30 steps to opening a delicatessen
Opening a delicatessen is currently one of the most popular projects among people looking to change careers.
A passion for flavour, a desire for independence, a return to local produce and artisanal expertise: these are just some of the motivations that drive new entrepreneurs to take the plunge each year.
But to turn this idea into a profitable and sustainable business, it is essential to follow a structured and consistent path.
At FBKT, every year we support creators of delicatessens, gourmet concept stores
and future retailers of artisan teas.
We understand their questions, their doubts, their needs… and the essential steps that guarantee a solid start.
In this article, you will find a 30-step checklist for opening a delicatessen, organised in a logical, simple and actionable order. A valuable resource for anyone who wants to take the plunge with confidence and lay the foundations for an independent shop.
1. Phase - clarification & preparation of the project
1- Define your vision and concept
General delicatessen ? Artisanal teas ? Local products ? High-end specialities ?
2- Analyse your motivation and skills
Take stock of your strengths and skills in sales, management and customer relations.
3- Study the local market
Identify demand, customer profiles, trends (organic, local, gifts, etc.).
4- Analyse direct and indirect competition
Independent shops, wine cellars, cheese shops, premium supermarkets, coffee shops.
5- Define your price/image positioning
Premium mid-range ? Affordable luxury ? Local craftsmanship ?
2. Phase – Construction of the foundations
6- Draft a solid business plan
Vision, business model, financial requirements, commercial strategy.
7- Draw up your financial forecast
Expenses, margins, depreciation, profitability, break-even point.
8- Define your product range
Artisanal teas, herbal teas, spices, chocolates, oils, gift baskets, etc.
9- Select your suppliers
Favour artisans, local producers and brands that are consistent with your DNA.
10- Assess equipment and layout requirements
Shelving, cash register, shelves, tasting table, point-of-sale advertising, display cases.
3.PHASE - Security & legal framework
11- Choose the legal status
Sole proprietorship, single-member limited liability company, limited liability company, simplified joint stock company, etc., depending on your vision and needs.
12- Draft the articles of association and register the company
Obtain the Kbis certificate, SIRET number, URSSAF affiliation and VAT number.
13- Check regulatory requirements
Price display, food hygiene, labelling, storage conditions.
14- Take out compulsory insurance
Professional civil liability, local comprehensive insurance, goods insurance.
15- Open a business bank account
Centralise financial flows and prepare for access to financing
4. PHASE - strategic choice of location
16- Study potential locations
City centres, dynamic neighbourhoods, tourist areas, premium villages.
17- Measure foot traffic and accessibility of the premises
Parking, visibility, shop window, natural flow of foot traffic.
18- Analyse the commercial lease
Rent, charges, duration, revisions, clauses.
19- Sign the lease or preliminary agreement after validation.
Then carry out the inventory and obtain the keys.
5. PHASE - DESIGN & Layout
20- Design the shop’s visual identity
Logo, colours, sensory universe, warm atmosphere.
21- Envision the customer journey in the shop
Gift areas, tasting, tea and spice discovery, checkout.
22- Set up the layout and decoration
Furniture, lighting, point-of-sale advertising, signage.
23- Install computer hardware and cash register software
Stock management, labels, loyalty schemes, payment solutions.
6. Phase - Commercial preparation & marketing
24- Create your website (showcase or e-commerce)
Presentation of the shop, flagship products, SEO blog, contact details.
25- Build a presence on social media
Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn (for B2B).
26- Develop a launch marketing strategy
Iced tea workshop, tastings, opening offers, local partnerships.
27- Implement management and organisational tools
Monitoring of stock, margins, scheduling, supplier relations.
7. phase - final preparations
28- Receive and check initial deliveries.
Check quantities, product condition, use-by dates, and packaging appearance.
29- Train the future team or prepare yourself
Sales pitch, product knowledge, sales advice, tea & spice tasting.
30- Plan and announce the opening
Facebook event, email campaign, flyers, collaborations with local artisans.
Opening a delicatessen cannot be improvised: it is an exciting, structured and, above all, deeply human project.
By following these 30 steps, you will lay the foundations for a solid business that is aligned with your values and will satisfy customers who are looking for authenticity.
As you move forward with your project, remember that you are not alone.
At FBKT, we support future independent retailers who wish to offer artisanal teas, creative infusions and quality gourmet products.
Workshops, advice, tools, educational content, professional tastings: everything is designed to help you successfully set up your business, develop your shop and create a unique experience for your customers.
👉 Would you like to become a reseller or get advice for your future delicatessen?
Contact us: we would be delighted to support you in your gourmet adventure.
Ready to take the next step ? ✨
