They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and yet many Americans chose unhealthy options or skip it altogether. A fast and easy breakfast bagel business can offer commuters a meal to-go, and it’s healthier than donuts or fast-food options.
To start your own bagel business:
- Get licensed to sell and handle food, and make sure to acquire any additional licenses and registrations mandated by your state, county, or city.
- Find a great location. Is there a place in town that’s ideal for a bagel setup? Can you get a place near a main road? If you’re trying to snag morning commuters, an easy-to-find location on a main road is key.
- Find a reliable bagel supplier. Making bagels is an intensive process, especially if you don’t have the space and tools necessary. It takes a lot of experience to make a memorable bagel, so you might be better off going with an established wholesaler.
- Decide what kinds of bagels to sell. Will you specialize in a few types, or carry a number of flavors? There are many different types of bagel, and you can carry in healthy options (plain, salt, and whole wheat), savory bagels (onion, garlic, egg), seed bagels (poppyseed, sesame, everything), and sweet bagels (chocolate chip, cinnamon raisin, blueberry).
- Determine pricing. Do certain bagels cost more than others? What are the bagel prices in your city? How will you make profit? Ask yourself some basic business questions to determine pricing and stay competitive with any other bagel stores in the area.
- Set up shop. Will your bagel store be a self-serve bagel store? Will you sell pre-made packages for busy-goers? Will you prepare every bagel (cutting, toasting, spreads, etc.)? Once you’ve covered the basics, begin decorating, and make things appealing for guests. Consider either offering toasted bagel and toppings service similar to a customized sandwich counter.
- Start advertising. Get the word out about your new business, and make sure your grand opening is extra grand. Offer discounts to new customers and try to hook people into coming back. Make the most of social media, and don’t be afraid to utilize old-fashioned advertising like flyers and signs.
With the recent resurge in popularity, bagel stores are becoming an appealing option for food entrepreneurs. Whether you’re a sweet-tooth bagel company or a lunch-bagel deli, there’s always room for bagels in the hearts (and stomachs) of your customers.
