Cafe Benchmarks: COGS and Labour Ratios (2026)

If you don't know your percentages, you are flying blind. Here are the "Golden Ratios" for profitable Australian cafes.

The 30/30/10 Rule

• COGS (Food Cost): Should be 28% - 32% of turnover. If it's higher, check your portion control and supplier prices.
• Labour: Should be 30% - 35% of turnover. Above 40% is dangerous territory.
• Rent: Should be 8% - 12% of turnover.

This leaves you with a Net Profit of around 15% - 20%. If your profit is single digits, one of these three levers needs adjustment.