Café Opening Checklist: Packaging & Initial Equipment for Starting Out
- Plan packaging early: custom-printed cups require 2–4 weeks for production, including artwork approval.
- To start, 3–4 cup sizes, matching lids, carrier bags, and napkins are sufficient.
- Since 2023, most cafés have been subject to the reusable packaging obligation (Mehrweg-Angebotspflicht) for to-go drinks.
Opening a café is a project involving many parallel tasks: lease agreements, refurbishments, permits, staffing, and coffee equipment. Packaging is often only considered in the final weeks – and that is precisely when time runs short, as custom-printed items require lead times. This checklist ensures nothing is overlooked.
1. Basic Coffee & Kitchen Equipment
- Portafilter espresso machine and grinder(s) – ideally one grinder per bean variety
- Water filter or softening system
- Milk fridge, commercial dishwasher, refrigerated display counter for cakes and snacks
- POS cash register system with TSE (technical security device, mandatory in Germany)
- Crockery and glassware for eat-in customers
2. To-Go Packaging: What You Need to Start
For most cafés, a streamlined product range has proven best. It is far better to hold a few sizes in reliable quality than too many variants that tie up storage space and working capital.
| Item | Typical Sizes | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Coffee cups | 8 oz (200 ml), 12 oz (300 ml), 16 oz (400 ml) | Double-walled for hot drinks without sleeves |
| Lids | Matching cup rim diameter | Check diameters beforehand |
| Cold drink cups | 12–16 oz | For iced lattes, smoothies |
| Paper bags | Small for pastries, large for multiple purchases | With logo as advertising space |
| Napkins | 2- or 3-ply | Printed adds a premium touch |
Design cups – Free design proof and quote. Production 2–4 weeks after approval.
3. Branding: Packaging as Advertising Space
A to-go cup is carried across town, placed on office desks, and photographed for social media. A clear logo, a recognisable colour scheme, and possibly your Instagram handle turn every cup into a mini billboard. Important: keep print files ready in vector format (PDF, AI, SVG).
4. Packaging Legal Requirements
- Registration in the LUCID packaging register before packaging is placed on the market
- Offering a reusable alternative for to-go beverages (exemptions apply to very small businesses)
- No banned single-use plastics (e.g. polystyrene cups, plastic cutlery)
You can find full details in our overview of the Packaging Act (VerpackG).
5. Timeline: When to Order What
| Time Before Opening | Task |
|---|---|
| 8 weeks | Finalise logo, define sizes and quantities |
| 6 weeks | Approve proof, order custom-printed cups |
| 2–4 weeks | Packaging delivery, set up stockroom |
| 1 week | Staff practice runs, test cups and lids |
View product range – Cups, lids, bags, and napkins – custom-printed with your logo on request.