So, you’re going to do it — you’re opening a coffee shop.
Congratulations. There are exciting times ahead, but before equipment, menus or pricing, you need to answer the very first and most important question:
Where should your coffee shop be?
Location shapes everything that follows — from footfall and brand perception to operating costs and long‑term viability. Below are the key factors worth considering before you commit.
The Area
Start by looking closely at what already exists around you. Who else operates nearby, and what do they offer?
By this stage you should have a good sense of your brand — how you want to look, feel and be experienced. The surrounding area can offer inspiration, but it can also highlight gaps or things you may want to deliberately avoid.
Think carefully about your unique selling point (USP). That might be a brewing method not found locally, a particular style of service, or a food offering people will travel for. Cover the basics well, but make sure there is a clear reason for customers to choose you.
Footfall
High‑footfall locations such as city centres, shopping areas and office districts are often appealing — but they usually come with higher rent and stronger competition.
More foot traffic does not automatically mean success. You may be competing against well‑established chains, so it’s important to weigh potential revenue against cost and concept.
Destination locations — quieter streets or residential areas — often offer lower rent and stronger community loyalty. They may take longer to build momentum, but with the right approach, these spaces can become genuine local favourites.
Your business model matters here. A takeaway‑led coffee shop benefits far more from passing trade than a destination café where customers are encouraged to sit longer.
Visibility
Visibility matters regardless of footfall. Can people clearly see your shop, and understand what you offer at a glance?
A strong shopfront, clear branding and a considered window space help attract the right customers. Avoid clutter and mixed messages — clarity is far more effective than information overload.
Being tucked away isn’t necessarily a disadvantage. Some of the most loved coffee shops thrive as “hidden gems”. What matters is consistency between location, brand and audience.
Accessibility
Accessibility should be considered from the very beginning.
Ask practical questions early:
- Is the location easy to reach on foot, by public transport or by car?
- Is there suitable parking nearby?
- Is the entrance accessible for wheelchair users and mobility aids?
- Are signage and menus easy to read and navigate?
We’ll cover interior accessibility later in the series, but where you choose to locate your business plays a huge role in ensuring everyone can use it comfortably.
Rent and Practical Considerations
Research local commercial rents thoroughly. Understand what is typical for the area in terms of square footage, access and nearby amenities.
Be prepared to negotiate. Knowledge of local pricing and conditions puts you in a much stronger position when discussing rent, incentives or fit‑out terms.
Also check whether the property already has appropriate permissions for serving food and drink — not all commercial units are suitable without additional investment.
Avoid confirmation bias. It’s easy to fall in love with a space emotionally, but it still needs to work financially and operationally.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a coffee shop location comes down to balance — footfall, visibility, community, accessibility and cost all play a role.
Taking the time to research properly at this stage sets the foundation for everything that follows, from layout and workflow to cup sizes, menus and pricing.
Starting a coffee business and want a second opinion?
We offer free consultations to help you think through location choices and early decisions — before small mistakes become expensive ones.