Opening or taking over a restaurant
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7 steps to opening a burger restaurant

Chloé Thévenet
April 8, 2024
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The burger sector has enjoyed double-digit growth over the past decade. In fact, nearly 2 billion burgers will have been consumed by the French by 2022 (according to RTL). It's a constantly evolving sector, capable of adapting to every trend, whether vegan, organic or gourmet, attracting a vast audience.

Step 1: Create your burger concept

Defining your unique selling proposition

Your burger needs to tell a story - your story. Whether it's based on innovation, tradition or sustainability, your proposal must arouse curiosity and build customer loyalty.

Market research and target identification

Market research is your compass. It guides you through the competitive landscape and helps you define your target market. Families, young professionals, students: every detail of your offer needs to be tailored to their expectations.

List of resources to be used

In addition to fresh, high-quality products, your concept must incorporate technological innovations to optimize service and the customer experience. Social networks, ordering applications, musical ambience and decoration: each element contributes to the unique flavor of your store.

👉 To find out more: Fast food: how can you improve your delivery capacity?

Step 2: Planning and strategy

Drawing up a business plan

This essential document details not only your vision, but also the financial and operational structure of your project. It must convince and reassure financial partners, and serve as a guide throughout your entrepreneurial adventure.

👉 To find out more: 7 steps to a business plan!

Understanding financial requirements

Starting up a restaurant requires a rigorous financial calculation, including initial investments as well as recurring costs. Prudent, forward-looking financial management is the key to success.

Calculating return on investment

Your financial goal must be clear: when and how will you break even? Your plan should include strategies for maximizing income and controlling expenses.

👉 Further information: Restaurant margins and profitability: the complete guide

Step 3: Legal and regulatory issues

Necessary permits and licenses

Obtaining permits and licenses is an important step that requires time and patience. Anticipate this phase to avoid any delays in opening your restaurant.

Compliance with health and safety standards

Compliance with sanitary standards is vital. It guarantees the quality of your offer and protects your reputation. Clear procedures and ongoing training for your team are essential.

New laws applying to fast-food outlets

Keep abreast of legislative changes that could impact your business. Adaptability is a major asset in the foodservice sector.

👉 To find out more: Regulatory standards you need to know about in the foodservice industry

Opening a burger restaurant

Step 4: Site selection and layout

Criteria for choosing the right location

Location is crucial to the success of your business. Maximum visibility, easy access and the presence of a target clientele are essential criteria.

Space design and layout

The layout of your space must promote a pleasant and efficient customer experience, while optimizing kitchen work. Think ergonomics and atmosphere to attract and retain your customers.

The fast-food atmosphere

As for the atmosphere of your restaurant, it must be a differentiating element. It must reflect your concept and create a space where your guests enjoy meeting. Music, decoration, lighting: every detail counts!

Step 5: Sourcing and supplier management

Selecting quality suppliers

Strong partnerships with reliable suppliers are essential to ensure the consistent quality of your products. Careful selection and trusting relationships will contribute to your restaurant's success.

Contract negotiation and inventory management

Good inventory management minimizes waste and reduces costs. Well-negotiated contracts will help you secure the best prices and conditions for your supplies.

Step 6: Marketing and promoting your restaurant

Communication strategies for restaurants

Your communication strategy needs to be multi-channel and targeted. Create a strong brand identity and use all the tools at your disposal to attract and retain customers from the moment you open.

Use of social networks

To do this, social networks are now essential for creating a community around your brand. They offer a platform to share your story, your values, and of course, to highlight your delicious burgers!

Step 7: Team recruitment and training

Building a solid team to bring your concept to life

Your staff must share your passion and vision. Careful recruitment and proper training are the keys to quality service that will contribute to your restaurant's success.

The importance of training and development

Investing in training your team is essential. Not only does it ensure quality and safety in the preparation of your burgers, it also reinforces team spirit and commitment to your project.

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Put digital technology to work for your restaurant with Innovorder! Contact an expert and find out how to improve your productivity, boost your sales and increase your margins.

👉 Discover our offer for burger restaurants

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