To start a coffee brand in India, lock down compliance, sourcing, and unit economics before you design the bag. Register for FSSAI (State or Central based on turnover/scope), GST, and a trademark; if importing green beans, get an IEC. Decide your model: D2C site plus marketplaces (Amazon/Flipkart) for reach, or modern trade with GS1 barcodes. Choose contract roasting (fast, low CapEx; MOQs 20–60 kg) or your own roaster (requires factory/Shop & Establishments registration, Pollution Control Board consent). Source specialty lots (Q ≥80), target moisture 10–12% and water activity <0.60; cup every batch and standardize roast profiles (medium–medium dark suits milk beverages) with grind options. Engineer packaging for shelf life: multilayer valves + nitrogen flush, and storage under 25°C, RH <60%. Label per FSSAI and Legal Metrology: FSSAI logo and license no., veg mark, net quantity, MRP, batch/PKD, ingredients, allergen, origin/roaster address, and shelf life. Price with a landed-cost model: green + conversion + packaging + freight + platform fees + GST; aim ≥60% gross margin post-commission. Launch 2–4 focused SKUs, offer samplers and subscriptions, seed influencers, and partner cafés for credibility. Use 3PL fulfillment (Shiprocket/Delhivery/Bluedart) with reliable COD. For speed, consider white-label to validate demand, then invest in origin exclusives.
