Milkshake - where to start?

[Steven Paterson]

Hi all, thanks for taking the time to read through my post and I hope someone can be of help to me!

So ... I have a business idea which I feel would work well, relatively low start up costs, high profit margins, few local competitors and a gap in the market.

However, I have no idea where to start. I have got the idea in my head but haven't got going yet. There's so many areas I need to think about, should I register the business first with HMRC, or do some market research and product testing?

I hope you appreciate that I am a total newbie with what I think is a fantastic idea.

I hope to someone can help, much appreciated.

 

[WHARTY]

If it was me then I would practice making your Milkshakes and see what friends and family think of them.

If that goes well then maybe get a stall at a local market for a day and maybe do some free samples? Better to get the opinion of people who don't know you.

If that goes well then do your sums and a business plan.

If you haven't put yourself off the idea at this stage then think about starting up and registering your business.

Lee

 

[MOIC]

Work, train & get experience in understanding what is involved in running a business with the product you have chosen.

That's the first step.

There are many aspects to running a business, however simple the product may sound.

 

[toastking]

I would do the market research first, find out if there really is a market, I like the idea of trying a market stall or pop up shop to give something a try.

If it really were milkshakes (or any edible items) you have a barrel load of legal issues to cover before you can even do the market research so I'd look into that.

I guess in reality the 1st step is going to depend upon the product. If its food or anything else with legal issues attached, then research is your first stage. If it is a service you are providing with no legal issues, then testing the market by getting started might be your most effective kick off point.

 

[Steven Paterson]

Thanks so far for the replies!

I have already started making milkshakes at home just to try and experiment with different flavours and toppings etc. I have tested them on family and have had really good constructive feedback.

In regards to the legal side - I know I have to comply with food safety laws but that's fine as I have my level 3 in food safety as well as being first aid and fire warden trained.

I was thinking of contacting my local authority to see their regulations regarding setting up a milkshake shop.