Coffee Shop Business Plan Template Guide
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Aug 29
- 2 min read
Starting a coffee shop is an exciting venture—but without a solid business plan, it’s easy to get lost in the grind. Whether you're opening a cozy café or a bustling espresso bar, a well-structured business plan helps you stay focused, attract investors, and build a profitable business.
At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in helping coffee shop owners get the insurance coverage they need to operate confidently. In this guide, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step coffee shop business plan template and show you how to protect your investment with the right insurance.
Why You Need a Coffee Shop Business Plan
A business plan helps you:
Clarify your concept and goals
Estimate startup and operating costs
Identify your target market
Plan your menu and pricing
Secure funding or loans
Prepare for licensing and insurance needs
Coffee Shop Business Plan Template
1. Executive Summary
Business name and concept
Mission statement
Location overview
Ownership structure
Brief financial highlights
2. Company Description
Type of coffee shop (e.g., café, espresso bar, drive-thru)
Legal structure (LLC, sole proprietorship, etc.)
Business goals and vision
3. Market Analysis
Target customer demographics
Local competition
Industry trends
SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats)
Marketing Strategy That Builds Your Coffee Brand
Contractor Back Office helps coffee shop owners stand out with professional websites, streamlined SEO, and active social media. Their tools support your marketing strategy by boosting visibility, engaging customers, and building brand loyalty.
4. Menu and Services
Beverage offerings (coffee, tea, smoothies)
Food items (pastries, sandwiches, snacks)
Specialty services (catering, delivery, loyalty programs)
5. Marketing Strategy
Branding and logo
Social media and email marketing
Local SEO and Google Business Profile
Promotions and events
6. Operations Plan
Staffing and training
Supplier relationships
Equipment and inventory management
Daily workflow and customer service standards
7. Financial Plan
Startup costs
Monthly operating expenses
Revenue projections
Break-even analysis
Funding needs
Don’t Forget Insurance
Insurance is a critical part of your business plan. At Wexford Insurance, we help coffee shop owners get tailored coverage, including:
General Liability Insurance – Covers customer injuries and property damage
Commercial Property Insurance – Protects your building, inventory, and fixtures
Workers Compensation Insurance – Required if you hire employees
Equipment Insurance – Covers espresso machines, grinders, and other gear from damage or theft
Commercial Auto Insurance – If you offer delivery or catering
Final Thoughts
A strong business plan is your roadmap to coffee shop success. It helps you stay organized, attract funding, and prepare for challenges. Pair your plan with the right insurance coverage to protect your investment and operate with confidence.
Ready to start a coffee shop and need insurance?
Contact Wexford Insurance at 317-942-0549. We specialize in helping food service entrepreneurs get the coverage they need to succeed.
