Founding Checklist
A complete step-by-step guide to starting a specialty coffee roastery. From market research to risk assessment – all key aspects clearly summarized.
PHASE I: CONCEPT AND RESEARCH (001-100)
- 1.1. Competitor Analysis (Domestic)
- 0. Start here to enable execution of later steps.
- 1. Price monitoring: Calculate average price for 250g retail bags.
- 2. Price monitoring: Calculate average price for 1kg wholesale bags.
- 3. Analysis of shipping fees among competitors.
- 4. Analysis of free shipping thresholds.
- 5. Packaging design analysis (minimalist vs. colorful).
- 6. User Experience (UX) testing of competitor webshops.
- 7. Measuring social media activity of competitors.
- 1.2. International Trends
- 11. Analysis of Nordic roasting styles (Light/Nordic).
- 12. Analysis of the German/DACH market.
- 13. Monitoring US trends (Cold Brew, RTD).
- 14. Asian market packaging trends (Japan/Korea).
- 15. Sustainability trends (Carbon neutrality).
- 16. Study of Direct Trade models.
- 17. New processing methods (Anaerobic, Co-ferment).
- 18. Coffee subscription models analysis.
- 19. Analysis of capsule coffee market growth.
- 20. Investigation of Specialty Instant Coffee viability.
- 1.3. Target Audience Definition (Persona)
- 21. Developing the "Home Barista" profile.
- 22. Developing the "Office Coffee Consumer" profile.
- 23. "Traditional Cafe" owner profile.
- 24. "Specialty/Third Wave Cafe" owner profile.
- 25. Demographic estimation (age, gender, location).
- 26. Income situation estimation (price sensitivity).
- 27. Mapping purchasing habits (online vs. offline).
- 29. Estimating Target Market size (TAM/SAM/SOM).
- 30. Organizing focus group interviews with acquaintances.
- 1.4. Product Strategy
- 31. Determining the ratio of Blends in the portfolio.
- 32. Determining the ratio of Single Origin coffees.
- 33. Separating Espresso roast vs. Filter roast profiles.
- 34. Omni-roast decision (Universal roast profile).
- 35. Sourcing Decaf coffee (Swiss Water/Sugarcane process).
- 36. Use of Robusta (Yes/No, if yes: Fine Robusta?).
- 37. Manufacturing/Outsourcing Coffee Pods (ESE).
- 38. Manufacturing/Outsourcing Capsules.
- 39. Drip bag production.
- 40. Adding accessories (cups, brewing gear) to inventory.
- 1.5. Brand Identity (Branding Core)
- 41. Brand name brainstorming (min. 50 ideas).
- 42. Name filtering (pronunciation, brevity).
- 43. National Intellectual Property Office database check.
- 44. International Trademark check (WIPO/EUIPO).
- 45. Domain name availability check (.com, local extensions).
- 46. Social handle (@name) availability check.
- 47. Defining brand values (e.g., transparency, quality).
- 48. Describing Brand Personality (serious, playful, rebellious?).
- 49. Creating a slogan in the local language.
- 50. Creating a slogan in English (for export).
- 1.6. Visual Identity
- 51. Selecting Logo type (icon, typography, emblem).
- 52. Selecting a Graphic Designer / Writing the Brief.
- 53. Reviewing first logo concepts.
- 54. Defining Color Palette (Color codes).
- 55. Selecting Fonts (Primary and secondary).
- 56. Defining packaging graphic style.
- 57. Compiling Web Design style (Moodboard).
- 58. Defining Photography Guidelines.
- 59. Designing Icon set.
- 60. Creating the Brand Book.
- 1.7. Financial Planning (CAPEX - Investment)
- 61. Real estate deposit and brokerage fees.
- 62. Renovation costs (materials + labor).
- 63. Roasting machine price + shipping + customs.
- 64. Auxiliary machinery (grinder, sealer) prices.
- 65. Lab equipment prices.
- 66. Furniture and fixtures costs.
- 67. Permit and licensing fees.
- 68. Legal and incorporation fees.
- 69. Initial Marketing costs (webshop, branding).
- 70. Contingency fund +15%.
- 1.8. Financial Planning (OPEX - Operations)
- 71. Planning monthly rent.
- 72. Estimating utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet).
- 73. Accounting fees.
- 74. Payroll costs (gross salary + taxes).
- 75. Unit cost of packaging materials.
- 76. Shipping costs (logistics).
- 77. Monthly marketing budget (Ads).
- 78. Maintenance flat rate.
- 79. Waste management / EPR fees.
- 80. Banking fees.
- 1.9. Pricing and Profitability
- 81. Green coffee sourcing cost calculation (FX rates).
- 82. Incorporating weight loss (15-20%) into the price.
- 83. Adding packaging costs.
- 84. Allocating overheads to 1 kg of coffee.
- 85. Allocating labor costs to 1 kg of coffee.
- 86. Determining desired Margin.
- 87. Compiling Wholesale (B2B) price list.
- 88. Compiling Retail (B2C) price list.
- 89. Checking VAT / Sales Tax content.
- 90. Calculating Break-even point (kg/month).
- 1.10. Risk Management
- 91. Currency risk modeling (FX fluctuation).
- 92. Plan for raw material shortage (shipping delays).
- 93. Plan for machine failure (service background).
- 94. Impact of rising energy prices.
- 95. Impact of competitor price cuts.
- 96. Handling insolvent customers.
- 97. Risk of regulatory fines.
- 98. Loss of key personnel.
- 99. Impact of Pandemics / Lockdowns.
- 100. Exit Strategy (Plan for selling or closing).
PHASE II: LEGAL AND OFFICIAL MATTERS (101-200)
- 2.1. Company Incorporation
- 101. Engaging a Lawyer.
- 102. Reserving company name.
- 103. Signing Articles of Association.
- 104. Title deed of registered office or service provider contract.
- 105. Signing Managing Director declarations.
- 106. Depositing share capital.
- 107. Court Registration.
- 108. Specimen signature verification at a Notary.
- 109. Receipt of Tax ID number.
- 110. Receipt of Statistical ID number.
- 2.2. Bank and Tax Authority
- 111. Opening local currency bank account.
- 112. Opening foreign currency (EUR/USD) account.
- 113. Requesting bank cards.
- 114. Setting up Netbank access.
- 115. Accountant service agreement.
- 116. Tax Authority Registration (Employee filings).
- 117. Requesting EU VAT / International Tax ID.
- 118. Local Business Tax registration.
- 119. Digital Government Gateway registration.
- 120. Online Invoicing System registration.
- 2.3. Chamber of Commerce and Customs
- 121. Chamber of Commerce registration.
- 122. Payment of annual membership fees.
- 123. Requesting VPID / Customs ID number.
- 124. Requesting EORI number (Import).
- 125. Clarifying HS Codes (0901).
- 126. Clarifying Import VAT rules with accountant.
- 127. Checking Intrastat reporting obligations.
- 128. Checking Excise duty regulations (varies by country).
- 129. Handling Certificates of Origin.
- 130. Understanding the commercial tariff system.
- 2.4. Food Safety Authority
- 131. Government Portal Access.
- 132. Requesting Food Business Operator ID (FELIR/FDA).
- 133. Notifying local municipality of activity.
- 134. Special permit request (if using dairy products).
- 135. Selecting a HACCP consultant.
- 136. On-site HACCP audit.
- 137. Receiving HACCP documentation.
- 138. Validating Manufacturing Sheets.
- 139. Validating Recipe/Material Ratios.
- 140. Approval of Traceability System.
- 2.5. Environmental Protection
- 141. Requesting Environmental Client ID.
- 142. Requesting Environmental Activity ID.
- 143. Air pollution point source declaration.
- 144. Defining impact area.
- 145. Noise emission limit application (if needed).
- 146. Water permit (if grease trap is installed).
- 147. Municipal waste contract.
- 148. Hazardous waste (chemical bottles) transport contract.
- 149. EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) registration.
- 150. Setting up Packaging waste catalog codes.
- 2.6. Occupational Safety and Fire Protection
- 151. Ordering Occupational Safety Risk Assessment.
- 152. Chemical Risk Assessment preparation.
- 153. Reporting cleaning chemicals to Authority.
- 154. Creating Fire Safety Policy.
- 155. Creating Fire Alarm Plan / Evacuation Plan.
- 156. Determining number of fire extinguishers.
- 157. Validating fire extinguishers.
- 158. Placing Emergency Exit signs.
- 159. Designating First Aid station.
- 160. Opening Safety Training Log.
- 2.7. Mechanical Permits
- 161. Commissioning Gas Plan (if gas roaster).
- 162. Gas provider approval.
- 163. Chimney sweep expert opinion (preliminary).
- 164. Chimney sweep expert opinion (final).
- 165. Electrical safety protocol (Touch protection).
- 166. Lightning protection protocol.
- 167. Equipotential Bonding (EPH) protocol.
- 168. Gas technical handover.
- 169. Water utility declaration (for grease trap).
- 170. Sewage works contribution.
- 2.8. Labor Law
- 171. Drafting Employment Contracts with lawyer.
- 172. Creating Job Descriptions.
- 173. Information on working conditions.
- 174. Data privacy declaration for employees.
- 175. Setting up Payroll.
- 176. Occupational health doctor contract.
- 177. Obtaining Health Booklets.
- 178. Organizing Lung screening tests.
- 179. Systematizing Leave/Vacation records.
- 180. Systematizing Attendance sheets.
- 2.9. Insurance
- 181. Property Insurance (Real Estate, Machine, Stock).
- 182. General Liability Insurance.
- 183. Product Liability Insurance.
- 184. Employer's Liability Insurance.
- 185. Cargo / Transport Insurance.
- 186. Business Interruption Insurance (optional).
- 187. Legal Protection Insurance (optional).
- 188. Key Man Insurance.
- 189. Filing Insurance Policies.
- 190. Scheduling premium payments.
- 2.10. Other Administration
- 191. Making Company Stamps.
- 192. Validating Customers' Complaint Book.
- 193. Complaint Handling Policy.
- 194. Scrapping/Write-off Policy.
- 195. Inventory Policy.
- 196. Cash Handling Policy.
- 197. Vehicle Usage Policy.
- 198. GDPR Policy (offline and online).
- 199. CCTV Data Privacy Policy.
- 200. Establishing Document Management System.
PHASE III: REAL ESTATE SELECTION AND TECHNOLOGICAL PLANNING (201-300)
- Goal: Find a rental where food safety and roasting conditions can be met with the lowest investment (CAPEX).
- 3.1. Property "Due Diligence"
- 201. Chimney Potential: Is there an existing lined chimney, or can a mounted chimney be installed? (Deal Breaker).
- 202. Electrical Grid: Is 3-phase power available (min. 3x20A, preferably 3x32A)? Critical for electric machines.
- 203. Gas Network: (For gas machines) Is there an industrial meter? Is the pipe diameter sufficient?
- 204. Noise and Odor Simulation: How close are residential windows? Analysis of prevailing wind direction.
- 205. Logistics Access: Does a standard pallet (80x120cm) fit through the door? (Min. 90-100 cm width).
- 206. Floor Load Capacity: Green coffee is heavy (60-70 kg/bag). Can the slab/floor bear point loads?
- 207. Plumbing Assessment: Is there water/drainage access in the production area for sinks?
- 208. Internet/Signal: Critical for roasting software and webshop administration.
- 209. Ceiling Height: Can you climb a ladder to the hopper? Is there space above the machine?
- 210. Natural Light: Is there a window for visual inspection (color grading)?
- 3.2. Lease Agreement and Legal Background
- 211. Zoning/Activity: Landlord's written consent for "Coffee Manufacturing" activity code.
- 212. Renovation Permit: Written permission for drilling walls (chimney clamps), mechanical breakthroughs.
- 213. Change of Use: Current classification of the property (e.g., garage vs. food factory). Is reclassification needed?
- 214. Termination Protection: Investment protection clause (e.g., no termination for 3-5 years).
- 215. Utility Meters: Installing sub-meters or transferring accounts.
- 216. Registration: Permission to register the company Headquarters or Site at the address.
- 3.3. Technological Layout Planning
- 221. Strict Zone Separation:
- * Black Zone: Green coffee intake, storage (dusty zone).
- * Grey Zone: Roasting process.
- * White Zone: Packaging and finished goods warehouse (hygienic zone).
- 222. Exclusion of Cross-Contamination: "One-way" material flow. Green coffee dust must not reach roasted coffee.
- 223. Machine Positioning: Near the wall/roof exit for the shortest chimney route.
- 224. Maintenance Space: Leave min. 60-80 cm around all sides of the machine.
- 225. Packaging Table Ergonomics: Where will scale, sealer, and boxes be? (Lean principles).
- 226. Waste Route: Chaff and communal waste output should not cross finished products.
- 227. Cupping Corner: Near natural light, with space for kettle and spittoon emptying.
- 3.4. Technical Plans (For Permits)
- 231. HACCP Flowchart: Description of material movement and technology for authorities.
- 232. Chimney Sweep Statement: Suitability of existing or planned chimney.
- 233. Fire Safety Classification: Determining fire hazard class (usually "Moderate").
- 234. Gas Plan: (If gas machine) Official plan by designer, provider approval.
- 235. Workplace Safety Risk Assessment Prep: Noise levels, dust concentration, lifting.
PHASE IV: FIT-OUT AND MACHINE INSTALLATION (301-400)
- Construction focus: Food safety compliance (cleanability) and professional machine connection.
- 4.1. Room Hygiene Preparation (Fit-out)
- 301. Demolition and Cleaning: Removal of all unnecessary items, old shelves, wiring.
- 303. Painting (Washable): Washable, disinfectable paint or tiles up to min. 2 meters. Dust-repellent paint above.
- 304. Floor Treatment:
- * Option B: Industrial PVC roll (with welded joints).
- 305. Coving: Curved junction between floor and wall (for easy cleaning - Authorities require it).
- 306. Window Protection: Installing insect screens on all openable windows (Mandatory!).
- 307. Door Sealing: Brush seals at the bottom of doors (against rodents).
- 4.2. Mechanical and Plumbing Works
- 311. Handwash Station: Knee-operated or sensor tap installation. "Handwash only" sticker.
- 312. Dishwashing Station: Two-basin stainless steel sink (washing + rinsing/sanitizing) + drip tray.
- 313. Grease Trap (Optional): If required by sewage provider due to coffee oils.
- 314. Water Filtration: BWT/Brita cartridge installation before espresso machine and lab water tap.
- 315. Ventilation: Exhaust fan installation for heat/smoke removal. Air intake louvers (for draft).
- 4.3. Electrical Network Upgrade
- 321. Main Panel Expansion: Installing RCD (Residual Current Device) if missing.
- 322. Machine Power Supply:
- * Electric Machine: 5-pin industrial socket (3 Phase + Neutral + Earth).
- * Gas Machine: 1-phase socket for drum rotation and controls.
- 323. Lighting Upgrade: Dust and moisture-proof (IP65) LED fixtures.
- 324. Color-Correct Lighting: High CRI light above packaging/inspection table.
- 325. Emergency Stop: Central power cut-off switch in a visible place.
- 4.4. Chimney System (Critical Point)
- 331. Material Sourcing: Stainless steel, insulated (double-wall) elements. No flexible aluminum ducts!
- 332. Cleanout: Access point at the machine-chimney junction (creosote buildup).
- 333. Condensate Drain: Condensate collector at the bottom + tube routing.
- 334. Mounting: Securing chimney with clamps to wall/ceiling.
- 335. Roof Penetration: Flashing work to prevent leaks.
- 336. Rain Cap: Type that doesn't stifle exhaust flow (Jet cap or Meidinger disc).
- 4.5. Furniture and Warehousing
- 341. Warehouse Shelves: Bolting heavy-duty shelves to the wall.
- 342. Pallet Storage: Floor marking (yellow tape) for green coffee pallets. (Must not touch walls!).
- 343. Work Tables: Stainless steel tables, leveled.
- 344. Lab Counter: Placement of espresso machine, grinder, cupping tools.
- 345. Packaging Station: Ergonomic layout of scale, sealer, printer.
- 346. Locker Room: Lockers for separating "Clean" work clothes and "Street" clothes.
- 4.6. Technical and Official Handover
- 351. Electrical Safety Certificate: Issued by electrician.
- 352. Gas Inspection: Pressure test and approval by provider.
- 353. Chimney Sweep Certificate (Final): Acceptance of the finished stack.
- 354. Fire Extinguishers: 1x 6kg Powder and 1x 2kg CO2 (electrical fires) placement.
- 355. First Aid Kit: Placing "Workplace Type" kit.
- 356. Food Safety Inspection Appointment.
- 357. Final Cleaning: Complete removal of installation dust.
PHASE V: TECHNOLOGY AND MACHINERY (401-500)
- 5.1. Roasting Machine Procurement
- 401. Manufacturer selection.
- 402. Finalizing specifications (Gas type / Sensors).
- 403. Order and Down Payment.
- 404. Production tracking.
- 405. Organizing transport.
- 406. Customs clearance (if non-EU).
- 5.2. Roaster Installation
- 411. Leveling and anchoring the machine.
- 412. Connecting the cyclone.
- 413. Connecting the afterburner.
- 414. Connecting the chimney.
- 415. Gas connection (flexible hose).
- 416. Electrical connection.
- 417. Compressed air connection.
- 418. Water connection (if quenching system exists).
- 419. Data cable connection.
- 420. Test run (cold).
- 5.3. Auxiliary Machines
- 421. Installing Destoner.
- 422. Installing Green Coffee Loader (optional).
- 423. Commissioning Industrial Grinder.
- 424. Calibrating grinder burrs.
- 425. Commissioning compressor.
- 426. Setting up Band Sealer (temp/speed).
- 427. Setting up Date Coder.
- 428. Validating Industrial Scale.
- 429. Commissioning vacuum system.
- 430. Assembling material handling tools (pallet jack).
- 5.4. IT and Software (Roasting)
- 431. Procuring roasting laptop.
- 432. Installing Artisan / Cropster.
- 433. Installing drivers (Phidgets/Modbus).
- 434. Checking thermocouple signals.
- 435. Checking Gas/RPM control.
- 436. Software settings (Sampling rate, Smoothing).
- 437. Creating folder structure for profiles.
- 438. Setting up cloud backup.
- 5.5. Manuals and Documentation
- 451. Collecting user manuals.
- 452. Acquiring manuals in local language (Work Safety requirement).
- 453. Extracting maintenance instructions.
- 454. Filing warranty letters.
- 455. Recording service contacts.
- 456. Compiling Spare Parts list.
- 457. Ordering critical parts (bearings, thermocouples) for stock.
- 458. Opening Machine Logbook.
- 459. Filing CE Declaration of Conformity.
- 460. Creating training materials for machines.
- 5.6. Maintenance System
- 461. Creating Daily Maintenance Checklist.
- 462. Creating Weekly Maintenance Checklist.
- 463. Creating Monthly Maintenance Checklist.
- 464. Creating Yearly Maintenance Checklist.
- 465. Lubrication points map.
- 466. Cleaning points map.
- 467. Scheduling filter changes.
- 468. Scheduling burner cleaning.
- 469. Scheduling chimney inspection.
- 470. Assigning responsibilities.
- 5.7. Metrology
- 471. Calibrating thermocouples (boiling water).
- 472. Calibrating scales (calibration weights).
- 473. Checking gas pressure gauge.
- 474. Checking drum RPM.
- 475. Measuring Airflow (anemometer).
- 476. Calibrating moisture meter.
- 477. Calibrating color meter.
- 478. Synchronizing timers.
- 479. Changing/charging instrument batteries.
- 480. Keeping a Calibration Log.
- 5.8. Emergency Plans (Machine)
- 481. Procedure for Power Outage (manual drum rotation/UPS).
- 482. Procedure for Gas Leak.
- 483. Procedure for Chaff Fire.
- 484. Procedure for Drum Fire (water injection).
- 485. Procedure for Motor Failure (emptying coffee).
- 486. Procedure for Software Freeze.
- 487. Procedure for Chimney Fire.
- 488. Testing Emergency Stop buttons.
- 489. Testing suppression system.
- 490. Posting emergency phone numbers.
- 5.9. First "Seasoning" Roasts
- 491. Sourcing cheap/cull green coffee for break-in.
- 492. Machine pre-heating.
- 493. Roasting first batch (dark).
- 494. Coating drum with coffee oils (Seasoning).
- 495. Testing cooling system.
- 496. Testing Destoner.
- 497. Checking exhaust gas routing (leaks?).
- 498. Checking noise levels.
- 499. Discarding roasted coffee (not for consumption).
- 500. Machine cooling and cleaning.
PHASE VI: GREEN COFFEE AND LOGISTICS (501-600)
- 6.1. Sourcing Strategy
- 501. Registering with Importers (Cafe Imports, Falcon, Nordic Approach, etc.).
- 502. Downloading current Offer Sheets.
- 503. Reviewing Harvest Calendar.
- 504. Selecting coffees based on Price/Quality.
- 505. Volume planning (how many bags needed for 3 months?).
- 506. Decision on "Spot" vs. "Forward" buying.
- 507. Clarifying Bio/Organic certificate needs.
- 508. Clarifying Fair Trade / Direct Trade needs.
- 509. Allocating budget for sourcing.
- 510. Contacting traders.
- 6.2. Sampling
- 511. Ordering samples (300-500g).
- 512. Receiving and registering samples.
- 513. Physical analysis of samples (green grading).
- 514. Measuring moisture and water activity.
- 515. Sample roasting.
- 516. Preparing Cupping.
- 517. Tasting and scoring (SCA sheet).
- 518. Decision making.
- 519. Feedback to trader.
- 520. Reserving selected lots.
- 6.3. Ordering and Payment
- 521. Issuing Purchase Order (PO).
- 522. Recording Incoterms.
- 523. Checking Proforma Invoice.
- 524. Currency exchange.
- 525. Executing payment.
- 526. Sending proof of payment.
- 527. Receiving Invoice.
- 528. Checking transport documents (Bill of Lading / CMR).
- 529. Checking ICO numbers.
- 530. Insuring the shipment.
- 6.4. Logistics (Inbound)
- 531. Commissioning carrier (if not arranged by seller).
- 532. Requesting Cargo Tracking Number.
- 533. Preparing Customs Clearance (if non-EU).
- 534. Confirming Arrival Time (ETA).
- 535. Preparing unloading (space, staff, equipment).
- 536. Receipt: Checking Seals (if container).
- 537. Receipt: Condition of bags (damage, water).
- 538. Receipt: Quantity check.
- 539. Receipt: Signing CMR (with reservations if needed).
- 540. Moving to warehouse storage.
- 6.5. Inventory Management
- 541. Placing bags on pallets (must not touch wall/floor).
- 542. Recording Lot numbers in system.
- 543. Green coffee quality check upon arrival (measurements).
- 544. Opening stock cards.
- 545. Applying FIFO principle.
- 546. Logging temperature and humidity.
- 547. Calculating inventory value.
- 548. Handling waste/spillage.
- 549. Establishing inventory count protocol.
- 550. Setting Reorder Levels (Minimum stock).
- 6.6. Packaging Logistics
- 551. Ordering bags.
- 552. Ordering boxes.
- 553. Ordering labels.
- 554. Ordering adhesive tapes.
- 555. Receiving packaging materials.
- 556. Filing Declarations of Compliance.
- 557. Storing packaging in clean area.
- 558. Inventory monitoring.
- 559. EPR administration preparation.
- 560. Handling packaging waste.
- 6.7. Finished Goods Logistics (Outbound)
- 561. Courier contract (DHL/FedEx/Local).
- 562. Label printer integration.
- 563. Equipping packaging station.
- 564. Stocking fillers.
- 565. Boxing protocol (taping, label).
- 566. Agreeing on pickup time slots.
- 567. Setting up Tracking.
- 568. Reverse logistics (Returns).
- 569. Claiming damaged packages with courier.
- 570. Monitoring delivery statistics (success rate).
- 6.8. Customs and Excise Admin (If relevant)
- 571. Checking HS codes for every batch.
- 572. Import VAT declaration and payment.
- 573. Preparing Intrastat reports.
- 574. Preserving Certificates of Origin.
- 575. Excise records (if applicable).
- 576. Preparing for Customs audits.
- 577. Preserving documents for 5/10 years.
- 578. Maintaining Customs ID.
- 579. EORI validity.
- 580. Consulting with Customs agent.
- 6.9. Sustainability in Logistics
- 581. Choosing recyclable packaging.
- 582. Carbon-neutral shipping options.
- 583. Upcycling jute bags (gardening, decor).
- 584. Composting chaff.
- 585. Paperless administration (e-invoice).
- 586. Preferring local suppliers (boxes, labels).
- 587. Using pallet exchange system.
- 588. Energy-efficient warehouse lighting.
- 589. Waste sorting in warehouse.
- 6.10. Risk Management (Supply Chain)
- 591. Holding Buffer Stock.
- 592. Finding alternative suppliers.
- 593. Alternative courier contract (Plan B).
- 594. Possibilities for Price Fixing.
- 595. Quality complaint process with supplier.
- 596. Documenting shipping damages.
- 597. Reviewing warehouse insurance.
- 598. Monitoring expiry dates (Green coffee aging).
- 599. Immediate treatment of pest infestation.
- 600. Continuous analysis of logistics costs.
PHASE VII: FOOD SAFETY AND LAB (601-700)
- 7.1. Activating HACCP System
- 601. Finalizing HACCP manual.
- 602. Posting flowcharts.
- 603. Marking CCP points on machines.
- 604. Staff training.
- 605. Signing training log.
- 606. Preparing/Printing logs (Cleaning, Temperature).
- 607. Integration into daily routine.
- 608. Internal audit (self-check).
- 609. Corrective actions.
- 610. Setting system review date.
- 7.2. Lab Equipment
- 611. Organizing Lab Table.
- 612. Setting up scales.
- 613. Setting up sample grinder.
- 614. Commissioning water filter cartridge.
- 615. Washing cupping tools.
- 616. Calibrating color meter.
- 617. Setting up moisture meter.
- 618. Setting up TDS meter.
- 619. Commissioning Espresso machine.
- 620. Checking lab lighting.
- 7.3. Quality Control: Green Coffee
- 621. Sampling incoming batches.
- 622. Counting physical defects (SCA Green Grading).
- 623. Checking Screen Size with sieves.
- 624. Measuring Moisture content.
- 625. Measuring Water Activity.
- 626. Measuring Density.
- 627. Odor check (foreign smells?).
- 628. Color check (faded?).
- 629. Recording data in software.
- 630. Complaint if not meeting spec.
- 7.4. Quality Control: Roasting
- 631. Profile curve check (match reference?).
- 632. Calculating weight loss.
- 633. Color measurement (Agtron) whole bean.
- 634. Color measurement ground.
- 635. Visual check for roast defects (Scorching, Tipping).
- 636. Sorting out Quakers (unripe beans).
- 637. Checking destoning.
- 638. Investigating Batch consistency.
- 639. Recording data.
- 640. Isolating rejects.
- Degassing: Where do you store coffee after roasting but before packaging? (Space for bins or valve buckets).
- 7.5. Quality Control: Sensory (Cupping)
- 641. Preparing samples (after resting).
- 642. Grinding, Dry Aroma.
- 643. Pouring, Breaking Crust, Slurping.
- 644. Scoring on SCA sheet.
- 645. Searching for defects (moldy, smoky, burnt).
- 646. Evaluating Body, Acidity, Sweetness.
- 647. Evaluating Aftertaste.
- 648. Comparing results with previous ones.
- 649. Decision: Go for packaging / Reject.
- 650. Archiving cupping report.
- 7.6. Quality Control: Packaging
- 651. Checking seal integrity.
- 652. Checking valve function.
- 653. Checking legibility of dates.
- 654. Weight check (Net weight).
- 655. Correct label placement.
- 656. Existence of Lot number.
- 657. Measuring Residual Oxygen (if meter available).
- 658. Package integrity.
- 659. Checking master carton packing.
- 660. Checking warehouse placement.
- 7.7. Pest Control (IPC)
- 671. Checking trap map.
- 672. Checking rodent traps (weekly).
- 673. Checking insect traps.
- 674. Placing Moth (Pheromone) traps.
- 675. Checking door/window seals.
- 677. Professional exterminator visit (quarterly).
- 678. Maintaining poison-free zone in production.
- 679. Documenting sightings.
- 7.8. Traceability
- 681. Linking Green Coffee Lot ID -> Roasted Batch ID.
- 682. Linking Roasted Batch ID -> Packaged Product ID.
- 683. Linking Customer Invoice -> Product ID.
- 684. Traceability test / Mock recall (annual).
- 685. Mass balance calculation (In vs Out).
- 686. Traceability of waste/rejects.
- 689. Preparing for official inspection.
- 690. Authenticity of customer info (farm info).
- 7.10. Water Treatment (Lab and Plant)
- 691. Testing tap water.
- 692. Maintaining/replacing water filter system.
- 693. Checking Lab Water recipe.
- 694. Measuring Hardness.
- 695. Measuring pH.
- 696. Measuring Alkalinity.
- 697. Sanitizing water system.
PHASE VIII: BRANDING AND MARKETING (701-800)
- 8.1. Branding Finalization
- 701. Receiving final logo files (vector).
- 702. Receiving Brand Book.
- 703. Designing Letterhead, Email signature.
- 704. Producing Business Cards.
- 705. Producing Signage, Car decals.
- 706. Embroidering/Printing Uniforms (T-shirts, Aprons).
- 707. Designing Merchandise (mugs, totes).
- 708. Documenting Brand Strategy.
- 709. Recording Tone of Voice.
- 710. Internal Brand training for team.
- 8.2. Packaging Design
- 711. Finalizing Bag graphics.
- 712. Finalizing Label graphics.
- 713. Checking Mandatory Labeling Requirements.
- 714. Placing Barcodes.
- 715. Approving Proof prints.
- 716. Checking material quality.
- 717. Designing Box graphics.
- 718. Designing Tape graphics.
- 719. Designing Inserts / Thank you cards.
- 720. Designing Brew Guide cards.
- 8.3. Website and Content
- 741. Website Copywriting.
- 742. SEO Keyword research.
- 743. Writing Meta descriptions.
- 744. Writing Blog articles (min. 3 starter posts).
- 745. Writing FAQ section.
- 746. Writing "About Us" (Story).
- 747. Uploading Product descriptions.
- 748. Uploading Legal Disclaimers.
- 749. Testing Contact Form.
- 750. Speed optimization (image compression).
PHASE IX: WEBSHOP AND IT (801-900)
- 9.1. Payment and Shipping
- 821. Contract with Payment Gateway (Stripe/PayPal/Adyen).
- 822. Installing and testing payment module.
- 823. Setting up Cash on Delivery.
- 824. Setting up Shipping Zones (Domestic / Intl).
- 825. Setting up Shipping Rates.
- 826. Setting up Free Shipping threshold.
- 827. Courier integration.
- 828. Setting up Parcel Locker map.
- 829. Setting up Local Pickup.
- 830. Setting up Shipping email notifications.
- 9.2. Invoicing Integration
- 831. Creating account with Invoicing Software.
- 832. API connection with Webshop.
- 833. Setting up Automatic Invoicing.
- 834. Setting up E-invoice sending.
- 835. Checking Tax Authority connection.
- 836. Synchronizing VAT rates.
- 837. Synchronizing Payment methods.
- 838. Testing Credit Notes / Refunds.
- 839. Setting up Proforma Invoices (if needed).
- 840. Giving access to Accountant.
- 9.3. Legal Compliance (IT)
- 841. Terms & Conditions checkbox at checkout.
- 842. Data Privacy checkbox at checkout.
- 843. Setting up Cookie Bar (GDPR).
- 844. "Order with obligation to pay" button label.
- 845. Visibility of Impressum/Legal Notice.
- 847. Downloadability of Withdrawal Form.
- 848. Displaying Unit Prices (Price/kg).
- 849. Naming Data Protection Officer.
- 850. Displaying Hosting Provider details.
- 9.4. Analytics and Measurement
- 851. Integrating Google Analytics 4 (GA4) / Umami.
- 852. Setting up E-commerce tracking (measuring sales).
- 853. Integrating Google Search Console.
- 854. Testing Facebook Pixel events (Purchase, AddToCart).
- 855. Integrating Hotjar (heatmaps - optional).
- 856. Testing Conversion tracking.
- 857. UTM parameter rules.
- 858. Setting up Dashboard (reports).
- 859. Setting up Goals.
- 860. Setting up Filters (excluding own IP).
- 9.5. Automations
- 861. Order Confirmation email.
- 862. Out of Stock notification email.
- 863. Forgot Password email.
- 864. Account Creation email.
- 865. Review Request email (X days after purchase).
- 866. Coupon Code generator.
- 867. Gift Card system.
- 868. Setting up Chatbot or Live Chat.
- 869. CRM synchronization.
- 870. Stock Alert for Admin.
- 9.6. Security (IT)
- 871. Admin password strength.
- 872. Enabling Two-Factor Authentication (2FA).
- 873. Installing Security plugin (Wordfence/iThemes).
- 874. Setting up regular updates (Plugin/Theme).
- 875. Database cleaning.
- 876. Spam protection (reCAPTCHA) on forms.
- 877. Managing User Roles/Permissions.
- 878. Checking Log files.
- 879. Vulnerability scan.
- 880. Virus protection on workstations.
- 9.7. Packaging Hardware
- 881. Setting up Label Printer on network.
- 882. Setting up Invoice Printer (A4).
- 883. Commissioning Barcode Scanner.
- 884. Monitor/Tablet at packaging station.
- 885. Internet connection in warehouse.
- 886. Mouse/Keyboard ergonomics.
- 887. Cable management.
- 888. Spare toner/labels.
- 889. UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply).
- 890. Hardware maintenance.
PHASE X: OPERATIONS AND LAUNCH (901-1000)
- 10.1. Inventory Management (Ongoing)
- 921. Recording daily usage.
- 922. Weekly inventory (Green coffee).
- 923. Monthly inventory (Full).
- 924. Triggering reorders on time.
- 925. Logging waste/spoilage.
- 926. Adhering to FIFO.
- 927. Monitoring expiry dates.
- 928. Investigating discrepancies.
- 929. Annual closing inventory.
- 930. Accounting for inventory shortage.
- 10.2. Financial Administration (Monthly)
- 931. Collecting incoming invoices.
- 932. Checking outgoing invoices.
- 933. Downloading bank statements.
- 934. Transferring material to Accountant (start of month).
- 935. Paying VAT / Sales Tax.
- 936. Paying Salaries.
- 937. Paying Payroll Taxes.
- 938. Analyzing P&L (Profit & Loss).
- 939. Checking Cash-flow.
- 940. Cost optimization.
- 10.3. Customer Service
- 941. Answering emails (within 24 hours).
- 942. Phone support.
- 943. Handling Chat messages.
- 944. Handling complaints (exchange/refund).
- 945. Managing shipping issues (lost package).
- 946. Collecting customer feedback.
- 947. Responding to Google/Facebook reviews.
- 948. Updating FAQ with new questions.
- 949. Measuring Customer Satisfaction (NPS).
- 950. Handling VIP customers.
- 10.4. Product Development (R&D)
- 961. Continuous sampling of new green coffees.
- 962. Planning seasonal blends (Christmas, Summer).
- 963. Fine-tuning roast profiles.
- 964. Improving packaging (based on feedback).
- 966. Reviewing pricing (inflation tracking).
- 967. Monitoring competitors.
- 968. Participating in training/education.
- 969. Visiting trade shows (World of Coffee).
- 970. Innovation suggestion box.
- 10.5. HR Management
- 971. Creating work schedules.
- 972. Planning vacations.
- 973. Performance reviews.
- 974. Holding training sessions.
- 975. Team building.
- 976. Recruiting (if expanding).
- 977. Modifying employment contracts.
- 978. Reward system.
- 979. Conflict resolution.
- 980. Offboarding employees.
- 10.6. B2B Relations
- 981. Regular partner visits.
- 982. Quality control at partners (machine calibration).
- 983. Barista training for partners.
- 984. Taking orders.
- 985. Presenting new products.
- 986. Measuring partner satisfaction.
- 987. Renewing contracts.
- 988. Managing receivables (payment reminders).
- 989. Marketing support for partners.
- 990. Organizing joint events.
- 10.7. Closing and Analysis (Milestones)
- 991. Analyzing Monthly Close.
- 992. Quarterly Strategic Review.
- 993. Annual Financial Closing.
- 994. Comparing Business Plan with Reality.
- 995. Setting goals for next year.
- 996. Celebrating successes.
- 997. Learning from failures.
- 998. Rest (Avoiding Burnout).
- 999. Continuous Improvement (Kaizen).
- 1000. Enjoying a perfect cup of coffee. ☕