How to Start an Online Coffee Business (5 Steps)

Apply for a business license to start an online coffee business by contacting the Small Business Administration office or county clerk's office. Apply for a sales tax number to collect sales tax from the sale of coffee and coffee products by contacting the department of revenue. Apply for an employer identification number (EIN) through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to use on business forms, such as business registration and tax forms. Purchase home business insurance to protect business assets from lawsuits.
Create a home office to store coffee beans and coffee accessories, such as coffee grinders, coffee filters and mugs. Use your home office to store files and invoices. Purchase bookkeeping and invoicing software to track customer orders, invoices and business earnings.
Create a website for your online coffee business. This website should include pictures, descriptions and prices of each coffee blend. If selling coffee accessories, include photos, descriptions and prices of each item. Include contact information, ordering and payment methods, shipping options and a short biography of your business on the website. Research web-hosting companies to find one that best suits your business needs. Web-hosting companies provide space for websites online.
Roast your own coffee or purchase coffee from local or fair trade vendors. Sell a variety of coffee blends to give customers many choices. Sell ground and whole bean coffee. You may also want to sell loose tea or tea bags to increase sales.
Market your coffee business online and off to attract a variety of customers. List your website in both print and online business directories. Create fliers, business cards and brochures to hand out to potential customers. Create an online newsletter to encourage customers to provide you with their email addresses. Send ocassional emails to promote sales or to introduce new coffee blends. Use social media, such as Facebook or Twitter, to promote your coffee business online.
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