Nowadays, cafés are a dime a dozen. So, how can you make yours stand out from the rest? Having a great product is a good start, but you need to think beyond that. Marketing, ambiance, and production practices are becoming increasingly important in today’s technology-driven economy. All of them will contribute to the success of your café—or its failure. Here are four things to keep in mind as you create or revamp your business.
- Show Off the Goods
Your customers won’t be tempted to buy your goodies if they can’t see them! Invest in quality food display cases and fill them up with your culinary works of art. Most people eat with their eyes first and their mouths second. Let your customers have a visual feast before they make their purchases. Sudden cravings and impulse buys will drive your sales through the roof.
- Theme Matters
People don’t go to cafés solely for the delectable drinks and scrumptious treats. Customers want an experience. Give them one by establishing a unique theme and cohesively carrying it out throughout your wares, your branding, and your physical location. Do you want to run an edgy steampunk café that brews its coffee in vintage machines? Great! How about an aesthetic “cottage-core” bistro that uses ingredients from its own garden? Awesome. Check out these themed cafes for inspiration.
- Furniture, Lighting, and More
Most people don’t think much about what they sit on, but in cafés, that one plush, extra cozy armchair placed by the crackling hearth is prime real estate. Businesspeople, students, writers, and artists are more likely to stay longer—and buy more specialty drinks—if they feel comfortable. So, invest in a few luxurious furniture pieces. Make sure that your lighting is bright enough to read by, but not blindingly fluorescent. Keep a neutral, relaxing soundtrack playing in the background. Make sure that the temperature is exactly right. These little details go a long way.
- Think About Your Environmental Impact
Now more than ever before, people are buying with their conscience. While it is great to practice sustainability for the sake of the Earth, being “green” can save you money on your utility bills and attract eco-conscious clientele. Cut back on food waste, plastic utensils, and unnecessary packaging. Then, let your customers know about your efforts. They’ll show their appreciation by spending a bit more money on your goods than your unsustainable competition.
Running a business can be overwhelming at times, especially in the foodservice industry. If you stay smart and think about the details, success will be in your future. Everyone loves their go-to local café. So, make sure that your café is the one that people want to visit.
