To launch your own coffee brand in Ireland, lock in supply, compliance, and margins from day one: choose contract roasting with an SCA-certified Irish roaster (agree roast profiles, cupping scores, MOQ, lead times, private-label rates) or import green/roasted beans (get an EORI, verify customs codes/TARIC, and check DAFM/TRACES for any phytosanitary requirements on green beans). Register your food business with the HSE at least 28 days before trading, implement a HACCP plan, and label to EU 1169/2011: legal name, ingredients (100% coffee), net weight, best-before, origin, storage, and an EU-based Food Business Operator name/address. Pick a structure (sole trader vs. limited company via CRO); register for VAT if turnover exceeds €75,000 (goods). Secure GS1 Ireland barcodes, trademark your brand with the IPOI, and join Repak to meet packaging EPR. Specify packaging (valved, airtight, lightproof; 250g/1kg; recyclable/compostable) and print roast date/batch for traceability. Price using landed cost + co-pack + packaging + fulfilment, targeting 55–65% gross margin; wholesale typically needs 30–40% discount. Insure product/public liability. Launch D2C (Shopify + Stripe + An Post) and B2B (café tastings, water-calibrated brewing sheets, sale-or-return pilots). Add Organic (IOA/Organic Trust) or Fairtrade (Fairtrade Ireland) if it fits your positioning. Track KPIs weekly and iterate quickly.
