How to Open a Chocolatier Shop

Most chocolatiers admit that chocolate is a passion, and the art of chocolate can be profitable if done the right way. Keep in mind that it is a lot of hard work, and strenuous researching and financial planning are involved.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Educate yourself about the history of chocolate and chocolatier basics. A credible online resource about the origin of chocolate is available from The Field Museum Organization, or you could read the Chocolate 101 guide (see Resources).
2. Earn a business degree from a university if possible. Consider taking a chocolatier or small business course, either online or at an accredited school. Many universities offer continuing education classes.
3. Go to the Small Business Association (SBA) program and service resource center and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Checklist for Starting a Business (see Resources). Read through both websites in their entirety. Contact your local SBA office for more information specific to your region.
4. Write a detailed business plan, including a complete financial breakdown of your expenditures. Research your loan options and down payment potential. Prepare a presentation highlighting your business plan; most lenders will require a description of your plans for the loan funds. Think about offering appropriate friends and relatives a shareholder's stock in your company; for a piece of the profit later they can help now with the start up costs.
5. Take a step back and look at your findings; if after all of the research you come to the decision that starting a business is for you, then look into setting up, renting or buying a space for your shop. Check with the local covenants and building inspectors. Call your local SBA if you need additional information or contact information.
6. Locate a distributor, wholesaler or professional chocolatier if you will not make the chocolate yourself. Select a supplier and purchase commercial equipment. Look for good used equipment to save money. Follow your business plan and do not go over your budget if you can help it. Stay on schedule for setting up your shop but do allow some time for unexpected delays from other providers.
7. Prepare as much as you can each day to be ready for your expected opening. Hold an open house a week or so before the actual first day to allow time to work out any kinks in your service plans. Revise any problems and get ready for running a business of your own.

Tips & Warnings

• Offer customers a suggestion box so that they can contribute their comments.
• Use only the finest quality chocolate available to you. Do not skimp on quality ingredients; chocolate business is competitive and repeat customers expect the best.
• Consult the appropriate professionals if you need more information on the correct way to open and run a chocolatier shop.
• Stay on top of current laws for running a business, such as food safety processes and tax and real estate laws.