Every café operator dreams of multi-unit. Most should never open a second branch. The economics of unit 2 are not 2× unit 1 — they're more like 1.4× revenue with 2.1× cost. The math only works if unit 1 is genuinely overflowing.
§The 5 readiness signals
(1) Unit 1 has 6+ months of >25% contribution margin. (2) You have a documented operations manual that survives without you. (3) You can name your second-in-command. (4) You have 9 months of runway, not 3. (5) You've identified a location with proven F&B foot traffic, not just 'cheap rent'.
§The cheaper alternative
If unit 1 is healthy but you're not ready for unit 2, launch a virtual brand from unit 1's kitchen first. You'll add 30-60% revenue with 10% of the risk and capital. Unit 2 can wait a year — virtual brands don't have to.
