It’s time to get your cafe really out there so that people start coming in more readily. Cafes and coffee shops tend to have a very loyal following, but getting new people in the door can be a challenge. No matter if your business has been there for a decade or you are just opening your doors, it is a good idea to focus some of your time and money on marketing. In fact, building a brand is going to be one of the most important steps you can take in building your business beyond where it is right now. It does not have to be hard to do, either. Here are some tips.
#1: Create a brand, slogan, and define your competitive edge
One of the first things you need to do is to determine and specifically outline why people should come to you. Are you located closer to the highway? Do you have something special to offer than other cafes in the area do not? What is your atmosphere or competitive edge that sets you apart? Develop a brand logo, slogan, and image that defines that competitive edge. You need to know why people should visit you so that you can share that with them!
#2: Start marketing across the board
Now that you have a central message to communicate, you’ll want to use it across the board. A good way to do that is to use your brand logo or image on all of your products. For example, you’ll want to include it on your menus and placemats. Even more effective is to use it on your cups. By using custom cup sleeves with your brand on them, not only will the people in your cafe learn about your product and service, but everywhere they take that cup, people will be learning about you as well. That’s a powerful image and important marketing. Who doesn’t want the same thing someone else has?
#3: Deliver and welcome them back
The next step for marketing your business is by making it count. When your customers come in – especially those that are there for the first time – be sure to tell them they are appreciated. Give them your branded cup, show them good service, and provide a good product. Then, ask for continued sales. Offer a promotional card for savings after a number of visits. Provide a flyer or another item they can take with them to remind them of your location.
Marketing your cafe has to come from all directions. You need to provide an outstanding product, good service, and a brand that people can remember. When you do this, you will increase the chances that people will actually remember your company and cafe the next time they decide they need a little help with coffee or when they want something sweet. It’s always a good idea to be consistent in the service and product you provide, too. Remember, you are building your cafe’s brand with each coffee cup or custom coffee sleeve that leaves your location.
Barry Konkin is the founder of HotShot Coffee Sleeves. With over 30 years experience in commercial offset printing, Barry utilized his diverse printing background and creativity in developing new coffee sleeve designs that were granted Patents in both the USA and Canada. Barry’s goal is to assist businesses with brand promotion through the use of high quality custom printed cup sleeves. With an understanding of your marketing and operational objectives, Barry can recommend the ideal coffee sleeve solution for you.