How To Start a Coffee Shop: 10 Equipment Essentials

There’s no denying that starting a coffee shop takes a lot of work. But with the right planning and execution, it can be a hugely successful endeavor. Of course, one of the most important aspects of starting a coffee shop is making sure you have the right equipment. From coffee machines to grinders and everything in between, here are 10 essential pieces of equipment you’ll need to start your very own coffee shop.

Essential Coffee Shop Equipment List

This list of the basic equipment for a coffee shop should be enough to get you started:

1. Coffee machine

You’ll need a quality coffee machine to make great coffee. There are a number of different types and brands on the market, with prices ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, so do your research to find the best one for your needs.

2. Grinder

A quality burr grinder is a must for any coffee lover. They can be pricey, averaging around $200 a piece, but they’re worth the investment to make a great cup of coffee for your customers.

3. Espresso machine

An espresso machine is necessary for brewing espresso and other coffee drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. There are a number of different types and brands available, but you can expect to spend a few thousand dollars on a high-quality machine.

4. Water filtration system

A water filtration system is important to ensure your coffee tastes its best. Filtered water will help reduce mineral buildup and keep your coffee machine running smoothly. The price for water filtration systems varies, but you can expect to spend around $200.

5. Milk frother

A milk frother is a handy tool for making lattes and cappuccinos. There are a number of different types available, from electric to manual, so choose the one that best suits your needs. Prices start at around $30 a piece.

6. Tamper

A tamper is a tool used to pack coffee grounds into the filter of an espresso machine. They vary in price, but you can expect to spend around $50 for a quality tamper.

7. Scales

Scales are important for making sure you use the correct amount of coffee grounds. They can be found for as little as $10, but it’s worth investing in a more expensive scale if you plan on using it for a long time.

8. Cups and mugs

Of course, you’ll need cups and mugs for serving coffee! You can find a variety of cups and mugs in all different shapes and sizes, so find the ones that best suit your style. Expect to spend around $150 on cups and mugs.

9. To-go cups and lids

To offer coffee to go, you’ll need to invest in some quality to-go containers. You can find a variety of different types and sizes, and prices start at around $50 for a case of 500 cups. These will need to be repurchased frequently depending on how many customers you serve each month.

10. Signs and menus

Finally, don’t forget to create signage and menus for your coffee shop. They can be as simple or as elaborate as you like, but make sure they convey the vibe and style you want for your space. Prices start at around $50 for a basic sign.

This is just a basic coffee shop equipment list. As you get your business up and running, you may find that you need other items as well, such as a dishwasher, an ice machine, or even a pastry case. And don’t forget the beans! But this list should be enough to get you started on your coffee shop journey.

How Much Does It Cost To Start a Coffee Shop?

The cost of starting a coffee shop will vary depending on a number of factors, including the size and location of your shop, as well as the type of equipment you need. However, you can expect to spend anywhere from $10,000 to $50,000 on equipment alone.

That’s not to mention the location. If you don’t already have the space, you might want to consider either renting or buying property. Rental costs for coffee shops vary, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $10,000 per month. If you decide on purchasing the property, you can expect to pay $200,000 to $1,000,000.

Of course, there are other costs associated with starting a coffee shop as well. You’ll need to factor in things like employee salaries, marketing, permits and licenses, and insurance.

Finding Funding for Your Coffee Shop Business

Fortunately, there are a number of financing options available to help you cover the cost of starting your coffee shop. One such option is leasing, which can help you get the equipment you need without breaking the bank. Charter Capital offers a variety of leasing and financing options for coffee shop owners, so you can get the equipment you need to get your business up and running.

No matter what route you decide to go, starting a coffee shop is a huge undertaking. But with the right planning and execution, it can be a very successful endeavor. Just make sure you have the essential equipment on hand and you’ll be well on your way to serving up delicious coffee drinks in no time.

Do you have what it takes to start a coffee shop? Charter Capital can help you get the equipment you need to make your dream a reality.