To start a coffee shop in Denmark, secure approvals and operations in this order: choose structure (enkeltmandsvirksomhed or ApS for liability protection), register on Virk.dk for a CVR, and sign up for VAT (moms) if turnover will exceed DKK 50,000 in 12 months. Notify Fødevarestyrelsen as a food business, complete a food hygiene course, and prepare an HACCP plan; you’ll be inspected under the Smiley scheme after opening. Pick a high-footfall lease near transit or campuses; check zoning, ventilation capacity, floor drains, a grease trap, fire egress, and waste-sorting space. Fit out with a 3‑phase power line, water filtration, and drainage for espresso machines; budget DKK 500k–1.5m for build-out and equipment. If serving alcohol, obtain a municipal bevilling; apply for outdoor seating permits and signage approval. Hire staff and set up payroll for A‑skat and AM‑bidrag via eIndkomst; observe the Holiday Act (5 weeks) and working-environment rules. Use a POS that accepts Dankort and MobilePay; by the Payment Act, be ready to accept cash 06:00–22:00 unless exempt. Price with VAT included; display allergens; consider Ø‑mærket if marketing organic. Add KODA/Gramex music licenses, liability and worker insurance, and supplier contracts. Open with a tight menu, consistent extraction, and fast service workflows.
