Cupcake shop with a walk-in counter

Walk-in customers and locals, office workers buying treats, families, and event hosts placing bulk or custom orders.

Single cupcake and box sales over the counter, plus higher-value custom orders and event catering. Coffee or drinks can add extra sales if your premises allow.

• Commercial baking and decorating
• Managing stock and food costs
• Customer service
• Running a small team and rosters

• Shop fit-out costs, which can be high, so get quotes early
• Council food business registration, premises inspection and fit-out standards
• Food safety supervisor requirements and staff training in your state
• Lease commitments, rent and outgoings, and whether the use is approved for the premises
• Public liability insurance, plus workers compensation insurance once you hire staff
• Thin margins and wastage from unsold fresh stock

Startup costs are typically around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on the shop fit-out, equipment, lease and stock. Fit-out costs can be high, so get quotes early. These are estimates only.

Monthly revenue is typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on location, foot traffic and event orders. Expect to work at least about 40 hours a week. Thin margins and wastage from unsold stock matter too. These are estimates.

Check council food business registration, premises inspection and fit-out standards, food safety supervisor and training rules in your state, lease terms and approved use, and insurance including workers compensation once you hire staff.