Abstract:
This study aims to assess the feasibility of investing in a specialty coffee shop business in San Sai District, Chiang Mai Province, by considering five key aspects: environmental factors, marketing, technical aspects, management, and financial analysis. The study utilizes primary data collected through semi-structured interviews with coffee shop selling specialty coffee owners in Chiang Mai, semi-structured interviews with specialty coffee consumers residing in San Sai District, Chiang Mai, and questionnaires distributed to consumers who have previously consumed specialty coffee in the province. The environmental analysis of the project indicates that Chiang Mai is positioning itself as an innovative hub for coffee cities, supported by high-quality coffee that has received Geographical Indication (GI) certification and government initiatives such as the World TEA & COFFEE Expo. From an economic perspective, rising interest rates increase business costs, but the extension of the Value Added Tax (VAT) reduction helps stimulate consumption. The recovery of the tourism industry further enhances the popularity of coffee shops. Consumer behavior is shifting towards online purchases and a greater interest in local businesses. The Thai specialty coffee market is expanding, particularly with Thep Sadet coffee, which attracts tourists. Additionally, technological advancements such as drones, AI, and POS systems contribute to improving coffee quality and business operations. The marketing analysis reveals that the project's marketing strategy focuses on key target groups, including students and working professionals who regularly consume coffee and use coffee shops as workspaces. The most influential factor in attracting customers is the service provider. Therefore, the project's strategy involves hiring employees with strong interpersonal skills, a passion for customer service, and effective communication abilities. Employees will undergo training before starting work, which includes an introduction to equipment, ingredients, storage procedures, and detailed demonstrations of various operational tasks. Additionally, employees will receive free beverages as a benefit to help them recommend products to customers. The technical analysis indicates that the project is in San Na Meng Subdistrict, San Sai District, Chiang Mai Province, along the Chiang Mai - Doi Saket Road, specifically in the Soi Wat San Na Meng area. The shop operates as a standalone establishment with convenient accessibility. The design follows a tropical theme, comprising the main coffee shop area, restrooms, and two meeting rooms. The estimated cost for interior decoration is 347,800 THB, while the cost of purchasing equipment amounts to 231,740 THB. The management analysis reveals that the business operates as a sole proprietorship with an initial business registration fee of 550 THB. The shop employs two part-time staff members, each earning 50 THB per hour. One employee works the morning shift from 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM (7 hours), while the other works the evening shift from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM (7 hours), resulting in a total daily wage cost of 700 THB. Over the course of a year (365 days), total staff wages amount to 255,500 THB. Utility expenses are estimated at 6,799 THB per month, totaling 81,588 THB per year, while the monthly rent is 10,000 THB, adding up to 120,000 THB annually. The financial analysis shows that the total initial investment required is 752,958 THB, fully funded by the owner without any loans. The study period for the project is five years, with a payback period (PB) of 1 year 1 month and 1 day. The discount rate for the net present value (NPV) calculation in the coffee business is 31.2%. The net present value (NPV) of the project is 1,048,325.81 THB, while the internal rate of return (IRR) is 47.59%. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that the project is feasible for investment.