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View entire thread: Bad Ass Coffee Company drive-thrus

Posted by cuppajoe_coffee on 2006-05-23 09:10:44      Post Subject: Bad Ass Coffee



I have worked with Bad Ass Coffee in the past (worked with them on starting their drive thru business) and I will say all my dealings with them were great! Their Drive Thru Business is taking off and the Coffee Drive Thru structures look fantastic!!!!

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View entire thread: Official Statement from Cuppy's Coffee & More

Posted by cafemakers on 2007-01-15 23:31:32      Post Subject: Official Statement from Cuppy's Coffee & More

Official Statement from Cuppy's Coffee & More


NewswireToday - /newswire/ - Fort Walton Beach, FL, United States, 01/15/2007 - Cuppy's Coffee & More responds to Java Jo'z controversy.



In May 2006, Medina Enterprises, a Nevada based company, purchased the assets of Java Jo’z Coffee & More, LLC, and Emerald Coast Manufacturing, Inc.

From this transaction, the principle owner of Medina formed an association with another individual and Cuppy’s Coffee & More, an international coffee franchise, emerged.

Through this transaction, Cuppy’s Coffee obtained the rights to the logos, assumed the leases and acquired a majority of the equipment. A majority of the former employees of Java Jo’z were offered positions and are now employed at Cuppy’s.

Java Jo’z still exists as a licensing company and is owned by Kim Snowden. Roy and Kim Snowden have no financial, operational, or legal association with Cuppy’s Coffee.

Although Cuppy’s Coffee holds no legal obligation to provide marketing, operational, or product support to the Java Jo’z owners, Cuppy’s has chosen to offer these services to the Java Jo’z owners.

Since August 2006, Cuppy’s Coffee has been inviting any coffee business (including Java Jo’z customers) the opportunity to convert into a Cuppy’s franchise. For conversion details please contact Rudy Harper at rudymedinamgt.com

About Cuppy's Coffee & More

Cuppy's Coffee, Smoothies & More, Inc. is a specialty coffee drive thru franchise business that offers the world's finest coffee, latte, espresso and smoothie drinks available today. Cuppy’s franchise system provides franchisees with an industry leading Marketing Team, Proven Systems, Site Selection Assistance, Training, Volume Buying Power, and Growth.


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View entire thread: Average Monthly Operating Costs

Posted by iheartlinus on 2008-02-27 00:03:06      Post Subject: Average Monthly Operating Costs

Hi Everyone! First of all - this is a great site and everyone is very helpful! My business partner and I are considering purchasing a Coffee Drive thru. It is fully stocked (Espresso Machine, Grinder, Toaster, Blender, Oven, Fridge) It has its own breaker box, and water system. They are asking $25 K OBO.

My first question:

What do you think of this number?

Next Question:

I have seen 2K being thrown around as a number to estimate start up inventory. Has this been true for you?

Not including rent, what is your average operating cost per month?

Thanks in advance! - Jessica


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View entire thread: Please Critique A Noob's Esprsso Machine Choice

Posted by redBaron on 2007-10-11 20:42:09      Post Subject: Please Critique A Noob's Esprsso Machine Choice

We'll be opening a new 1 window coffee drive-thru soon. This is our first coffee venture and thus want to take some of the guesswork (skill?) out of providing a consistent product this time around. So, we've "just about" chosen the Nuova Simonelli Master Coffee 1 gr superautomatic machine.

Will this machine keep up with a 100-150 cup/day business? It obviously provides no redundancy, is this an issue?

Suggestions?

Thanks,


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View entire thread: Good Bean Reading?

Posted by woogie on 2004-11-04 23:38:53      Post Subject: Good Bean Reading?

Here are some books I am thinking of buying to help learn about running a bean drive thru. Has anybody read these? Any other reading suggestions?

Bean Business Basics
Effective and Essential Marketing for the Specialty Coffee Retailer
Espresso 101
Espresso 501
Everything But Coffee
Opening a Specialty Coffee Drive Thru
Spilling The Beans

Thanks


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View entire thread: employee evaluations

Posted by Anonymous on 2004-10-09 02:24:35      Post Subject: barista hiring

Hi,

If you are trying to put an employee evaluation form together, let us offer you several tips.

More info can be found in our informational guides, which are available at www.e-importz.com : (Please send a copy of the form to sales@e-importz.com; if you would like to.)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Barista Characteristics

“Baristaâ€


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View entire thread: Mobile/Semi-Perm. Drive Thru Questions

Posted by karlyk on 2007-12-24 18:28:50      Post Subject: Mobile/Semi-Perm. Drive Thru Questions

I am in the design stage of a coffee drive thru. Any info would be helpful. The business will be in the Denver, CO area

1. I would like to have it be mobile so as not to have a foundation, external plumbing, or bathrooms. Can someone explain to be how the gray water/ fresh water tanks work. Are there services to fill and dispose? Any helpful websites.

2. Any good floorplan links you know of for a small drive thru (8x12)

3. What have you done for power?

4. Any other advice/info for having this type of coffee business.

Thanks!!


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View entire thread: Drive-Thru Coffee Stand Interior Layout

Posted by BaristaTrainer on 2006-05-12 16:28:04      Post Subject:

Good design is critical for an efficient drive-thru operation. You will want to keep in mind your speed of service. This design will depend obviously on your your intended business volume and menu offerings.

There are a couple good reference drawings of two drive-thru designs in the book "Opening a Specialty Coffee Drive Thru" by Ed Arvidson that you might find helpful. If you plan to build your own drive-thru I would strongly suggest that you hire a general contractor with experience in food-service establishments, as well as hiring a design consultant/architect with retail coffee experience.

The book may be a good place ot start: http://www.espresso101.com/item/opening ... drive-thru

Email if you have any other questions.

- Matt


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View entire thread: Mobile/Semi-Perm. Drive Thru Questions

Posted by Coffee Guy on 2007-12-31 17:41:02      Post Subject: Re: Mobile/Semi-Perm. Drive Thru Questions

I am in the design stage of a coffee drive thru. Any info would be helpful. The business will be in the Denver, CO area

1. I would like to have it be mobile so as not to have a foundation, external plumbing, or bathrooms. Can someone explain to be how the gray water/ fresh water tanks work. Are there services to fill and dispose? Any helpful websites.

2. Any good floorplan links you know of for a small drive thru (8x12)

3. What have you done for power?

4. Any other advice/info for having this type of coffee business.

Thanks!!

Are you asking about a semi-perm type of drive thru? Meaning, that you would like to have a location fixed on a lot, but have the ability to pick up & go when your lease is up? If so, then you would still have to go to the health department, city hall for permits, and so on to open your location. 8X12 is not really that large once you start putting equipment in it. As for layout I would suggest that you design it around the comfort of the operator, so everything is reached easily. I don't know of any place where you can get floor plans at no cost. However, I'm sure that someone here (on the forums) may share an idea or two with you. As for water, bathrooms, commissary, etc. that would be discussed with whomever you lease your space from. Power is generally run overhead (meaning outside on top of the building) that is if the city will allow that. In any case those are a few things to consider.


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View entire thread: Start Up

Posted by coffeenovice on 2005-09-11 15:48:26      Post Subject: Start Up

I have been researching opening a coffee drive thru in Iowa for the last 5 months.

Staight up- What is the least amount of $ someone can get into the drive thru business for? I want a building with an attractive look with a bathroom and excellent coffee. I've already checked into the Mountain Mudds of the world and this area of Iowa isn't receptive of the little shed look. My part of Iowa requires a bathroom and running water.

I've considered Fox Hollow as consultants and Crimson Cup.

Fox Hollow recommends purchasing land and putting up a real stick built building.

Crimson Cup says that isn't necessary-lease land and have a modular building constructed bya contractor.

What kind of ACTUAL CASH do I need to have of my own to even consider doing this?

Do you really need to sell at least 300 cups a day to make a go of it?
Do economy ups and downs affect coffee sales?

Thanks for any input. It's greatly appreciated!

I have submitted a business plan to the bank and am waiting for reply.

There are NO double drive thrus in my city of 65,000 people.

COFFEENOVICE


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View entire thread: Customer count projection review support request...

Posted by Jackson on 2007-04-12 22:01:35      Post Subject:

John P is very wise! You did your homework on site analysis, now study your competitors. If you are planning a drive-thru, you may be surprised as to what percent of traffic actually spends money at a coffee drive-thru. If you are a destination coffee house, the traffic counts will not matter as much.
Good luck with your business plan, you have some homework to do!


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View entire thread: Drive thru Coffee

Posted by coffeeaddict on 2006-04-06 01:29:17      Post Subject: Coppertown caught knocking off competitor's website

It looks as though Coppertown has been sued by a competitor for knocking off copyrighted material on their website. Pretty stupid if you ask me. Here is the link to the law suit. www.coppertown.com

I own a Java Jo'z coffee drive thru store and really enjoyed the experience. Good luck to you.

CoffeeAddict


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View entire thread: Examples of monthly expenses/budget and opinions

Posted by Beanster on 2006-08-10 12:03:29      Post Subject: Examples of monthly expenses/budget and opinions

I've been reading this forum about a week and read A LOT of the posts so it's kind of run together in my head now and most info I've probably found but can't find exact threads. Basically just want an example of monthly expenses such as rent, etc. This will be just a small double drive-thru. Going to try and paint a picture of the area and what I plan to do and also get opinions on if you think it would work/be a good idea.


Also startup costs. I need to try and get it done as low cost as possible for me to be able to afford it. I'm looking at a building that isn't a drive thru but looks to be about the same size as a typical double espresso drive-thru I've been seeing online and on this forum. So drive-thru windows could be built on both sides. I am guessing for the most part the inside will just need to have the equipment dropped in. It's a small half-block from a university with an enrollment of about 6,500.

This block is basically an island block that follows a busy road this building is on(with the building being on the busy street end of the block). So on one side the busy 4 lane road, the other a street that has the college on the left, the half block on the right. Both sides have apts, college oriented shops/bars/university bookstore/laundromats/burger joint etc. Also a few small offices like real estate, chiropractors, etc. No coffee shops though. Heck, there is even a roaster down the street!

There is a drive-thru Starbucks down the road though less than 5 minutes but it's more when you get to a major retail/shopping zone. Also in another direction the popular local coffeehouse(that also has a drive-thru) that is less than 5 minutes away. Service there is slow though and half the time I'll give up on waiting at the drive-thru for someone to say something and just go in. There are no other specialty coffee joints in the city except for one inside a Hastings(like having a Starbucks inside a Barnes and Noble). And the city population is 90,000.

The location was previously a tiny take out/delivery pizza shop that wasn't open long. Probably been closed a year/year and a half. I remember there was a lot of buzz about it. A lot of business from college students dropping by for a slice or 2. I remember calling a few times trying to place orders and nobody would answer and would sometimes not be willing to deliver. I think they probably closed because they were overwhelmed and maybe over their head/ill prepared. Not because of lack of business.

So I think it could be a good location. It's not a very attractive spot I wouldn't think for most businesses because I don't think much could be done with the small space. Nothing special to look at basically a rectangular wooden box with paint. I don't think people would know what to do with it. But thinking along the lines of what I plan to do I think it could work well as a drive-thru. One negative is that driving down the main road from one side you can't see it until you're driving by because a vacant taller/larger building next to it(would be just enough room between for a drive-thru lane) is pretty close to the street. But coming from the other direction you can see it from a ways off and it's the right side of the street. I do still need to do a traffic count.

Like I said I'm trying to do this relatively cheaply. So I'm figuring it will be cheaper than having a building built and putting it on a site and having to get all the plumbing/electr. etc. done. And I know people recommend getting the best site as opposed to cheapest but I do think this one would be good and very low overhead. And once I proved I was making this work I could then have an easier job of getting some good financing and opening another location that might be more profitable. Although I do think this spot could work great. I'm guessing rent would be very low for this spot. Cost of living is low here in the first place. I freak out seeing people that have to pay thousands on rent. This place may be in the low hundreds I'm guessing. I figure I won't HAVE to sell as much coffee at this location as the avg. coffee drive-thru to make money. And I don't need to get rich, If I netted 25-30k/year for myself I'd be happy. And no I don't even expect to make much money if at all the first year.

So basically with all my rambling descriptions do you think this is the type of spot that could work? And could someone project startup costs, like cheap ways of getting the equipment(leasing? remember someone mentioning the distributor gave them free equipment to work with them exclusively? and so on?). It's possible when it comes to the building I may not have to do much more than drop the equipment, paint the exterior, get signage, and pave the lot(uh, just gravel right now). Of course, no way of knowing what's up on the inside right now so that's best case I figure. So what am I missing under the best case scenario?

Then also the monthly expenses so I can get an idea of how much coffee I'd need to sell? I do plan to serve bagels and muffins in the morning in addition to the coffee. Maybe breakfast sandwiches made out of bagels and croissants. And breakfast burritos. If you serve breakfast burritos in these parts, people WILL come. Then after 11am probably paninis.

Sorry for the long-windedness! Just drank a 'grande' latte and that java jive is making my brain jump all over the place!


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View entire thread: Just opened... not sure what to think. Advice?

Posted by SunriseCoffeeLasVegas on 2008-11-13 19:11:01      Post Subject:

Yeah, she goes out there in the morning with a sign that says

"Coffee Drive Thru" and we have been getting a steady response off of it. I have been going out there in the afternoon during rush hour and it brings attention to the store. I think it is one of the more effective and cheapest tools to let people know about your store.

Though, get someone who will put on a smile and grab attention. She waves, smiles, does a little jig and gets noticed.

The coupon has worked well also with people bringing them in and trying out our store.

Our sales has steadily increased but, we are still not at our break even mark yet. two thirds of the way there at three weeks.

My partner calculated that we put in over a 100 hours each every week.

Yes, these are some brutally long hours.

Busy in the morning and slow the rest of the day.

good luck with the samples, didn't work out for me.

stamp cards definitely work. my partner and I views about the economy is that it isn't bad; just people are scared so, they spend economically (which is better anyways) and the coupons and stamp cards is a way to validate their desire for an affordable luxury drink and come in and spend.

Like John P. said in an earlier post. good products, good service, and word of mouth.

Since we make every drink from scratch I accomodate alot of people with special needs and they are a very loyal bunch. It is paying off little by little..

little by little...LOL


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View entire thread: I have to sell

Posted by raymondw on 2005-08-31 16:54:09      Post Subject:

I am strongly considering getting into the drive thru coffee business. I am am in VA so it may not be feasible to transport a building from WA. But could I ask who built it. What do they cost new? Where would I go to have a coffee drive thru built/designed? And incidentally how much are you asking for your building and supplies?

Thanks

Ray


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View entire thread: javajoz.com vs. mountainmudd.com, coffee from kiosks model

Posted by microserf on 2004-03-25 18:52:49      Post Subject: Espresso Drive Through's

Here's a ton of links covering the industry:

Additional listings

Coffee drive-thru, espresso drive-thru business, coffee stand business program
How to open and operate a successfull espresso coffee drive-thru or coffee bar ... like to do. While here in the Northwest drive-thru espresso stands have been in operation for some time ...
www.espressobusiness.com/drive-thru.htm

Java Jo'z - Coffee, Cappuccino, Espresso Drive Thru Business Opportunity
... with Java Jo’z Drive-Thru specialty coffee locations ... of doing business, which stands head and shoulders above our competition. When you join the ranks of Java Jo’z Drive-Thru owners, you’re ...
www.javajoz.com

http://www.ezdrivethruespresso.com/info.asp
... business, coffee business, drive thru business, espresso, late stands Home Your Drive Thru Business Starts here ... standsEspresso, espresso stands, coffee, coffee beans, drive thru. Coffee ...
www.ezdrivethruespresso.com/info.asp

Heavenly Cappuccino, espresso bars and drive-thru locations nationwide
Heavenly Cappuccino coffee stands and drive through locations serving the finest espresso beverages nationwide. ... coffee, employment, franchise, drive-thru, Brett Willard, New York ...
www.heavenlycappuccino.com

Best Drive-Thru Espresso
Best Drive-Thru Espresso by Susan Hamilton Best Drive-Thru Espresso -- Jacob's Java -- With our warp-speed ... Jacob have six fueling, er, espresso stands throughout the Inland Northwest that ...
www.inlander.com/bestof2003/309549204025754.php

Are there specialty coffee shops and/or espresso stands in the town where you live? (Survey Central)
Survey Central is an interactive site where anyone can sign up to fill-out and ... shops and/or espresso stands in the ... we have drive-thru only - does that count as an espresso stand? SueBee ...
surveycentral.org/survey/2832.html

Espresso Stands
Espresso Stands Espresso Stands We Can Customize your Espresso Stand to your specifications. Drive-thru's are also available. We offer espresso labs at our site. Education is key in running a ...
www.crossroads-espresso.com/EspressoStands.htm

Straight From Seattle Espresso: Pictures
... with its new turnkey Drive-Thru Solutions package. The drive ... the Kiosk II, a drive-through espresso bar. Offers custom design options ... or mobile carts, stands and kiosks. Carts available from ...
www.espressouniverse.com/press3.html

Aroma Joe's Drive-Thru Coffee
... in the coffee and espresso industry." Thanks for checking us ... through one of our stands to have an outstanding experience ... by using the innovative Double Drive-Thru ensuring that our hand ...
www.aromajoes.com

Jo's Java and Ice Cream * Coffee List
Drive-Thru Coffee House / Ice Cream Stand Whole Bean Coffee At Jo’s Java and ... coffee beans to create a decaf espresso blend with a rich intensity that stands up to milk and syrups. This ...
www.josjava.com/coffee.html

Taylor Dakota/Javasupply: Hot New Products: Concession Stands and Trailers
... coffee brewing devices, glassware, espresso machines, foodservice supplies, concession ... ND 58504 1-800-279-6151 Concession Stands and Drive-thru Buildings by Click to view larger version ...
www.therestaurantoutfitter.com/trailers.htm

Caffe Orsini - Full service coffee and espresso supplier to the industry.
... Whether you own a restaurant, cafe, or espresso drive thru, we have a machine to fit your needs. Click ... accessories. Elektra is the brand name that stands for expertise and know-how. An enterprise ...
www.caffeorsini.com/equipment.htm

Mail Tribune News - Coffee brewhaha goes to City Council
... to consider new drive-thru rules that would put espresso stands on equal ... or staying?" Mellelo agreed. Lines at espresso stands and other drive-thru windows also contribute to traffic ...
www.mailtribune.com/archive/2000/august/081000n2.htm

Bellas Frozen Custard Drive Through Kiosk Business Opportunity
... folks with Bella’s Drive-Thru specialty Frozen Custard ... of doing business, which stands head and shoulders ... added Frozen Custard, espresso and cappuccino drive through Kiosks for the ...
www.bellas-custard.com

Mugs, pens T-Shirts and other Wholesale giveaways - Business
... Hats- Get your Company name stands out on top your potential Customers Head ... design and start-up a coffee shop, an espresso bar or a coffee drive-thru... 15/P, 8/L, 1210/S http://caffe ...
www.jodime.com/links/business.html

Bay Weekly
... indeed a drive-thru world, consider this: drive-thru espresso. Along that two-lane stretch of General's ... from - where else? - Seattle, where coffee stands are common. Shane Fortney, Heather's ...
www.bayweekly.com/year00/issue8_46/life8_46.html

Neon Signs
Home Sign Stands More Sign Stands Easels Vehicle Lettering ... Red 5"H 24Hrs:Green 5" H Drive-Thru: Blue 4" H Open: Red 6" H ... 00 DVD: Pink 10" H Espresso: Green 8" H Line: White Espresso ...
www.sdsignco.com/Neon.htm

contents
... ice, ice maker, scotsman wells frymaster espresso machines, grinders, espresso, restaurant ... system, signs, indoor menu, out door menu, drive thru system drink dispenser,refrigerated drink ...
www.arrowreste.com/99web/frame-co.htm

EM magazine ::Vol. 0I Issue 002 ::SEATTLE COFFEE CULTURE
... has been an emergence of small espresso/latté stands strewn about the city at various locations. Each ... or are on the run, there are coffee stand drive-thru's. I've seen more of these near suburbs ...
www.evilmonito.com/002/seattle2.htm


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View entire thread: First Day - Soft opening.

Posted by everydaygourmet on 2004-12-06 00:25:09      Post Subject: First Day - Soft opening.

Hi all, well we had our first day Saturday - wow, it was very exciting - We did no advertising...just put the signs outside, and turned on the old obnoxious blinking "open" arrow sign Saturday morning to see what happened.

Our Goal was to make 20 Drinks in 5 hours - we made 18. ( we live in a small rural Western Montana town, and our stand is out in the country in case this sounds like more of a reason to shut down than too open) :wink:

We made it a point to talk a lot to every customer, as we are a little slow.

We asked every customer if they wanted a punch card (buy 10 get 1 free) they all did....and loved the fact that we were keeping it, and their info on file. Name, car, drink, and any facts we happened to grab. (all ideas we got in here)

We asked every customer to try the coffee before they left, to make sure it was too their liking.....people seemed to dig that we cared if it was to their satisfaction or not.

We actually have already heard a little "Buzz"going around (several people called that we know, and there were people talking up this new little coffee drive thru with awesome coffee at the local Holiday Festival.)

:-D :-D :-D

So that's good I guess.

Our goal for our first full work week (Business commuters) is 40-50 cups per day - see where we go from here.

thought I would pass on the news, and thank those who have posted a lot of ideas, and given us advice on products, etc.

Keep ya posted


Bo
Brealin's Every-Day-Gourmet
Espresso & Catering Company



"Cause life's too short to drink bad coffee!"


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View entire thread: Location Location Location

Posted by Mudd Sucker on 2005-01-31 23:17:30      Post Subject: Stay away from Mountain Mudd Espresso

If you value your money and wish to start a coffee drive-thru business find a reputable company. Do not, I repeat do NOT do business with the Mountain Mudd Company in Billings Mt. Turn around and run the other way and don't ever look back. They will sell you a bill of goods and not deliver what they sell you and will not help you get your business premitted and most of the time they do not meet local permitting standards You would be better off giving your money to your favorite charity which at least you would feel good about. In fact getting your money stolen from you from a mugger would give the same feelling as doing business with Mountain Mudd.

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View entire thread: Location Location Location

Posted by Rowley on 2005-02-01 04:34:52      Post Subject: Re: Stay away from Mountain Mudd Espresso

If you value your money and wish to start a coffee drive-thru business find a reputable company. Do not, I repeat do NOT do business with the Mountain Mudd Company in Billings Mt. Turn around and run the other way and don't ever look back. They will sell you a bill of goods and not deliver what they sell you and will not help you get your business premitted and most of the time they do not meet local permitting standards You would be better off giving your money to your favorite charity which at least you would feel good about. In fact getting your money stolen from you from a mugger would give the same feelling as doing business with Mountain Mudd.
Mudd Sucker, can you give any examples or hard facts on why not to do business with Mountain Mudd?


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View entire thread: coffee drive thru

Posted by Newbie on 2004-12-19 23:13:33      Post Subject: coffee drive thru

Hello, I'm in the early stages of opening a coffee drive thru. I've never worked in the coffee buisness, but I have bartended and worked in restauraunts. My partner and I are in the midst of purchasing some prime property for a location. Does anyone have any input on what brand of machinery to purchase?

I spoke to a Rancilio rep and he also sells Tully's coffee. Are these worthy products? Any input on how many machines,etc. would be greatly appreciated. Oh yea, we are opening the drive thru in central California, no name yet.


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View entire thread: coffee drive thru

Posted by everydaygourmet on 2004-12-20 09:10:03      Post Subject: Re: coffee drive thru

Hello, I'm in the early stages of opening a coffee drive thru. I've never worked in the coffee buisness, but I have bartended and worked in restauraunts. My partner and I are in the midst of purchasing some prime property for a location. Does anyone have any input on what brand of machinery to purchase?

I spoke to a Rancilio rep and he also sells Tully's coffee. Are these worthy products? Any input on how many machines,etc. would be greatly appreciated. Oh yea, we are opening the drive thru in central California, no name yet.

having just went through it, spend some time and do your homework. I would suggest (personal preference) a system with a double boiler if you are going to do any volume.

LaMarzocco is the name over and over that kept surfacing for espresso machines...and I ended up buying one. Very happy with it.

Coffee choice is like taking a wine tasting tour through NAPA.

Know what I mean?- there is that much difference, and I would suggest treating it as a wine tasting, and try a lot of different coffee.

Fresh is the key- I use coffee this week that was roasted on Thursday or Friday of last week- ONLY, and that makes a huge difference in my opinion.

I tried for a local roaster, but settled on a regional roaster, sot he beans are here the next day.


Good luck, post lots of questions, there are some really knowledgeable people out there, who are very good at what they do.


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View entire thread: 2 Group Machine for Start Up

Posted by NW JAVA on 2006-09-02 22:34:46      Post Subject:

Your ACE: you asked: I started my own coffee drive thru 4 yrs ago. I started roasting four years ago, I have bought and increased sales when I aquired another drive thru. I have 13 Commercial roating Accts, and average a new one per month. I have made a living with my buisness. It's me alone with my employees ( team) no paychecks: except my sales. No second income or anything like that. So There now you know. I figure 4 yrs roasting and pulling shots is a bit; but not as much expeiance as many others that I respect.

That being said most of the others that roast; don't owner operate and own operate espresso Stands or coffee houses, and barista too...

thanks for asking.

CIAO Bella! and best wishes....


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View entire thread: Some Advice

Posted by Coffee Cup Joe on 2004-11-30 21:21:24      Post Subject: San Antonio drive through

Hey Wlltx,

Great for you. San Antonio needs some drive thru's. I was in Austin for years and coffee drive thru's were rarely found. I am surprised that there are not more.

That might be part of the problem in that your marketplace is not yet familiar with it. How is your ingress/egress? Seems like there are frontage road issues off the main drags and sometimes getting back over to the right lane is troublesome at times. Are you out on 281 towrd 1604 or on the 410 loop somewhere?

There are some really good ideas floating here for you. I think you to be on the right track with the direct mailing since you can control the delivery to your area. Might be better than the radio in fact.
Again, in San Antonio traffic, the pace can be rather fast, so drivers can be tunnel vision with their direction. Often because they see the same thing every day on the commutes.

Good signage is one thing, having it hop out and grab ones attention is another.
Depending on the budget you have set up for this, you might consider some traffic stopping measures to let people know you are there.
Maybe even a rented mascot character on a Saturday to wave at traffic etc...A few days and weekends in a row. Maybe even a two person placement. One just up the road from your place with a sign about your drive thru, while the other stands near the entrance. Wake them up at the corner with one so they have time to turn in at your place. And don't be afraid to do that early in the morning. Thats the crowd you want to shoot for too.

Ideally, once they stop for the first cup they become the daily regular for you. You have then succeeded in breaking the tunnelvision ways of todays drivers!

Good luck to you guys. Next time I am down there to visit my two sons in SA I will look you up. Let me know.


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View entire thread: Barista and roasting training

Posted by makjava on 2004-09-08 11:00:08      Post Subject:

Java Lover, I did know that you were referring to Scooters - definately the best in Omaha ! Scooters is my first stop everytime I come into town. I have been playing with the idea of starting my own coffee drive-thru. In fact, I have talked with Don E. a few times about it. If you could give a "newcomer" one piece of advice, what would it be ?Hey Makjava,

Thanks for the thumbs up, if you are in deed thinking of the coffee shops I own (which are Scooters Java Express). There are actually about 15 of them in Omaha right now, and I own three. If you were thinking of another coffee shop, then kudos to them!!

Keep enjoying that java, no matter where you go!!

Java Lover


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View entire thread: javajoz.com vs. mountainmudd.com, coffee from kiosks model

Posted by hotspotcoffee on 2004-04-07 21:46:27      Post Subject: Responding to your concerns...

Just to answer a few concerns...Hotspot Coffee is indeed designed to meet all local and state regulations nationwide. Hotspot Coffee drive thru's are operated from an approved commissary where restrooms and storage would be located. As for cleanliness, one word...spotless. As for production capabilities, we offer top of the line equipment such as the La Marzocco FB70 Espresso Machine, Swift Grinder, Blend-tec blender, etc. If there are any other concerns, feel free to respond to this forum or email us. Look forward to hearing from you.

www.hothothotcoolcoolcool.com


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View entire thread: Now That Mickey D's Is Goin' All Specialty On Us...

Posted by ABM on 2008-04-06 21:38:53      Post Subject:

Good Stuff. Also, I picked this up from some of the research I'd been doing:

1) Focus on location - What makes a great location? Whether you want to open a coffee shop, espresso cart, kiosk or coffee drive-thru, there are lots of factors in selecting a spot that will generate high volume business. Regardless of how good your drinks are, if you select a poor space, your coffee business will suffer.

2) Focus on layout - Is your espresso business space set up to ease the flow of traffic? Arranging your counter area for maximum efficiency increases throughput, enables baristas to move smoothly and helps your customers get in and out.

3) Focus on proper ingredients and equipment - Quality matters. Because of the demand for better coffee and espresso-based drinks, there has to be a commitment to using high-caliber ingredients and equipment (such as commercial espresso and cappuccino machines, etc). Investing in both areas is critical to earning repeat business.

4) Focus on marketing - Generating recognition and enthusiasm for your espresso business is crucial. Marketing incorporates everything from picking a name representative of your espresso business' personality to offering special promotions to menu set-up. Strong marketing encourages people to try your coffee shop offerings while building your clientele.

5) Focus on training - Do not underestimate the importance of teaching your staff properly from the beginning. Experience has shown that proper barista training increases store profitability, reduces turnover and encourages customer interaction since baristas are able to engage in conversation about the ingredients, the equipment and the drinks.

6) Focus on customer service - Treating a customer well is one sure way to create a loyal patron. Those working behind the counter are greeters for your business. Their demeanor, familiarity with the customer, ability to up-sell and degree of expertise satisfy new customers and create loyalists.

7) Focus on cleanliness - If there is a free moment, then there is time to clean. Whether it is your counter, your parking lot, seating area or restroom, your espresso business should be clean because your guests deserve it. Cleanliness is not only a reflection of your organization, but also the quality of product you serve.


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View entire thread: Training manual?

Posted by seti007 on 2008-02-27 14:01:38      Post Subject:

Hi Topher,
I ma new here and am looking to open a coffee drive thru in Salt lake City. can you please help me out by sending me a copy of teh manual as well. My email is whiz007@yahoo.com
Thanks a bunch


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