The informal dining culture in the UK is booming and café owners are jostling for position like never before. But how do you stand out from the crowd? From debit card payment machines to temptations by the till, check out our handy tips to help you stay ahead of the game.
Smart and simple
Don’t go for a massive, overly complex menu. Too much choice can leave customers feeling overwhelmed which isn’t great for sales. Cafés are all about fun, informal, delicious food, often on the go. This means choosing products which are popular and can be done well. Review your selections regularly and get rid of stuff that just isn’t shifting.
Be a little “different”
You’ve heard of cat cafés right? They work because they’re quirky, unique and, well, stroking a cute furry animal is relaxing. So why not come up with an idea of your own to pull in the punters? Themes like Rock ‘n’ Roll or 80s films are cool, or you could display some fascinating memorabilia relevant to the area. The possibilities are endless.
Reward the regulars
People like to feel that their loyalty hasn’t gone unnoticed. Consider giving out a loyalty card which gets stamped on every visit so that every, say, tenth cup of coffee is free. The lost revenue is likely to be tiny compared to the value of repeat business.
Offer a daily special
Spice things up for the locals by offering a menu which is ever-changing. Seasonal, fresh produce is a great selling point too, and local ingredients can be easier and often cheaper to source.
Tuck temptations by the till
There’s nothing like standing in a queue to pay and having your eye caught by a delicious looking fresh flapjack or fluffy cupcake by the till. As a café owner these can be great money-spinners as they’re incredibly hard to resist.
Hand out samples
Showcase your wares! You know your warm chocolate brownies are totally to die for, but how is anyone else supposed to know? Set up a little tray of them by the counter and invite customers to try some. One bite and they’ll be back for more!
Upsell – nicely…
Everyone knows the age-old trick of upselling but there’s a definite knack to it if you want it to work well. Rather than just stabbing in the dark, strike up a conversation with the customer. Ask how their day is going or comment on the weather before you jump in with the whole “will you go large with that?” thing. It’s a bit more warm and fuzzy.
Go outdoors
Certain times of the year (like summer and Christmas) are great for going al-fresco so set up a temporary stall. If it’s sunny and touching 30o outside, why not put out sandwiches, salads and ice cold soft drinks for people to buy. If it’s Christmas time, go for hot chocolate and minced pies. Not only does it give a real feel-good vibe, it introduces people to your lovely café and its yummy produce. This then of course boosts the likelihood of locals returning all year round.
Put a package together
Pre-made packs and meal deals are great for customers on the go. They usually consist of a main (like a sandwich, salad or pasta) with a drink plus something sweet like a muffin, and are ideal for busy customers on the go. According to a recent survey by BUPA, less than a third of UK workers take a proper lunch break each day. So help them out!
Tap into the convenience of card payments
Nowadays people increasingly expect to be able to pay by card. Without the need to rummage through their purses or wallets for that elusive last 5p, customers paying by card are considered likely to spend more. Plus of course, paying via a card payment machine it’s hugely convenient for them, rather than having to trudge off and find a cash machine.
Feeling inspired? Get creative! And don’t forget, if your café could do with one of our excellent, easy to use portable card payment machines this summer, take a look at our portable card machines page or get in touch.
