How to Write a Bakery Business Plan in Ireland

If you’re dreaming of opening your own bakery in Ireland, a well-thought-out business plan is your best first step. Use this guide, and the free bakery business plan template below to start building a business that’s as irresistible as your cinnamon buns.

Why Every Bakery Needs A Business Plan

Irish consumers are loyal to the bakeries they love. According to the Toast Consumer Preferences Survey 2025, in which 200 Irish consumers were polled using Pollfish, 42.5% of consumers in Ireland buy from bakeries every week or daily.

But loyalty isn’t guaranteed. A business plan helps you understand your local competition and market demand, outline your offerings and bakery concept, build realistic budgets and financial projections, and create a roadmap for growth, funding, and hiring.

Starting a business plan can be pretty intimidating. But think of it as simply telling the story of your bakery, one piece at a time. Here's how to tackle it:

1. Executive Summary

Begin with the heart of your idea. What's your bakery all about? Who are you hoping will walk through your door? And what makes your place special in a world full of options?

Are you opening a micro-bakery in Galway? A takeaway sourdough shop in Cork? A patisserie and coffee hybrid in Dublin? Summarise the essentials that will hook investors and partners.

2. Company Overview

This section sets the scene. Define your legal structure, ownership model, and business type. Explain your location strategy—whether you’ve chosen a high-footfall city centre or a quieter neighbourhood with strong local loyalty. 

Highlight your values and brand identity. Will you prioritise local sourcing, sustainable packaging, or community partnerships? 

3. Sample Menu

Make your business feel real by sharing a draft menu. Based on our Consumer Survey, pastries are top-sellers in Ireland, followed by cakes. 

Reflect this in your sample offerings—whether that’s a rotating menu of Irish favourites, vegan-friendly bakes, or low-waste packaging specials. Detail how your menu supports efficient operations and offers room for seasonal creativity.

4. Operations Plan

Your operations plan should show how you’ll run your bakery day-to-day. This includes sourcing ingredients, scheduling staff, managing peak periods, and ensuring food safety. 

According to the Toast Voice of the Restaurant Industry Ireland 2024, 95% of Irish restaurateurs expect growth this year, but many cite staff scheduling and financial management as key challenges. 

Streamlining these areas with restaurant tech can make a big difference. Toast customers like BANG Restaurant in Dublin reduced admin time and improved back-office operations using tools like POS integrations and real-time reporting.

5. Marketing and Branding

You don’t have to wait until opening day to build buzz. Start marketing early with strong branding, active social media, and local engagement. According to our consumer survey, 47% of Irish consumers discover new food businesses through word of mouth and 26% through social media. 

That means brand visuals, customer experience, and digital presence all matter. Develop a cohesive look and feel across your storefront, packaging, and website. Build a content strategy that includes behind-the-scenes baking, team spotlights, and community involvement. Consider loyalty schemes or referral discounts to turn first-time buyers into regulars.

See how Laura McCutcheon of Halelife Bakery built a standout brand that connects with customers and drives loyalty.

6. Financial Plan

The financial section of your plan should be honest, clear, and detailed. Your plan should show how you’ll remain financially resilient. Include startup and equipment costs, ingredient and packaging spend, staff wages, and expected revenue. 

Factor in seasonal demand changes and plan for sustainable margins. Outline your break-even point and long-term goals. Whether you’re seeking a loan or pitching to investors, this section should demonstrate you’ve thought through the risks and know how to manage your cash flow.

7. Legal Requirements in Ireland

To operate legally, you must register your food business with your local Environmental Health Office (EHO) at least 28 days before opening. 

You’ll also need: 

• HACCP training (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points)

• planning permission or change-of-use approval (depending on your premises)

• waste disposal agreements, business and employer insurance

• compliance with employment regulations

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) offers guides to everything you need to register and comply.

8. Technology Setup

Smart bakeries use smart systems. Whether you’re managing online orders, tracking stock, or running a loyalty programme, the right tech setup makes it easier. 

In 2024, Irish restaurants are allocated around 10% of their budget to tech, particularly for mobile payment systems, integrated POS, and reporting tools. Toast’s all-in-one platform helps streamline everything from order-taking to shift scheduling, giving operators more time to focus on food and service.

Presenting Your Business Plan

When it’s time to pitch your bakery—whether to banks, investors, or strategic partners—your presentation should clearly communicate what makes your concept distinctive, financially viable, and built for growth. Tailor your message to your audience, and lead with clarity, conviction, and a strong grasp of your numbers.

Be sure to prepare:

• A concise, compelling elevator pitch (30 seconds or less)

• A professional slide deck that includes visuals, market insights, and financial projections

• A one-page executive summary that highlights your concept and business potential

Present with confidence, communicate your passion, and back it all up with a well-structured plan. Investors want to see not just a great product, but a great operator behind it.