Vitamix Super 5000

So you've decided to go on a coffee! Congratulations In my coffee shop business plan package, I'll give more details concerning the equipment, but because of space here, I will only give you some basic ideas of what to consider when looking at your needs equipment.

First, do yourself a favor and do not purchase any equipment unless you know the exact age, where it comes from, who used it, and that maintenance records are verifiable. I only talk about anything with a motor or compressor. Used well, tables, counters, etc. are very good as long as they are in decent shape. All other equipment, be careful!

Even if you get it from a friend, you can be assured by those whom the equipment was properly maintained and often, but how they have used and can they get this guarantee from whom they bought it? And how old is he really?

As you probably guessed, I've fallen into this trap and had things fall when I was not expecting it shortly after I opened my coffee shop. Yes, even my espresso machine. I was in a bad place then! Fortunately, I had access to a machine group for backup and a local guy was able to fix the other fast, but you can not be so lucky.

I finally upgraded to most new equipment when, but it can be avoided by obtaining new equipment at the beginning. You'll be glad you did, believe me!

Equipment needs

POS cash register or computer? - A computer POS (point of sale) system is good there is no doubt about it. It is those who have touch screens and others. However, they are probably (and likely) for a better analysis of your sales and inventory only, and not much more. They do not have the speed of your online customers.

If you want one of these guys, be prepared to pay about $ 5,000 for a basic system. The price rises for multiple terminals and printers, monitors, printers, kitchen etc.

In my opinion, however, a POS register fast food prices that UPS Search (PLU) and classes of service is sufficient for most coffee shops. Try to get one that allows you to download the information on your computer. Most have this function today. However, it can increase your manual inventory tracking and sales if you put that info into your accounting software and spreadsheets manually, but it may be saving a lot of money. If you make a habit of entering the numbers every day, you will not have a huge amount of input data to the end of the month. You can usually get these types of records for about $ 800 or more.

If you end up opening other stores, I think the point of sale touch screen computer may be the way forward, then it will because of your management and inventory control much easier, and you can link all your stores together and control them from one place.

Espresso

This is the Mack Daddy of the whole affair, your life blood. Do not skimp on the computer! However, having said that, there is the line Overkill you do not need to cross one or the other. I say, more than two groups, if you need more power or if you want a backup copy, make a band as well.

The feasibility of a group of three or four is great but it is difficult to obtain more than one person working on them because of the spacing group leaders, etc. Normally, you do not need more a person pulling shots and making espresso drinks anyway. It is almost impossible for a barista to use all four groups at the same time, so you be the judge! Anyway in a debate if you are very busy. However, a group of two is always my choice.

There are three main types of espresso machines: Semi-automatic or automatic Super. Well my choice is always automatic, because you can program to cut a ball in 23 seconds, or whatever you choose, but do it manually. The application of semi-automatic manual shutdown by the operator.

The super automatic machines grind, tamp, pull.