To launch your own coffee brand in Florida, decide fast between private label (fastest) or roasting in-house (more control), then set up your entity with Sunbiz (LLC + fictitious name if needed), get an EIN, and secure a Local Business Tax Receipt and Certificate of Use for your facility. For packaged beans/grounds, apply with FDACS for a Food Establishment/Manufacturing permit and register your facility with FDA (biennial renewal); implement cGMPs, lot coding, and a recall plan. If you import green coffee via PortMiami or JAXPORT, appoint an FSVP importer and verify suppliers. Build FDA-compliant labels: statement of identity (Roasted Coffee), net quantity in oz/grams, ingredients, name/address, roast date/lot; Nutrition Facts is typically exempt for single-ingredient products under the small business exemption. Use one-way valve, foil-lined bags; humidity is high in Florida; heat-seal and store below 60% RH. For wholesale, expect COIs and UPCs; price with COGS <=35% retail. Packaged coffee for home consumption is generally sales-tax exempt in FL; prepared beverages are taxable; set up sales tax accordingly. Fire code your roaster (ventilation/afterburner) and manage chaff. Launch e-commerce (Shopify) and Florida-optimized fulfillment (2-day shipping). Typical timeline: 60-90 days from permits to first roast. Secure liability insurance and wholesale-ready sell sheets.
