Opening a kebab shop is an exciting but complex entrepreneurial adventure. Here are our 7 essential tips to guide you step by step through the successful opening of your establishment!
The kebab market: a growing trend
The French are increasingly fond of fast food. As the latest Speak Snacking 2024 study shows, the sector now accounts for 38% of sales in the commercial foodservice sector. And among the favorite dishes of the French in 2023, the kebab is in the top 3 with 29% of the votes (+20 points in two years). Don't wait any longer to get in on this trend that the French love so much!
7 tips for opening a successful kebab shop
1. Ask yourself this question: independent kebab or franchise?
You're probably asking yourself these questions: do I need training? What diploma do I need to open a kebab shop?
Above all, decide whether you want to open your kebab shop as an independent or join a franchise. Each option has its advantages: independence offers total freedom over your concept, while franchising offers a tried-and-tested model with ongoing support. As far as training is concerned, there's no specific diploma required to open a kebab, but knowledge of management, food hygiene and customer service is highly recommended to ensure the success of your establishment.
2. Be clear about your concept and your business plan
First, clarify your concept. Will you offer a traditional kebab or introduce a modern twist? Once the concept has been defined, draw up a detailed business plan. This document is vital and should cover your market strategy, financial analysis and medium- and long-term objectives. A well-constructed business plan is essential to convince your banker and investors, and guide your first steps.
3. Master your kebab's financing plan
Financing can come from a variety of sources: personal savings, bank loans, investors or start-up grants. Assess how much you can personally invest and explore the best financing options available.
Prepare a convincing pitch to win over potential investors by highlighting your kebab's viability and growth potential.
👉 To find out more: Discover the different financing solutions for your restaurant
4. Keep up to date with regulations
Familiarize yourself with all local regulations concerning catering, including the licenses required to sell food and beverages. Choose the legal form of your business (sole proprietorship, EURL, SARL, etc.), which will influence your legal responsibilities and tax liabilities.
5. Carefully select the ideal business premises and location
Location is essential for a catering business. Look for premises in a high-traffic area, such as near shopping centers, universities or offices. Take into account visibility, accessibility and proximity to competitors. A good location can significantly increase potential customer traffic.
6. Create a marketing communication campaign for your restaurant
To attract your first customers, develop an effective marketing strategy. Use social networks, create an attractive website, consider local partnerships, and launch promotional offers to increase your visibility. A good marketing campaign is essential to building a solid base of loyal customers.
👉 Going further: 8 tips for developing your restaurant on social networks
7. List all necessary resources
Carefully plan the resources you'll need to launch and run your kebab shop. This includes premises, equipment, staff, stock or legal compliance.
Make sure you have enough resources, especially financial, to cover the first few months of business, which are often the most critical.
8. Digitalize your fast food
Opening and running a kebab shop is a complex, time-consuming and stressful venture.
That's why it's a good idea to equip your fast-food restaurant with tools specially designed to help you save time, streamline your business and boost your revenues.
For example, to concentrate on reception, service and kitchen preparation, delegate order-taking to an order kiosk. In addition to efficiently managing queues, an order kiosk boosts your average bill thanks to the attractive photos on your menu and the intelligent order path that automatically suggests extras (drinks, dessert, etc.).
And to keep pace in the kitchen, limit preparation errors and serve your customers quickly, equip your restaurant with a production screen.
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