Takeaway soup shop

Office workers, students, nearby residents and people wanting an easy dinner, especially in colder months.

Sales per cup, bowl or take-home container, plus add-ons like bread, salads and drinks. Lunch combos and frozen litres help smooth out slower days.

• Cooking in batches
• Food costing and portion control
• Customer service
• Managing a small team or rota

• Food premises permit and inspections from your local public health unit
• Municipal business licence, zoning and signage rules
• Commercial general liability insurance and allergen labelling
• Lease terms and fit-out costs, check these before signing
• Slower summer sales, plan your menu and cash flow for seasonality
• WCB/WSIB registration once you hire, rules differ by province

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on the premises, fit-out and equipment. Check lease terms and fit-out costs carefully before signing, as these can strongly affect how much you need to raise.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $8,000 to $35,000, depending on location, menu and opening hours. Sales may be slower in summer, so plan your menu and cash flow for seasonality.

Things to check include a food premises permit and inspections from your local public health unit, a municipal business licence, zoning and signage rules, liability insurance and allergen labelling. Also check WCB/WSIB registration once you hire, as rules differ by province.