity in your business, secures funding, and identifies potential challenges while starting and growing your business.

Overall, a well-written plan can help you make informed decisions, which can contribute to the long-term success of your coffee roaster company.

How to get funding for your coffee roaster business?

There are several ways to get funding for your coffee roaster business, but self-funding is one of the most efficient and speedy funding options. Other options for funding are:

• Bank loan – You may apply for a loan in government or private banks.
• Small Business Administration (SBA) loan – SBA loans and schemes are available at affordable interest rates, so check the eligibility criteria before applying for it.
• Crowdfunding – The process of supporting a project or business by getting a lot of people to invest in your business, usually online.
• Angel investors – Getting funds from angel investors is one of the most sought startup options.

Apart from all these options, there are small business grants available, check for the same in your location and you can apply for it.

Where to find business plan writers for your coffee roaster business?

There are many business plan writers available, but no one knows your business and ideas better than you, so we recommend you write your coffee roaster business plan and outline your vision as you have in your mind.

What is the easiest way to write your coffee roaster business plan?

A lot of research is necessary for writing a business plan, but you can write your plan most efficiently with the help of any coffee roaster business plan example and edit it as per your need. You can also quickly finish your plan in just a few hours or less with the help of our business plan software .

About the Author

Upmetrics Team

Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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Learning center series

What makes a good coffee roaster business plan?

• Published on March 12, 2024
• by Marketing Team
• Last updated: 2 months ago

In the vast landscape of coffee businesses, crafting a solid roaster business plan is not just any old option, it’s your survival kit. Ever looked at the daily consumption stats?

Over 2.25 billion cups of coffee devoured around the globe every day. That's nearly enough to fill 900 Olympic swimming pools with steaming mocha delight!

Yet, amidst this behemoth consumer demand, many coffee roaster operations still teeter and totter. Not because they lack an inviting aroma, but largely from an absence of a tailored, strategic business plan.

“What is a good coffee roaster business plan?” If that question has been gnawing at your consciousness, then buckle up. This post is set to serve you the nitty-gritty essentials of creating the near-perfect plan— the proverbial ‘shot of espresso’ in outsmarting your competition. It’s time to truly brew success with your coffee roaster business.

America's Coffee Craze ☕️ Nearly 3 in 4 Americans drink coffee per day (73%) .

The Blueprint to a Successful Coffee Roaster Business Plan

Step 1: understanding the coffee roasting market.

Coffee roasting is more than an art; it’s a booming industry. You’re not just dabbling in coffee beans and their aroma; you’re diving into a multi-billion-dollar industry inhabited by countless competitors. Can you carve out your niche in this bustling market? To do so, a clear comprehension of the coffee roasting market becomes paramount. At Metrobi, we specialize in optimizing coffee logistics and distribution , ensuring your unique blends reach their destinations efficiently and reliably.

For starters, get to know your customers. They come in all forms – cafe owners, retail customers, wholesalers. Each has unique tastes, preferences, and price points.

Understanding competitors is equally crucial in this landscape. Identify the major players, what they do well, and where they falter. This doesn’t imply launching into a copycat strategy but acquiring cues to stand out.

Pay attention to trends too. The coffee market, like many others, is influenced by global and local trends. For instance, single-origin coffee has seen a surge in demand due to discerning customers. Are there similar opportunities to capitalize on?

Coffee and Health 🌿 48% of people agree that drinking coffee benefits their health .

Step 2: Identifying Your Unique Selling Proposition

Once you’ve got a handle on the market, it’s time to distinguish your coffee. What sets your roasts apart? Perhaps it’s the beans, the roasting process, or your commitment to sustainability. Whatever it might be, this unique selling proposition (USP) adds an irreplaceable dimension to your brand.

Manifest this USP into everything you do – from your packaging to your marketing. A potent USP can be a game-changer that turns coffee connoisseurs into loyal customers. More than enthralling your customers, it can make competition irrelevant, allowing your business to break away from the rest.

Coffee Shop Loyalty ☕ 51% of people purchase coffee from a coffee shop at least once a week.

Step 3: Creating a Comprehensive Business Model

Regardless of your business type, a comprehensive business model is the backbone of your enterprise. With your USP identified, it’s time to sketch out how you’ll sell, distribute, and market your coffee, and who to. Are you primarily targeting cafés or end consumers? Will you adopt a brick-and-mortar, e-commerce, or mix of both models? Answering these questions will streamline your operational strategy. Additionally, it will help outline revenue sources, expenses, and your pricing strategy. An extensive business model mitigates unforeseen challenges and preempts strategies for growth and expansion.

To ensure your coffee roastery business succeeds, it’s crucial to incorporate detailed business planning, including thorough market research and a clear understanding of coffee costs.

A comprehensive business plan should cover all key elements: an executive summary highlighting your aim to produce high-quality coffee; a marketing plan outlining strategies to reach your targeted customer segments; profit and loss statements to forecast financials; considerations for sales tax as your business grows; and operational plans for using commercial roasters.

This foundational document guides every decision as a business owner, from choosing between being a coffee roaster wholesaler or focusing on direct sales, to determining the right marketing approach for your unique coffee roasteries.

Why Most Coffee Roaster Businesses Fail

Lack of market understanding.

One of the main reasons for the failure of numerous  coffee roaster  businesses is the inability to grasp the market intricacies they are attempting to participate in. The coffee market is not limited to brewing; it involves dealing with coffee growers, understanding the complex chain from farm to cup, grasping coffee species and varietals, and keeping pace with ever-evolving consumer preferences.

Multiple Cups a Day 🍵 36% of people drink 3 to 5 cups of coffee a day.

Inadequate Business Planning

Another common failure point is poor planning. Many kickstart a coffee roasting business based solely on passion and limited hands-on experience, neglecting the essentials like a solid business plan, realistic budget, and crucial timelines. Without a comprehensive plan, it’s challenging to ascertain the right roasting equipment, understand inventory needs, identify potential clientele, project sales, calculate overhead costs, and forecast profitability. Ambiguity in these areas can lead to a disaster.

Poor Financial Management

The inadvertent financial management surfaces as another key failure reason. The operational costs of a coffee roasting business can accumulate quickly, from procuring high-quality beans and installing the right roasting and packaging equipment, to managing inventory, rent, utilities, and staff salaries. It’s also crucial to budget for marketing initiatives, potential downturns, regulatory compliance, and unexpected expenses. Moreover, one must decipher the nuances of pricing the product rightly to ensure profitability without scaring away potential consumers. Overlooking these elements can lead to a financial crisis, hampering business growth.

Brewing Up Growth ☕️ The global Coffee Roasters market is projected to grow at a 7.1% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) between 2023 and 2030 , with a market worth of USD 1.93 billion in 2022.

Understanding Profit Margins in a Coffee Roasting Business

Revenue streams in a coffee roasting business.

The backbone of your coffee roasting business is the revenue streams you choose to tap into. There’s no single solution – success comes from a blend of multiple approaches.

Different ways to generate income

Consider the obvious methods: selling raw beans direct to consumers, supplying local cafes, or even providing bespoke roasting services. More industrious roasters might move into offering barista training or collaborating with artisan bakeries to create coffee-infused goods.

A successful blend of revenue streams pays attention to market demand and customer preferences. Regularly assess what’s contributing the most to your bottom line, testing new products and services to find what resonates with your target market.

Maximizing profitability

Don’t confuse activity with profitability. It’s easy to get caught up in the buzz of new offers, but the key is to scrutinize each venture for its potential return on investment. Every initiative should add significant revenue potential or drive customer loyalty to justify its existence. In short, if it doesn’t make money, it doesn’t make sense.

Cost Analysis

No business runs cost-free. A thorough understanding of your ongoing costs is crucial to securing your profit margins.

Breakdown of common costs in a coffee roasting business

Running a coffee roasting business takes more than a roaster. You need high-quality beans, packaging, shipping infrastructure, premises, and, of course, a diligent team. Each aspect contributes to your overheads, meaning you have to continue bringing in sufficient revenue to meet these costs – and, ideally, go beyond them.

Always keep an eye on your balance sheet. Recognise the impact of your major costs. Rent, wages, the price of raw materials – these, among other things, dictate your break-even point and profit potential. Understand their individual impact with deep dive analytics, tracking the ebbs and flows of each cost component.

Strategies for managing and reducing costs

Efficiency is king in a coffee roasting operation. While you can’t avoid costs, you can certainly strive to manage them.

Monitor and investigate any significant cost increases. Review supplier contracts regularly to ensure the best price and seek to optimise your internal operations. Aim for a lean and efficient setup – remember, every dollar saved is an additional dollar of profit.

But remember – cost-cutting should never sacrifice the quality of your product or service. Securing your reputation for quality is paramount to long-term success. In the end, maintaining quality might be the most significant strategy for managing costs in the long run, by fostering customer loyalty and repeat business.

This understanding of revenue streams and cost structures creates a clear framework for profitability potential of a coffee roasting business. Armed with this knowledge, you can take steps to secure and grow your profit margins.

Leading Roasting Technique 🔥 The largest segment in the Coffee Roasters market is the Semi-direct Fire with Half Hot Air Style , holding a share over 65%.

What is a Coffee Roaster Business?

The role of a coffee roaster.

The food-service universe holds companies of all sizes, from multinational giants to single-person operations. In the realm of coffee, a coffee roaster business is a principal player, working behind the scenes to shape the flavor profiles of the coffee that we savor daily. As roasters, these businesses are the guardians of quality, the alchemists transforming green seeds into aromatic brown beans that excite the senses of coffee lovers worldwide.

Coffee roasters are the bridge between the coffee farm and your morning cup, responsible for bringing out the best flavors from the quality raw material. Roasters partner closely with coffee growers, purchasing raw green coffee beans which they then carefully roast to bring out varied flavors and characteristics. The connection between roasters and growers is indispensable, contributing to the traceability and sustainability of our coffee supply.

The Process of Coffee Roasting

Coffee roasting is an art as much as it is a science. It is a complex process involving several principles from chemistry and thermodynamics and requires precision and skill to master.

In essence, coffee roasting is the process of heating green coffee beans in a coffee roaster to transform them into roasted coffee products. The roasting process is what produces the characteristic flavor of coffee by causing the beans to change in taste.

The beans are kept moving throughout the entire process to keep them from burning. As they are roasted, they’ll first turn a yellowish color and the beans will begin to smell grassy. The beans then darken to a light brown and will begin to smell like coffee. After the first crack, the roast can be considered complete at any time according to taste. The further the beans are roasted, the more they lose the inherent tastes of their origins and take on flavor from the roasting process.

Just as winemaking can be broken down into grape-growing and wine-producing, so too coffee can be viewed in two stages: coffee farming and coffee roasting.

Why Start a Coffee Roaster Business?

If you’re flirting with the idea of launching a business, why not consider diving into the coffee world, more specifically, running a coffee roasting business? Pull up your sleeves. Let’s get into the heat of it.

The Growing Demand for Specialty Coffee Industry

Drinking coffee has morphed from a simple morning routine to an intricate experience savored by passionate java enthusiasts. It’s coffee time, and it’s not just about any coffee, but more about pursuing unique, ethical, and skilfully brewed cups – the birth of the specialty coffee market.

While large franchises like Starbucks dominated the industry in the past, today, committed coffee lovers are seeking out local, artisanal roasters who offer unique experiences and flavors. This growing preference for quality over convenience is blowing the doors wide open for specialty coffee roasters. With Metrobi, these businesses can extend their reach, as we offer delivery services across more than 20 U.S. cities, including Denver , ensuring that even the most distinctive coffee flavors find their way to enthusiasts everywhere.

Not only is the demand for specialty beverages on the rise, but the demographics of coffee drinkers are also broadening. Millennials are driving the increase in coffee consumption, with most willing to pay a premium for high-quality brews.

Equally important is the shift towards ethically sourced coffee. Consumers are increasingly concerned about the ethics behind their cups. They are aware that by purchasing from small-scale, local, and ethical roasters, they are supporting sustainable coffee farming practices.

Top Beans on the Block 🏆 The global top three Coffee Roasters manufacturers hold a share over 20% of the market.

The Potential for High-Profit Margins

Undeniably, the coffee business can be a profitable venture if done right. Taking it up a notch by delving into roasting opens another realm. There is potential for high-profit margins when you roast your beans, primarily because you’re controlling the whole process from bean to cup, skipping the middleman. Metrobi aids in expanding your reach by facilitating delivery services across over 20 cities in the US, including offering immediate delivery options in Miami .

Unlike cafe businesses that deal with high overhead and slim margins, a roastery tends to have relatively lower operating costs. Plus, the pricing of roasted beans is often based more on quality than competitive pricing, allowing for larger margins if the product is well received. Discover how our guide unveils viable approaches for a lucrative coffee roasting venture , ensuring a roadmap to sustained success and scalability.

Moreover, as preferences for gourmet, single-origin, and fair-trade coffees continue to grow, consumers are willing to pay more for high-quality, ethically sourced beans. Therefore, the potential to maintain healthier margins is built into the very nature of the market.

This provides an opportunity for those ready to undertake the journey – it’s not just about selling beans, but a rich experience, a unique story, and a taste that leaves an impression.

Coffee Roaster Business Plan: Market Analysis and Future Trends

Current market trends, the newest trends in coffee roasting.

The coffee industry is under constant evolution that is influencing the roasting segment as well. From the demand for eco-friendly practices to the rise of artisanal coffee, consumers’ preferences are reshaping the market landscape. Understanding these trends is crucial in formulating a successful business plan.

In light of these prevailing trends, many businesses are reassessing their operational models and aligning it with the changing coffee world. For instance, many coffee roasters are turning towards organic beans and cleaner roasting methods, responding to the growing call for sustainability.

European Coffee Culture 🌍 Europe is the largest market for Coffee Roasters, holding a share of about 40% .

Leveraging Industry Trends for Business Success

Current trends are not just markers of industry development, but opportunities for growth and success. Being aware of these trends allows businesses to stay competitive and responsive. For instance, if the demand for single-origin beans is on the upswing, incorporating these into your roasting profile can help attract discerning customers. Similarly, offering roast-to-order services could be another route to explore, as it caters to the industry trend of personalisation and freshness.

Future Outlook

Spotting future trends in the coffee roasting industry.

It’s crucial not just to keep an eye on the current scene, but also the horizon. A carefully researched prediction of future trends puts you one step ahead of the market curve. For instance, experts are foreseeing a rise in demand for traceable coffee as consumers become more conscious of the origin of their brew. This means that businesses may need to start closing the gap between growers and customers, perhaps by offering more information about the beans’ journey from farm to cup.

Preparing Your Business for Future Growth

As the saying goes, “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” With that in mind, it’s time to consider how your business can adapt to – and influence – the future of the coffee roasting industry. This could involve investing in cutting-edge roasting technology, partnering with coffee growers to ensure sustainable practices, or even shaping customer tastes with innovative flavor profiles.

A Toast to Your Coffee Roasters’ Success: Concluding Thoughts

Perfecting your coffee roasting business plan isn’t about jumping hoops but understanding the nuances. A compelling vision, robust financial projection, detailed marketing strategy, and effective risk management are your ingredients to a richer, deeper, more successful plan. Now that you’re equipped with this knowledge, it’s your brew of the day that matters.

Remember, your business plan is the lifeblood of your coffee roasting venture. It guides your path and helps secure investments. Keep it flexible, keep it informed, and always tailor it to your business’s unique roast.

So, what’s boiling next for you? Time to review that business plan, isn’t it? Are you ready to refine the elements we’ve discussed and swirl your business in the direction of success? Let’s keep that pot brewing.

Have you identified the unique element that sets your coffee roasting business apart yet? A unique roast, perhaps?

Keep the fire burning, coffee entrepreneurs. Remember, every great coffee roasting empire started with one courageous step. Take yours. Brew tomorrow, today.

How to establish a profitable coffee business

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Coffee Roaster Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Coffee Roaster Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your Coffee Roaster business plan.

We have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their Coffee Roasting businesses.

Below is a template to help you create each section of your Coffee Roaster business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Cosmopolitan Coffee is a premium coffee house that serves the finest organic coffee sourced from sustainable growers around the world. Our name, Cosmopolitan Coffee, represents our global search for coffee beans that not only satisfy every coffee aficionado, but also allow us to serve our world by being mindful in our sourcing of those coffee beans.

From sweet and smooth-bodied Brazilian coffee beans to the fruity, berry notes of African coffee beans, we select and roast only those beans that will offer the highest degree of rich coffee results. Our coffee roasters produce small batches of freshly-roasted coffee beans on a regular basis and we produce holiday coffee flavors during special seasons of the year.

We will primarily sell our coffee blends through our website or wholesale retailers (i.e. grocery stores). However, we will also operate a small café where we will sell several coffee drinks so customers can try out our premium blends before buying our beans in bulk.

Cosmopolitan Coffee is led by José Fernandes who immigrated to America as a teen. Throughout his whole life, he has had a passion to create the perfect coffee, a passion that was started and fueled by family tradition. He moved to America several decades ago, bringing with him the coffee bean roasting methods created by his grandfather in Brazil. Now he is finally starting his own business where he can share his family recipes and his love for premium coffee.

Product Offering

The following freshly-roasted coffees are served at Cosmopolitan Coffee:

• Light, floral coffee flavors – African or Costa Rican coffee beans
• Medium, nutty coffee flavors – South American coffee beans
• Dark, fragrant and rich coffee flavors – Vietnamese coffee beans

Holiday/seasonal coffees include:

• Light, cinnamon coffee notes – South African coffee beans
• Medium, chocolate coffee notes – Papua New Guinea coffee beans
• Dark, spicy coffee notes – Southeast Asian coffee beans

We will sell these blends on our website, in our café, and in local grocery stores. We will also operate a café that sells several coffee drinks that use our blends and recipes including:

• Iced coffee

Customer Focus

Cosmopolitan Coffee primarily serves the residents living and working in the Chicago, Illinois area. However, we will also serve anyone who comes across our website after hearing about us or coming across our marketing efforts. Our café serves the immediate community within a two mile radius of our location.

Management Team

José began working in a Chicago coffee roasting company ten years ago, where he acquired operations, marketing and management skills during the years of his employment. José also graduated from North Central College, where he majored in culinary services.

Success Factors

Cosmopolitan Coffee will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

• Ingredients and menu: Our coffee beans are freshly-roasted for optimal flavor, resulting in premium coffees. Traditional coffee flavors are always on the menu, including light, medium and dark coffees. In addition, unique holiday flavors, such as spicy, chocolate, or fruity coffee bean flavors are offered as seasonal specials. No other coffee roaster company offers the wide variety and flavors as does our company.
• Management: The unique family coffee-roasting heritage of José Fernandes guarantees that each batch of coffee beans are roasted to perfection. José is also highly-experienced in the operations and management of a coffee roasting company and brings a warm and welcoming atmosphere to the neighborhood.
• Certified organic and sustainable: Only certified organic coffee beans are roasted at Cosmopolitan Coffee. All coffee beans are grown on sustainable farms to avoid damaging the crops or harming the farmland on which the beans are grown. No direct competitor offers organic or sustainable products.
• Location: Our location is perfectly suited to neighborhood residents who walk or drive to our coffee house. Additionally, professionals and executives who work nearby can easily locate our company. Drivers who commute can also find our location with ease, as we are located directly off the speedway. Each of the customer segments create advantageous opportunities for strong company growth within the next three to five years.
• Relationships: José welcomes the community by using our location as a gathering place for customers, friends and families to relax, converse and enjoy one another’s company.

Financial Highlights

Cosmopolitan Coffee is currently seeking $500,000 to launch. The funding will be dedicated for overhead, build out and design, working capital, marketing expenses, and inventory. The breakout of the funding is below:

• Café/Roastery Build Out: $200,000
• Marketing and Advertising: $50,000
• Inventory and Supplies: $50,000
• Three Months Of Overhead Expenses (Rent, Salaries, Utilities): $100,000
• Working Capital: $100,000

The following graph outlines the pro forma financial projections for Cosmopolitan Coffee.

Company Overview

Who is cosmopolitan coffee.

  From sweet and smooth-bodied Brazilian coffee beans to the fruity, berry notes of African coffee beans, we select and roast only those beans that will offer the highest degree of rich coffee results. Our coffee roasters produce small batches of freshly-roasted coffee beans on a regular basis and we produce holiday coffee flavors during special seasons of the year.

Cosmopolitan Coffee History

Cosmopolitan Coffee is led by José Fernandes, who immigrated to America as a teen, bringing with him the coffee bean roasting methods created by his grandfather in Brazil. José learned how to roast beans to the perfect point of flavor perfection. After immigrating, he worked in a coffee roasting company, where he learned how to manage, market and successfully operate a coffee roasting business before he started Cosmopolitan Coffee.

José incorporated Cosmopolitan Coffee as an S-Corporation on May 1st, 2023. The company is currently being run out of José’s home office but will move to a commercial location once the lease has been finalized.

Since incorporation, Cosmopolitan Coffee has achieved the following milestones:

• Found a location for the roastery and signed a letter of intent to lease it.
• Developed the company’s branding image, social media, and website.
• Began recruiting key staff.

Cosmopolitan Coffee Services

Industry analysis.

The coffee roaster industry has been rapidly growing due to increasing consumer demand for fresh and fully flavorful coffee. Consumers crave more than packaged coffee beans, packaged ground coffee, or individual coffee pods; they are seeking coffee that is the savory result of freshly-roasted coffee beans. Coffee made from freshly-roasted coffee beans carries a distinctive aroma, smooth and full-bodied flavor, and, surprisingly, offers nutritional value, as well. Antioxidants and nutritional compounds within the beans are carried into coffee, adding healthful benefits that contribute to the increasing consumer demand for coffee made from freshly-roasted coffee beans.

According to Grand View Research, the market trends for coffee roasting companies is predicted to grow at a strong CAGR rate of 6.3% from now until 2030. Freshly roasted coffee beans, when brewed soon after roasting, produce premium coffees that are especially appealing to those consumers who have a discretionary income level. The higher price of premium coffee has led to a new demographic of coffee consumers: those who don’t view price as the primary factor of their purchases, but view flavor as the primary driver for coffee selection. As prices rise in the future, the premium coffee prices will maintain their hold on coffee aficionados who insist on their daily coffee pleasure.

As consumers look for organic foods in the next five years, certified organic coffee will be sought and the purchase of organic coffees is expected to continue to grow. Consumers will also continue to seek coffee beans that have been hand-picked in sustainable coffee farms to ensure the land will be safe from overuse or damage as the coffee beans are harvested.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

The demographics of the area are as follows:

Customer Segmentation

Cosmopolitan Coffee will primarily target the following customer profile:

• Pedestrians
• Coffee aficionados

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Cosmopolitan Coffee will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A description of each competitor company is below.

Whole Bean Roasting Company

Whole Bean Roasting Company is a direct competitor, however it is seven miles away from our location. The coffee roasting company has only one coffee bean roaster and serves mild to dark freshly-roasted coffees. The company has no stated emphasis on serving certified organic coffee or using coffee beans from sustainable farm sources. Whole Bean Roasting Company sells breakfast and lunch items in addition to coffee, such as breakfast rolls, donuts, muffins, sandwiches and wraps.

Go Coffee Go

As part of a family-owned, city-wide chain of ten coffee shops, Go Coffee Go is located three miles from Cosmopolitan Coffee. The coffee shop offers no indoor seating, with a focus on serving walk-up customers only. Go Coffee Go sells blended brands of coffee at low prices for light, medium and dark coffees. Coffee is sold in medium, large and extra-large coffee cups with plastic coffee cup lids. Although this coffee outlet is nearby, the competitor sells generic coffee bean blends that do not compare to the coffee flavors of our company. There is no emphasis on organic coffee or sustainable growing methods.

Le Entourage Bistro

This small, French-themed restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and is located four miles from Cosmopolitan Coffee. An extensive menu features French and American foods in a romantic atmosphere. Premium coffees and espresso drinks are offered on the menu; however, no coffee beans are roasted on-site. Prices for coffees and espresso drinks are priced at higher levels and served in china cups or espresso shot glasses. Although this indirect competitor serves primarily as a restaurant, customers are within the demographics of Cosmopolitan Coffee.

Competitive Advantage

Cosmopolitan Coffee offers several advantages over its competition. Those advantages are:

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Cosmopolitan Coffee will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

• Offering premium coffees made from coffee beans freshly roasted in-house.
• Located in an optimal community for residents, commuters and workers.
• Offering certified organic coffee beans harvested on sustainable farms.

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Cosmopolitan Coffee are as follows:

Social Media

José Fernandes will create the company’s social media accounts and invest in ads on all social media platforms. The company will use targeted marketing to appeal to our target demographics.

Cosmopolitan Coffee will create a website that includes a splash page, directing customers to interactive pages. One page will demonstrate the process of coffee bean roasting, and one will contain a video from José discussing his background and family history. Seasonal coffee flavors and specials will also be introduced.

Partnerships with Local Businesses

Cosmopolitan Coffee will align with businesses in the area to introduce the coffee experience at our company. This marketing strategy will include free coffee tastings for employees during breaks, “Coffee Talks” by José, and free-coffee vouchers for employees who visit our company for the first time.

Pre-Opening Events

During the month prior to our launch, names of commuters will be collected for a drawing to be held on our opening day. Seven winning names will be drawn by José to receive free coffee at Cosmopolitan Coffee for one full year.

Cosmopolitan Coffee’s pricing will be appropriate for the high-quality coffee and level of service associated with a premium coffee bean roasting experience. Customers will feel they have received great value and a superior product.

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for Cosmopolitan Coffee. Operation Functions:

• José Fernandes will be the Owner of Cosmopolitan Coffee. He will oversee the general operations of the roastery and café and help roast the premium blends until he has a full team of baristas and roasters on staff.
• Max Smith will be the Café Manager and will focus on training staff and serving customers.
• José will hire an administrative team to help with the administrative, accounting, and marketing aspects of the business.
• José will also hire several baristas and roasters to make premium coffee for our customers.

Milestones:

Cosmopolitan Coffee aims to achieve the following goals in the next six months.

• 6/1/202X – Finalize Lease Agreement
• 7/1/202X – Design and Build Out Underway
• 8/1/202X – Design and Build Out Completed
• 9/1/202X – Hire and Train Staff
• 10/1/202X – Grand Opening
• 11/1/202X – Reach break-even

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The key revenues for Cosmopolitan Coffee will come from the sales of our premium blends (through our website, café, and partner grocery stores) and coffee drinks in our café.

The major costs include labor expenses, rent, marketing expenses, and the cost of inventory.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Key assumptions.

The following table outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and pay off the business loan.

• Number of Customers Per Day: 50
• Average café Menu Item Cost: $5.00
• Average Order per Customer: $10.00
• Average Coffee Bean Order per Customer: $25.00
• Annual Lease: $60,000

Financial Projections

Income statement.

Balance Sheet

Cash Flow Statement

Coffee Roaster Business Plan FAQs

What is a coffee roaster business plan.

A coffee roaster business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your coffee roaster business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can easily complete your Coffee Roaster business plan using our Coffee Roaster Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of Coffee Roaster Businesses?

There are a number of different kinds of coffee roaster businesses , some examples include: Retail Coffee Roastery and Wholesale Coffee Roastery.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Coffee Roaster Business Plan?

Coffee Roaster businesses are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding.

What are the Steps To Start a Coffee Roaster Business?

Starting a coffee roaster business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop A Coffee Roaster Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed coffee roaster business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast.

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your coffee roaster business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your coffee roaster business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Coffee Roaster Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your coffee roaster business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws.

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your coffee roaster business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms.

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations.

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events.

7. Acquire Necessary Coffee Roaster Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your coffee roaster business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation.

8 . Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your coffee roaster business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising. 

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Coffee Roaster Business Plan Template

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Dreaming of starting your own coffee roaster business but feeling overwhelmed by the planning process? ClickUp's Coffee Roaster Business Plan Template is here to turn your vision into reality!

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Ready to bring your coffee roaster business to life? Start planning with ClickUp's comprehensive template today!

Coffee Roaster Business Plan Template Benefits

As an aspiring coffee roaster entrepreneur, having a solid business plan is crucial for success. the coffee roaster business plan template offers a myriad of benefits, including:.

• Guiding you through the process : Step-by-step instructions on crafting a detailed business plan
• Clarifying your vision : Clearly defining your goals, target market, and competitive analysis
• Ensuring strategic marketing : Outlining effective marketing strategies to attract customers
• Securing financial backing : Providing financial projections to impress investors and lenders

Main Elements of Coffee Roaster Business Plan Template

To kickstart your coffee roaster business, ClickUp’s Coffee Roaster Business Plan template includes:

• Custom Statuses: Track progress with statuses such as Complete, In Progress, Needs Revision, and To Do to ensure every aspect of your business plan is accounted for
• Custom Fields: Utilize custom fields like Reference, Approved, and Section to organize vital information such as references, approval status, and specific sections within the business plan
• Custom Views: Access different perspectives with views like Topics, Status, Timeline, Business Plan, and Getting Started Guide to efficiently navigate through your business plan creation process
• Financial Projections: Easily input and analyze financial data with ClickUp's table view, allowing you to make informed decisions for your coffee roaster business
• Stakeholder Communication: Collaborate effectively with stakeholders, investors, and lenders by utilizing ClickUp's Docs feature to create, share, and edit your business plan in real-time.

How To Use Coffee Roaster Business Plan Template

Starting your own coffee roasting business can be an exciting venture follow these steps to effectively use the coffee roaster business plan template:, 1. define your business goals.

Begin by outlining your vision for the coffee roasting business. Consider factors such as your target market, unique selling propositions, and revenue goals. Identifying these key elements will set the foundation for your business plan.

Utilize the Goals feature in ClickUp to clearly define and organize your business objectives.

2. Conduct market research

Understand your industry landscape by conducting thorough market research. Analyze competitors, trends, and consumer preferences to gain insights that will shape your business strategy.

Use the Table view in ClickUp to organize market research data and competitor analysis.

3. Develop your product offerings

Determine the types of coffee beans you will roast, packaging options, and potential product lines. Consider factors such as sourcing, quality standards, and pricing to create a compelling product portfolio.

Create custom fields in ClickUp to track product development progress and key details.

4. Define your marketing strategy

Craft a comprehensive marketing plan that outlines how you will attract customers, promote your brand, and drive sales. Include tactics such as social media campaigns, partnerships, and in-store promotions.

Utilize the Calendar view in ClickUp to schedule and visualize your marketing activities.

5. Financial planning and projections

Create detailed financial projections that encompass startup costs, operating expenses, revenue forecast, and break-even analysis. Develop a budget that aligns with your business goals and ensures financial sustainability.

Use Dashboards in ClickUp to track financial metrics and monitor the performance of your coffee roasting business.

Get Started with ClickUp’s Coffee Roaster Business Plan Template

Entrepreneurs venturing into the coffee roasting business can leverage the Coffee Roaster Business Plan Template in ClickUp to craft a detailed and compelling business plan for their venture.

To get started, follow these steps:

Begin by clicking on “Add Template” to incorporate the Coffee Roaster Business Plan Template into your Workspace. Ensure you select the appropriate Space or location for its application.

Invite key team members or stakeholders to your Workspace to initiate collaborative efforts.

Utilize the following features to streamline your business plan development:

Custom Fields :

• Add the Reference field to cite sources and relevant materials.
• Use the Approved field to mark sections that have received approval.
• Employ the Section field to categorize different segments of your plan.
• Assign tasks to Complete, In Progress, Needs Revision, or To Do categories to track progress effectively.
• Utilize the Topics view to organize and delve into specific business plan sections.
• Leverage the Status view to monitor task statuses and progress.
• Utilize the Timeline view to create a visual representation of your business plan's schedule.
• The Business Plan view provides a comprehensive overview of your entire plan.
• The Getting Started Guide view offers a structured approach to kickstart your business plan creation.

By following these steps and utilizing the template's features, you can efficiently develop a robust coffee roaster business plan that resonates with your vision and objectives.

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How to Write a Coffee Roasting Business Plan

Tyler Martinez Author

Tyler Martinez

Business Plan for Coffee Roasting Businesses Guide

Specialty coffee requires specialized knowledge, equipment, and coffee supply, and comes with a specialty price – and payoff. The risks of opening a small-batch specialty coffee roasting business offer big rewards with careful planning.

Coffee roasting isn’t something that many people know how to do. It’s difficult, nuanced, and time-consuming. There’s a lot of information out there about how it should be done but the process always involves calculating for the environment, the bean, and even the temperature each roasting day.

If you’ve made your way to this page, you’re likely familiar with specialty coffee already, the third-wave of the coffee industry that prioritizes flavor and flair. Starting a coffee business is complex and expensive and requires the right combination of passion and planning —  if you're ready to take the leap towards becoming your town's favorite coffee distributor, keep reading.

Why You Need a Coffee Roasting Business Plan

Quality coffee roasting equipment alone, a requirement for any new coffee roasting business, costs tens of thousands of dollars. Setting up and installing equipment can be just as costly, and new business owners will likely also need permits to operate the roaster.

Coffee roasteries are inevitably not just roasting coffee – they’re also involved in some other brewing, bagging, or distribution operations as well. Many specialty coffee roasteries operate their own cafés in addition to selling beans wholesale, adding another level of complexity to an already busy planning process. Add in the work of making relationships with small farms and sourcing seasonal coffees year-round, and you've got a seriously complex business (albeit one that smells  so good ). 

The multiple interwoven processes and permits and plans that are required to get a coffee roasting business off the ground will run smoothly with the help of a detailed business plan. Take some of the stress out of the process with a thorough plan.

How to Write Your Coffee Roasting Business Plan (Description, Examples, Proposals)

The endless opportunity of a blank page can be overwhelming, making it difficult to write the first words that'll kick off your business plan. So, don’t start with a blank page. This fully customizable restaurant business plan template will take your first roast from farm to cup in no time.

Read through this article for advice on writing this business plan from someone with experience with the hard work it takes to keep a roastery operating smoothly. I apprenticed in a specialty coffee roastery in New Orleans to learn about coffee roasting and the industry and am eager to share what I’ve learned.

Restaurant Business Plan Template

No matter where you’re at in your restaurant ownership journey, a business plan will be your north star. Organize your vision and ensure that nothing is overlooked with this free template.

Elements of a Cafe Business Plan

Executive summary.

The specialty coffee industry is full of passionate people with big ideas about coffee – communicate your passion to potential investors with this initial section of your business plan. Excite future partners by describing your motivations for opening a coffee roasting business.

Introduce some key elements of your business plan in this section while keeping your audience engaged. Your roastery’s core mission and values, a coherent vision for the brand , and an overview of the budget are at home in this section. Consider painting a picture of the customer – and their experience – of your brand. Coffee roasters sell wholesale to businesses and directly to consumers. What does the supply chain from your shop to the coffee pot look like?

Company Overview

The company overview and executive summary work together as a comprehensive glossary of your business plan. This section is more practical than attention-grabbing – think about how you can design it to guide your reader through the rest of your coffee roastery’s business plan.

Define the internal management structure of your roastery, the supplier or coffee farms with which you’ll be working, and if you plan to open cafes and a roasting business. The coffee industry is a complex global market, and this is your prime opportunity to paint a picture of how you’ll enter that market successfully.

Team and Management

Coffee people are often truly in love with what they do, but their intensity can make the industry insular – you’ll likely have to compete for highly talented workers in a niche market or otherwise be ready to thoroughly train and mentor roasters, assistants, and baristas.

Aside from coffee roasting, the heart of a roastery, you’ll build the arteries that are necessary to carry coffee to your consumers either through retail or wholesale. That includes market research and a bold publicity strategy on top of the labor to required distribute your roasted beans on local or national supply chains.

In this section of your business plan, list all the roles you’ll need to fill in your coffee roasting business and write job descriptions and expectations for those roles. Don’t forget to look to the future – build job descriptions not only for the roles you’ll need to get started but all the roles you’ll need to hire as you grow and expand so that this plan is a guide for the long future of your business.

Sample Menu and/or Coffee Selection

This section, traditional of restaurant business plans, will be a little unconventional for a coffee roasting business. Use this section to describe the coffees you’ll offer – what green coffee beans do you plan to source? Are you focusing on beans from one country or region with which you have a relationship? Or will you rely on already established fair-trade sources?

You might offer medium roast blends year-round with a consistent flavor profile or focus on the unique flavors of seasonal small-batch light roasts. The choice of what coffees and roast profiles will influence how specialty coffee customers see your brand and could set you apart in a saturated market.

Many specialty coffee roasting businesses roast for a café that is owned and operated by the business. The sample menu section is a chance for you to describe what those cafes would offer and the environment they would create for customers.

Read this next

Different types of coffee and espresso drinks.

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Market Analysis

Specialty coffee roasteries aren’t rare anymore, but there are opportunities to enter new markets and space to compete in busy ones. The good news is that second-wave coffee shops and roasters — the corporate chains that are on every corner — aren’t your competition. Specialty coffee attracts discerning coffee drinkers who've made a hobby of finding and tasting new coffees, and that's whose attention you’ll need.

Market analysis shows potential investors that you’ve charted a path to success for your coffee roasting business. Describe the market you’re entering, why it is the right time to enter it, and how you’ve adjusted your business plan to meet the demands of the market. For a membership fee, the  National Coffee Association (NCA) offers detailed market research for specialty coffee businesses.

Marketing and Publicity

For coffee shops, cafes, and roasteries, word of mouth marketing is often the most powerful strategy, but specialty coffee has lost some of its mystique — many urban areas have a small coffee roaster or at least a café featuring a local roaster. It’s difficult to stand out of the crowd with word-of-mouth marketing alone, so consider how you can use social media, events, freebies, and a publicity strategy to get customers to your roastery.

The Specialty Coffee Association and NCA often work together to produce materials on how best to market your specialty coffee business, along with lots of information about ensuring that your product is represented at top quality by educating customers and baristas about brewing and serving.

Restaurant Marketing Plan

Create a marketing plan that'll drive repeat business with this customizable marketing playbook template and interactive calendar.

Branded Graphics

An important part of marketing is knowing how every part of your brand is going to look and feel. That's from the labels or stamps on your cups, to the design of your bag, to your logo, typeface, and color scheme which will permeate everything you create (except the beans themselves). 

As a great example, check out the branding of Propeller Coffee Co. in Toronto, Canada. Their bright red, blue, and grey color scheme, retro font, and wavy designs are distinctive and would stand out on the shelves of any cafe or distributor, or on a consumer's countertop.

Business Operations

Specialty coffee – that is, Arabica coffee beans – grows as the seed of a berry on bushes in high altitudes. Originally discovered in a valley in contemporary Ethiopia, the plant is now cultivated around the world in the “bean belt.”

That seed is processed to remove the flesh of the berry and dried and packaged to be shipped to roasteries – that supply chain prefigures your business and is a necessary consideration of the business operations sections.

How you plan to roast the green coffee, who will roast it, who will sell it to market or in retail cafes, and how that all happens smoothly should be detailed in this section. Map a network of your roastery’s operations from daily to quarterly, including both coffee and financial management details. 

Include information about how each section of your business – the roastery, marketing, sales, cafes – works together to build the vision of a roastery outlined in the executive summary. How do you act on your motivation and make that action successful? Include details about the internal culture of your business and the customer experience it generates.

Sales Forecasts and Operating Expenses

From researching coffee farms and developing roasting profiles to selling your first bag of beans is a long road. This section of your business plan maps that route so that potential investors can see that you understand how to make your new coffee roastery profitable — and when it'll be.

Business plans commonly include a “ break-even analysis ” which compares the sales required to break even with the cost of expenses each month. Investors will be interested in the potential for profit and loss to assess the risk of contributing to your business, but a profit and loss statement for a business that isn’t open yet requires some educated projections.

A cash flow analysis shows investors that the company can support itself without additional investments by detailing planned spending on labor, supplies, and operations. Be sure to consider how the costs unique to your coffee roastery, such as cleaning supplies or coffee roasting machine maintenance, balance at the end of each quarter.

Financing and Loans

Coffee roasters, as I’ve noted, are expensive and complex pieces of equipment that are costly to operate and maintain – planning to secure the financing that ensures your business has time to become profitable is the goal of this section.

Consider all your financing options when planning to open a coffee roasting business – some of which include lines of credit, small business administration (SBA) loans, merchant cash advances, crowdfunding, commercial real estate loans, equipment financing, purchase order financing, and bank or alternative loans.

Share how you've planned to finance so far, and then use this section to entice investors into chipping in and helping the business get off the ground and then become a success.

The Complete Guide to Restaurant Financing and Loans

Whether you’re opening a new restaurant, expanding your concept, or renovating within your existing four-walls, you’re going to need capital to make it all happen.

How to Present a Cafe Business Plan

There are a few ways to prepare to communicate with investors about your business plan and get them interested. As you write and edit your plan, you’ll have become the world’s only expert on the combination of coffees you plan to roast and offer, and the setting you'll do it in. 

Send that business plan far and wide to banks and potential investors, and think about crafting your elevator pitch and your full-length presentation (slides and all) to implement depending on what kind of situation you're in. A networking event will require a different type of pitch than a sit-down meeting.

Once you secure a meeting with a potential investor or partner, you’ll want to share a more detailed presentation that presents all the key elements of your business plan. It’s good to anticipate potential questions and prepare answers for questions you encounter for the first time. When networking, be honest and genuine, even if you don’t have a ready answer for each question that comes your way — just let the interested party know you'll get them an answer as soon as possible, and follow through!

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Coffee Roasting Business

Back to All Business Ideas

How to Start a Coffee Roasting Business

Written by: Esther Strauss

Esther is a business strategist with over 20 years of experience as an entrepreneur, executive, educator, and management advisor.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on April 25, 2021 Updated on June 6, 2024

Investment range

$15,250 - $80,600

Revenue potential

$280,000 - $1.7 million p.a.

Time to build

1 - 3 months

Profit potential

$85,000 - $120,000 p.a.

Industry trend

Are you a coffee fanatic? Do you love the smell of freshly roasted coffee? Then, starting a coffee roasting business could be the right choice for you.

Coffee is the third most consumed beverage worldwide, with nearly two-thirds of American adults drinking coffee every day, according to the National Coffee Association. Millennials are willing to spend a bit more for their daily caffeine fix, with 70% of their coffee consumed being gourmet. 

But how can you start your own coffee roasting business? The answer is to start with step one below!

Looking to register your business? A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple.

Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the Best LLC Services .

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Before you start dreaming of coffee roasting success, it’s important to understand the industry so that you can see where you fit best. 

Pros and Cons

To get a balanced view of the coffee roasting industry, let’s look at both the positives and the negatives. 

• Growing interest in specialty drinks, brews and varieties
• Easily scalable business model
• Help people get going to start their day!
• Be your own boss — choose your own beans and working hours
• Becoming a good roaster requires training
• Finding a suitable roasting location may be difficult due to the fumes and emissions

Coffee Roasting Industry Trends

Coffee is popular throughout the world, but Americans are the most committed drinkers, consuming 517 million cups a day, according to the National Coffee Association’s data from 2022.(( https://www.ncausa.org/Portals/56/PDFs/Communication/20220315_media_highlights.pdf?ver=Xz7bwWmt8eAtyGxkFp30bg%3d%3d ))

A look at Google Trends shows interest in coffee roasting has been consistent over the last five years.(( https://trends.google.com/trends/explore?date=today%205-y&geo=US&q=coffee%20roasting ))

Industry Size and Growth

• Industry size and past growth — The US roast coffee market is worth $0.3 trillion.(( https://www.statista.com/outlook/cmo/hot-drinks/coffee/roast-coffee/worldwide )) 
• Growth forecast — The global roast coffee market is expected to expand around 6% annually through 2029.(( https://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/4602370/coffee-roaster-market-growth-trends-covid-19 ))
• Number of businesses — There are over 3,000 coffee roasters in the US(( https://coffeebeaned.com/coffee-roaster-maps/ ))

Trends and Challenges

• Roasted coffee subscription model, with consumers getting high-quality beans shipped straight to their door on a regular basis
• Introduction of value-added coffee-based RTD and flavor-added coffee
• Short shelf life of roasted coffee
• Wide use of instant coffee

Consumer Spending

• Average consumer spend — 31% of Americans spend $11–$20 a month on coffee to make at home, and 51% buy coffee from a coffee shop at least once per week.(( https://www.driveresearch.com/market-research-company-blog/coffee-survey/ ))
• Potential customer base — More than half of Americans drink at least three cups per day.(( https://www.statista.com/chart/19524/cups-of-coffee-drunk-by-americans-per-day/ ))
• Average prices — A cup of coffee in the US costs an average of $4.90.(( https://www.businessinsider.com/coffee-prices-increases-inflation-drought-frost-2022-8 ))

What Kind of People Work in Coffee Roasting?

• Gender — 76% of coffee roasters are male.(( https://www.zippia.com/coffee-roaster-jobs/demographics/#gender-statistics ))
• Average level of education — Nearly 60% of coffee roasters have a bachelor’s degree.(( https://www.zippia.com/coffee-roaster-jobs/demographics/#degree-level-types ))
• Average age — The average American coffee roaster is over 41.(( https://www.zippia.com/coffee-roaster-jobs/demographics/#age-statistics ))

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Coffee Roasting Business?

To start a coffee roasting business, you’ll need between $15,000 and $80,000, but the average investment is about $50,000.

Let’s see what your investment gets you: 

You’ll need a handful of items to successfully launch your coffee roasting business. 

Online retailer Amazon has a range of coffee roasting equipment, including both basic and professional machines. Most other supplies can be found at local stores or from Amazon as well. Finding a reputable green coffee supplier is the most important part of this step. You can check out suppliers such as Benchmark and Intercontinental Coffee Trading .

How Much Can You Earn From a Coffee Roasting Business?

The key, of course, is how much coffee you sell and at what price. The World Economic Forum estimates that roasters typically make $0.44/lb of roasted beans. An estimated $8.73/lb cost and a wholesale selling price of $9.40/lb results in a 7% profit margin.(( https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/10/economics-coffee-cup-costs-break-down/ )) 

In your first year or two, you could work from home without any staff, bringing up your profit margin to around 30%. If you roast one 110-pound bag of coffee a day for five days a week and sell your roasted coffee for $10/lb, you’d earn more than $280,000 in annual revenue and around $85,000 in profit, assuming that 30% margin.

As your brand gains recognition, you could increase your capacity to five 110-pound bags a day and extend operating hours to six days a week. At this stage, you’d rent a commercial space, hire staff, and invest in a bigger roaster, reducing your profit margin to 7%. With an annual revenue of $1.7 million, you’d make a tidy profit of more than $120,000.

What Barriers to Entry Are There?

While starting a coffee roasting business may seem straightforward, there are a few barriers that you should be aware of: 

• Finding a suitable roasting location due to smoke and fumes
• The initial learning curve can be steep, from sourcing beans to roasting
• Gaining brand recognition can be difficult in a crowded market  
• Securing relevant permits and abiding by regulations

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Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know a bit more about the industry, let’s start refining your business idea. 

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an Opportunity

Before you become a coffee roaster, you’ll need to find out who your competition is. Are they beginning roasters like yourself, or are they an established brand? Are there a lot of local roasters in your area? Who buys their beans? 

Knowing these answers will help you find your unique value proposition that you can share with potential customers. 

You might also learn about the beans they source, their roasting process, and the equipment they use. All this information will help you capture your market share in the coffee industry. 

What? Determine Which Coffee Beans You’ll Roast and Specialize In

There are four color categories for roasted coffee beans, according to the National Coffee Association — light, medium, medium-dark, and dark. 

Light is generally preferred for milder coffee varieties, medium for stronger flavor, medium-dark for a slight bittersweet aftertaste, and dark for pronounced bitterness like espresso.

You should consider creating a niche for yourself by specializing in one or two of these roasted coffee categories. This could jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing within your niche market.

How Much Should You Charge for Roasted Coffee?

How much you charge will depend on the products you sell and the costs involved in the process. Beans vary in price depending on their origin, weather, and supply & demand, but on average, a coffee roaster can sell a pound of beans for $10–$15. 

Ensure that your product prices leave you with a healthy profit margin so that the fluctuations in green coffee bean prices won’t erode your profits. 

Once you know your costs, you can use our profit margin calculator to determine your markup and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify Your Target Market

Identifying your target market is important because these are the customers to whom you will tailor your marketing strategies.

Do you want to target restaurants and cafes or even sell directly to the public? Will you target high-end retailers, or do you want to make your coffee more affordable? These are some of the questions you can ask yourself while identifying your target market. 

Knowing who your customers will be allows you to create a brand and marketing plan that will resonate with them. 

Where? Choose Your Business Premises

In the early stages, you may want to run your business from home to keep costs low, but as your business grows, you’ll likely need to hire workers for various roles and may need to rent out a storefront or production facility. You can find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

• Central location accessible via public transport
• Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
• Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
• Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

Step 3: Brainstorm a Coffee Roasting Business Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• Name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “coffee” or “beans,” boosts SEO
• Name should allow for expansion, for example, “Bold Bean Roasters” over “Single Origin Roasters”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO, but might hinder future expansion

Discover over 210 unique coffee roasting business name ideas here . If you want your business name to include specific keywords, you can also use our coffee roasting business name generator. Just type in a few keywords, hit Generate, and you’ll have dozens of suggestions at your fingertips.

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the US Patent and Trademark Office website to make sure those names are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that set your business apart. Once you pick your company name and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Coffee Roasting Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

• Executive summary — A brief overview of the coffee roasting business, highlighting its key elements and objectives
• Business overview — Detailed information about the coffee roasting business, including its mission, vision, and key values
• Product and services — Explanation of the types of coffee products offered, the roasting process, and any additional services provided
• Market analysis — A thorough examination of the coffee market, identifying target customers, trends, and potential growth opportunities
• Competitive analysis — Evaluation of competitors in the coffee industry, analyzing their strengths and weaknesses
• Sales and marketing — Strategies for promoting and selling coffee products, including target marketing and promotional activities
• Management team — Introduction to the key members of the management team, outlining their roles and qualifications
• Operations plan — Details on the day-to-day operations of the coffee roasting business, from sourcing beans to the roasting process and distribution
• Financial plan — A comprehensive financial forecast, including startup costs, revenue projections, and profit margins
• Appendix — Supplementary materials such as supporting documents, market research data, and any additional information relevant to the business plan

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose Where to Register Your Company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you are planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to coffee roasting. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind that it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose Your Business Structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your coffee roasting business will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole proprietorship — The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General partnership — This is similar to a sole proprietorship but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) — Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• C Corporation — Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity, and the owner or owners are not personally liable for business debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corporation — This refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. Either a corporation or an LLC can elect to be an S Corp for tax status. Here, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have.

Form Your LLC

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Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail/fax. Visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you are completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund Your Business

Securing financing is your next step, and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans — This is the most common method, but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and a strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans — The Small Business Administration can act as a guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants — A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Venture capital — Offer potential investors an ownership stake in exchange for funds, keeping in mind that you would be sacrificing some control over your business.
• Friends and family — Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding — Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer increasingly popular low-risk options in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal — Self-fund your business via your savings, the sale of property or other assets, and support from family and friends.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best options, other than friends and family, for funding a coffee roasting business. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept. 

Step 8: Apply for Coffee Roasting Business Licenses and Permits

Starting a coffee roasting business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your coffee roasting business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked, yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability — The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business property — Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation — Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property — Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto — Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability — Protects against claims from clients who say they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP) — This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of any of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential Software and Tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks.  

You may want to use industry-specific software, such as Artisan or Cropster, to manage your inventory, purchasing, costs, and waste management.

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , FreshBooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences of filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial.

Develop Your Website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using website builders . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

However, people are unlikely to find your website unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google. 

Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

• Professional branding — Emphasize the artisanal and premium quality of your coffee in all branding elements, from logo to packaging.
• Website & SEO — Enhance your website’s search engine rankings by optimizing for keywords related to specialty coffee and artisan roasting. This strategy will increase your online presence and attract more traffic to your site.
• Social media engagement — Use Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest to share high-quality images of your coffee and the people behind your brand.
• Coffee education blog — Post articles on coffee sourcing, roasting, and brewing to educate and engage your audience.
• Video content — Produce behind-the-scenes videos to showcase your unique roasting process and coffee qualities.
• Coffee tasting events — Host tastings to introduce your coffees to both the public and potential wholesale customers.
• Participation in expos — Showcase your products at food and coffee expos to reach a wider audience and network with industry peers.
• Partnerships with local businesses — Collaborate with local eateries for unique coffee pairings and co-branded products.
• Subscription services — Offer a coffee subscription for regular deliveries, catering to dedicated coffee enthusiasts.
• Loyalty rewards — Develop a rewards program that incentivizes repeat purchases and fosters customer loyalty.
• Targeted online advertising — Utilize digital ads to reach specific demographics like coffee enthusiasts and gourmet food lovers.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that set it apart from the competition. Today, customers are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they can quickly grasp how your coffee roasting business meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your coffee roasting business could be:

• Offer unique coffee blends only found in your roastery
• Invest in the most eco-friendly coffee roasting machine
• Create an efficient coffee subscription plan
• Expand your services to coffee consulting and training

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain, but your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a roastery, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in coffee roasting for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in coffee. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. Online businesses might also consider affiliate marketing as a way to build relationships with potential partners and boost business.

Step 12: Build Your Team

If you’re starting out small from home, you may not need any employees and roast the coffee beans yourself. But as your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a coffee roasting business would include:

• Coffee roasters — handling the roasting operations
• Salespeople — selling to coffee shops and retailers
• Marketing lead — SEO strategies, social media

At some point, depending on your business’s size and needs, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Coffee Roasting Business — Start Making Money!

Keep in mind that not all coffee roasts are the same. It’s important that you know the difference between light and dark roasts. It’s also wise to determine from the start what kind of coffee roast you want to do and sell. You might want to do just the light roast or focus on medium-dark and dark roasts.

This is how you can set your business apart from the competition and increase your chances of success. Offering your own unique product or innovating on an existing product will help jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing. 

You’re now ready to start your entrepreneurial journey with your coffee roasting business!

• Coffee Roasting Business FAQs

According to the World Economic Forum , a coffee roaster will typically see a net profit of roughly $0.44/lb or 7.1%. These figures are based on a cost of $8.73/lb and a wholesale selling price of $9.40/lb. The net profit margin is similar if you sell to a retail audience as well. RK Drums , on the other hand, suggests that home-based coffee roasteries have a net profit margin closer to $7/lb.

Learning to roast coffee is straightforward, but mastering it takes time and practice. Continuous improvement in your roasting skills can help differentiate your business and lead to success.

The most popular coffee roast is typically medium roast, favored by many for its balance between preserving the coffee’s original flavors and developing deeper, caramelized notes. This preference can vary by region and personal taste.

The flavor and aroma of roasted coffee beans are influenced by the bean’s origin and variety, the processing method, the roasting profile including temperature and duration, moisture content, and the brewing method used.

Coffee roasters typically start the roasting process at temperatures between 180-200°C (356-392°F) and adjust higher depending on the desired roast profile and the specific characteristics of the beans.

Yes, coffee should rest after roasting to allow for degassing, where built-up carbon dioxide escapes from the beans. This resting period, typically between 12 to 48 hours, enhances the coffee’s flavor, making it smoother and more balanced.

Make sure you list your coffee roasting business on CoffeeRoast.com!

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Coffee Roasting Business Name
• Create a Coffee Roasting Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund Your Business
• Apply for Coffee Roasting Business Licenses and Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run a Coffee Roasting Business — Start Making Money!

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Coffee Roasting Business Plan Example

Published Jul.17, 2018

Updated Apr.22, 2024

By: Brandi Marcene

Average rating 4.5 / 5. Vote count: 4

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Table of Content

Do you want to start a coffee roasting business?

Starting a coffee roasting business is one of the best decisions you can ever make given the increasing popularity of coffee uptake. According to statistics from the National Coffee Association, the number of Americans consuming coffee has reached the peak since 2012. Figures indicate over 64% of Americans aged 18 and above have a cup of coffee on a daily basis with a further increase expected which is attributed to the popularity of gourmet drinks. A business  plan coffee roaster is a superb business idea that is poised for success so long you plan adequately. Coffee roasting is more than just a business, it’s an art. Being passionate about your craft and having a good business plan coffee roaster is the secret to succeeding in this business.

Executive Summary

2.1 the business.

The coffee roasting business will be registered as Blonch Coffee and will be located in Harlem neighborhood of New York City. The business will be managed by Maria Rodriguez who is a professional and licensed Q Grader.

2.2 Management Team

Maria Rodriguez, Owner and Proprietor of Blonch Coffee is a licensed and experienced Q Grader with extensive experience in the U.S coffee industry. Prior to starting coffee roasting business , Maria worked for high profile coffee brands across the United States and participated in numerous local, regional and international coffee tasting events.

2.3 Customer Focus

In order for the business plan coffee roaster to succeed, Maria has carefully studied the market and relied on her vast industry experience to come up with an appropriate approach that Blonch Coffee will use to reach out to the target market.

2.4 Business Target

Before starting her own business plan coffee roaster , Rodriguez did extensive market research coupled with her intricate knowledge of the business to identify the right business target. The key is to find creative marketing approaches to effectively reach out to the customer target.

Company Summary

3.1 company owner.

Maria Rodriguez is an experienced Q Grader whose successful career in the coffee making and tasting industry spans over two decades. Having worked for various top brands across the U.S. and participated in high profile events, Maria definitely has what it takes and hands-on skills of how to start a coffee roasting business .

3.2 Aim of Starting the Business

The coffee culture is constantly evolving for this reason, the demand for roasted coffee has increased significantly. Not only is coffee taken as a daily beverage, specialty coffees have now become the norm. Discerning coffee lovers are keen on quality coffee which lays a huge emphasis on how people drink and perceive coffee. To be part of this new exciting culture change, Maria Rodriguez thought of starting a coffee bean business that adopts a unique and transformational approach of coffee roasting.

3.3 How the Business will be Started

With over 20 years of experience in the coffee industry, Maria Rodriguez has a deep understanding of emerging coffee roasting trends and customer expectations. Given her involvement in the industry on a day-to-day basis, she knows what is required to start a successful business plan coffee roaster . To actualize her plan, Maria has worked closely with a team of experienced financial experts to formulate a comprehensive financial analysis and business plan coffee roaster that will guide the entire setup and operation of the business.

Services for Customers

Blonch Coffee has specialized in sourcing, roasting, packaging and organizing delivery for uniquely customized and specialized coffee products. The business offers a wide array of blended and roasted coffees which have been prepared from different kinds of coffee beans. Starting a coffee roasting company poised for success depends on how well blending is done for various kinds of beans.

Blonch Roasters intends to offer a wide range of coffee specialties which include:

• Bistro Blend
• Espresso and Decaf Espresso
• African Roast
• French Roast

Marketing Analysis of Coffee Roasting Business

Coffee is the second most popular traded commodity in the world after oil. The worldwide coffee retail market is a whopping $56 billion industry. Nowadays, coffee consumers prefer taking high-grade coffees with increased focus on quality and unique blending of beans. In the U.S. the coffee market industry has reached unprecedented levels of growth and for this reason, Blonch Coffee plans to rely on an objective coffee roasting business plan to set up its operations. To succeed in this business plan coffee roaster , extensive market analysis has been carried out to identify opportunities available to support business growth. Studying local trends and having a deep understanding of the local coffee roasting market will help Blonch to strategically position its brand.

5.1 Market Segment

In order for Blonch Coffee to achieve its targets, the coffee roasting business will focus on offering various kinds of products and services. Identifying the targeted customer segments is an important step Blonch Coffee has to deal with before as part of the plans to start coffee roasting business . After identifying the right market segment, the business plan coffee roaster can then come up with creative marketing strategy for business in order to woo customers.

5.1.1 Coffee Brewing Premises

One of the largest potential customers for Blonch Coffee is coffee brewing facilities which heavily rely on coffee products on a daily basis to serve their customers. These customers buy roasted coffee beans for the purposes of preparing and selling coffee and espresso drinks. This category includes Coffee Shops , Restaurants, drive-through and Bakeries. With the increasing uptake of coffee, selling directly to various coffee businesses is a sure way of boosting revenues for the coffee roasting business. Because these businesses require coffee products on a daily basis, this is a lucrative market Blonch Coffee must make an effort to reach out to.

5.1.2 Corporates

To start a successful coffee roasting business, you cannot afford to ignore the corporate market which is one of the biggest consumers of coffee products. New York City is a corporate and financial hub with thousands of organizations plying their trade in the city. Office coffee is a popular trend in offices and Blonch Coffee is positioned in a strategic New York neighborhood with easy connections to New York’s Financial District whether a majority of corporates have their offices. Aside from catering for offices, other institutions include schools, hospitals and factories among others.

5.1.3 Retail Specialty Shops

Coffee is a popular item that is stocked in various gourmet and gift shops. People nowadays love and appreciate coffee products as gifts which creates a great opportunity for Blonch Coffee to make unique products that are attractive to retailers focusing on selling specialty and gourmet coffee.

5.1.4 Mail Order

Mail Order coffee is increasing in popularity as many people now order for coffee online. This is an incredible way of boosting revenue for Blonch Coffee as the business can produce coffee for shipping to various places across the U.S. and worldwide. When you start your own coffee roasting business , you must be willing to go beyond the traditional market.

5.1.5 Grocery Stores

Grocery stores buy beans from coffee roasters in bulk for the purposes of resale or prepackaging to their customers. Unlike coffee shops, grocery stores don’t prepare coffee drinks for their customers.

5.2 Business Target

Blonch Coffee has an excellent opportunity to offer its services in the greater New York area thanks to the changing perceptions about coffee. New York is a large city with many coffee bean roasting business establishments, but that doesn’t prevent Blonch Coffee from making an impact.  Using a diversified product range and a good business plan coffee roaster , the business hopes to realize an annual sales increase of 20-30% per annum.

5.3 Product Pricing

Before coming up with product prices, Blonch Coffee has carried out an extensive market research that takes into account the prices of competitors. In order to stay afloat, the business has carefully priced its products to compete favorably.

With the right marketing strategies in place, Blonch Coffee has an exceptional chance to appeal to customers and consistently grow revenue margins. Each marketing strategy is aimed at reaching the target customers with awesome products that exceed client expectations. When planning how to start coffee roasting business , there must be an effective marketing strategy in place in order to remain relevant in a fast growing industry.

6.1 Competitive Analysis

Blonch Coffee plans to come up with a business model that will effectively guide its day-to-day operations and ensure customer expectations are fully met. Even though there are numerous coffee roasting businesses in New York, Maria Rodriguez knows how to start a coffee roasting business and put in place the right mechanisms to remain ahead of competitors.

6.2 Sales Strategy

For Blonch Coffee to meet its sales and revenue goals, the following strategies will be implemented to help advertise the business.

• Print Advertising Campaigns is one of the most effective sales strategies that reaches out to a mass target audience. The business intends to print brochures and put advertisements in local dailies as well as local coffee trade publications and journals. By doing this, the local community is made aware about the coffee roasting business.
• Get the word out and organize an opening party to introduce the business to customers and industry stakeholders. A cupping event is ideal as it allows guests to taste, compare and analyze different varieties of coffee. This is a perfect opportunity for prospective customers to sample what Blonch Coffee has to offer.
• Digital advertising is the new kid on the block. Social media channels such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram among others are excellent ways of sending out word about the coffee roasting business. Online advertising such as Google Ads allow for localized advertising which is aimed at the local target.
• Attend industry related trade shows and exhibitions with an aim of marketing the coffee roasting business. This is an effective sales strategy that connects the business with right people who will be instrumental in growing revenue margins.

6.3 Sales Forecast

To achieve its goals, Blonch Coffee has come up with a sales forecast to show the coffee roasting business intends to meet its financial goals. Using a comprehensive business plan coffee roaster , the business knows which areas to focus on to achieve financial success.

Personnel Plan

In order to realize its goals, Blonch Coffee intends to hire a team of qualified and experienced staff to manage day-to-day operations of the business. How to start a coffee roasting company and run it successfully depends on the caliber of staff hired. A good business plan coffee roaster should incorporate a personnel budget to enable the business plan coffee roaster know how much will be spent on salaries.

7.1 Personnel Plan

To effectively run business operations, Maria Rodriguez who is the Owner and Proprietor of Blonch Coffee will be in charge of running the coffee roasting business on a daily basis. To ensure smooth running of the business plan coffee roaster , the following staff will be employed in various departments.

• Business Development and Sales Manager
• 2 Support Staff
• 1 Admin Assistant
• 1 Shipping Executive

Successful applicants will undergo training to familiarize themselves with business plan coffee roaster operations.

7.2 Average Salaries

Blonch Coffee plans to pay its staff the following salaries within the first three years of operation.

Financial Plan

Blonch Coffee has come up with a comprehensive financial plan that will be instrumental in driving success and business growth. In this business plan coffee roaster of how to start coffee roasting , Maria Rodriguez will use her savings to start the business but will be assisted by two investors. In addition, a business plan for a bank loan will be secured to help finance the budget deficit to meet expenses. For a business to be successful, there must be a good plan to guide operations and finances. Below is key financial data for Blonch Coffee.

8.1 Important Assumptions

The financial forecast for Blonch Coffee is based on the assumptions below.

8.2 Brake-even Analysis

Blonch Coffee Brake-even analysis is illustrated in the graph below.

8.3 Projected Profit and Loss

Profit and Loss information for the coffee roasting business is calculated on a monthly and annual basis as shown below.

8.3.1 Monthly Profit

8.3.2 Yearly Profit

8.3.3 Monthly Gross Margin

8.3.4 Yearly Gross Margin

8.4 Projected Cash Flow

Below is a summary of Pro forma cash flow, subtotal cash spent, subtotal cash received, subtotal cash spent on operations and subtotal cash from operations.

8.5 Projected Balance Sheet

Below is a Projected Balance Sheet for Blonch Coffee that shows capital, assets, liabilities, current liabilities and long term assets.

8.6 Business Ratios

The following is the Ratio Analysis, Business Ratios and Business Net Worth for Blonch Coffee.

Download Coffee Roasting Business Plan Sample in pdf

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How to Start a Coffee Roasting Business - 9 Steps to Success!

• by Mike Hughes
• February 01, 2024
• 12 min read

QUESTION: Do you know what the global coffee industry is valued at as of right now? Take a guess. Okay, we’ll tell you: a staggering $500 billion! Not only that, but the demand for coffee roasters is forecast to grow 6% through 2026!

If you fancy being among the 6%, then this article is for you. Perhaps you’re a coffee shop owner thirsting to roast in-house. Or a home roasting hobbyist looking to make the leap to coffee entrepreneur.

On those gro unds,  CoffeeRoast Co. presents the essential steps to starting a successful coffee roasting business . From the top...

1. DEVELOP YOUR COFFEE KNOW-HOW

Coffee craft.

To become a coffee roaster , not surprisingly, you’ll need a solid grasp of all things coffee and at least one or two years experience.

Above all, to become proficient in the roasting process, methods, and techniques. But also to understand how to select the right green beans, different brewing styles, and tasting skills.  One of the best things you can do in that respect is attend one or more professional courses or workshops.

In the U.S., both the Specialty Coffee Association [SCA] and Coffee Roasting Institute [CRI] offer a variety of educational resources geared toward becoming a roast master.

The SCA’s sensory skill module, in particular, covers recognising defects in green/roasted beans as well as discerning coffee characteristics such as acidity, body, and aftertaste.

Coffee Industry

Before launching a new roasting business, it’s imperative to carry out in-depth market research. In order to gain insights into who to sell your roasted beans to and how to sell them.

Not to mention, doing your thing differently or better, how to stand out from the crowd of other roasteries. Firstly, define your target customers; their needs and preferences. Then analyze your major competitors; their strengths and weaknesses.

Find your coffee roasting niche

After collecting the necessary data and information, the next stage is to figure out how to tread your own path as a professional roaster.

Ask yourself questions such as: How much will you charge for your roasted coffee? Will you stick to roasting single-origin beans or create blends? Will you sell to wholesalers, retailers, or individuals? Will you offer services like coffee subscriptions, training, or consultancy?

Keep a record of all the specifics as you’ll need them later.

Remember also that the coffee universe is ever-evolving. Tastes change. Techniques trend. Rivals pop up or close down. Because of this, you should continually finesse your roasting knowledge, skills, and experience.

At the same time as keeping up-to-date with developments in the industry and staying one jump ahead of competitors.

2. ESTABLISH YOUR COFFEE ROASTING BRAND

Unless you go down the route of a coffee roasting franchise, your roastery will need its own unique brand. One that’s instantly recognizable, memorable, and trustworthy.

At the same time as resonating with your target audience, and setting your business apart from the competition.

Brand identity specifically is the ‘face’ of your brand. It’s meant to shape the most positive impression of your roasting brand in the minds of your coffee-drinking customers.

That starts with deciding a brand name for your new coffee roasting company. Then, among other things, a logo, a tagline, your business’ core values and unique selling proposition, and your brand personality.

Take Florida's Koffee Kult specialty coffee roaster, for instance. Their name’s distinct and catchy. In keeping with which, their slogan ‘Be One of Us’ is more a message making folks who buy their roasts feel like they’re joining a coffee religion!  Whether in words, pictures or both, your brand should be reflected in the roasted coffee products you sell and any services you offer.

From the design of the packaging for your roasted beans to that of the business cards for your roastery. And, the number one rule of branding, communicated consistently.

3. GATHER YOUR ROASTERY TOOLS & SUPPLIES

Exactly what inventory’s required depends on the size and scope of your roasting operation as well as your bank balance.

Here’s a round-up of the standard raw materials and hardware needed to roast coffee professionally:

Green Beans

The kind of green coffee beans you choose will have a considerable impact on the characteristics of the final cup. Not to mention, on your bottom line.

Therefore, never skimp when shopping for unroasted beans. Plump for the freshest, highest quality ones you can afford. And ideally, those that are sustainably grown, organic, and ethically sourced.

Before  buying green beans to roast and sell, decide which you’ll focus on. This means experimenting with beans from different coffee-producing areas, processing methods, and so on.

You want two or three reliable suppliers. Courtesy of specialty coffee shops, online vendors, importers, brokers, or by direct trade with farmers.

Coffee Roaster

The centerpiece of your roasting enterprise,  coffee roasting machines come in all manner of types, sizes, prices, and levels of automation.

When starting out in the coffee game, there’s nothing wrong with using a countertop home roasting appliance. Save having to upgrade later though, smart to invest in a model that can scale with your business.

The go-to pick for commercial coffee outfits being drum roasters with a capacity of 2.2lbs and up.  In addition, you may need to factor in installation and configuration of the unit by a qualified technician.

Roasting Software  – For hooking up to compatible coffee roasters to help monitor production, planning, quality control, and other aspects with Artisan and Cropster popular picks.

Sample Roaster  – For roasting smaller amounts of beans to judge the quality of your roasts before upsizing the batch.

Moisture Reader  – For sensing the water content of beans (green coffee particularly) to provide clues as to how their quality might change over time and how they’ll react in the roaster.

Bean Probe  – For sampling roasting beans so you can smell-check their aroma and, under a spotlight, view their shade by eye.

Color Meter  – For finding out the true degree of roast to better help consistency of your roasts

Weighing Scales  - For measuring out your green beans before roasting, ground coffee before taste testing, and roasted beans before packing.

Coffee Grinder  – For  grinding whole roasted beans to try out your roasts for use in regular coffees and/or espresso.

Coffee Maker  – For checking the suitability of your roasts with different  brewing methods .

Cleaning Materials

It’s vital to keep your roastery equipment in good and safe working order. Amongst the essentials, stuff like a wire brush to remove chaff and other debris. Specially formulated spray or powder to shift built-up coffee oils and other gunk. Plus a shop or industrial vacuum cleaner.

Safety Articles

Roasting coffee beans isn’t without its risks; smoke and fire, for two. Besides taking the proper precautions, always have on hand items such as a well-stocked first aid kit, fire extinguishers, gloves, and dust masks.

Storage, Packaging & Shipping Supplies

You’ll have to get hold of enough containers to store your beans. To stash green coffee, that usually means burlap sacks. For roasted beans, one-way valve packs while they degas and opaque airtight canisters for afterwards.

Kept that way in a cool, dark, dry spot, your precious coffee seeds will stay fresher and more flavorful for longer.

To mail out customer orders, you’ll need a bulk of bags; own branded and preferably recyclable. Something like bubble wrap or packing peanuts to protect your roasted coffee in transit.

A heat sealer to fasten the bags shut so the beans don’t degrade until opened. Besides which, delivery boxes, labels and pre-paid postage, for example.

4. SECURE A LOCATION FOR YOUR COFFEE ROASTERY

From wherever you run your coffee roasting business, of course, it needs to be big enough to comfortably accommodate your entire roastery setup. With adequate room to properly store your beans (roasted and unroasted) and to roast, grind, brew, and pack. Not forgetting office space for admin tasks.

Provided it ticks all the boxes, early on to help keep costs down, you might consider operating from home. Indeed, many a pro coffee roaster got their start there, in a basement or garage.

As your roastery business grows though, and especially if you need to onboard staff, chances are you’ll need to lease (or purchase) commercial premises. Be it a storefront or a warehouse facility.

5. ARRANGE PERMITS & LICENSES FOR YOUR ROASTING BUSINESS

Not the most exciting nor the speediest aspect of having your own coffee roasting business. To operate legally though, it’s crucial to come by the required paperwork and comply with health and safety laws and regulations. Otherwise, you risk a hefty fine or your roastery shuttered for good.

Precisely which licenses and permits you’ll need will mean checking with local, state, and federal authorities. Here’s the more common ones:

EPA Air Permit  – Issued by the Environmental Protection Agency where roasters roast more than 1 million pounds of green beans per year.

FDA Registration  – Certain food facilities must register with the Food and Drug Administration then undergo regular random inspections by the local health department.

General Business License  – One-size-fits-all document that gives permission to operate a business.

Legal Entity Setup  – To establish the name of the business and its structure/form (sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or Limited Liability Company [LLC]).

Employer Identification Number  – When recruiting employees and reporting employment taxes, apply for a unique EIN from the IRS.

Seller's Permit  - Authorization to collect sales tax from customer transactions before remitting to the appropriate taxing authority.

Resale Certificate  – Exempts the holder from paying sales tax on goods purchased from another business to be resold.

Certificate of Occupancy  – Being granted a CO ensures the commercial building conforms with zoning and building codes.

Obtain Business Insurance

Often compulsory, getting properly insured safeguards against claims arising from your coffee roasting business.

There are several sorts of plans and levels of cover:

General Liability  – All-round coverage for personal injury, property damage, and more.

Commercial/Business Property  - Protects company premises and its contents in case of loss or damage.

Business Owner's Policy [BOP] – General liability plus business property insurances bundled into one.

Equipment Breakdown  – Provides for replacing or repairing work machinery.

Workers' Compensation  – Medical and salary benefits for employees/staff sick or hurt on the job.

Fair Trade Certification

As a roastery business, it’s worth looking at getting Fair Trade Certified.

Roasted beans that meet Fairtrade Standards can demonstrate your commitment to a fair wage and treatment for coffee producers. Quite apart from the chance to earn greater returns and customer support in the long term.

Just bear in mind that to qualify, your roasting outfit will be subject to supply chain audits and you’ll pay a premium for Fair Trade coffee beans.

6. COSTING & FUNDING YOUR NEW COFFEE ROASTING START-UP

Calculate startup costs.

To open your own coffee roastery may not be as costly as that of, say, a café but you’ll still need a chunk of capital.

The initial lay out for a coffee roasting start-up varies widely. Ranging anywhere between $10,000 and $150,000 with the average investment in the ballpark of $50,000.

Running through the basic upfront spends:

Coffee Roasting Machine  – Generally your single biggest expense, roasters drop from a couple hundred bucks for a decent home roaster to tens of thousands for monster-sized commercial-grade equipment. Added to which, possible installation, maintenance, and servicing costs. And not counting the cost to fuel the roaster, be it by electric, propane, or firewood.

Green Coffee  – Depending on the quality and variety, bulk-bought raw beans go from $1 to $15 per pound. Prices change from month to month, but $3 to $4.50 is typical. Also note that whilst you perfect your roasts, expect a good amount of wastage.

Physical Space  - Roasting professionally from home, you can suppose your mains water and power utility bills will go up. Having a commercial roastery will entail paying rent or taking out a mortgage; either way, you can safely assume you’ll have to put down a sizeable deposit. Whether running your roasting business from home or otherwise, you may also need to sink money into construction or renovations.

Employee Pay  – Likely as not, you’ll handle much if not all of the legwork yourself when you first get going in the roasting business. As you expand though, be prepared to take additional labor costs into account.

Marketing  – To broadcast your coffee roasting business to the world, you’ll need to reserve a budget for branding and advertising.

Documentation  – Although the costs differ massively, reckon on regulatory fees for licensing and permitting. And extra for insurances policies, certificates, company registration and the like.

Raise Startup Costs

If you don’t have savings, assets to sell or simply unwilling to self-fund, you’ll need to finance your coffee roasting business by other means:

Bank Loan  – The norm, though receiving the green light will call for a comprehensive business plan and a sound credit history.

SBA Loan  – Borrowing from a third-party lender with the line of credit backed by the Small Business Administration.

Government Grant  - Federal financial assistance programs for sponsoring ideas and projects.

Venture Capital  – A VC firm contributes funds in exchange for an ownership stake in the new business.

Crowdfunding  – From average Joes and Janes to angel investors donating to the fundraiser’s cause.

Family & Friends  – Requesting monetary support from loved ones.

7. HATCH YOUR COFFEE ROASTING BUSINESS PLAN

No self-respecting entrepreneur would go into commerce without a well-laid business plan. Sure, it takes a bit of time to put together, but it serves to map out your new coffee roasting venture.

In point of fact, if you’re hoping to score big bucks in startup funding for your roastery, odds-on you won’t get it without a killer business plan.

These are the basics of what should appear in a business plan:

Executive Summary  – A short overview, written last, of the key points in your roastery business plan.

Company Description  – Detail your coffee business’ vision, mission statement, goals/objectives, performance measures, and such like.

Products & Services  - Catalog which roasted coffee products you’ll offer, plus any subscription or related services.

Business Structure  – Outline the ownership of your roasting company, as well as how it will be organized and managed.

Employee/Staffing Requirements  - Describe your roastery’s hiring needs including how many workers (contract, salaried, or otherwise), what positions, and any training.

Market Analysis  – Break down your business’ target audience and main competitors.

Sales & Marketing Strategies  – List advertising campaigns to attract customers to your roasting business and merchandising initiatives to help sell your roasted beans.

Financial Outlook  - Sketch out 6+ months of sales projections, a break-even analysis, startup and running costs, profit and loss estimates, and whatnot.

8. GET YOUR COFFEE ROASTING BUSINESS ONLINE

Nowadays, building a presence on the Net for any business is crucial for a host of reasons. Not least to showcase your brand, educate with coffee roasting content, as well as engage with customers new and old.

Most of all, as a pro roaster, you’ll be able to sell your roasted beans online together with breaking into international markets.

Set Up Your Coffee Roasting Company Website

Versus commissioning a web designer and developer if you’re tech shy or on a strict budget, DIYing a basic website has become reasonably straightforward. Granted, creating an e-commerce store for the sake of selling is somewhat more complex, expensive, and time consuming.

Before anything, you’ll need to register a domain name. Really, one matching the name of your roasting business. Next, sign up for web hosting. After that, set up a website builder.

The most popular being WordPress, Weebly, WIX, Squarespace, and Shopify. Then, based on your earlier market research, it’s a matter of designing, developing, optimizing, and deploying your site.

Leverage Social Media

Completely free or pretty economical, you’d be missing a serious trick if your up-and-coming roastery wasn’t on social media. Among the biggest platforms are Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Pinterest, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, and TikTok.

With more emphasis on real-time interaction, yo u can tap into a fan base of new coffee-loving prospects.

Lots of different types of content can be shared on social media – short text posts, infographics, articles, photos (pre-recorded and live streams), testimonials, webinars, quizzes and polls, contests and free tries, special deals, and teasers and announcements.

What’s more, it’s a breeze to set up a shop on each of Facebook and Instagram for selling your roasted coffee.

Just don’t forget to link your various social media channels to your website.

9. SHOUT OUT YOUR COFFEE ROASTERY

You can have the best coffee roasting business on the planet but if no-one knows about it, you won’t go far. Even then, there are countless other roasteries out there vying for custom. Precisely why you need to do everything you can to put your roasted beans in front of folks.

Marketing efforts normally take a while to gain traction. So, in the interests of raising brand awareness and building an audience, begin hyping your brand sooner rather than later.  Get people excited, drum up interest, and maybe pre-orders. Followed by full-on promotion after launching to expand the reach of your roastery business and drive sales.

These days, most coffee roasters get the word out by using a combination of modern-day online marketing and good old-fashioned advertising and PR:

Internet Marketing

Done right, digital marketing can work miracles for plugging your coffee roasting brand on the web.

To highlight a mere handful of types:

Content Marketing & SEO – Create, publish, and share blogs, videos, posts, podcasts, and other material online; often used in conjunction with Search Engine Optimization.

Pay-Per-Click Marketing  - Advertise online and pay for each click a PPC ad receives.

Social Media Marketing  – Not least influencer marketing to collaborate with SM users who have substantial followings.

Email Marketing  – Send promotional messages and newsletters to subscribers.

Business Listings  – Register your roastery on the likes of Google Business Profile, Yelp, and LinkedIn as a simple, zero-cost, and underrated way to increase the visibility of your roasting business.

Traditional Marketing

Online marketing may have upstaged more conventional advertising but it still has its merits.

Some ideas to boost publicity and connect with new customers the old-school way:

Signage  – If you’ll have a retail outlet for your roasted beans, put up signs there to grab the attention of passersby.

Promos  – Spark interest by offering loyalty programs, discount vouchers, prize-winning competitions, or complimentary samples of your roasted coffee as giveaways.

Flyering  – Hang, hand out, or door-drop leaflets throughout your local community, especially in areas with high foot traffic.

In-Person Sales  – Pitch your roasts at farmers’ market, trade shows, conventions, and similar events; besides looking for partnership opportunities with grocers, restaurants, and caterers.

Cuppings  – Host free  coffee tastings at your roastery or elsewhere around town.

THAT'S A WRAP

Launching a coffee roasting business is a golden opportunity for those with a passion for java and an entrepreneurial spirit.

In fact, knowing your craft as well as choosing the right beans and roasting machine is half the battle. The rest is a question of getting business savvy.

Most notably, carving out a niche and a brand for your roastery, satisfying health and safety regulations, plus crunching the numbers. Then, before lift-off, to begin marketing your roasted bombshells to the world.

If you’ve ever started a coffee roasting business, feel free to weigh in with any lessons learned in the comments box underneath.

Otherwise, as the heart of your future roasting empire, how about checking out our collection of  commercial drum roasters .

2 Responses

June 07, 2024

Thank you for this article. This is exactly what I need to pursue roasting as a potential start up.

Nyakundi Naftal

May 07, 2024

Awesome and detailed information! As a budding passionate coffee roasting entrepreneur, I can say I have learnt a lot. Thanks

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Home » Blog » Crafting a Successful Coffee Roastery Business Plan

Crafting a Successful Coffee Roastery Business Plan

Starting a coffee roastery business is exciting but demands careful planning and strategy. The heart of this journey is crafting an effective business plan, especially for a coffee roastery. A well-structured business plan helps secure funding and guides you through the initial stages of your business and beyond. However, a coffee roastery is not just a business; it’s a hub of flavor, community, and culture ! Your business plan should be the secret recipe that blends these elements into a successful venture.

Importance of a Business Plan for a Coffee Roastery

For any coffee roastery business, a business plan acts as a roadmap. It outlines your business goals, strategies, potential challenges, and how to overcome them. It’s essential for organizing your thoughts, prioritizing resources, and presenting your vision to potential investors or partners.

Key Components of a Coffee Roastery Business Plan

A comprehensive business plan for a coffee roastery should include:

• Executive Summary : An overview of your business concept , target market, and unique selling points.
• Business Description : Detailed information about your coffee roastery, including location, size, and business structure.
• Market Analysis and Competition Research : Understanding your target market and analyzing competitors is crucial. Identify trends in the coffee industry, customer preferences, and how your business will stand out.
• Product Line : Detail the types of coffee you plan to roast and sell. Include any unique blends or specialty products.
• Marketing and Sales Strategy : Outline how you will attract and retain customers. This includes pricing, advertising, and sales tactics.
• Operational Plan : Describe the day-to-day operations, including sourcing beans, roasting processes, and distribution.
• Management Team : Highlight the experience and skills of your team members.
• Financial Projections : Present realistic financial forecasts, including startup costs, revenue projections, and break-even analysis.

Market Analysis and Competition Research

Conducting a thorough market analysis helps understand the existing competition and identify gaps in the market. Evaluate local and global trends in coffee consumption and how these trends can shape your offerings. Understanding your competition’s strengths and weaknesses enables you to position your business more effectively.

Sourcing Quality Beans and Building Relationships with Suppliers

The quality of your coffee beans is pivotal. Develop relationships with reputable suppliers, preferably those who practice sustainable and ethical sourcing. Attend trade shows, join coffee associations, and network to find suppliers who align with your brand’s values.

Creating a Unique Brand Identity

Your brand identity should resonate with your target audience. It includes your business name, logo, packaging, and overall aesthetic. A strong brand identity helps differentiate your coffee roastery from competitors and builds a loyal customer base.

Funding Options and Financial Projections

Securing funding is a critical step. Options include small business loans, investor funding, or crowdfunding. Be transparent and realistic in your financial projections. Include initial startup costs, operating expenses, and revenue forecasts. This shows potential investors that you clearly understand the financial side of running a business.

Tips for Navigating Challenges in the Coffee Business

• Stay Informed : Keep up-to-date with industry trends and consumer preferences.
• Quality Control : Consistently offer high-quality products to build a loyal customer base.
• Customer Engagement : Engage with customers through social media, events, and feedback surveys.
• Adapt Flexibility : Be prepared to adapt to market changes or unforeseen challenges.
• Sustainability Practices : Implement eco-friendly practices in sourcing and operations to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.
• Networking : Connect with other business owners and industry professionals for support and advice

Your business plan is not just a document; it’s a living, breathing blueprint that captures your passion, vision, and dedication to the craft! By thoughtfully creating your business plan, focusing on each crucial component, and preparing for the challenges and opportunities ahead, you can lay the foundation for a coffee roastery that resonates with coffee aficionados and casual drinkers alike. Here’s to your success in creating a thriving coffee business that stands out in a bustling marketplace, one delightful cup at a time!

Ready to take the first step in your coffee roasting journey? Our team is here to help. We offer a range of top-quality roasting machines suited for businesses of all sizes. Contact us today to explore our selection and find the perfect roasting machine for your coffee roastery business.

Category: Coffee Roasting Business

By: KUMO Studio / Jan 2024

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Coffee roasters like to think the key to success is simply roasting the best coffee beans out there. It’d be great if success was that straightforward, but the coffee business is a bit more complicated than that.

The problem with this business plan is that EVERYONE else is following the same one. Coffee shops have more options for high quality coffee than ever before, and even more shops are taking up the craft of roasting for themselves.

Quality is just the foot in the door for coffee roasters, as one coffee shop owner put it. What else can coffee roasters do to stand out from the crowd?

We recently conducted a survey with the help of Barista Magazine to learn more about coffee shop and customer habits. Along with learning a lot about consumer preferences, we also learned what coffee shops look for when choosing a roasting partner. The most important qualities for a coffee roaster are:

• Consistency
• Unique flavors
• Being local

But when we asked coffee shops to explain in more detail, there seemed to be other strong factors that played a role in how coffee roasters earned their business. We picked out the best pieces of advice from coffee shops and list them below. Scroll through the 4 main categories and find the advice that resonates with you. You have our permission to steal it and turn it into a booming business. Happy roasting!

Coffee Shop Education

1. offer to run cuppings for coffee shops.

“Go above and beyond for your shops. If they want to do cuppings, send them free samples or offer to come down and teach! Your shops are a direct influence on the image of your roastery.” - Devin Parham, Head Barista at The Coffee Cup , Poteau, OK, USA

2. Provide Training to coffee shops

“Offer flexibility within roasts and support your vendors with training. It helps the cafe and ensures that your coffees are being brewed and served the way you intended when you roasted them.” - United By Blue Coffeehouse & Clothier , Philadelphia, PA, USA

“Offering trainings and being available are some things that I appreciate most about my roaster. They anticipate our needs and follow through. They do an amazing job.” - Tina Contes, Dough , Tampa FL, USA

3. Understand what it takes to be a good barista

“Be familiar with skills needed to be a good barista first. if you cannot connect the two, how can you know what your customers want. Make it a point to connect with people purchasing beans from your shop, or the shops where your beans are being sold.”

- Matthew Lynch, Street Bean Coffee , Seattle, WA, USA

4. Choose coffee shop partners who care about the product

“Display prudence when selecting a shop to prepare your coffee and oversee their procedures to ensure a proper representation of your brand and product.” 

- Zachary James, Peddler Coffee , Philadelphia, PA, USA

5. Provide detailed information about the coffees

“For a roaster, having highly detailed information about the beans you're sourcing, tasting notes, the ability to host baristas on site and to articulately conduct trainings and coffee cuppings are all critical to success in the industry. This is particularly relevant if your clientele is local and actively pursuing education and transparency about their buying practices in their shops.” 

- Ryan Barker, Bourbon Coffee , Washington, DC, USA

6. Be a resource to wholesale customers

“Be a resource! Offering classes, equipment, technical support, and being a familiar face adds value to your brand.” - Doug Stone, Corvus Coffee Roasters , Denver, CO, USA

Creating Quality Coffee

7. Take coffee roasting classes

“If you want to roast your own coffee you must know how to do it. You can ruin a great coffee if you don´t. Begin with the courses and then buy your roaster machine. Create a profile as so you can always roast the coffee the same way as before to have a consistent product.” - Dri Menezes,  Blueberry Pie Café , Niterói, Brazil

8. Create custom blends for wholesale customers

“Listen to your client. Our roaster was very open to creating our custom blends, and roasting the single origins to our specifications.” 

- Lyndsey Lee, Coffee Studio

9. Take risks with unique coffees

“Take risks. Do new things and pull in obscure coffees. Never compromise the craft of coffee roasting for profit. Remember why your coffee is special and always do your best to honor the hard work of coffee farmers.” 

- Ben Hernandez, Oak Lawn Coffee , Dallas, TX, USA

10. Be transparent in sourcing

“We absolutely point blank refuse to serve coffee from roasters who aren't absolutely transparent about sourcing and blends. Put the name of the producer on the bag. Tell us what's in a blend. Source ethically and advertise that.” 

- Alex Evans, M5 Espresso, Cincinnati, Ohio , USA

Building Relationships

11. relationships and trust win over customers.

“In our region, we have at least 25 fantastic roasters within two hours of our shop. Our decision came down to relationship and trust. Messenger Coffee (our primary roaster) has taken a personal interest in our business and has gone out of their way to help us grow and reach our goals. As a result, we have grown into one of their largest accounts. We couldn't have reached that without them!” 

- David Adkins, Arrow Coffee Company , Manhattan, KS, USA

12. Be the “One Stop Shop” for cafes

“Be proactive. Build a full service business that consults, installs and finances equipment.” 

- Avery's Coffee Roasters, Las Vegas, NV, USA

13. Build a strong relationships with local shop owners

“Build personal connections with shop owners and management--it goes a long way! We've been so lucky to forge a strong bond with our roaster. Happy to keep this going for years to come.” 

- Mike Balderrama, The Potter's House , Washington, DC, USA

14. Take on small coffee shop accounts and grow with them

“Our [coffee] order was very small at the beginning but we had roasters who worked with us and helped us grow. Because of this positive relationship we are very active about promoting our roasters to our customer base.” 

- Kim Wilson, Commissary Cafe , Portland, Oregon, USA

15. Communicate constantly

“Constantly checking in and sending samples to existing accounts really shows you care and will help them to grow sales, gaining you more business.” 

- Michael Hoshstrasser, University Book Store Cafe , Seattle, WA, USA

16. Don’t forget about customer service

“Customer service is key. That can easily be lost when your product becomes the primary focus. If there's no customer to by the coffee, then the coffee's not worth anything. If people feel valued by you as a roaster, then they'll value your product.” - Seth Enos, Copper Kettle Coffee , Colorado Spring, CO, USA

17. Keep up with your customer’s taste preferences

“Keep your clients engaged and constantly communicate with them to ensure the product you're delivering is keeping up with their tastes as preferences change over time and if you don't reach out to them in time, they may switch roasters.” 

- Minnie Antonio, Calgary, Alberta, Canada

18. Actually visit the local shops

“Visit your local shops more. It's easy to stay in the roastery all day, and neglect the shops around you. But making a dual-effort to serve excellent coffees to the community around you goes a long way. Local partnerships speak volumes in communities where coffee isn't yet being fully appreciated.” 

- Jared H., Java Jolt , Jacksonville, AL, USA

19. Turn relationships into repeat business

“Focus on quality, and focus on building relationships with wholesale accounts. For us, quality is the foot in the door, the relationship is what gets us to order again.” 

- Justin Carpenter, Foolish Things Coffee Company, Tulsa, OK , USA

20. Offer free samples to consumers at partner coffee shops

“Be involved in the cafes that carry your brand. Offer cupping nights for the cafes patrons. Maybe more small free samples of beans to customers.” 

- Kelly Fennell, Cool Beans Coffeehouse & Cafe , Madison, WI, USA

Outreach and Marketing

21. build relationships with the baristas, not just the owners.

“Don't underestimate the power of the waitstaff. Drop samples and free coffee cards w/ them so they are familiar w/ your product and will recommend and sell. (and make sure it gets reordered)” 

- Sondra Powell, Red Hot Roasters , Louisville, KY, USA

22. Start with samples, follow up with a personal connection

“Drop off samples, follow up, make a personal connection, don't get discouraged if you don't wind up getting my business--at least you've made a friend!” 

- Josie Hunckler, Rabble Coffee , Indianapolis, IN, USA

23. Do not make brand and marketing an afterthought

“I'm the roaster too. I will say, quality is as important as brand image. Working on branding and marketing should not be an afterthought.” - Daniel Noguera, Urbana Cafe , Cincinnati, OH, USA

Urbana Coffee  in Cincinnati, OH

24. Be proactive about seeking new customers

“Approach new places that are looking for coffee - take the work away from them.” 

- Avocado Cafe , CA, USA

25. Be active on social media

“Be consistent in their marketing to shops, be respectful to smaller shops (don't become inconsistent when you start getting bigger purchases), be accessible for questions, have an active social media so we can point to you (social media means a lot to small shops and it helps if we can highlight what you are doing).” - Renee Blanchard, Church Alley Coffee Bar , New Orleans, LA, USA

26. Provide pricing and wholesale information for prospects

“Clearly communicate information on pricing, the coffee, and other services you offer. I shouldn't have to look for it or ask.” - Matthew Scott

27. Make Your Website User Friendly

“For me an inviting website is always a plus for me. Something not to complicated to find out about the business and the coffees they offer.” - Victor Hodgson, Sonoma, CA, USA

Earning more business as a coffee roaster isn’t difficult; it just takes time. Being proactive about marketing will help roasters find new prospects, but business always boils down to the same three things: quality, relationships, and going above and beyond for customers.

It’s easy to get caught up in the act of roasting and forget there’s a whole wide world out there to explore. Don’t do that. Be active in the community and coffee shops will reward you with their business.

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Craftsman Coffee Finds Long-Term Parking on the California Coast

Howard Bryman | June 18, 2024

The vintage Citroën van at the heart of Craftsman Coffee’s new shop in Pacifica, California. All images courtesy of Craftsman Coffee.

The Craftsman Coffee vintage 1961 Citroën HY van that’s been cruising around Pacifica, California, over the past four years is now permanently parked between the walls of the company’s first brick and mortar cafe.

The La Marzocco Linea Mini espresso machines, Mahlkönig E65S GBW grinder, PUQ Press auto tamper and Curtis batch brewer are still aboard the van, which now serves as a bar inside the breezy 900-square-foot retail shop just two blocks from the ocean.

Within a walkable commercial district with a variety of food options and boutique stores, Craftsman beckons customers through a garage bay door with leafy potted plants, modern furniture and a vintage Pac-Man arcade game.

“I love pops of color, openness, natural light, some whimsy, and a comforting calm,” Craftsman Coffee Co-Founder Judy Hayes told Daily Coffee News. “We had a tiny budget to start off so I did lean hard on ‘mixing highs and lows.’ There is absolutely nothing wrong integrating timeless IKEA furniture together with a gorgeous Galanter & Jones heated bench.”

Hayes, who runs the business with her husband Kirk Hayes, said they intentionally avoided bistro tables and anything that made the space feel boxy or created a “my space, not yours” vibe.

“Seating was designed to be moved around and open, so new and old friends in the community can break bread in the shop,” Judy Hayes said. “It has been working so well. We see so many neighborhood friends connect in the shop.”

Following Kirk Hayes’ home roasting habit, the Hayeses founded Craftsman Coffee in 2017 with a coffee cart and a series of pop-ups. After finding regular slots at a farmers market and craft fairs, the Hayeses jumped into the business full-time, splurging on the Citroën.

“I came upon the Citroën in Europe being outfitted for all things food and beverage. Kirk and I love classic vehicles,” Judy Hayes said. “There was no way I was going to put my vision on a roach coach.”

Craftsman Coffee Founders Kirk and Judy Hayes.

Over the years roaming Pacifica, the truck would pass by an intriguing Francisco Boulevard location that has changed hands numerous times over the years. 

“The coffee shop was not part of the business plan at all,” said Judy. “I had seen the space be on and off the market for the past two years. Our friends next door at the wine shop alerted us about it. Kirk never goes on intuition, but he believed we could do it and that we needed to do it.”

To support online sales, subscriptions and its wholesale roasted coffee business, Craftsman now works with Izzy Fraire at the 444 roastery in Oakland, who maintains the brand’s signature profiles and can further scale production.

“We have been open for three months and the reception has been 110% happy,” said Judy. “My desire to elevate and provide delicious and approachable coffees to our small beach town has stayed the same. Kirk and I are the coffee mom and dad of the town. We love hosting and taking time to talk to all our customers. It helps make it more human, fills kindness into the world and less seriousness in specialty coffee.”

[ Editor’s note:  This story has been updated. A previous location incorrectly said the shop location was on San Francisco Boulevard. The shop is on Francisco Boulevard.]

Craftsman Coffee is located at 1750 Francisco Blvd in Pacifica . Tell DCN’s editors about your new coffee shop or roastery here . 

Howard Bryman Howard Bryman is the associate editor of Daily Coffee News by Roast Magazine. He is based in Portland, Oregon.

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Tags: 444 , California , Citroen , Craftsman Coffee , Galanter and Jones , IKEA , Izzy Fraire , Judy Hayes , Kirk Hayes , mobile , Oakland , Pacifica

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‘cowboy with a sweet tooth’: kevin costner launches new mocha coffee collab.

Dubbed the 'Mountainside Mocha Latte,' the coffee blend is a classic, chocolatey drink, inspired by the actor's favorite way to take his cup of joe.

By Tim Chan

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Kevin Costner may be best-known lately for his tough-as-nails roles on series like Yellowstone and the upcoming film, Horizon: An American Saga , but when it comes to his downtime, the actor insists he’s actually pretty mellow.

The chance to chill out at home — and perhaps show off a sweeter side to himself — was one of the catalysts behind Costner’s newest release, a coffee collaboration with Green Mountain Coffee Roasters .

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Green Mountain Coffee Roasters describes the mocha as being rich and bold, with notes of dark chocolate and flavors that “evoke the spirit of the American West.” The medium-dark roast is available now as K-cups on Keurig.com . Each pod contains coffee, sweetener and real dairy.

Costner says he’s always preferred drinking flavored coffee, with the brand calling him a “cowboy with a sweet tooth.” The actor confirms in an accompanying press release that he is a “lover of all sweets.”

“I don’t always drink my coffee black — I like chocolate in it,” he says. “So I wanted to just advance it to something I like, because I really like having one in the morning.”

Costner worked closely with Green Mountain Coffee Roasters to perfect the exact flavor profile. “I said, ‘I want some chocolate in this thing,’ [and] I said, ‘I’m going to decide how much,'” the actor shares.

The new Mountainside Mocha Latte is available now on Keurig.com , and the pods are compatiable with all Keurig single serve coffee makers .

Green Mountain Coffee Roasters Horizon Blend Coffee (60-Pack)

The new mocha launch comes on the heels of Costner’s “Horizon Blend” coffee collaboration with Green Mountain, which dropped in December.

Available now on Amazon.com , the coffee boasts a robust flavor profile, with “earthy, smoky flavors” that are “inspired by the American West.” The coffee also shares a name with Costner’s new film, Horizon: An American Saga , which hits theaters June 28.

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Get a free outer banks travel guide, take a virtual tour, best outer banks coffee shops.

Coffee and the beach is a match made in heaven. For the java enthusiast, the Outer Banks has a variety of coffee options from quaint seaside cafes to artisan roasters to cater to every preference. Here are our top picks for the best coffee in Outer Banks. 

Duck’s Cottage

Need to escape the sun’s rays for a bit? Head over to Duck’s Cottage for coffee, books, and OBX merch. Every java juice craving from in-house specialties like the Nutty Duck, a hazelnut and caramel latte with housemade whipped cream to classics like an Americano or Cafe Au Lait, will be fulfilled. The only thing better than coffee is coffee and a book and Ducks Cottage has you covered! Kick back with a steamy drink and lose yourself in the pages of a good novel. See you soon.

Treehouse Coffee

If you’re looking for a made-from-scratch breakfast and artisan coffee, look no further than Treehouse Coffee . Owned and operated by a husband and wife duo, the folks at Treehouse are passionate about exceptional food and coffee. Pair a pour-over with one of their homemade biscuit options and head to the beach to catch the sunrise. If you have kiddos in tow, rest assured that the Treehouse offers kid-friendly options like decadent hot chocolate and breakfast sandwiches. Stop by today and your tastebuds will thank you!

Outer Bean Cafe

With locations in both Kitty Hawk and Duck, Outer Bean Cafe offers more than just a caffeine fix; it's a cozy retreat for locals and tourists alike. Step into this welcoming space, adorned with beachy decor and the inviting aroma of freshly brewed organic free-trade coffee. Try their delicious blends, boasting smooth and rich flavors that perfectly complement the salty breeze of the Outer Banks. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cappuccino or an indulgent flavored latte, Outer Bean Cafe has you covered. And if you aren’t a coffee drinker, choose one of their delicious juices or smoothies! 

Ashley’s Espresso Parlour

Nestled in Kill Devil Hills, Ashley's Espresso Parlour is loved by locals and visitors alike. The vibe inside invites you to linger over your cup of joe, whether it’s a perfectly pulled espresso or a creamy affogato. For a delightful twist, try Ashley’s Salted Caramel Mocha, a heavenly concoction that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and salty. With its warm hospitality and exceptional brews, Ashley's Espresso Parlour is a must-visit destination for any coffee aficionado exploring the area.

Morning View Coffee House

In the picturesque town of Nags Head, Morning View offers a tranquil haven with a laid-back vibe and friendly service that makes it the perfect spot to start your day. Grab a coffee, espresso, loose leaf-tea, and bagels and pastries to fuel your day at the beach. Whether you’re in search of your morning pick-me-up or a cozy spot to relax with friends, Morning View has everything you need.

Waveriders OBX

Waveriders is an OBX staple – and for good reason! Locals and visitors flock to this beloved coffee shop for handcrafted coffees, breakfast, lunch, smoothies, and even wine and beer. The self-serve coffee bar offers dark, medium, and decaf drip options to enjoy to your heart’s delight. If you have a sweet tooth, try their Hazelnut Shortbread latte, Coffee Cake latte, or Almond Joy mocha. If coffee isn’t your thing, Waveriders proudly serves a variety of other custom drinks such as matcha, London fog, chai, and iced tea. Craving something a little stronger? Don’t miss Waveriders impressive selection of beer, ciders, or mimosa buckets. Waveriders is a must-try for those seeking an authentic OBX experience. 

Front Porch Cafe

Located in Kills Devil Hills, Manteo, and Nags Head, the Front Porch Cafe has been voted “Best Coffee in the Outer Banks” five times by the readers of The Coast magazine. Offering 20 unique coffees as well as a variety of decaf and a full selection of house blends, the Front Porch Cafe has something for everyone. Not only does the Front Porch Cafe have a passion for good coffee, but they also have a passion for the community they serve and the farmers they buy from. They source specialty coffees from small, independent farmers focusing on sustainable, earth-friendly, and humane growing practices. Customers can enjoy a delicious cup of joe while supporting fair trading practices and ethical business.

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Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

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