How to Start a Bakery: The Ultimate Guide for Bakers

how to open a financially successful bakery

It’s critical to consult local and state government websites and consult with professionals like lawyers or business advisors to ensure that you’ve covered all your legal bases. Once you’ve developed your business plan, you need to purchase bakery accounting the necessary equipment. And (this must be said) word of mouth is the best advertising for a baking business. It takes at least $20,000 and more to start a bakery in the US. This is for the small bakeries that operate as a counter service.

  • It permits you to sell and serve food at various locations outside of your primary establishment.
  • Depending on your city and county, the lease can vary substantially.
  • If your budget permits, you can also hire an attorney to do this research on your behalf.
  • For example, are you targeting health-conscious or indulgent customers?
  • These costs are heavily influenced by factors such as location, size, and concept of your bakery.
  • Send your baked goods samples home in bags, which include your business card.

Well, Batiste has her own dessert trucks that travel the streets of Los Angeles selling all kinds of tasty treats. The trucks even have their own Twitter handle, so customers can locate them at any time. Shop around, compare prices, talk with neighboring businesses, and research the area to make sure you find the right space.

Be prepared to market your product

Your retail bakery will require specific equipment such as ovens, mixers, and refrigeration units. Invest in quality equipment that is energy-efficient, long-lasting, and easy to clean and maintain. You may find you’ll need an equipment financing loan to push them through. In some cases, it can help to speak to a professional in the food equipment industry, and they’ll guide you through the process. NerdWallet has curated financing options to help meet business owners’ needs. If you’re not sure what types of funding and terms make sense for your business, you can use our small-business loans tool to see lenders and their loan products.

Understand these business structures and analyze their pros and cons before registering with the state. Opening a small bakery in the US can cost anywhere between $26,600- $36,700 and more. These costs are heavily influenced by factors such as location, size, and concept of your bakery.

Hire And Train Staff Members

I am also limited on certain ingredients that I am allowed to use depending on their acidity ratio and their storability because I am not a commercial kitchen,” she says. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter can help you connect with customers, showcase your bakery’s products, and build your brand. Share high-quality photos of your baked goods, interact with followers, and post updates about specials and promotions. Make sure your items are visually appealing, and you provide samples and tastings at your bakery to entice customers to come back for more. When figuring out how to start a bakery and make your menu, keep Ansel in mind. It’s OK to set and follow trends, as long as you’re known for having some reliable staples available too.