What does it cost to buy coffee in bulk?

Wondering how much does wholesale coffee beans cost? Or how to start a successful coffee business?

We have the answers!

Establishing a wholesale coffee seller is a fantastic way to get the most out of your coffee shpo. You can diversify your revenue streams by engaging in new revenue-generating activities such as online sales and subscriptions, as well as stocking your retail shelves. You can also lower your risk if your physical operations are disrupted (such as during a pandemic) or when business is slow.

While it may appear to be a large task, it is actually quite simple when broken down into phases.

Costs and price of wholesale coffee?

Pricing for both 5lb and 12oz bags can be found on a normal wholesale coffee menu. The 5lb bags are usually priced by the pound, whereas the 12oz bags are usually priced by the bag. Here's an example of a typical cost breakdown per pound of coffee that's ready to sell to a wholesale customer:

Here's an example of a normal menu, complete with "bulk" coffee pricing per pound, packaged in wholesale 5lb bags, wholesale 12oz bags, and retail 12oz bags.

Begin with the basics and work your way up one step at a time.

When it comes to establishing up your wholesale coffee operation, one thing to keep in mind is to start small and take things one step at a time.

The core of many successful wholesale coffee programmes is two or three delicious blends or single origin coffees. Consider a decaf option, an espresso mix, and a drip coffee profile. This is also an excellent method to avoid having to buy multiple bags or labels for various coffees. It also allows you to simplify your shipping and save money on postage.

Begin with a simple menu. When a customer is looking for something specific, it's a great chance to establish a strong relationship.

What they're searching for is roasted. Keeping track of specific requests is a good idea. If a lot of your customers are asking for the same thing, it might be time to add a new coffee to your menu. 

Setting up a wholesale coffee operation can appear to be a difficult task. Knowing what to expect and taking one step at a time, on the other hand, can help you relax and prepare for success.

Remember that setting up a wholesale coffee programme allows you to take advantage of your coffee Roaster's full potential. It's a fantastic opportunity to build new contacts, enhance communities, and bring long-term value to your company.

What to Expect & Who to Sell to

You've now mastered the art of roasting your own wonderful coffee. You've prepared bags and labels, as well as a menu to present to potential clients and wholesale partners. What comes next? The next step is to reach out to others, either online or in person, to let them know what you have to offer.

Check out our post A Guide to Setting Up an Online Coffee Business for more information on how to get your store online. Typical wholesale coffee relationships, aside from individual orders or subscriptions from your online business, include:

• Retailers of coffee
• Restaurants
• Hotels
• Buildings that house offices
• The start-up of a buddy of yours
• Your neighbourhood centre
• And there's so much more!

There are several traditional wholesale shops in the contemporary speciality coffee market. Coffee shops and an increasing number of non-traditional wholesale agreements, such as hotels, are among them. Keep this in mind when you consider who you might be able to sell your coffee to.

Another thing..

Consider how much green coffee you'll need to maintain on hand while building these wholesale agreements. You'll want to make sure you can meet the demand for roasted coffee.

Check out how to choose the best coffee beans!