Steps to Opening a Cafe
Having an innovative idea to open a café is not enough, you have to comply with some legal procedures and follow some important steps to be successful:
1. Make a detailed plan
Based on market analysis, competitor behavior and customer profile, it is instagram database important to prepare a comprehensive business plan. Describe the business idea, prepare calculations for economic viability, make cost/profit projections to identify profitability and create a marketing strategy. Learn how to make an effective business plan.
2. Choose the type of company
You can choose to start your own business as a self-employed worker, sole proprietor or set up a company. If you choose to set up a company, the best way is to go to a Balcão de Empresa na Hora (Business Counter on the Spot). Find out more about how to set up a company in Portugal , regardless of the business area.
3. Seek Financing
There are several types of support you can apply for if you need financing:
Bank credit or microcredit - consult several banks and choose the most advantageous proposal;
Support for IEFP entrepreneurship - access to credit lines such as Microinvest and Invest+;
Business Angels - investors with management experience who support the development of business ideas, capital and know-how. For more information, consult the Portuguese Business Angels Association (APBA) and the National Business Angels Federation (FNABA);
Agency for Competitiveness and Innovation, I. P (IAPMEI) - support for entrepreneurship;
National Association of Young Entrepreneurs (ANJE) - for young entrepreneurs;
Crowfunding - online collaborative financing.
4. Deal with Licenses
Nowadays, it is not necessary to waste a lot of time with bureaucracy. Through Zero Licensing, it is possible to open a café without prior inspection and issuing of a permit, as long as the chosen location has a valid commercial use license and no construction work is required. Find out more about all the licenses required to open a café .
5. Choose a Certified Billing Program
Having a certified invoicing program is required by law, so choose a versatile, intuitive software that meets your business needs. Try Vendus - certified online invoicing software - that operates 100% in the cloud and will grow your business!
How much does it cost to open a cafe in Portugal?
Before venturing into opening a café, it is advisable to analyze all the investment expenses and fixed costs of this type of establishment, namely:
Space preparation and remodeling works;
Basic equipment (counter, displays, equipment, etc.);
Space decoration;
Computer software and equipment;
Supplier expenses;
Employee salaries and respective social obligations;
Income and/or loan repayment;
Expenses for water, electricity, telephone and internet;
Cleaning services;
Accounting and insurance services;
Marketing, promotion and advertising;
Equipment maintenance.
So that you can fully dedicate yourself to the business, consider hiring an accountant to handle all financial and tax matters.
Tips for Opening a Café
In addition to all the legal steps you must follow, we have some tips that can make a difference in the success of your café:
Choose a good location - location is a key factor, so choose a busy, visible and easily accessible location, preferably in an area without this type of business;
Differentiate yourself from the competition - find the factor that sets you apart from other cafes;
Find a competent team - friendliness, good interpersonal skills and management skills are essential to provide good service;
Create an inviting space - good light, comfortable furniture and warm decor are essential;
Offer quality products - choose the coffee you are going to serve carefully and opt for other quality products;
Use Automatic Payment Machines - they are an added value in customer service;
Provide free Wi-Fi - it costs so little, but it is “almost mandatory” nowadays;
Take advantage of Vendus Go! - free software to implement an online store for your business and recover lost time and money! For example, in the online store you can receive orders from your customers, both for collection at the establishment and for home delivery.
