Neighbourhood dessert shop and cafe in Canada

Couples, families, students and groups looking for an evening treat, plus people ordering takeaway or dessert boxes for gatherings.

Sales of desserts and drinks per customer, with higher margins on drinks and add-ons. Takeaway boxes and pre-orders for birthdays or events add extra income.

• Making desserts consistently
• Customer service
• Cost control and menu pricing
• Managing staff and stock

• Food premises permit and inspections from your local public health unit, check the steps for your province
• Municipal zoning, signage and business licence rules
• Commercial general liability and property insurance
• Allergen handling and staff food handler certification, check what your province requires
• Slower winter trade for ice cream and cold items, plan a hot dessert and drinks menu
• Rent and equipment costs can be high, so check the numbers before committing to a lease
• In Quebec, check French-language rules for signage and menus

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $50,000 to $200,000, depending on the premises, fit-out, equipment, initial stock and permits. Rent and equipment costs can be high, so check the numbers before committing to a lease.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $12,000 to $50,000, depending on location, menu, opening hours and customer traffic. Ice cream and cold items can be slower in winter, so consider a hot dessert and drinks menu.

Check the food premises permit and inspections from your local public health unit, plus municipal zoning, signage and business licence rules. Also look into allergen handling, food handler certification, insurance, and French-language rules for signage and menus in Quebec.