The exterior of a stylish UK cake shop with large windows, pastel branding and elegant signage.

How to Open a Cake Shop in the UK – A Step-by-Step Guide

By Makai Cake Decorating Supplies

 

 

Dreaming of turning your passion for baking into a real cake shop?

Whether you're upgrading from home baking or starting fresh, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to open your cake shop in the UK legally, safely, and successfully.

 

 



 1. Write a Simple Business Plan 

 

Start by outlining:

  • What cakes or bakes you'll sell

  • Your target market (e.g. weddings, birthdays, walk-ins)

  • Pricing and profit margins

  • Where your shop will be located

 

Don’t overthink it. A 1–2 page plan is enough to get started.

 

 



 2. Choose a Legal Structure 

 

Most cake shops start as:

  • Sole trader (simple, fast)

  • Limited company (more protection, more admin)

 

Register your business with HMRC or Companies House accordingly.

 

 



 3. Find a Shop Location 

 

Look for spaces with:

  • Good foot traffic or parking

  • Reasonable rent

  • Enough room for baking and a small display

 

You might rent a unit, buy a shop, or use a commercial kitchen space.

 

 



 4. Get Registered and Inspected 

 

You must:

  • Register your food business with your local council (free)

  • Be inspected by Environmental Health

 

Register at least 28 days before opening. This is legal requirement in the UK.

 

 



 5. Meet Hygiene and Safety Standards 

 

You’ll need:

  • A Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (or higher)

  • A clean, pest-proof kitchen with handwashing facilities

  • Separate areas for raw and ready-to-eat foods

 


 Tip: 👉 Use our Cake Shop Delivery Disclaimer Template to set clear boundaries on who’s responsible for cakes once delivered.

 

 



 6. Set Up Your Shop Professionally 

 

Even small shops need the right setup:

  • Fridge logs, allergen labels, disclaimer forms

  • Visible food hygiene rating (once inspected)

  • Clear display and clean counter area

 

Download: 👉 Allergy Labelling Template (PDF)

 

 



 7. Market Your New Cake Shop 

 

Before launch:

  • Set up social media and Google Business Profile

  • Post behind-the-scenes content

  • Announce your opening day with teasers

  • Ask friends to leave early reviews

 

Want help pricing your cakes?
👉 Download our free Cake Pricing Calculator

 

 



 Final Thoughts 

 

Opening a cake shop in the UK is exciting – but it’s a serious business too. With the right preparation, you can go from dream to doors open in a few months.

Start small. Keep it legal. Stay organised. And always let your cake be your best advert.

 

Related: 👉 Is Home Cake Making Right for You?

 

 

 


Back to blog