Not everyone wants to go to the typical day job. Plenty of people need to be their own boss and make their own money. Coffee shops are a great investment for a small business. They give people something they need to get their day started, and can be a gathering place at the end of the day. Every community needs a coffee shop, so why shouldn’t you be the one to give it to them.

There are a lot of decisions to make before you get started. There are basic equipment and supplies that a coffee shop start up needs to have. The most important decisions is what kind of equipment you will need. Brewers are the staple of any coffee shop, but variety is key in the coffee business. Invest in an espresso and cappocinno machine to maximize your menu options. If you’ve got the space for them, build up to more than one of each when you’re ready.

Take the time to figure out who your customer base will be. If you’re located in a busy strip mall or downtown area, investing in paper or Styrofoam cups for the to-go crowd is best. If you see your coffee shop startup as more of a sit-down and relax kind of spot, stock your shelves with ceramic mugs. Making sure that your serving equipment meets your customer’s needs is paramount.

While you’re thinking about your customer’s beverage needs, take a moment and consider their food needs. There’s no reason to send customers across the street to the convenience store to buy a donut or a muffin to go with their coffee. That’s a great way to lose business. Buying an oven is great for baked goods, and a grill is essential if you are considering a breakfast menu. Along with food preparation, buy some plates, napkins, and cellophane wraps for customers who want to eat in and the ones who are heading out.

Furniture is something that can really bring everything together. You could keep some sets of tables and chairs in sets of 2 and 4 for small groups of people. Some big, comfortable chairs or a couch by a coffee table for larger groups of friends is very welcoming. Don’t forget to make sure you have plenty of outlets for your customers who need to charge their phones.

Whatever choices you make for your small coffee shop startup, let KGCR supply you with everything you need. KGCR.com has everything you need for new business venture.