If you are interested in starting a chocolate-covered fruit business you have a great deal of work ahead of you. According to the Small Business Administration, “you have to know everything you can about your products or services in order to persuade someone to buy them.” You will need to conduct plenty of research before you can get started. However, by understanding the process and organizing your tasks, you can start off on the right foot.

Find a good distributor for fresh fruit. Compare prices and reviews for fruit suppliers to get the best price on high-quality fruit. If you decide to use exotic fruits, you will need a distributor with a more extensive selection. Look for fruit distributors who can offer you wholesale prices. Quantity discounts won’t be as useful when you start your business because fruit is so perishable.

Talk to candy makers and pastry chefs for suggestions on potential recipes and decorative presentation. Your product will often be purchased as a gift, so request advice on attractive gift packaging. Ask about shipping for perishable food items. Find out if you will need refrigerated shipping and how much it will cost. Compare reliable shipping providers to find the best price for short-term shipping, as you will need a short turnaround time for shipping a perishable item like fresh fruit.

Develop a marketing plan for your chocolate-covered fruit business. Talk to managers at higher-end candy stores for advertising advice. Consider joining a trade group for confectioners. Your fellow members can offer valuable insight on developing your startup plan. Trade groups can also provide important industry information and facts about customer demographics. Create a profile of potential customers for your chocolate-covered fruit business to tailor your advertising.

Write a business plan for your chocolate-covered fruit company. The Small Business Administration says a business plan is essential for any business owner. According to the SBA, “a business plan precisely defines your business, identifies your goals, and serves as your firm's resume.” Develop the essential components of your plan, including your financial projections and your startup expenditures.

Tip

Consider consulting an accountant if you are planning to use your business plan to secure a business loan.