Fruit and juice parlor shop

Local residents, office workers, students, gym-goers and families passing by.

Retail sales of whole fruit plus higher-margin prepared items such as juices, smoothies and fruit cups. Gift baskets and bulk orders can add extra sales.

• Buying and storing fresh produce
• Food safety and cleanliness
• Customer service
• Managing stock and waste
• Basic bookkeeping

• Health department permit and plan review for a retail food space with juicing
• Local business license, zoning approval and sales tax registration with your state
• Lease terms, since rent is often the biggest fixed cost
• Spoilage, since fresh fruit has a short shelf life and waste can cut profit
• General liability and property insurance, plus workers' compensation if you hire
• Seasonal price swings in produce costs

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on the size of the space, the fit-out, your juicing and cold storage equipment, and your lease terms.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on location, opening hours and menu. Rent is often the biggest fixed cost, and spoilage and seasonal produce prices can cut into profit.

Check the health department permit and plan review for a retail food space with juicing. Also check your local business license, zoning approval, state sales tax registration, lease terms, and insurance including workers' compensation if you hire.