With temperatures getting hotter and hotter in the Philippines, Filipinos are often looking for ways to escape the heat. 

One increasingly popular solution? Cold brew coffee. This refreshing alternative to hot coffee has surged in demand, presenting an opportunity for entrepreneurs eager to explore the world of beverage businesses. 

In this guide, we’ll share eight essential steps to help you kickstart your cold brew coffee business.

1. Determine how you will sell coffee 

The first thing that comes into one’s mind for selling coffee is to put up a cafe. Starting a cafe requires significant capital investment and entails considerable risk. Beyond the charm of serving coffee in a cozy ambiance lies the reality of hefty initial expenditures. From securing a suitable location and acquiring commercial-grade equipment to hiring trained baristas and marketing your brand, the costs can quickly escalate. 

Unlike before, you don’t need a brick-and-mortar store to sell cold-brew coffee. Coffee startups have expanded into several types to make it easier for beginners to start their cold-brew coffee business. You have the option to use a vehicle (coffee truck), sell via weekly pop-ups, or do a cloud cafe. 

Coffee Truck or Coffee Jeep

Going mobile means you’ll have to spend for a customized truck or coffee jeep if you don’t have a readily available car. A cheaper option would be using second-hand or repossessed cars because it will lessen the initial expenses involved. 

Pop-up Coffee Shop

A pop-up coffee shop offers versatility and affordability when launching a coffee business. Unlike traditional coffee shops, this type of store doesn’t have a fixed location. Instead, it operates in various areas with high foot traffic, such as fairs, festivals, and train and bus stations, providing ample opportunities for engagement with potential customers.

Cloud Kitchen

A cloud kitchen, also known as a “ghost kitchen” or “virtual kitchen,” is a professional cooking space where food businesses can make meals specifically for delivery and takeout. Unlike regular restaurants, cloud kitchens don’t have dine-in areas. Instead, they focus solely on preparing food to be delivered or picked up. In the Philippines, these kitchens often partner with GrabFood or Foodpanda.

2. Find a Location

However you want to sell your coffee, having a good business location is essential. So the next step is to scout for a location that will help your brand become more visible and accessible to buyers. Here are some considerations in selecting a location for your coffee business. 

Heavy foot traffic 

Whether you are putting up a traditional coffee shop or a coffee truck, you need a spot with high foot traffic to make your coffee accessible to buyers. Examples of high foot traffic areas are near public parks, markets, and community spaces. Target places where most people pass by. 

Operating schedule 

Match your operating schedule when most people look for coffee. People often buy coffee for a morning boost, which is at around 9 am. In the afternoon, between 1 pm and 5 pm, when cortisol levels naturally dip, you could expect more people dropping by into your cafe or coffee jeep.

Delivery services 

If you decided to start a cloud kitchen, it would be easier to have a location because you can operate even in your place of residence. Despite this convenience, you also need to consider your proximity to your target customers. Shipping to places that would take 1 hour to 2 hours of delivery time might charge customers higher delivery fees and force them to wait longer. These factors typically discourage customers from placing an order.

3. Choose what type of coffee bean you will use

Arabica Beans

These beans, making up around 60% of the world’s coffee, grow in high areas with steady rain. They’re popular for their lively taste and acidity, sometimes with complex flavors and scents.

Robusta Beans

Second in popularity to Arabica, Robusta plants are tough and can grow in various altitudes, even lowlands like those in Southern Tagalog in the Philippines. They contain more caffeine than Arabica but offer a smooth taste, especially enjoyable with cream and sugar.

Liberica Beans

Also known as Kapeng Barako locally, Liberica is less common now but played a big role historically when coffee rust hit the industry. It has a strong, chocolaty, and smoky flavor, with spicy undertones that some might find overpowering.

Excelsa Beans

Only 7% of the world’s coffee is Excelsa, grown mostly in Southeast Asia, including the Philippines. Often used in blends for added complexity, Excelsa offers a tart and fruity flavor with hints of mild roast and smokiness, appealing to coffee lovers worldwide.

4. Decide your menu offerings

Espresso, steamed milk, and froth are the key ingredients in many coffee drinks, with various types available at your mobile shop. Additional toppings can be added based on your customers’ preferences. Here are some examples:

Espresso

A popular choice, requiring slightly over 1 ounce of concentrated coffee.

Double Espresso (Doppio)

A highly concentrated beverage suitable for coffee enthusiasts.

Americano

Made by diluting one shot of espresso with three ounces of hot water, often enjoyed as a breakfast beverage.

Macchiato

Espresso “marked” with a dash of steamed milk, creating a distinct flavor.

Cappuccino

A rich coffee beverage with thick foam, often enjoyed for breakfast and associated with comfort and indulgence.

Cafe Latte

A milder coffee drink with added milk to reduce acidity and bitterness, sometimes sweetened with flavored syrups.

Mocha

Combines coffee with hot chocolate, offering a creamy taste with the addition of cocoa powder or syrup to balance the espresso’s acidity.

5. Work on your branding

Starting a cold-brew coffee business requires careful consideration, especially in a saturated market. One crucial aspect is the design of your cold-brew coffee container, as it can significantly impact consumer choice. Factors such as color, shape, and lid closure should be thoughtfully considered to make your product stand out on the shelves. 

Additionally, crafting an eye-catching logo and memorable tagline can help create brand recognition and attract customers. Ensuring consistency across all marketing materials is crucial for building brand identity. If the creative process feels overwhelming, seeking professional help for design and creative services can ensure a polished brand image. 

6. Calculate your starting capital

The first 5 steps we mentioned are important because they will determine the initial amount of money you need to prepare to start a cold brew coffee business. 

This entails estimating the initial expenses required to launch your business. Factors to consider include:

1. Equipment costs (such as coffee brewing equipment, storage containers, and vehicles for mobile operations)
2. Ingredient costs (coffee beans, milk, flavorings)
3. Marketing expenses (branding, advertising, website development)
4. Licensing and permits
5. Utility costs
6. Manpower costs

7. Build partnerships with trusted suppliers

Many coffee bean producers who are not yet popular in the market provide reasonably-priced high-quality beans. Once you’ve started your cold brew business, take time to join weekend markets because this is where you will most likely meet them. By establishing relationships with these suppliers, you can ensure a steady and consistent quality of beans at a lower cost.

8. Prepare to be a jack-of-all-trades

As a startup owner, you’ll need to wear many hats and handle various responsibilities, even before launching your product. This includes making decisions about your brand’s image and ensuring the quality of your products. From bottling your cold brew to getting it into the marketplace, there will be a lot to manage. 

Your vision should include strategies for managing the company’s growth. Whether you’re starting small or aiming for expansion, it’s crucial to set clear goals from the outset. 

Key Takeaway

The demand for cold brew coffee presents a promising opportunity for entrepreneurs, but success depends on thorough preparation and execution. By following the eight essential steps outlined in this guide, aspiring cold brew coffee business owners can launch their venture.

From determining the sales approach and selecting the right coffee beans to crafting a compelling menu and establishing a strong brand identity, each step plays a crucial role in laying the foundation for success. Additionally, calculating the starting capital and building partnerships with trusted suppliers are vital aspects that contribute to the business’s sustainability and growth.

As a startup owner, it’s essential to be prepared to handle multiple responsibilities and make informed decisions to ensure the business’s success. By staying organized, setting clear goals, and remaining adaptable to market trends and consumer preferences, entrepreneurs can position their cold brew coffee business for long-term viability and profitability.

Barbecue, BBQ or ihaw-ihaw. Despite its many names, BBQ is an all-time Filipino favorite viand perfect with an ice-cold glass of Coca-Cola. Its versatility is another reason for its popularity – it’s also a tasty afternoon snack.

If you are an avid ihaw-ihaw fan and want to turn your passion for BBQ into an income-generating venture, our guide will give you tips on how to start an ihaw-ihaw business. 

1. Starting Capital Computation

One good thing about ihaw-ihaw business is that you can start selling on a small scale. If your house is located in an area where many people pass by, you can start your barbecue business by opening a stall just outside your gate. 

Consider preparing the following if you want to start your business in a home-based set-up:

• Two to three tables with chairs 
• Rectangular plastic containers for your food items
• Lightbulb if you plan to sell until nighttime. 

These can be gathered from around your house and don’t need to be additional expenses to your starting capital.

Here’s a sample computation of how much you’ll need to begin your ihaw-ihaw business.

Stainless steel barbecue grill – 3,500 to 5,000 pesos

Meat and Innards – 3,000 pesos

Marinade ingredients – 1,000 pesos

Coal – 300 to 350 pesos per sack 

Packaging – 500 pesos

Cooking Equipment – 500 pesos

With 10,000 pesos you will be able to open a home-based ihaw-ihaw business. Consider adding rice and soft drinks to your menu if you plan to accommodate indoor diners later on. 

2. Write Your BBQ Business Plan

We don’t know how often you’ve heard this, but this principle applies to business – failing to plan is planning to fail. Write your business plan before you purchase any equipment or ingredients. Your business plan does not need to be sophisticated as it is the starting point for all your business ideas. 

These are some questions that your business plans should answer:

1. What is your menu?
2. Where will you get the funds?
3. How much is your total budget? How much can you allocate for the following?
   • Equipment
   • Ingredient
   • Packaging
   • Other supplies
4. Where will you sell? Will you be renting a commercial space?
5. What documents, licenses, and permits will you need?
6. Will you need an assistant or cashier to help you out?
7. What is your marketing strategy?

These are the basic questions that will help you get started. More questions may arise from this first set. 

3. Decide on Your Unique Selling Point

In every city, there are various establishments selling barbecue. So, how will you stand out from them? What is special about your ihaw-ihaw stand?

One way to distinguish yourself is to decide what kind of barbecue you will serve. Will you focus on chicken meat only? Will you sell a combination of chicken and pork BBQ? Is fish or grilled seafood included in your menu?

To help you identify what food items to include in your menu, you can do a competitor research and compare what ihaw-ihaw products are commonly sold in your area. Some popular menu offerings are pork and chicken meat, pig’s ears, intestines, liver, and other body parts or organs. 

Remember that your unique offerings and menu selections will set you apart from the competition. By carefully considering what types of barbecue you’ll serve and conducting thorough competitor research, you can carve out a niche for yourself in the market. 

4. Look for a Reputable and Reliable Meat Supplier

When running a food business, you need to ensure that the quality of your food is consistently good. One thing that drives away customers is inconsistency. If your food tastes good this week and then tastes different the next, or when your servings gradually decrease, they will not feel inclined to come back. This is why you need to get your meat from a trusted supplier. 

Also, working with only one or two suppliers can help you save in the long run because you will be able to request discounts from them, especially in bulk orders.

5. Invest in Sturdy Grilling Equipment

Before you get tempted to buy those portable grills you see online, remember that the quality is not guaranteed. It is safer and more cost-efficient to invest in a customized stainless barbecue grill. 

Grill price ranges from 3,000 to 5,000 pesos on Facebook Marketplace. You can use Facebook to search for stainless steel specialists near your area.

Essential Equipment for Barbecue Business:

• Plates 
• Tongs 
• Sauce containers 
• Ladles for the sauces 
• Take-out packaging (paper bags) 

6. Choose a Prime Location for Your BBQ business

Location is key to the success of your ihaw-ihaw business. Choose a strategic location with high foot traffic, preferably near offices, schools, or residential areas where people often crave a quick and tasty meal. Consider factors such as accessibility, parking availability, and competition in the area. A well-chosen location can significantly boost your sales and visibility.

7. Comply with Documentary Requirements

Before diving into the details of getting permits, it’s important to decide how your food business will be set up. Your choice of business structure will have a big impact on things like taxes, permits, and your responsibilities as the owner.

The most common structure for small businesses is Sole Proprietorship. This is when one person owns the whole business and is responsible for everything. It gives you full control, but also means you’re personally responsible for any problems. To start a Sole Proprietorship, you need to register with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and pick a business name.

Once you’ve figured out your business structure, it’s time to think about getting the right permits and licenses for your ihaw-ihaw business. Here’s an overview of the documents every new food business owner should know about:

1. DTI Registration: Whether you’re running your business online or in person, registering is a crucial step. Sole Proprietors register their business name with DTI.

2. Business Permits and Licenses: 

• Tax Identification Number (TIN) 
• Mayor’s Permit
• Barangay Clearance 
• DTI Business Name Certificate (for Sole Proprietors) 
• Community Tax Certificate from the City Treasurer’s Office.

You might also need a Sanitary Permit to show your business meets health standards, and if you rent your space, you’ll need a lease agreement.

3. BIR and SSS Registration: You’ll also need to register with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to get your Tax ID Number. If you have a huge capital and have employees, you’ll need to pay the Employer’s Share to make sure that they are covered by SSS benefits. 

4. Following FDA Rules: If your business involves making or selling food, you need to comply with the regulations set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Check their website for info on licensing and registration.

Key Takeaway

Starting an ihaw-ihaw business can be a lucrative venture for those passionate about grilling and serving delicious barbecue delights. However, success in this endeavor requires careful planning and attention to detail. We hope the essential steps outlined in this guide will help you set yourself up for success as a business owner.

Searching for a career that will cater to your everyday needs while serving others is difficult. There are not enough options that are rewarding internally and externally but one emerging job satisfies both: being a financial advisor. Interested in entering this career path? Here’s a detailed guide on how to be a PRU LIFE UK Financial Advisor.

Why PRU LIFE UK? 

PRU LIFE UK’s mandate is to be of service in the whole of Asia through its life insurance products. The company has a strong presence in the Philippines due to it being tagged as an insurance provider that offers the most affordable premiums in the market. This led to them being the 2nd insurance company on NBAPE’s list this 2022. 

Aside from its winning ways with customers, PRU LIFE UK also puts a premium on its employees, particularly financial advisors. The company’s performance has been moved forward by the dedication and strength of its people.

What does a PRU LIFE UK Financial Advisor do? 

A PRU LIFE UK Financial Advisor mirrors a critical role in the financial journey of a person. Listed below are its main job descriptions:

1. Guides in setting up the financial goals of the client through needs-based analysis and one-on-one interviews.
2. Works with clients in drafting their comprehensive protection package and overall investment strategy anchored on the person’s background, target in life, and current budget.
3. Covers investment advisory, estate planning services, and other offerings that will help take care of the future generations of the client.
4. Undergoes policy updates and reviews as critical after-sales services. 
5. Assist in monetary compensation once the client becomes disabled, gets sick, or dies. 
6. Continuously prospect new clients, come up with new leads, and onboard partners.

What are the requirements for becoming a PRU LIFE UK Financial Advisor?

Step 1: Attend the Build Your Business (BYB) seminar – Entering the life of a financial advisor is a process. With the help of Build Your Business, PRU LIFE UK will orient you on the intricacies of the job and how you can grow this from corporate work to a business. 

Step 2: Complete the Online and Classroom Training – PRU LIFE UK puts importance on readiness and its training series is its tool to achieve this. There are two legs where your attendance is a must – the online training (which can be taken in the comforts of your home) and the classroom training (which is held in PRU LIFE UK’s headquarters depending on your available schedule). 

Step 3: Take and Pass the Insurance Commission Examination – Keep in mind that every financial advisor has undergone the Insurance Commission Examination. This is made up of two parts – the traditional life insurance and the variable life insurance. Don’t be intimated by this as these topics will be covered in your training (Step 2). 

Step 4: Fulfill All Documentary Requirements – After passing the exam, you’ll have to pass a few papers. Rest assured that the company will guide you as PRU LIFE UK has in-house secretaries that will drive the submission process. 

Benefits of Becoming a PRU LIFE Financial Advisor

1. Flexible in Time and Place
   
   Flexibility is one of the most rewarding benefits of having a job. Being a PRU LIFE UK Financial Advisor will allow you to work at your most convenient time in your most convenient place. 
   
   
2. Endless Income Opportunities
   
   There’s no ceiling on how much you can earn in this position. The more people you lock deals with, the higher your commission would be. PRU LIFE UK is one of the most generous partners out there in terms of commission rates. 
   
   They also have travel perks, both covering local and international when their agents perform and achieve their stretch targets. There are also monthly promos, such as raffle draws, where eligibility will depend on your monthly sales. 
   
   
3. Service to the People
   
   Becoming a PRU LIFE UK advisor is a fulfilling job. As individuals who need to pay the rent, this job will definitely help you in that aspect. However, outside this personal aspect, there will always be satisfaction in providing value to your client’s life through your sound financial advice.

PRU LIFE UK Financial Advisor Application

Frequently Asked Questions

Are you interested in becoming a financial advisor? AXA Philippines is looking for a financial advisor. You can attend a FREE WEBINAR and see if this role is for you. Simply fill up the form below to get started.

Isa sa mga pinag-uusapan ngayon sa mundo ng online delivery services ay ang TokTok Express Delivery. Araw-araw, padami ng padami ang mga riders ng TokTok dahil sa maraming bookings na natatanggap nito mula sa mga customers. Ang isang TokTok Rider ay kumikita ng 1,000 to 2,500 Pesos, depende sa kanilang sipag at oras na inilalaan. Marami tuloy ang nagtatanong kung paano maging isang Toktok operator at kung paano maging isang TokTok rider. Kung gusto mo rin maging rider, narito ang TokTok application process na dapat mong sundan.

What is Toktok?

Ang TokTok ay isang express delivery app kung saan ang isang rider ay pwede kumita ng 1000 to 2,500 Pesos. Kagaya rin ng Lalamove at Grab. ang kita ng isang rider ay naka depende sa dame ng kaniyang byaheng matatanggap.

TokTok Rates and Riders Earnings

Sample Computation: Magkano nga ba ang kita sa Toktok? Bawat booking ay may base fare na 60 Pesos at ito ay madadagdagan ng 5 pesos bawat kilometro ng distansya mula sa pick-up and drop-off destination. Halimbawa, kung ang distansya mula sa pick-up at drop at 10 kilometers, ang booking fee mo ay magiging 110 pesos.

Booking Fee = 60 pesos base fare + (10 kilometers x 5 pesos) = 110 Pesos

Related Article: Borzo Rider Application Process and Requirements

TokTok Rider Application Requirements

• Motorcycle or Scooter (110cc and above) – Kailangan ng maayos na motor para sa pagdedeliver o pagpipick up ng mga items. Hindi maaaring gumamit ng E-bike.
• OR/CR of Motorcycle or Scooter – Ito ay ang magpapatunay na ikaw ang may-ari ng motor na iyong gagamitin sa pagdedeliver. Siguraduhin na malinaw ang pagkakakuha ng OR at ng CR. Hindi pwedeng wala ang anuman sa dalawa. Kung hindi nakapangalan sa iyo, kailangan ng notarize na authorization letter mula sa may-ari.
• NBI Clearance – Para sa validation of records. Siguraduhing hindi expired ang iyong NBI clearance
• Professional Driver’s License – Ayun sa ating batas, lahat ng taong kumikita sa pagmamaneho ay dapat kumuha ng professional driver’s license. Siguraduhing professional license ang i-uupload mo upang hindi mareject ang iyong TokTok application.

How to apply as a Toktok rider?

Step 1: Magfill out ng form dito sa TokTok Rider Application Form para sa motorcycle at Toktok Driver application para sa 4 wheels. Siguraduhing tama at kumpleto ang mga detalyeng ilalagay sa form.

Step 2: Iupload ang mga hinihinging documents tulad na lang ng NBI clearance, professional driver’s licenses at OR/CR ng iyong motor. Kailangan ay malinaw ang pagkakakuha ng litrato na iaupload mo.

Step 3: Kung sigurado ka ng tama at kumpleto ang mga detalye, iclick ang submit.

Step 4: Mag-intay ng 2-3 days para sa confirmation na iyong matatanggap via text message.

Contact Info: Para sa iba pang katanungan, bumisita at magmessage sa FB page ng Toktok Riders Application

Related Article: How to become a Toktok Franchise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)