It’s often said that no job is small. While running a tea stall may seem modest, the earnings can surprise you. If you’ve ever considered starting a business with minimal investment, this could be your perfect opportunity. A tea stall is a low-cost venture that can recover your initial investment within 2-3 months and turn profitable quickly. Let’s explore how you can set up your tea stall and earn a steady income.

Step 1: Plan Your Tea Stall Setup

Starting a tea stall doesn’t require a significant investment initially. The success of this business relies on three key factors: location, quality of tea, and customer relationships. Offer a variety of beverages and snacks to attract more customers. Your menu can include:

• Masala tea
• Milk tea
• Green tea
• Herbal tea
• Coffee
• Light snacks like samosas, pakoras, and biscuits

Step 2: Identify Your Target Customers

Understanding your target audience is crucial. Cater to groups that consume tea regularly, such as:

• College students
• Office workers
• Commuters near bus or railway stations

Focusing on these segments ensures consistent demand. Providing hygienic, high-quality tea and snacks can also justify slightly higher prices.

Step 3: Create an Attractive and Clean Setup

Your stall’s appearance can influence your success. While a simple tea cart is sufficient to start, a visually appealing and hygienic setup attracts more customers. Consider enhancements like mirrors, signage, or fixed counters for a modern look. A clean, professional appearance encourages customers to pay premium prices for your offerings.

Step 4: Calculate Your Costs

Your investment will be split into two categories: fixed costs and variable costs.

1. Fixed Costs (one-time expenses):

• Tea cart setup
• Gas stove and cylinders
• Utensils and snack containers
• Standing tables
• FSSAI license (to avoid legal issues)

These expenses will amount to around ₹15,000–₹20,000.

2. Variable Costs (monthly expenses):

• Tea ingredients (sugar, tea leaves, milk)
• Snacks (samosas, biscuits, etc.)
• Gas refills
• Location rent (₹5,000–₹10,000, depending on the area)

In the first month, you’ll need around ₹50,000, including fixed costs. From the second month onward, monthly expenses will drop to ₹30,000, as fixed costs won’t recur.

Step 5: Estimate Your Earnings

Your profit depends on the price and volume of tea sold. For instance:

• Selling 100 cups of tea daily at ₹10 per cup will generate ₹30,000 per month. Subtracting costs, you’ll make a profit of ₹15,000–₹20,000.
• If you charge ₹20 per cup for a premium experience, your revenue can rise to ₹60,000 per month, leaving you with a profit of ₹45,000–₹50,000.

Adding snacks, coffee, and green tea to your menu can further boost your earnings to ₹50,000–₹60,000 monthly.

Conclusion: A Profitable Small Business

With an initial investment of just ₹50,000, running a tea stall can be a lucrative business. A clean, well-maintained stall in a prime location ensures consistent customers and a steady monthly profit. By offering quality products and excellent service, you can turn this small venture into a rewarding livelihood.