The Three Numbers You Need
| Number | What it means | Where to get it |
|---|---|---|
| Sales per day | How many sales on a normal day | Watch a similar business; use your market research |
| Average order value | What a customer spends per sale | Your prices and what people usually buy together |
| Days open per year | Days you will really be open | Your opening plan, minus holidays |
Forecast Your Sales
3-Year Sales Forecast Calculator
Enter amounts in your own currency. Everything is calculated on this page — nothing is sent or saved.
Year 1 = sales per day × average order value × days open. Each next year grows by your growth rate.
Choosing a Growth Rate
Be careful. A small growth rate you can explain — new customers from marketing, a second product, longer opening hours — is more believable than a big one. If you are not sure, start with a low number, or none.
Check It Against Your Market
Compare Year 1 with your local market size. If your forecast needs more than a realistic share of the market, lower it — or explain why you expect to win more.
Example (Illustrative)
Common Mistakes
- Using your best day instead of a normal one.
- Counting every day of the year when you will close on some.
- Big growth with no reason. Explain every growth number.
Where It Fits in Your Business Plan
Your sales forecast is the starting point of the Financial Plan and Projections section. It feeds your break-even and cash flow.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I forecast sales for a new business?
Estimate sales on a normal day, multiply by your average order value and the days you will be open, then add a careful yearly growth rate.
What is average order value?
The average amount a customer spends on one sale or visit.
What growth rate should I use?
A small one you can explain. If you are not sure, start low or keep sales flat.
How many years should a sales forecast cover?
Three years is common for a small business plan.
Build your plan with Founderplat
Founderplat walks you through all eight sections, one small step at a time, with tips and examples for every part.
Get the app on Google Play