To set up a coffee shop in Poland, tackle location, sanitary approval, and licensing in one project plan. Pick your vehicle—JDG (sole trader) for speed or sp. z o.o. for liability—then register PKD 56.30.Z (beverage serving). Before fit‑out, confirm utilities: three‑phase power 12–20 kW, fresh water and sewage, mechanical ventilation with hood, a staff WC, and space for a two‑sink dish zone plus handwash sink. File food business registration with Sanepid and prepare HACCP, GHP/GMP, allergen and cleaning logs; get approval before opening. Gastronomy must use an online fiscal cash register; integrate it with your POS, set clear gross price lists, and allergen disclosure per EU 1169/2011. If offering beer, wine, or liqueurs, obtain the municipal alcohol permit (categories A/B/C) for on‑premise sales. Hire staff with valid sanitary certificates, BHP training, and schedule barista calibration. Negotiate your lease for fit‑out contribution, signage rights, terrace rights, and early‑exit clauses; a high‑footfall corner near offices or transit drives weekday tickets. Secure ZAiKS/STOART music licenses, waste removal contracts, and BDO registration if placing packaged takeaway on the market. Budget: espresso machine and grinder 15–25k PLN, water filtration essential; total launch 120–250k PLN, 6–12 weeks. Open with a soft launch and weekly KPI targets.
