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Ways to Stand Out as a Coffee Business

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Julia Nikolaus
Ways to Stand Out as a Coffee Business

When it comes to coffee, the national chains, and corporate giants seem to appear in every shopping mall and city street corner. However, few people can deny the charm of an independent, local coffee business. While it may be a challenge to compete with the giants, with proper planning and unique buying (and drinking) propositions, there are ways to stand out and be successful. Here are four of the most important lessons you should keep in mind when operating your own coffee business.

1. Locals Support Local Businesses

While the big brand coffee giants are convenient, their profits go to shareholders and to expand their market presence. That is in stark contrast to local shops. According to Business Wire, approximately 67 cents for every dollar spent at local small businesses stays within the community. That’s because independently owned businesses are more likely to purchase business supplies, equipment, and services from other local companies, whereas large chains rarely have that degree of buying flexibility.

2. High-Quality, Unique Experiences

One thing that independent cafes can do that the franchises cannot is to create high-quality, unique customer experiences. Maybe that means quirky décor, live music or poetry readings, or artisanal coffee beans and blends from different parts of the world. These are experiences the global giants don’t do, and when they do try, it’s more often than not a poor attempt. You can establish a loyal following and customer base by offering unique, standout experiences.

3. Ethical Business Practices

Having a clearly articulated mission statement that demonstrates your shop’s views and values can help attract customers. As an example, maybe you donate proceeds (or your entire revenue) to charitable organizations. Customers like to know things like that. Position your coffee as ethical coffee, and let your customers know that the money they spend at your shop is money well-spent. This ethical business view also extends to employee care. Working in the food and beverage industry can be fast-paced and physically demanding, and ensuring that baristas, counter staff, servers, and food prep professionals are well trained, fairly compensated, and treated as valuable team members makes a big difference.

4. Good Customer Service and a Friendly Environment

At one time or another, we’ve all been at a coffee shop or café where it’s clear that the employees are miserable. The first sign is often poor customer service. Not greeting customers, not looking them in the eye when talking or taking an order, and not being able to answer questions about menu items. As a result, the atmosphere is anything but fun and relaxed. It’s not a place customers want to spend time in or look forward to returning to regularly. That said, training all employees, from the most senior manager to the local teen who is on day one on their first job, is essential. When all of your employees know how to excel in customer service, their positive attitudes will stand out and keep people coming back.

Try, Try Again

The ways that your coffee business can stand out in the local community are only limited by your imagination. Think big! Don’t stop with the tips here; look for and try innovative new menu options, collaborate with other local businesses, and continue trying new ways to interact with the people in your community. They’ll thank you for it with their business!

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Julia Nikolaus
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