Start a Neighbourhood Bubble Tea Shop

Students, young people, office workers and families walking past, especially near schools, colleges, malls and busy streets.

Price per drink with paid add-on toppings, plus snack sales. Loyalty cards, combo deals and online or app pickup orders help bring people back.

• Customer service
• Following recipes consistently
• Managing stock and costs
• Hiring and scheduling staff

• Food premises permit and inspections from your local public health unit, check what they require before you renovate
• Commercial general liability and property insurance, and check municipal zoning and signage rules
• Allergen labelling and handling (milk, nuts, soy), and food handler training requirements in your province
• Registering for GST/HST once you pass the small supplier threshold, and WCB/WSIB coverage once you hire
• Slow winter months in some areas and rent that stays fixed, so test your numbers before signing a lease
• In Quebec, check French-language requirements for signs and menus

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on the premises, fit-out, equipment and stock. Test your numbers carefully before signing a lease, because rent stays fixed even when sales slow in winter.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $12,000 to $50,000, depending on location, foot traffic, menu and opening hours. That is revenue rather than profit, so rent, stock and staff costs come out of it.

Check food premises permit and inspection requirements with your local public health unit before you renovate. Also check municipal zoning and signage rules, allergen and food handler training in your province, insurance, and French-language rules in Quebec.