To start a coffee business in London, lock down compliance, location, and unit economics upfront, then execute fast. Register your food business with your borough council at least 28 days before opening, implement HACCP (use Safer Food, Better Business), complete Level 2 Food Hygiene, and build an allergen/Natasha’s Law labelling process for any PPDS items. Confirm planning: most cafés fall under Class E (no extraction), but hot food or flues may need permission; secure a pavement licence for outdoor tables. Negotiate a lease with a rent‑free fit‑out period, break clause, capped service charge, and business rates estimate; explore Small Business Rates Relief. Specify utilities early: hard London water demands filtration (target alkalinity 50–100 ppm); a 2–3 group machine may need a 20–32A dedicated circuit, 15 mm water feed, and proper waste. Set waste and recycling contracts; arrange PRS/PPL for music. Structure as LTD or sole trader; monitor VAT threshold (£90k) and set PAYE/pensions. Design a tight menu with 75–85% drink margins; price £3.80–£4.80 for milk drinks; target two baristas at peak and 3–5 minute queue times. Choose a local roaster, dial-in daily, and track COGS. Launch with a Google Business Profile, location pages, and commuter‑hour sampling and flyer drops nearby.
