To start a coffee shop in Switzerland, pick a legal form (sole proprietorship for lean setup; GmbH with CHF 20,000 capital to limit liability), register with the Handelsregister (if GmbH or revenue > CHF 100k), open a Swiss business account, and set up AHV/AVS and accident insurance (UVG). Secure a cantonal Gastgewerbebewilligung and, if serving alcohol, an alcohol license; file your HACCP-based Eigenkontrollkonzept with the cantonal Lebensmittelkontrolle and pass hygiene training. Register for MWST when turnover exceeds CHF 100,000 and apply correct rates (restaurant services standard 8.1%; alcohol always standard). Choose a location with commuter footfall; expect 3–6 months rent deposit and municipal permits for signage and outdoor seating. Fit-out to AEAI fire rules; check if a grease separator is required. Invest in a 2–3 group espresso machine (CHF 12k–20k), two grinders, water filtration, and a POS that supports TWINT and cards. Build supplier terms with a Swiss roaster, dairy and bakery; target COGS 25–30% and drink gross margin >70%. Hire baristas under the hospitality L-GAV (min wages, surcharges, holidays), plan shifts around cantonal opening-hour rules. Launch with Google Business Profile, lunch combos, and office catering; monitor daily covers, average ticket, labor %, and cash flow from the first week.
