Hello! My husband and I are considering entering the coffee business. What we would like to do is start up a mobile business in the area in which we live - MD. Unfortunately, other than being coffee drinkers we have no experience. We have the time to research the business and educate ourselves as to what it takes to start up, however, I could use some advise on WHERE to start. I have been lurking on this board for a while - and you have all been very helpful :0) - and I have seen some posts that refer to "coffee conventions????". How can I find out if there is one in my area? ANY advise would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you - in advance!

-- Terri Gray (graysinmd@worldnet.att.net), March 12, 2003

Answers

Hello Terry, Congratulations on your decision to get into the coffee business. It is a great business, with a very large profit margin. When you purchase your machines, look only for 110-120v units. Stay away from the 220v machines if you want to be mobile. I would recommend to you a semi automatic or fully automatic machine for mobile use. They are easy to use, and you can hire minumum wage workers to operate them, no need for high priced baristas. A book I would recommend is "Espresso Quick Reference Guide" by Phillip Janssen. It contains tons of drink recipes, and a lot more.

Are you planning a moblie van, trailer, or festival setup?

I would also recommend attending a resturant show. I go to the one in SF every year. They keep you up to date on all the new machines, and technolgy advances in the food and beverage industry.

I hope this helps. Good Luck on your journey!

-- David Lee (David@dccoffeecatering.com), March 14, 2003.