Anyone who owns a business will be only too aware of the challenges that they face to be able to make a profit while continuing to provide their customers with the best products, which is vital for anyone who owns a café to remember. Because there is so much competition in this field it requires a great deal of research and hard work to stay ahead of the game so that customers don’t drift elsewhere.
It might take some visits to other establishments to see what they are up to in the quest to attract passing trade as well as checking out sources for purchasing supplies and equipment. This might lead to the discovery that products such as Black Tea can be bought in large amounts online. Here are some great ways for anyone with the café business to increase their sales this year.
- Serious thought is required as to the location of the café and the demographics of those who live and work in the vicinity. For instance, a traditional neighbourhood might be happy with items on the menu that they are familiar with, whereas if it is in a city centre near the CBD it is likely to be able to attract young professionals who might be more open-minded and want to try different teas and beverages, which they may have experienced on their travels. Targeting the local demographic and their tastes is important.
- How the customers want to be served is also important to consider. If the café is in a quiet part of town, those who call in might have more time for a chat and to relax. It might be where young mothers meet with their children. However, in a city near to businesses, those who want to buy will want to do so quickly, as they may only have limited time. Therefore, more counter space and adequate staffing at the busiest times make more sense. In short, it is important to cater to those who are likely to return if they receive the service that they want.
- The ambience and the layout of a café can make a huge difference to whether someone wants to return. It should have high standards of hygiene, including the lavatories, and be attractive. It is worth the outlay of having professional signs and little extras such as labels on bottles of water which publicise the café. Some nice ambient background music can also create the right atmosphere to allure returning trade.
- An affordable digital marketing presence is a great way of increasing the visibility of any business with cafes being no different. Ensuring that reviews are well managed, and Google Maps features the business with correct information can be a great ally. As can having a page on social media which can announce any closures or special promotions to attract customers.
Cafes have great potential to increase their sales if they sell the right products to those who are located nearby in welcoming and clean premises which maintains a digital presence.