Launching a unique product, a catering service or a virtual restaurant? Starting a food business is challenging because it is a highly regulated sector that requires significant initial investment.
Cookwork, the Airbnb of Belgian HoReCa kitchens, helps you launch your business in a lean way, without investment, without risks, and with maximum support.
But how exactly do you get started? What are the key steps? We have identified four main steps you need to follow when launching your HoReCa business.
4 key steps to launch your HoReCa business
Business Registration Office
Whether you are starting as a secondary self-employed entrepreneur, a primary self-employed entrepreneur, or as a company, registering through a business office (UCM, Xerius, Securex, Acerta, Partena, etc.) is mandatory to create your business.
This office will provide you with:
A business number (for the self-employed).
One or several establishment unit number(s) (linked to the production location(s)).
Need help deciding on the best business structure? Contact 1819 in Brussels, a free telephone service for entrepreneurs in Belgium.
Finding Your Kitchen with Cookwork
If you want to start a business from scratch, an urban planning permit is needed. It is a building-related authorization that determines its use, exterior appearance, ... This permit is required in advance to establish a new HoReCa business, but the process can take some time. Depending on the municipality, it may take up to a year, or more.
Want to start a business quick and easy, without a big investment? Cookwork comes up with an alternative. Renting a kitchen makes it possible for you to launch your food business without having to get an urban planning permit. You would also avoid the extra costs and loss of time.
Choose the kitchen that will be the best match for your production and distribution model. There are many options available on Cookwork throughout Belgium.
How to book?
Browse kitchens online.
Submit a reservation request.
Our team will provide you with a price offer.
Would you like to visit before booking? No problem!
Cookwork offers three packages. Choose the one that best fits your needs: https://www.cookwork.be/pricing-plans/list.
AFSCA/ FAVV Registration
Every food entrepreneur must be registered with the AFSCA/FAVV (Federal agency for the safety of the food chain).
This registration is mandatory to sell your products. You cannot operate or put your products on the market without the AFSCA/FAVV registration.
The establishment unit number (which identifies you as an active operator with the AFSCA/FAVV) must be linked to the address where you will regularly produce.
Cookwork assists you in this process by providing guidance. We can even complete the registration for you if desired. AFSCA/FAVV registration is included in the standard and scale-up packages. Access it via our website: https://www.cookwork.be/pricing-plans/list.
Complying with Hygiene and Safety Standards
Meeting hygiene and food safety standards is crucial for operating in the HoReCa sector. Here are some essential points:
Take a food hygiene training course (HACCP).
Maintain a clean working environment that meets sanitary standards.
Adhere to the cold chain to ensure product safety.
Use compliant equipment and regularly maintain installations.
Cookwork can help you draft your self-check guide and comply with HACCP regulations. This service is included in the scale-up package: https://www.cookwork.be/pricing-plans/list.
Now you know how to launch your food business. If you still need help, just tell us and drop us an email at contact@cookwork.be
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