This article was written by our expert who is surveying the industry and constantly updating business plan for a coffee shop.
Our business plan for a coffee shop will help you build a profitable project
Opening a coffee shop is an exciting venture, but knowing exactly what equipment you need can be overwhelming.
The challenge lies in selecting the right equipment without overspending or missing essential items that could impact your operations.
Every coffee shop has unique requirements, and equipment costs can escalate quickly without proper planning and budgeting.
Complete Coffee Shop Equipment List
Starting a successful coffee shop requires careful equipment selection and planning. This comprehensive list covers everything you need to create an efficient and profitable coffee operation.
Espresso & Coffee Equipment
- Commercial espresso machine - Heart of your coffee operation for specialty drinks
- Commercial coffee grinder - Essential for fresh, consistent coffee grounds
- Drip coffee brewers - For regular coffee service and high-volume brewing
- French press - Alternative brewing method for specialty coffee offerings
- Pour-over equipment - Manual brewing for artisan coffee experiences
- Coffee scales - Precise measurements for consistent flavor profiles
- Tamper - Compacts espresso grounds for optimal extraction
- Milk steaming pitchers - Creates microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos
- Knock box - Disposes of used espresso grounds efficiently
- Water filtration system - Ensures quality water for better-tasting coffee
- Coffee bean storage containers - Maintains freshness and prevents contamination
Refrigeration
- Commercial refrigerator - Stores milk, cream, and perishable ingredients
- Display cooler - Shows beverages and food items while keeping them cold
- Under-counter refrigerator - Convenient access to frequently used items
- Freezer - Preserves frozen ingredients and ice cream products
- Ice machine - Produces ice for cold beverages consistently
Food Preparation
- Blender - Makes smoothies, frappés, and blended coffee drinks
- Food processor - Prepares ingredients for pastries and food items
- Toaster/panini press - Heats sandwiches and baked goods quickly
- Microwave - Reheats food items and prepares quick menu options
- Work tables - Stainless steel surfaces for food preparation
- Cutting boards - Separate surfaces for different food types
- Knives (various) - Essential tools for food preparation tasks
- Mixing bowls - Various sizes for different recipe preparations
Serving & Display
- Pastry display case - Shows baked goods attractively to customers
- Hot food warmer - Keeps prepared food items at safe temperatures
- Coffee cups (various sizes) - Paper and ceramic options for different preferences
- Lids and sleeves - Protects customers from hot beverages
- To-go containers - Packages food items for takeaway orders
- Napkin dispensers - Convenient access for customer use
- Condiment station - Self-service area for sugar, cream, and spices
- Menu boards - Displays offerings and prices clearly
Point of Sale & Service
- Cash register/POS system - Processes transactions and tracks sales
- Card reader - Accepts credit and debit card payments
- Receipt printer - Provides customers with transaction records
- Tip jar - Encourages customer gratuities for staff
- Shopping baskets - Helps customers carry multiple items
- Paper bags - Packages multiple items for customer convenience
Cleaning & Safety
- Three-compartment sink - Washing, rinsing, and sanitizing dishes properly
- Hand sink - Separate area for staff hand washing requirements
- Dishwasher - Efficiently cleans cups, plates, and utensils
- Sanitizer dispenser - Maintains hygiene standards throughout facility
- Fire extinguisher - Required safety equipment by health codes
- First aid kit - Handles minor workplace injuries quickly
- Floor mats - Prevents slips on potentially wet surfaces
- Cleaning supplies - Maintains sanitary conditions in work areas
Storage & Organization
- Shelving units - Organizes supplies and inventory efficiently
- Storage containers - Keeps ingredients fresh and organized
- Paper cup dispensers - Easy access to cups in different sizes
- Inventory storage - Space for coffee beans, syrups, and supplies
Utilities & Infrastructure
- Ventilation system - Removes steam, heat, and coffee aromas
- Adequate electrical supply - Powers all commercial coffee equipment
- Plumbing connections - Supports sinks, dishwasher, and equipment needs
- Water lines - Essential for coffee brewing and cleaning operations
Furniture & Seating
- Tables (various sizes) - Accommodates different group sizes comfortably
- Chairs - Comfortable seating for customers dining in
- Counter seating - Maximizes space and provides casual dining options
- Outdoor furniture - Extends seating capacity with patio options
Technology & Software
- Wi-Fi system - Provides internet access for customers
- Sound system - Creates ambiance with background music
- Security cameras - Monitors premises for safety and theft prevention
- Inventory management software - Tracks supplies and ingredient usage
- Accounting software - Manages finances, payroll, and expenses
Additional Items
- Uniforms/aprons - Professional appearance and brand consistency
- Hair nets/hats - Required by health departments for food safety
- Non-slip shoes - Safety footwear for kitchen environments
- Gloves (disposable) - Food handling safety and sanitation requirements
- Towels (disposable) - Maintains cleanliness during service
Our financial plan for a coffee shop will help you build a profitable project
What Equipment Budget Should You Plan?
Most coffee shop owners spend between $20,000 and $150,000 on equipment, depending on their size and concept. You really can't go below $15,000 for even the smallest setup because you need a quality espresso machine, grinder, and basic refrigeration just to operate professionally.
- Small Coffee Kiosk
A small coffee kiosk or cart with basic espresso and drip coffee needs around $15,000-$35,000, and most of that budget goes toward a reliable espresso machine and commercial grinder.
- Medium Coffee Shop
A medium-sized coffee shop with seating and food options typically runs $35,000-$80,000, with additional equipment like display cases and food preparation tools.
- Large Coffee Shop
A large coffee shop or specialty roastery can easily hit $80,000-$150,000, especially when you add roasting equipment, multiple espresso stations, and extensive seating areas.
Equipment Budget Examples
Small Coffee Kiosk ($15,000 - $35,000)
Small coffee operations focus on essential equipment that can handle daily coffee service efficiently. The goal is getting quality basics that deliver consistent results without unnecessary features.
| Equipment Category | What's Included | Budget Range |
|---|---|---|
| Espresso Equipment | Semi-automatic 2-group espresso machine, commercial burr grinder, basic steam wand, water filtration system | $8,000 - $15,000 |
| Coffee Brewing | Drip coffee brewer for regular coffee, thermal carafes, coffee scales, basic pour-over equipment | $1,500 - $3,000 |
| Refrigeration | Under-counter refrigerator, small display cooler for beverages, basic ice machine or ice storage | $2,000 - $4,000 |
| Service Equipment | Basic POS system, card reader, coffee cups and lids, to-go containers, napkin dispensers | $1,500 - $3,000 |
| Prep & Storage | Small work table, storage containers for beans and supplies, basic cleaning supplies | $1,000 - $2,000 |
| Installation & Setup | Equipment delivery, basic installation, initial setup and testing, permits | $1,000 - $2,500 |
Medium Coffee Shop ($35,000 - $80,000)
Medium coffee shops need more capacity and diverse equipment to handle food service and comfortable seating areas. You're investing in customer experience and operational efficiency.
| Equipment Category | What's Included | Budget Range |
|---|---|---|
| Espresso Station | Professional 3-group espresso machine with programmable features, high-capacity grinder, multiple steam wands | $15,000 - $25,000 |
| Coffee & Brewing | Multiple drip brewers, batch brewing system, specialty brewing equipment, precision scales | $3,000 - $6,000 |
| Food Preparation | Blender for smoothies, panini press, microwave, food processor, prep tables and cutting boards | $2,500 - $5,000 |
| Refrigeration | Commercial reach-in refrigerator, display cooler for food items, ice machine, under-counter storage | $4,000 - $8,000 |
| Display & Service | Pastry display case, hot food warmer, complete POS system with inventory tracking, seating furniture | $5,000 - $12,000 |
| Cleaning & Safety | Three-compartment sink, dishwasher, hand sink, sanitizing equipment, safety equipment | $3,000 - $6,000 |
| Technology & Ambiance | Wi-Fi system, sound system, lighting, security cameras, comfortable seating arrangements | $2,500 - $5,000 |
| Installation & Training | Professional installation, equipment training for staff, permits and inspections, initial inventory | $3,000 - $6,000 |
Large Coffee Shop ($80,000 - $150,000)
Large coffee shops operate with premium equipment and extensive offerings. The focus is on creating an exceptional customer experience while maximizing operational efficiency and revenue potential.
| Equipment Category | What's Included | Budget Range |
|---|---|---|
| Premium Espresso | High-end multi-group espresso machine with advanced features, multiple commercial grinders, water treatment system | $25,000 - $40,000 |
| Specialty Brewing | Multiple brewing stations, batch brewing systems, cold brew equipment, nitro coffee system, precision equipment | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| Food Service | Commercial kitchen equipment, multiple prep stations, warming equipment, specialized appliances for expanded menu | $8,000 - $15,000 |
| Refrigeration Systems | Walk-in cooler, multiple display cases, commercial ice machine, specialized storage for diverse inventory | $10,000 - $18,000 |
| Customer Experience | Premium furniture and seating, multiple display cases, advanced POS systems, customer amenities | $12,000 - $20,000 |
| Roasting Equipment | Coffee roaster for on-site roasting, green bean storage, packaging equipment, quality control tools | $8,000 - $15,000 |
| Kitchen & Cleaning | Commercial kitchen setup, multiple sinks, dishwashing systems, ventilation, health department compliance | $6,000 - $12,000 |
| Technology & Infrastructure | Advanced POS integration, inventory management, sound and lighting systems, security, Wi-Fi infrastructure | $4,000 - $8,000 |
| Installation & Setup | Complete professional installation, comprehensive staff training, all permits and certifications, grand opening inventory | $5,000 - $10,000 |