You want to start a business working at home, and you enjoy baking cookies. So, why not start a cookie business making and selling your homemade creations?
If you are like most people, you can envision yourself baking piles of gourmet cookies in your kitchen, but when you think about selling what you bake, you see lots of question marks. On top of that, instructions on starting a cookie business are not easy to find.
However,That said, opening a home-based baking business does not need to be so challenging that only a few people can do it. Check out the tips below to get started quickly and easily.
1. Learn Which Rules and Regulations Apply to Your Business.
Every city has their own requirements, which can vary, therefore you want to contact your local authority. Start by visiting your city’s website (look for a section on business licenses) or calling their licensing department. Staff can give you answers re: licensing, plus information on business zoning.
The next step is to get in touch with your state’s Department of Health. For baking at home, your kitchen space will need to pass an inspection. They can also let you know about labeling laws for food packaging.
2. Write a Business Plan.
You can use templates for this to make the job faster and easier. A business plan can show you whether or not your idea will be profitable, help you put together a marketing campaign and predict how long it will take to generate a positive cash flow.
Formulating an organized plan in advance can help you save valuable time and money in the long run. In addition, you don’t want to start a business in the first place unless it has the potential to be profitable.
3. Invest in Supplies and Cooking Equipment.
Running an income-producing business obviously relies on how much you sell. Nevertheless, profits also depend on company outgo. Save money by buying bakeware and food prep items at discount distributors like Central Restaurant Products where you can get everything you need online and compare prices.
Also get product packaging materials including bags, boxes, tins, shipping products and labels. Companies like “My Own Labels” enable you to develop your own labels online, and then they print and ship them directly to you.
4. Spread the Word and Attract Customers.
Previously in Step 2, you will have completed a marketing strategy for your baking company. Another and simple) way to get a jump start is to let prospects test them out. List local businesses, organizations and community functions where you can supply free samples, gift baskets or dessert trays. Don’t forget your business cards and information on how they can order more.
This marketing strategy works well because you can reach a larger group of people at one time. Letting them “try out” your cookies and working with commercial groups, you are in a better position to obtain big orders and accelerate company growth. Plus, you can’t overlook the fact that people are more likely to purchase from a person who has previously given them something for free.
Bob Garrett reviews small business strategies for Home Business Center, Inc., which has helped entrepreneurs start home-based businesses since 1997. Visit the website for a step-by-step guide and resource list on starting a cookie business from home.