Opening your own coffee shop can be both scary and exciting at the same time. For most entrepreneurs this would be a sound investment, hence you can find one on nearly every corner. The real challenge, however, lies in keeping the business open and thriving. With so many coffee shops in existence, it is important that customers are able to distinguish yours from the others. The coffee industry may be booming but how do you ensure that your customers keep returning?
Truthfully, there is no single way to achieve this. In an effort to achieve financial independence, coffee shops must employ a number of tactics to ensure a good return on investment.
Employ people who are aligned with your coffee shop brand
Good service is nearly as important as the coffee being served. It may be tempting to hire cheap help, but an incompetent employee can be damaging to your brand. Another factor to consider when hiring staff is to ensure they have all the skills they need to do their job efficiently, and to provide excellent service. Employees must be a reflection of the business and more importantly, they must actually enjoy their job and take pride therein.
Provide quality
The coffee industry is highly competitive, thus it goes without saying that quality should be a priority. Aside from the coffee beans, the machines and furniture should also be good quality. While some people may opt for a coffee to go, most people enjoy spending time at a cafe – so make it worthwhile.
Diversify your menu
It may seem contradictory but people often want something else other than cuppa joe when visiting a coffee shop. Diversifying the menu to include more options, will allow people to visit for any occasion, and stay for longer. Even the most passionate coffee lover may occasionally opt something other than coffee. Adding wine and beer to the menu will keep customers visiting throughout the day but especially in the evenings.
Create an experience
People want more than just coffee, they want an experience. Adding quirky decor or pairings are good examples of how to amplify the coffee shop experience for your customers. Something as simple as making your coffee shop a Wi-Fi hotspot could attract regular customers.
Expand your brand
Offering merchandise and/or additional coffee products such us branded coffee mugs, brewing kits, equipment and coffee beans will offer customers an opportunity to take your brand home with them. Doing this will also offer word-of-mouth advertising for your business. Since the pandemic the coffee shop model has changed – people want options when it comes to their coffee, and to remain competitive businesses should be giving them what they need.
There are a number of strategies that can help you grow a food and beverage businesses, but coffee shops offer many unique opportunities. Following the tips above will help you grow your business sustainably.
If you’re thinking about opening your own coffee shop, check out this article.
