6.7 Financial Assumptions
Purpose
The following assumptions provide the financial framework used throughout the LAMBA business plan.
They should be regarded as planning assumptions rather than fixed forecasts and will continue to evolve as supplier quotations, lease negotiations and operational experience become available.
Rent
Target monthly rent:
20,000–30,000 SEK
Premises above this range should offer exceptional advantages in terms of location, architecture and long-term commercial value.
Staffing
Initial operating team:
Founder
Full-time Barista & Operations Assistant
Part-time Kitchen & Service Support during peak periods
Additional staffing should grow alongside revenue rather than ahead of it.
Average Guest Spend
Target average transaction value:
Approximately 180-200 SEK per guest
This assumes a balanced mix of:
Coffee
Seasonal drinks
Savoury dishes
Desserts
Occasional retail purchases
The pricing strategy aims to remain accessible while reflecting the quality of the ingredients, hospitality and overall experience.
Daily Guest Numbers
Estimated average daily customer volume:
Weekdays
70–90 guests
Weekends
90–110 guests
These figures reflect the intentionally slower pace of the café, where guests are encouraged to remain for longer periods rather than maximising table turnover.
Gross Margin
Estimated gross margins:
Coffee
Approximately 80–85%
Tea and beverages
Approximately 80–85%
Food
Approximately 60–70%
Retail
Approximately 40–50%
Overall blended gross margin
Approximately 72–75%
These figures are consistent with a quality-focused independent café operating with carefully sourced ingredients and premium coffee.
Estimated Monthly Operating Costs
Estimated operating expenditure:
Approximately 194,000–293,000 SEK per month
This includes payroll, occupancy costs, utilities, inventory, marketing, programming, maintenance and general operating expenses.
Startup Investment
Estimated fit-out investment:
1.9–3.5 million SEK
Recommended working capital:
600,000–1,000,000 SEK
Recommended total starting capital:
2.5–4.5 million SEK
These estimates assume the development of LAMBA to its full intended standard.
Should suitable opportunities arise through strategic partnerships, existing hospitality premises or phased implementation, the required investment may be reduced without compromising the core identity of the project.
Financial Philosophy
LAMBA has not been designed as a high-volume café focused on maximising customer turnover.
The financial model prioritises sustainability over rapid growth, repeat customers over one-time visitors, and long-term resilience over short-term profitability.
Investment decisions should support the quality of the guest experience while allowing the business to evolve steadily alongside its community.