To launch your own coffee brand in North Carolina, secure an NCDA&CS Food & Drug Protection inspection and permit for a commercial roasting/packaging space (no home kitchens), lock in compliant labels and a margin-positive cost structure. Choose a co-roasting facility or small roaster (5–12 kg) sized to your target volume (150–500 lb/week); write SSOPs, a process flow, and maintain lot-code traceability. Labels must include statement of identity (Roasted Coffee), net weight (avoirdupois and metric), ingredients for flavors, responsible name/address, allergen statement if applicable, and a Nutrition Facts exemption if you qualify; substantiate any origin or sustainability claims. Register your LLC with the NC Secretary of State and get a NC Department of Revenue sales tax account for direct sales; obtain product liability insurance ($1–2M). Source green coffee via reputable importers, cup and set roast profiles for Piedmont and coastal markets, and target COGS under $6 per 12 oz to wholesale at 50% margins and retail at $15–18. Stand up Shopify with ShipStation, list wholesale on Faire, and pitch buyers at Lowes Foods, Weaver Street Market, and specialty cafés with UPC/GS1 barcodes, case packs (6), and sell sheets. Ready-to-drink or cold brew requires a process authority review and refrigerated labeling.
