Ever thought about starting your own coffee shop one day? Well, here are some steps to follow that were highlighted at the recent Coffee Workshop.

These are seven (7) steps to follow according to Coffee Industry Corporation Ltd overseas representative, Mick Wheeler.  

1. Understand Why You Want to Start a Coffee Shop The first step is clarity. Why do you want to get into the business of running a coffee shop? Passion alone isn’t enough—your motivation should align with realistic goals and expectations.

2. Know the Challenges Involved Wheeler emphasized that running a coffee shop is not as easy as it may seem. It requires being ruthless, disciplined, and focused qualities not everyone realizes are vital when starting out.

3. Choose the Right Location “Location is one of the most important elements to determine whether you are going to be a success or not,” Wheeler stated. A poor location can ruin even a great concept, while a strategic spot can attract consistent customers.

4. Explore Different Entry Points You don’t have to open a full-fledged café right away. You can enter the market at various levels—from a small street vendor to a high-end coffee lounge. Each comes with different risks and needs.

5. Know the Risks and Pitfalls The workshop aimed to prepare participants for the real risks—financial, operational, and market-based. Common pitfalls include poor planning, inadequate budgeting, and underestimating daily operational demands.

6. Track Your Money Daily Wheeler stressed the importance of daily tracking—how much money you make, how much you don’t, and which products sell best. This helps manage costs and understand profitability.

7. Plan Your Finances and Your Marketing Participants were encouraged to think through how they would fund their business, manage cash flow, and market their coffee shop. Without a clear financial and promotional plan, even high-quality coffee may be overlooked.

The International Coffee Organization study conducted in 2022 and 2023, noted that domestic coffee consumption in PNG is on the rise, especially among the middle class. This signals opportunity for local entrepreneurs who understand both product quality and consumer needs.