Although breakfast is one of the most crucial meals of the day, some people overlook it due to a lack of time or cooking skills. This provides a potential avenue for a lucrative business. Opening a breakfast business could be the break you have been looking for; it’s a great way to give busy people a chance to grab a healthy meal to start their day strong. If you plan to create one, consider these essential factors to ensure your early morning food business succeeds.
Secure the requisite licensing and registration
Don’t rush to start a breakfast business without considering the legalities. Opening a breakfast business may require getting a license and registration to comply with food regulations. You must observe all applicable health codes to ensure you stay in business. The FDA regulatory authorities may inspect your kitchen or premises to ensure hygienic practices. Important legal documents to secure your restaurant may include business and sales privilege licenses from the city and state. A federal employer identification number may be required if you plan to structure the company as a corporation. Local small business development centers can provide you with the necessary assistance to register and license your business.
Identify your niche
When setting up your breakfast business, narrow down your target market as soon as possible. Choosing a good niche will ensure your business appeals to a profitable customer base. Some consumers may belong to a broad population who cherish trying new foods. Others may also prefer self-service and affordable breakfast. Depending on your business plan and market research, you can offer in-demand breakfast items like oatmeal and green tea. Identify your competitors and consider targeting underserved communities to foster growth. Remember, you may struggle to meet every customer’s demands, so choose a niche you can easily specialize in.
Understand how to sell breakfast
You should know how you want to sell your breakfast to consumers. For instance, a home delivery could be an option to consider. You may also consider creating frozen breakfast for families to pop in microwaves. Another way to sell your breakfast food is to serve pre-ordered breakfast to corporate workers. Customers may place their breakfast orders so you can deliver them to their office. Partnering with local motels that lack onsite dining facilities may also allow you to set up a breakfast buffet to serve guests every morning. Consider what style will best fit your ideal customer’s needs and develop a plan for that.
Equip your breakfast business
Investing in high-quality items to make and serve breakfast is essential. You may need to buy coffee tools like espresso machines, freezers, dining tables, bar stools, and industrial cooling and ventilation units. Breakfast vendors usually require multiple coffee stations since most consumers take coffee with their meals. Your business may also need other essentials like computers, telephones, and fax machines for submitting orders. A point-of-sale (POS) computer system will let customers make their orders electronically. Finally, consider hiring well-trained staff and good cooks to provide top-quality breakfast services for your customers.
Design a great menu
Create your breakfast menu to suit your buyer’s taste. A typical breakfast menu may contain omelets, burritos, and international favorites like crepes. Adding special seasonal items will make your menu fresh and attractive to customers. For instance, a summer breakfast menu may include fresh fruit, while apple-flavored lattes and pumpkin muffins can work well for fall and winter. Select familiar and popular food items, and add a twist to distinguish your breakfast menu from franchised breakfast chains.
Work out the pricing model
Develop a pricing model that improves profitability at affordable rates. Pricing may depend on factors like ingredient costs, delivery time, and preparation method. Compare your prices to restaurants in the area and set competitive rates. Overly expensive prices can decrease sales even if your business prepares the best breakfast. On the other hand, too low prices may cut your profit margin, making it harder to generate enough money to compensate for your operating costs.
Develop a good marketing plan
Leverage both traditional and digital media like social networks to boost your business visibility and build a loyal customer base. Hiring an experienced marketing agency to handle your promotions may be worth it. You can also boost your marketing by creating a professional website displaying your menus and photos of delicious items. Another way your website can benefit your breakfast business is through online orders. Be sure to promote any specialty items, sales, or events you host.
Creating a breakfast business can serve many individuals who don’t have time or choose not to cook. Before you know it, you will have a group of happy, regular customers who will spread the word about the best way to start their day – at your breakfast shop! Here’s to YOUR success…
Carolyn R. Owens has over 25 years of proven experience and serves as a Career Strategist, Leadership, and Mentor Coach. She is the Chairwoman and CEO of Infinity Coaching, Inc., where they help you up-level your skills so you can up-level your income. Infinity Coaching, Inc. provides one-on-one and group coaching, organizational training, and personality assessments. Carolyn is certified to give the Energy Leadership Index and Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) assessments. You can learn more about assessments and other products and services at https://infinitycoaching.net.
