Neighbourhood bagel shop with sandwiches

Commuters, local office workers, families on weekends, students, and nearby cafés or offices placing catering orders.

Bagels sold singly and by the dozen, sandwiches and coffee at a higher price per sale, plus bulk orders for offices and events.

• Baking or willingness to learn dough and boiling or baking methods
• Early starts and steady stamina
• Customer service and cost control

• Food premises permit and inspections from your local public health unit, plus food handler certification rules in your province
• Zoning, building and fire requirements, especially ventilation for ovens, so check before signing a lease
• Commercial general liability and property insurance, and WCB/WSIB coverage if you hire, as rules vary by province
• Allergen labelling and handling, such as sesame, wheat, dairy and eggs
• Very early mornings, thin margins on ingredients and rent, and slower winter foot traffic in some areas

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $40,000 to $180,000, depending on your premises, ovens and equipment, and fit-out. Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on location, opening hours and menu.

Check food premises permits and inspections with your local public health unit, plus provincial food handler certification rules. Also check zoning, building and fire requirements such as oven ventilation, allergen labelling, insurance, and WCB or WSIB coverage if you hire.

Helpful skills include baking or willingness to learn dough methods, steady stamina for early starts, customer service and cost control. Estimates suggest at least about 40 hours a week, depending on opening hours and staffing.