Best F&B businesses to start

Data-driven rankings based on the startup cost and profit margin benchmarks in the F&B Business Atlas.

10 most profitable F&B businesses

  1. Specialty Salt Producers: up to 75% margin.
  2. Artisan Vinegar Producers: up to 70% margin.
  3. Herb & Microgreen Farms: up to 65% margin.
  4. Artisan Jam & Preserves Makers: up to 65% margin.
  5. Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Makers: up to 65% margin.
  6. Premium Canned Seafood Brands: up to 65% margin.
  7. Non-Alcoholic Spirit Brands: up to 60% margin.
  8. Honey Producers & Apiaries: up to 60% margin.
  9. Spice & Seasoning Companies: up to 60% margin.
  10. Hot Sauce Producers: up to 60% margin.

10 cheapest F&B businesses to start

  1. Honey Producers & Apiaries: starts from $5K.
  2. Herb & Microgreen Farms: starts from $5K.
  3. Pop-Up Restaurants & Supper Clubs: starts from $5K.
  4. Artisan Jam & Preserves Makers: starts from $5K.
  5. Street Food Stalls: starts from $5K.
  6. Farm Box & CSA Subscription Services: starts from $10K.
  7. Mushroom Farms: starts from $10K.
  8. Specialty Salt Producers: starts from $10K.
  9. Artisan Vinegar Producers: starts from $10K.
  10. Hot Sauce Producers: starts from $10K.

Best F&B businesses under $100K

  1. Pop-Up Restaurants & Supper Clubs: $100K maximum startup benchmark, up to 40% margin.
  2. Street Food Stalls: $50K maximum startup benchmark, up to 40% margin.