Chocolate cafe on a small high street unit

Local families, couples, shoppers, students and visitors looking for a treat, plus people buying gifts or birthday desserts.

Selling drinks and desserts at a profit per item. Hot drinks tend to have good margins, and add-ons like extra toppings, gift boxes and seasonal specials raise the average spend.

• Making drinks and desserts to a consistent standard
• Customer service
• Basic cash flow and stock control
• Hiring and managing staff

• Register your food business with your local council, usually at least 28 days before opening (check with your council)
• Food hygiene training and a food safety plan (HACCP-based), plus allergen information for every item
• Public liability insurance, plus employer's liability once you hire staff
• Lease terms, deposits and fit-out costs can be large, so get advice before signing
• Check planning use class for the unit, and any rules on extraction, signage and outdoor seating
• Business rates may apply, so check with the local council whether any relief is available
• Chocolate prices and dairy costs can change, so review your pricing regularly

Startup costs are typically around £25,000 to £90,000, depending on the unit, your lease deposit, the fit-out and the equipment you choose. Lease terms and fit-out costs can be large, so get advice before signing.

Register your food business with your local council, usually at least 28 days before opening, and check with your council. Also check food hygiene training, a food safety plan (HACCP-based), allergen information for every item, and the planning use class for the unit.

Monthly revenue is typically around £8,000 to £35,000, depending on location, size, opening hours and menu. Chocolate and dairy prices can change, so review your pricing regularly. These figures are estimates, not guarantees.