View entire thread: Searching for cup cleaning systems without water connection
Posted by coffeekiosk on 2004-03-31 05:53:25 Post Subject: Searching for cup cleaning systems without water connection
We have a project to go with coffee carts or coffee kiosks into a chain of supermarkets. Selling cups of espresso and cappuccino, selling coffee and, maybe, selling coffeemakers.
We will serve in real espresso/cappuccino cups. This is the major idea to distinguish us from competitors.
The carts/kiosk will not have any running water.
1) "I like to find suppliers of sinks and tanks, maybe similar to something used in boats or trailers. The total water contained should be enough to allow the cleaning of 50 - 100 cups before having the need to replace the tank and to empty it in, for instance, a public toilet."
We also shall need the carts and kiosk. They will be placed in front of the cash counters or, in new supermarkets where we are planned to be from the beginning, somewhere within the supermarket. The customers should be able to drink their coffee standing at the cart/kiosk, i.e. some kind of bar. There should be space for 1 - 2 staff, 1 - 2 coffeemakers and the packed coffee beans to sell. We would start with a test at 5 places and then, if successfull, start with 24 - 32.
2) "I like to find suppliers of carts and kiosks (for in house use only), probably some ready-to-use solution."
Thanks to all for your assistance.
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Posted by coffeekiosk on 2004-03-31 05:53:25 Post Subject: Searching for cup cleaning systems without water connection
We have a project to go with coffee carts or coffee kiosks into a chain of supermarkets. Selling cups of espresso and cappuccino, selling coffee and, maybe, selling coffeemakers.
We will serve in real espresso/cappuccino cups. This is the major idea to distinguish us from competitors.
The carts/kiosk will not have any running water.
1) "I like to find suppliers of sinks and tanks, maybe similar to something used in boats or trailers. The total water contained should be enough to allow the cleaning of 50 - 100 cups before having the need to replace the tank and to empty it in, for instance, a public toilet."
We also shall need the carts and kiosk. They will be placed in front of the cash counters or, in new supermarkets where we are planned to be from the beginning, somewhere within the supermarket. The customers should be able to drink their coffee standing at the cart/kiosk, i.e. some kind of bar. There should be space for 1 - 2 staff, 1 - 2 coffeemakers and the packed coffee beans to sell. We would start with a test at 5 places and then, if successfull, start with 24 - 32.
2) "I like to find suppliers of carts and kiosks (for in house use only), probably some ready-to-use solution."
Thanks to all for your assistance.
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View entire thread: Looking for Canadian suppliers
Posted by Klondike Koffee on 2004-08-02 14:49:40 Post Subject: Looking for Canadian suppliers
I would appreciate recommendations for Canadian suppliers of cups, lids, and other supplies, preferably Alberta or B.C.
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Posted by Klondike Koffee on 2004-08-02 14:49:40 Post Subject: Looking for Canadian suppliers
I would appreciate recommendations for Canadian suppliers of cups, lids, and other supplies, preferably Alberta or B.C.
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View entire thread: Looking for a recycled cup supplier
Posted by boolily on 2005-02-05 11:02:58 Post Subject: Looking for a recycled cup supplier
Does anyone have contact info for recycled cup suppliers? We are particularly interested in Australian companies.
Thanks for your help.
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Posted by boolily on 2005-02-05 11:02:58 Post Subject: Looking for a recycled cup supplier
Does anyone have contact info for recycled cup suppliers? We are particularly interested in Australian companies.
Thanks for your help.
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View entire thread: Green Beans Suppliers in Hong Kong
Posted by wantcoffee on 2004-09-10 08:17:27 Post Subject: Green Beans Suppliers in Hong Kong
I am currently looking for green bean suppliers in Hong Kong that is reliable and provide good quality green beans. If you have reference, please let me know.
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Posted by wantcoffee on 2004-09-10 08:17:27 Post Subject: Green Beans Suppliers in Hong Kong
I am currently looking for green bean suppliers in Hong Kong that is reliable and provide good quality green beans. If you have reference, please let me know.
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View entire thread: www.BaristaConnection.com, new coffee social network
Posted by BaristaConnection on 2007-12-28 23:25:15 Post Subject: www.BaristaConnection.com, new coffee social network
Just wanted to let everyone know about www.BaristaConnection.com, it''s a new social networking and directory website for coffee professionals and coffee companies. You can list your cafe for free and also create a personal account to network with others in the industry, find suppliers for your cafe and be found by other coffee enthusiasts!
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Posted by BaristaConnection on 2007-12-28 23:25:15 Post Subject: www.BaristaConnection.com, new coffee social network
Just wanted to let everyone know about www.BaristaConnection.com, it''s a new social networking and directory website for coffee professionals and coffee companies. You can list your cafe for free and also create a personal account to network with others in the industry, find suppliers for your cafe and be found by other coffee enthusiasts!
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View entire thread: Automatic Vending MAchine for Office use
Posted by ada on 2005-02-20 18:20:41 Post Subject: Automatic Vending MAchine for Office use
Hi,
Does any one knows were we can find a whole Saler for automatic vending machines for office use. We are an Import company based in Algeria, looking for about 50 pcs to import to Algeria. If any one can send me some info about suppliers in Eastern Europe, UK or Italy would much appreciated.
Thank u kindly
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Posted by ada on 2005-02-20 18:20:41 Post Subject: Automatic Vending MAchine for Office use
Hi,
Does any one knows were we can find a whole Saler for automatic vending machines for office use. We are an Import company based in Algeria, looking for about 50 pcs to import to Algeria. If any one can send me some info about suppliers in Eastern Europe, UK or Italy would much appreciated.
Thank u kindly
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View entire thread: help starting a coffee cart
Posted by mhirschb on 2006-03-25 15:02:14 Post Subject: help starting a coffee cart
i'm starting to do some research on opening a coffee cart. i was thinking about opening it in a medical office building. any thoughts on this location?
any ideas about how cart space rental should compare to standard office space rentals?
any recs on equipment?
any recs on coffee suppliers?
any other deep thoughts?
thanks for taking the time to reply.
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Posted by mhirschb on 2006-03-25 15:02:14 Post Subject: help starting a coffee cart
i'm starting to do some research on opening a coffee cart. i was thinking about opening it in a medical office building. any thoughts on this location?
any ideas about how cart space rental should compare to standard office space rentals?
any recs on equipment?
any recs on coffee suppliers?
any other deep thoughts?
thanks for taking the time to reply.
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View entire thread: Coffee consultants
Posted by octalpus on 2004-01-13 20:23:19 Post Subject: Coffee consultants
For those that already own a shop, did you employ a coffee consultant when you were starting out? If you did, did you find it a worthwhile investment? If you didn't, do you feel you got off to a good start without, or did you feel you were floundering a bit? Also for those that didn't, where did you find everything you needed such as financial projections, equipment suppliers, roasters, training, etc?
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Posted by octalpus on 2004-01-13 20:23:19 Post Subject: Coffee consultants
For those that already own a shop, did you employ a coffee consultant when you were starting out? If you did, did you find it a worthwhile investment? If you didn't, do you feel you got off to a good start without, or did you feel you were floundering a bit? Also for those that didn't, where did you find everything you needed such as financial projections, equipment suppliers, roasters, training, etc?
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View entire thread: help for an online statup shop
Posted by JPN7 on 2006-06-28 15:31:41 Post Subject: help for an online statup shop
My name is Joe and I am new to this forum.
I love coffee and I would like to start a small online business. A friend of mine told me about drop-shipping and that method sounds best. I was wondering if anyone knew of any good drop shipping suppliers of coffee makers and coffee. I would like to create a place where I can sell a wide variety of good coffee and good coffee equipment online for coffee enthusiasts.
I would appreciate any advice from everyone.
Thanks,
Joe
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Posted by JPN7 on 2006-06-28 15:31:41 Post Subject: help for an online statup shop
My name is Joe and I am new to this forum.
I love coffee and I would like to start a small online business. A friend of mine told me about drop-shipping and that method sounds best. I was wondering if anyone knew of any good drop shipping suppliers of coffee makers and coffee. I would like to create a place where I can sell a wide variety of good coffee and good coffee equipment online for coffee enthusiasts.
I would appreciate any advice from everyone.
Thanks,
Joe
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View entire thread: I would like some advice please
Posted by JPN7 on 2006-06-27 16:01:19 Post Subject: I would like some advice please
My name is Joe and I am new to this forum.
I love coffee and I would like to start a small online business. A friend of mine told me about drop-shipping and that method sounds best. I was wondering if anyone knew of any good drop shipping suppliers of coffee makers and coffee. I would like to create a place where I can sell a wide variety of good coffee and good coffee equipment online for coffee enthusiasts.
I would appreciate any advice from everyone.
Thanks,
Joe
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Posted by JPN7 on 2006-06-27 16:01:19 Post Subject: I would like some advice please
My name is Joe and I am new to this forum.
I love coffee and I would like to start a small online business. A friend of mine told me about drop-shipping and that method sounds best. I was wondering if anyone knew of any good drop shipping suppliers of coffee makers and coffee. I would like to create a place where I can sell a wide variety of good coffee and good coffee equipment online for coffee enthusiasts.
I would appreciate any advice from everyone.
Thanks,
Joe
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View entire thread: Has anyone recently used EuroCafe?
Posted by AJPRATT on 2007-04-11 09:00:28 Post Subject: Has anyone recently used EuroCafe?
I received some information for them and they have a start up package. Of course, everything looks great at first glance, but I am suspicious by nature. And, I did do my due diligence and performed a search on this forum. The last thread was 2 years ago and I was looking for info that's a little more recent. I have two questions:
1) I was wondering if anyone has any feedback about them?
2) Am I better off getting a package like this or dealing seperately with suppliers? I know I have to decide what is best for me, but speaking in general terms...
Thanks.
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Posted by AJPRATT on 2007-04-11 09:00:28 Post Subject: Has anyone recently used EuroCafe?
I received some information for them and they have a start up package. Of course, everything looks great at first glance, but I am suspicious by nature. And, I did do my due diligence and performed a search on this forum. The last thread was 2 years ago and I was looking for info that's a little more recent. I have two questions:
1) I was wondering if anyone has any feedback about them?
2) Am I better off getting a package like this or dealing seperately with suppliers? I know I have to decide what is best for me, but speaking in general terms...
Thanks.
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View entire thread: Advice needed for starting an office coffee service
Posted by TakeFive on 2006-05-11 23:34:44 Post Subject: Advice needed for starting an office coffee service
(I also posted this in the Coffee Shops forum. I apologize for any redundancy!)
Hello all! I just found this site and have been very impressed with what I have seen so far. I do need some advice, though...
Not long after college I worked for a small office coffee service. Basically it was a one-man operation: I did the ordering, delivered the products, serviced the accounts, etc. Being part of a rather large institutional foods company, the accounts were already established, suppliers in place, corporate accounts, et al. As I recall it was a fun and simple job, but at about $3.50 an hour I soon moved on to bigger and better things.
Recently I have contemplated starting a similar office coffee service. I am somewhat familiar with operations such as Standard and Gold Cup, but I feel there is room for another, more "local" service. Can anyone give me some suggestions as to how to get such a business off the ground? I'm not interested in a franchise, and starting capital is pretty low.
Thanks in advance for any help you can give me!
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Posted by TakeFive on 2006-05-11 23:34:44 Post Subject: Advice needed for starting an office coffee service
(I also posted this in the Coffee Shops forum. I apologize for any redundancy!)
Hello all! I just found this site and have been very impressed with what I have seen so far. I do need some advice, though...
Not long after college I worked for a small office coffee service. Basically it was a one-man operation: I did the ordering, delivered the products, serviced the accounts, etc. Being part of a rather large institutional foods company, the accounts were already established, suppliers in place, corporate accounts, et al. As I recall it was a fun and simple job, but at about $3.50 an hour I soon moved on to bigger and better things.
Recently I have contemplated starting a similar office coffee service. I am somewhat familiar with operations such as Standard and Gold Cup, but I feel there is room for another, more "local" service. Can anyone give me some suggestions as to how to get such a business off the ground? I'm not interested in a franchise, and starting capital is pretty low.
Thanks in advance for any help you can give me!
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View entire thread: Ready to rock! Just need the money....
Posted by villagejoe on 2007-06-19 16:12:57 Post Subject: Ready to rock! Just need the money....
Hey everyone! I posted a few months ago concerning opening up a coffee shop operated by a non-profit organization. Well, the business plan is done, the building is purchased and ready for renovations, architect and general contractor have been contacted, and proposed suppliers are planned out. We even have an experienced professional donating their services to do all our logo/website development for free.
I've projected around $100,000 for us to get our doors open. Right now we started our first fundraising project - coordinating with our future roaster, we're selling coffee and cocoa at $4 profit a bag, taking orders just like for Girl Scout cookies. At the same time we're spreading the word about our organization and coffeehouse project, hoping some wealthy philanthropists will catch on to our vision and toss some donations our way.
I attended CoffeeFest Atlanta a few weeks ago, and paid the extra bucks for the Specialty Coffee Business Seminar. I think it was well worth the investment. I gained good contacts, good resources, and sanity of mind.
So, any words of wisdom at this stage in the game? I'd appreciate any feedback at all.
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Posted by villagejoe on 2007-06-19 16:12:57 Post Subject: Ready to rock! Just need the money....
Hey everyone! I posted a few months ago concerning opening up a coffee shop operated by a non-profit organization. Well, the business plan is done, the building is purchased and ready for renovations, architect and general contractor have been contacted, and proposed suppliers are planned out. We even have an experienced professional donating their services to do all our logo/website development for free.
I've projected around $100,000 for us to get our doors open. Right now we started our first fundraising project - coordinating with our future roaster, we're selling coffee and cocoa at $4 profit a bag, taking orders just like for Girl Scout cookies. At the same time we're spreading the word about our organization and coffeehouse project, hoping some wealthy philanthropists will catch on to our vision and toss some donations our way.
I attended CoffeeFest Atlanta a few weeks ago, and paid the extra bucks for the Specialty Coffee Business Seminar. I think it was well worth the investment. I gained good contacts, good resources, and sanity of mind.
So, any words of wisdom at this stage in the game? I'd appreciate any feedback at all.
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View entire thread: Mobile Espresso Business For Sale
Posted by otgcc on 2007-03-26 21:36:06 Post Subject: Mobile Espresso Business For Sale
Up for sale is my mobile espresso business I built from the ground up. I am selling so I can start a new business venture. I am selling everything, my mobile espresso truck, inventory, equipment, training, and the rights to the business name. All together I am asking $90,000.
The truck is a 2006 Chevy Express 3500 chassis that has been customized by The Original Seattle Coffee Company. The truck has just turned 30,000 miles and had its service. It will also come with 4 brand new tires. It is equipped with a Pioneer C/D head unit with Sirius Satilite Radio, 6 disc C/D changer, Pioneer speakers in the doors and in the rear box, and a base tube.
The serving area is finished with a beautiful marble blue backing and Faux Stainless countertops. Equipment on the truck is as follows:
Brasilla 2 group espresso machine
Grinder
Blend Tec Space Saver in counter blender
2 blender jars
2 commercial Beverage Aire stainless steel refridgerators
Hand washing sink
Health department approved 3 compartment dish washing sink
Pastry display case
Plenty of storage space
6 deep cycle batteries
Power inverter with in cab controls and power monitoring
Honda 6010EV Quiet Generator
16 Gallon fresh water tank for the Espresso machine
20 Gallon fresh water tank for the sinks
40 Gallon grey water tank
I usually carry at least a 3 month supply of inventory which will also go to the new owner. I am also willing to deliver the vehicle and inventory anywhere and if needed, will spend up to a week with the new owner to assist with training, business license acquisition, product suppliers, and establish a customer base. This a turn key business, you will be ready to make money immediately.
If you have any questions feel free to give me a call or you can send me an email and I can send you some pictures of what ever you would like. My name is Steve and my number is 573-434-9219 and my email address is air2dthrone@yahoo.com.
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Posted by otgcc on 2007-03-26 21:36:06 Post Subject: Mobile Espresso Business For Sale
Up for sale is my mobile espresso business I built from the ground up. I am selling so I can start a new business venture. I am selling everything, my mobile espresso truck, inventory, equipment, training, and the rights to the business name. All together I am asking $90,000.
The truck is a 2006 Chevy Express 3500 chassis that has been customized by The Original Seattle Coffee Company. The truck has just turned 30,000 miles and had its service. It will also come with 4 brand new tires. It is equipped with a Pioneer C/D head unit with Sirius Satilite Radio, 6 disc C/D changer, Pioneer speakers in the doors and in the rear box, and a base tube.
The serving area is finished with a beautiful marble blue backing and Faux Stainless countertops. Equipment on the truck is as follows:
Brasilla 2 group espresso machine
Grinder
Blend Tec Space Saver in counter blender
2 blender jars
2 commercial Beverage Aire stainless steel refridgerators
Hand washing sink
Health department approved 3 compartment dish washing sink
Pastry display case
Plenty of storage space
6 deep cycle batteries
Power inverter with in cab controls and power monitoring
Honda 6010EV Quiet Generator
16 Gallon fresh water tank for the Espresso machine
20 Gallon fresh water tank for the sinks
40 Gallon grey water tank
I usually carry at least a 3 month supply of inventory which will also go to the new owner. I am also willing to deliver the vehicle and inventory anywhere and if needed, will spend up to a week with the new owner to assist with training, business license acquisition, product suppliers, and establish a customer base. This a turn key business, you will be ready to make money immediately.
If you have any questions feel free to give me a call or you can send me an email and I can send you some pictures of what ever you would like. My name is Steve and my number is 573-434-9219 and my email address is air2dthrone@yahoo.com.
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View entire thread: PRESS RELEASE
Posted by Rowley on 2004-11-26 06:49:25 Post Subject: Re: PRESS RELEASE
Irvine, California - CoffeeSamples.com has launched the website allowing coffee consumers to request free coffee samples from coffee suppliers letting the consumers to try different brands, styles and blends of coffee. This free service connects the coffee suppliers with the drinkers giving the coffee drinker a new fresh cup of coffee.
First paragraph enphasizes the consumer, we want to pitch it as a (vital, new, or trusted) marketing tool for the suppliers and make that apparent right away.
"Coffee suppliers generally offer samples to let the consumers try new product lines and give them the opportunity to switch. CoffeeSamples.com takes the leg work out of searching the Internet for websites and puts all the samples in a centralized location with consumers reviews." says Nicholas Raba, co-founder of CoffeeSamples.com
To fill the cups of the coffee drinkers, CoffeeSamples.com is seeking coffee suppliers to offer free samples to the consumers. Offering samples to consumers allows the supplier to reach new customers and put their beans back in the life of prior drinkers and the opportunity to offer discounts, future samples, product information and fulfill the need for coffee drinkers to try gourmet coffee. CoffeeSamples.com interacts with the coffee sample recipients allowing the drinker to review the coffee they were sent for others looking for reviews of coffee.
The CoffeeSamples.com supplier program ( http://www.coffeesamples.com/supplier_signup.php ) is interactive and allows the supplier to fulfill the orders and update the consumers when the orders have shipped. Quantities of the samples can be limited and show the consumer when all samples are exhausted, at anytime the supplier can add additional quantities or new samples.
http://www.coffeesamples.com
go over this for grammer, typos. make changes.
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Posted by Rowley on 2004-11-26 06:49:25 Post Subject: Re: PRESS RELEASE
Irvine, California - CoffeeSamples.com has launched the website allowing coffee consumers to request free coffee samples from coffee suppliers letting the consumers to try different brands, styles and blends of coffee. This free service connects the coffee suppliers with the drinkers giving the coffee drinker a new fresh cup of coffee.
First paragraph enphasizes the consumer, we want to pitch it as a (vital, new, or trusted) marketing tool for the suppliers and make that apparent right away.
"Coffee suppliers generally offer samples to let the consumers try new product lines and give them the opportunity to switch. CoffeeSamples.com takes the leg work out of searching the Internet for websites and puts all the samples in a centralized location with consumers reviews." says Nicholas Raba, co-founder of CoffeeSamples.com
To fill the cups of the coffee drinkers, CoffeeSamples.com is seeking coffee suppliers to offer free samples to the consumers. Offering samples to consumers allows the supplier to reach new customers and put their beans back in the life of prior drinkers and the opportunity to offer discounts, future samples, product information and fulfill the need for coffee drinkers to try gourmet coffee. CoffeeSamples.com interacts with the coffee sample recipients allowing the drinker to review the coffee they were sent for others looking for reviews of coffee.
The CoffeeSamples.com supplier program ( http://www.coffeesamples.com/supplier_signup.php ) is interactive and allows the supplier to fulfill the orders and update the consumers when the orders have shipped. Quantities of the samples can be limited and show the consumer when all samples are exhausted, at anytime the supplier can add additional quantities or new samples.
http://www.coffeesamples.com
go over this for grammer, typos. make changes.
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View entire thread: PRESS RELEASE
Posted by CoffeeLover on 2004-11-19 21:16:18 Post Subject: PRESS RELEASE
Irvine, California - CoffeeSamples.com has launched the website allowing coffee consumers to request free coffee samples from coffee suppliers letting the consumers to try different brands, styles and blends of coffee. This free service connects the coffee suppliers with the drinkers giving the coffee drinker a new fresh cup of coffee.
"Coffee suppliers generally offer samples to let the consumers try new product lines and give them the opportunity to switch. CoffeeSamples.com takes the leg work out of searching the Internet for websites and puts all the samples in a centralized location with consumers reviews." says Nicholas Raba, co-founder of CoffeeSamples.com
To fill the cups of the coffee drinkers, CoffeeSamples.com is seeking coffee suppliers to offer free samples to the consumers. Offering samples to consumers allows the supplier to reach new customers and put their beans back in the life of prior drinkers and the opportunity to offer discounts, future samples, product information and fulfill the need for coffee drinkers to try gourmet coffee. CoffeeSamples.com interacts with the coffee sample recipients allowing the drinker to review the coffee they were sent for others looking for reviews of coffee.
The CoffeeSamples.com supplier program ( http://www.coffeesamples.com/supplier_signup.php ) is interactive and allows the supplier to fulfill the orders and update the consumers when the orders have shipped. Quantities of the samples can be limited and show the consumer when all samples are exhausted, at anytime the supplier can add additional quantities or new samples.
http://www.coffeesamples.com
go over this for grammer, typos. make changes.
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Posted by CoffeeLover on 2004-11-19 21:16:18 Post Subject: PRESS RELEASE
Irvine, California - CoffeeSamples.com has launched the website allowing coffee consumers to request free coffee samples from coffee suppliers letting the consumers to try different brands, styles and blends of coffee. This free service connects the coffee suppliers with the drinkers giving the coffee drinker a new fresh cup of coffee.
"Coffee suppliers generally offer samples to let the consumers try new product lines and give them the opportunity to switch. CoffeeSamples.com takes the leg work out of searching the Internet for websites and puts all the samples in a centralized location with consumers reviews." says Nicholas Raba, co-founder of CoffeeSamples.com
To fill the cups of the coffee drinkers, CoffeeSamples.com is seeking coffee suppliers to offer free samples to the consumers. Offering samples to consumers allows the supplier to reach new customers and put their beans back in the life of prior drinkers and the opportunity to offer discounts, future samples, product information and fulfill the need for coffee drinkers to try gourmet coffee. CoffeeSamples.com interacts with the coffee sample recipients allowing the drinker to review the coffee they were sent for others looking for reviews of coffee.
The CoffeeSamples.com supplier program ( http://www.coffeesamples.com/supplier_signup.php ) is interactive and allows the supplier to fulfill the orders and update the consumers when the orders have shipped. Quantities of the samples can be limited and show the consumer when all samples are exhausted, at anytime the supplier can add additional quantities or new samples.
http://www.coffeesamples.com
go over this for grammer, typos. make changes.
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View entire thread: Another Idea
Posted by demetri on 2007-01-15 16:24:00 Post Subject:
I think a roaster directory is a great idea. We can easily come up with something that has a location specific way of finding someone.
What about expanding it out to other coffee related businesses? We could list coffee shops, equipment suppliers, etc... as long is its coffee related and not spam.
I just need some possible categories. We can then make it browsable by category or location.
Demetri
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Posted by demetri on 2007-01-15 16:24:00 Post Subject:
I think a roaster directory is a great idea. We can easily come up with something that has a location specific way of finding someone.
What about expanding it out to other coffee related businesses? We could list coffee shops, equipment suppliers, etc... as long is its coffee related and not spam.
I just need some possible categories. We can then make it browsable by category or location.
Demetri
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View entire thread: UK coffee wholesale information wanted
Posted by mike on 2005-04-10 15:33:48 Post Subject: UK coffee wholesale information wanted
Hi,
I was wondering if anyone could recommend any good but cheap wholesale suppliers of roasted coffee beans in the UK. (On-line suppliers preferably, so that I can compare their prices.)
Thanks in advance,
Mike
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Posted by mike on 2005-04-10 15:33:48 Post Subject: UK coffee wholesale information wanted
Hi,
I was wondering if anyone could recommend any good but cheap wholesale suppliers of roasted coffee beans in the UK. (On-line suppliers preferably, so that I can compare their prices.)
Thanks in advance,
Mike
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View entire thread: Coffee Supplier
Posted by kmiklas on 2008-08-19 11:16:03 Post Subject: Coffee Supplier
Hi folks,
Any suppliers out there able to pack their coffee in 12-oz bags? I''d like to order by the case to keep the per-item cost down. Nothing specialty or gourmet; a 100% arabica comparable with 8 o''clock bean.
Ty.
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Posted by kmiklas on 2008-08-19 11:16:03 Post Subject: Coffee Supplier
Hi folks,
Any suppliers out there able to pack their coffee in 12-oz bags? I''d like to order by the case to keep the per-item cost down. Nothing specialty or gourmet; a 100% arabica comparable with 8 o''clock bean.
Ty.
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View entire thread: Straws.......Help
Posted by Comfy Place on 2006-09-18 17:19:31 Post Subject: Straws
We actually get ours from Sam's Club. We looked around at getting them from one of our suppliers that we get other items from, and it was cheaper to get them from Sam's than to get them from one of our other suppliers. I'm sure Costco would be similar; hopefully you have one or the other nearby.
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Posted by Comfy Place on 2006-09-18 17:19:31 Post Subject: Straws
We actually get ours from Sam's Club. We looked around at getting them from one of our suppliers that we get other items from, and it was cheaper to get them from Sam's than to get them from one of our other suppliers. I'm sure Costco would be similar; hopefully you have one or the other nearby.
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View entire thread: Green Coffee Beans in Austin Texas
Posted by California-Coffee on 2005-04-13 19:39:30 Post Subject: Green Coffee Beans in Austin Texas
Looking for green bean suppliers in the Austin Texas Area.
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Posted by California-Coffee on 2005-04-13 19:39:30 Post Subject: Green Coffee Beans in Austin Texas
Looking for green bean suppliers in the Austin Texas Area.
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View entire thread: Take out coffee cups?
Posted by pinheadmann on 2008-08-05 07:48:31 Post Subject: Take out coffee cups?
Hi Everyone.....I am having a problem with the Ecotainer take-out coffee cups. They are reasonbly priced and are compostable, which is good for my customer base, but they LEAK!!!!
I have had several complaints from customers, and experienced it myself, so I am looking to change. Does anyone have any recommendations for coffee cup suppliers that are not foam?
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Posted by pinheadmann on 2008-08-05 07:48:31 Post Subject: Take out coffee cups?
Hi Everyone.....I am having a problem with the Ecotainer take-out coffee cups. They are reasonbly priced and are compostable, which is good for my customer base, but they LEAK!!!!
I have had several complaints from customers, and experienced it myself, so I am looking to change. Does anyone have any recommendations for coffee cup suppliers that are not foam?
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View entire thread: What are your favorite flavoring companies for concentrates?
Posted by gilcafe on 2006-07-11 10:06:00 Post Subject: Question
Hy!
I know it is not related to the subject, but I would like to ask you one question, as I read that you are in Columbia: Can you provide me some contact details of green coffee suppliers? I am working for a roasting company in Romania. Any help is very appreciated. Thank you.
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Posted by gilcafe on 2006-07-11 10:06:00 Post Subject: Question
Hy!
I know it is not related to the subject, but I would like to ask you one question, as I read that you are in Columbia: Can you provide me some contact details of green coffee suppliers? I am working for a roasting company in Romania. Any help is very appreciated. Thank you.
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View entire thread: Coffee Samples
Posted by Rowley on 2004-10-19 13:41:29 Post Subject:
suppliers may want to limit available supply to specific locations, add that to the sample information.
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Posted by Rowley on 2004-10-19 13:41:29 Post Subject:
suppliers may want to limit available supply to specific locations, add that to the sample information.
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View entire thread: Coffee suppliers in Minnesota
Posted by Greenarmyman on 2006-11-20 05:25:21 Post Subject: Coffee suppliers in Minnesota
Does anyone know of any good suppliers of green coffee beans around central/southern Minnesota? I would like to establish contact with you/them.
I am looking for a good supplier right now. I am in Iraq right now with the Army and I am basically trying to "put my feelers out" and see if I can find a promising point of contact for when I get back.
Respectfully,
Greenarmyman
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Posted by Greenarmyman on 2006-11-20 05:25:21 Post Subject: Coffee suppliers in Minnesota
Does anyone know of any good suppliers of green coffee beans around central/southern Minnesota? I would like to establish contact with you/them.
I am looking for a good supplier right now. I am in Iraq right now with the Army and I am basically trying to "put my feelers out" and see if I can find a promising point of contact for when I get back.
Respectfully,
Greenarmyman
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View entire thread: Chair supplie - wholesale Vancouver area
Posted by natalielight on 2005-09-09 15:02:08 Post Subject:
it may just be me, but I've checked a lot of suppliers out for chairs and I think I'm just going to go and order some from the local hoods here, its a hardwood plus home building decor store... they are ten times cheaper with better looking chairs.
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Posted by natalielight on 2005-09-09 15:02:08 Post Subject:
it may just be me, but I've checked a lot of suppliers out for chairs and I think I'm just going to go and order some from the local hoods here, its a hardwood plus home building decor store... they are ten times cheaper with better looking chairs.
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View entire thread: Building Relationships with Coffee Farmers
Posted by green beans on 2007-04-24 09:34:18 Post Subject: Building Relationships with Coffee Farmers
So I have looked at a lot of different green coffee suppliers webpages and talked to a few. Some seem to have a stronger connection with the farmers whom actualy grow the coffee.
I want to know how a coffee roaster can make strong connections with coffee growers from all over the world?
Is it that these roasters buy their coffee from the more farmer/origin concious suppliers or that these roasters actualy get the beans dirrectly from the farmers???
If they do get the beans from the farmers how do they make that connections????
Thank you in advance for any insight here.
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Posted by green beans on 2007-04-24 09:34:18 Post Subject: Building Relationships with Coffee Farmers
So I have looked at a lot of different green coffee suppliers webpages and talked to a few. Some seem to have a stronger connection with the farmers whom actualy grow the coffee.
I want to know how a coffee roaster can make strong connections with coffee growers from all over the world?
Is it that these roasters buy their coffee from the more farmer/origin concious suppliers or that these roasters actualy get the beans dirrectly from the farmers???
If they do get the beans from the farmers how do they make that connections????
Thank you in advance for any insight here.
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View entire thread: Overhead costs on frappes
Posted by Comfy Place on 2006-11-30 16:16:43 Post Subject: frappe costs
We use Big Train for ours, but the principal behind the drinks remains the same. Unfortunately, we have found that these drinks do have a high cost relative to other drinks that we make, especially espresso-based drinks. There might be a few alternatives that you could look at, including:
(1) Could you use less of the frappe base? What I mean by this is, could you use less of the Cool Cap but still retain the same good flavor of the finished drink? This is subjective in nature, and would take some experimenting on your part, and it may not make that much difference in the bottom line of the drink cost anyway.
(2) Could you raise the price of your drinks? This again would involve some work on your part, to check out your competitors who have similar products and their prices. Are you priced competitively? Are you under the prices of all of your competitors? Are the margins that you make on this drink comparable or better than your espresso-based drinks, or worse?
(3) What about offering different sizes? Sometimes places will offer smaller sizes, but the retail prices don't go down that much. If you have a lot of people who would like to have a smaller size, this might be a way to increase your overall profits. This again has potential pitfalls, like obtaining new sized glasses if you don't already have them, etc..
(4) A final idea would be to look for a new supplier for the various ingrediants of the drink. Can you purchase the Cool Cap base cheaper from a different vendor? What about the other components, like ice. Can this be obtained at a more competitive price elsewhere? I will not suggest compromising quality for saving a few pennies, but sometimes you can legitimately save money by looking at different suppliers of the same product.
Hopefully others will have more ways for you to potentially reduce your product costs. Good luck!
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Posted by Comfy Place on 2006-11-30 16:16:43 Post Subject: frappe costs
We use Big Train for ours, but the principal behind the drinks remains the same. Unfortunately, we have found that these drinks do have a high cost relative to other drinks that we make, especially espresso-based drinks. There might be a few alternatives that you could look at, including:
(1) Could you use less of the frappe base? What I mean by this is, could you use less of the Cool Cap but still retain the same good flavor of the finished drink? This is subjective in nature, and would take some experimenting on your part, and it may not make that much difference in the bottom line of the drink cost anyway.
(2) Could you raise the price of your drinks? This again would involve some work on your part, to check out your competitors who have similar products and their prices. Are you priced competitively? Are you under the prices of all of your competitors? Are the margins that you make on this drink comparable or better than your espresso-based drinks, or worse?
(3) What about offering different sizes? Sometimes places will offer smaller sizes, but the retail prices don't go down that much. If you have a lot of people who would like to have a smaller size, this might be a way to increase your overall profits. This again has potential pitfalls, like obtaining new sized glasses if you don't already have them, etc..
(4) A final idea would be to look for a new supplier for the various ingrediants of the drink. Can you purchase the Cool Cap base cheaper from a different vendor? What about the other components, like ice. Can this be obtained at a more competitive price elsewhere? I will not suggest compromising quality for saving a few pennies, but sometimes you can legitimately save money by looking at different suppliers of the same product.
Hopefully others will have more ways for you to potentially reduce your product costs. Good luck!
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View entire thread: Take out coffee cups?
Posted by villagejoe on 2008-08-21 11:32:26 Post Subject:
I also use Ecotainer hot cups, and I have occasionally had complaints about leakage. However, those have mostly come from people who have left cups in hot cars or who have tried to reheat their coffee in the cup in the microwave. The vast majority of my customers have never had a problem with leaky cups.
Regardless, I use BaristaWorks.com to order most of my paper supplies. I like that they carry the Ecotainer line and have low minimums. Where are you ordering your cups from? Most suppliers also carry basic paper hot cups... you might want to check out BaristaWorks if you don't have anyone else in mind.
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Posted by villagejoe on 2008-08-21 11:32:26 Post Subject:
I also use Ecotainer hot cups, and I have occasionally had complaints about leakage. However, those have mostly come from people who have left cups in hot cars or who have tried to reheat their coffee in the cup in the microwave. The vast majority of my customers have never had a problem with leaky cups.
Regardless, I use BaristaWorks.com to order most of my paper supplies. I like that they carry the Ecotainer line and have low minimums. Where are you ordering your cups from? Most suppliers also carry basic paper hot cups... you might want to check out BaristaWorks if you don't have anyone else in mind.
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View entire thread: Coffeehouse startup
Posted by Comfy Place on 2006-12-04 14:47:30 Post Subject: Coffeehouse Startup
In an area where we are, which is rural, one could get away with $50K to start-up a coffeehouse (we did!). Even in a small suburban town outside of Chicago, I would more expect a figure of $75K at least. I would think that this would even provide you with between $5-$10K of working capital, if you can do things right.
You're right that there is a big range in how much it may cost you to open a coffee shop. The best way to have an idea of how much it will cost you is to start acquiring the figures for the products and the space that you want. You may find out that it will take even more money, or it could take a bit less. Besides, this is research that you will want to be doing anyway, so you can incorporate it into your business plan, and you can ask questions of potential suppliers, landlords, etc.
Feel free to drop me a line via this forum, or e-mail me through our website at www.thecomfyplacecoffeehouse.com.
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Posted by Comfy Place on 2006-12-04 14:47:30 Post Subject: Coffeehouse Startup
In an area where we are, which is rural, one could get away with $50K to start-up a coffeehouse (we did!). Even in a small suburban town outside of Chicago, I would more expect a figure of $75K at least. I would think that this would even provide you with between $5-$10K of working capital, if you can do things right.
You're right that there is a big range in how much it may cost you to open a coffee shop. The best way to have an idea of how much it will cost you is to start acquiring the figures for the products and the space that you want. You may find out that it will take even more money, or it could take a bit less. Besides, this is research that you will want to be doing anyway, so you can incorporate it into your business plan, and you can ask questions of potential suppliers, landlords, etc.
Feel free to drop me a line via this forum, or e-mail me through our website at www.thecomfyplacecoffeehouse.com.
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View entire thread: Nuff for the foreseeable future, TG!
Posted by wulf on 2003-11-06 03:52:13 Post Subject:
Is this more bad news for small suppliers (the kind weighing up whether they should produce coffee and starve or try drugs and feed their family)?
Wulf
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Posted by wulf on 2003-11-06 03:52:13 Post Subject:
Is this more bad news for small suppliers (the kind weighing up whether they should produce coffee and starve or try drugs and feed their family)?
Wulf
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View entire thread: pre-packaged treats
Posted by gimme_coffee on 2005-05-09 05:48:02 Post Subject: pre-packaged treats
I made a post with the same title but slightly different message in the coffee shop section.
We are doing research for our business plan and welcome anyone selling pre-packaged pastries and other treats to contact us with a printed catalog if at all possible but at least a price list so that we can compare prices of different companies.
Respond with your website and we will go from there.
Please note that preference will be given to suppliers in Indiana and the surrounding states but we still encourage everyone to submit information.
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Posted by gimme_coffee on 2005-05-09 05:48:02 Post Subject: pre-packaged treats
I made a post with the same title but slightly different message in the coffee shop section.
We are doing research for our business plan and welcome anyone selling pre-packaged pastries and other treats to contact us with a printed catalog if at all possible but at least a price list so that we can compare prices of different companies.
Respond with your website and we will go from there.
Please note that preference will be given to suppliers in Indiana and the surrounding states but we still encourage everyone to submit information.
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View entire thread: Good Sites for Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee
Posted by tsmalls0 on 2007-10-18 19:29:20 Post Subject: Good Sites for Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee
I have purchased coffee from a store online http://www.blumcafe.com . I have gotten my product and love it very much. Their price also seemed to be very good. I have bought from other sources that advertised Blue Mountain but was dissatisfied when I got the product home and brewed it. My coffee had an expiration date on it.
Does anyone have any other sites I can use as an alternative that would have similar prices on the items Blumcafe has on its site? I don''t like putting all my eggs in one basket. Plus this will also give me an opportunity to compare two or more good suppliers.
Additionally, I got a inspection certificate with my coffee that I recently ordered from them. Should I hold on to this certificate or can I discard? I have never gotten an inspection certificate with my coffee until purchasing from these guys. Do others do the same?
Thanks
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Posted by tsmalls0 on 2007-10-18 19:29:20 Post Subject: Good Sites for Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee
I have purchased coffee from a store online http://www.blumcafe.com . I have gotten my product and love it very much. Their price also seemed to be very good. I have bought from other sources that advertised Blue Mountain but was dissatisfied when I got the product home and brewed it. My coffee had an expiration date on it.
Does anyone have any other sites I can use as an alternative that would have similar prices on the items Blumcafe has on its site? I don''t like putting all my eggs in one basket. Plus this will also give me an opportunity to compare two or more good suppliers.
Additionally, I got a inspection certificate with my coffee that I recently ordered from them. Should I hold on to this certificate or can I discard? I have never gotten an inspection certificate with my coffee until purchasing from these guys. Do others do the same?
Thanks
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View entire thread: Can anyone recommend a Local Roaster near Detroit Michigan?
Posted by rtippit2000 on 2006-01-17 00:58:15 Post Subject: Can anyone recommend a Local Roaster near Detroit Michigan?
Great Forum! Thanks for all the useful eyeopening information.
I am currently putting my business plan together for a coffee shop in Michigan. In June 2006, my wife and I will be attending the CoffeeFest in Las Vegas to look for suppliers and sample the goods so to speak.
For now, I am looking for any information about roasters located near the Detroit Area (Oakland and Macomb Counties).
I am just trying to get an idea about the local roasters' reputation and abilities.
Maybe someone would like to recommend their roaster?
Also, any roaster outside of Detroit would be great if that roaster could provide a quality roast with fast and fresh delivery.
Thanks
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Posted by rtippit2000 on 2006-01-17 00:58:15 Post Subject: Can anyone recommend a Local Roaster near Detroit Michigan?
Great Forum! Thanks for all the useful eyeopening information.
I am currently putting my business plan together for a coffee shop in Michigan. In June 2006, my wife and I will be attending the CoffeeFest in Las Vegas to look for suppliers and sample the goods so to speak.
For now, I am looking for any information about roasters located near the Detroit Area (Oakland and Macomb Counties).
I am just trying to get an idea about the local roasters' reputation and abilities.
Maybe someone would like to recommend their roaster?
Also, any roaster outside of Detroit would be great if that roaster could provide a quality roast with fast and fresh delivery.
Thanks
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View entire thread: Is anyone here located in France or Europe?
Posted by kiki on 2005-06-11 19:33:58 Post Subject: Is anyone here located in France or Europe?
I'm opening a coffee shop in France and looking for cups suppliers and some other stuff
Help is appreciated
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Posted by kiki on 2005-06-11 19:33:58 Post Subject: Is anyone here located in France or Europe?
I'm opening a coffee shop in France and looking for cups suppliers and some other stuff
Help is appreciated
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View entire thread: Coffee Economics at Origin-
Posted by Alun_evans on 2008-08-18 18:45:48 Post Subject:
Well a contract is....a contract! Nothing hacks off roasters or brokers outside the producing countries more than suppliers/incounty brokers who renege on contracts. It sadly happens a lot where I am- I have a lot of friends who are brokers in Europe who cc me in on black-list/renege on contract letters they send out everytime a contract gets broken. Essentially this does not happen when prices are stabil (or falling) but when they are going in the opposite direction, it happens a lot! Mind you this really applies more to big bulk buying of greens (ie; 30 containers of Lintong for instance) not the more specialised 1 container or less buying, where it is assumed you have a 1-on-1 relatonship with the growers. In this instance, if my growers came to me with increases I would look into it and obviously adjust the agreed price, if justified. Otherwise you ust end up either screwing up the relationship, or getting crap- in which case you then have to reject it...which obviously ends up in dispute.
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Posted by Alun_evans on 2008-08-18 18:45:48 Post Subject:
Well a contract is....a contract! Nothing hacks off roasters or brokers outside the producing countries more than suppliers/incounty brokers who renege on contracts. It sadly happens a lot where I am- I have a lot of friends who are brokers in Europe who cc me in on black-list/renege on contract letters they send out everytime a contract gets broken. Essentially this does not happen when prices are stabil (or falling) but when they are going in the opposite direction, it happens a lot! Mind you this really applies more to big bulk buying of greens (ie; 30 containers of Lintong for instance) not the more specialised 1 container or less buying, where it is assumed you have a 1-on-1 relatonship with the growers. In this instance, if my growers came to me with increases I would look into it and obviously adjust the agreed price, if justified. Otherwise you ust end up either screwing up the relationship, or getting crap- in which case you then have to reject it...which obviously ends up in dispute.
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View entire thread: internal mechanisms of coffee
Posted by mrgnomer on 2006-03-04 11:50:19 Post Subject:
Just being new to espresso I have much more to learn but after practical experience with a serious entry level machine, the Rancilio Silvia, and after about 4 months of obsessive research on espresso and machines I'd say espresso machines fall into two groups.
First group would be the low price range group that offers pressurized portafilters, froth assist but still boasts 15bars of pressure out of the pump.
I don't have experience with these machines but from the testimony about them some do a good job at pulling espresso shots. Personally I wouldn't invest in equipment with questionable life, reliability and ability to make great espresso.
The second group, the group that intrests me most, is the prosumer machines whose design and components reflect consumer standards. I like quality, durability and reliability and would spend more for good equipment. My preference also favours a semi automatic design mostly because a semi automatic allows the operator direct control of espresso pulling.
The ideal machine would be easily and finely adjustable for temperature and pressure and maintain steady temperature and pressure during the pull. A double boiler machine with the grouphead mounted directly to the espresso boiler would be stable. PID control of the boiler temperature in Fahrenheit increments of 1F would be ideal. Pressure guages on both boilers and on the grouphead would be ideal as well. A temperature meter on the E61 grouphead would round things out nicely.
Use commercial grade parts and make the machine a rotary pump pourover with plumbing option, put it all in a shiny stainless steel package that would fit on a kitchen counter under the cabinets and you'd have the espresso world beating a path to your door.
The Brewtus II is not a bad start. It offers temperature control but, as far as I understand, not by PID. Like I said, I'm new to espresso but I'm starting to see that temperature in the boiler is controlled by pressure not internal water temp and there must be an advantage in that so thermostat control using a PID might not be ideal. The Brewtus uses a vibe pump rather than a rotary pump. As far as I understand a vibe pump by it's design does not offer as smooth a delivery of pressure and is noisier than a rotary pump.
The Ventrano is another supplier collaboration that offers a very good prosumer level machine to the home espresso market.
Higher end machines like the Astra Gourmet or the Elektra A3 interest me more, however.
There are a few suppliers with connections to manufacturers that are having machines designed to their specs. Those are the machines that intrerest me. IMHO, if the prosumer machine is rated for commercial use and can reliably operate in a low volume commercial setting, then I'm interested. Give me a machine that is powerful, durable, well designed, gives feedback with regards to pressure and temperature during operation, is easily adjustable and maintains rock steady temperature and pressure through a pull and I'd be happy to invest in it.
Good luck with your project. Advances in espresso machine design definitely a worthy niche that needs filling.
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Posted by mrgnomer on 2006-03-04 11:50:19 Post Subject:
Just being new to espresso I have much more to learn but after practical experience with a serious entry level machine, the Rancilio Silvia, and after about 4 months of obsessive research on espresso and machines I'd say espresso machines fall into two groups.
First group would be the low price range group that offers pressurized portafilters, froth assist but still boasts 15bars of pressure out of the pump.
I don't have experience with these machines but from the testimony about them some do a good job at pulling espresso shots. Personally I wouldn't invest in equipment with questionable life, reliability and ability to make great espresso.
The second group, the group that intrests me most, is the prosumer machines whose design and components reflect consumer standards. I like quality, durability and reliability and would spend more for good equipment. My preference also favours a semi automatic design mostly because a semi automatic allows the operator direct control of espresso pulling.
The ideal machine would be easily and finely adjustable for temperature and pressure and maintain steady temperature and pressure during the pull. A double boiler machine with the grouphead mounted directly to the espresso boiler would be stable. PID control of the boiler temperature in Fahrenheit increments of 1F would be ideal. Pressure guages on both boilers and on the grouphead would be ideal as well. A temperature meter on the E61 grouphead would round things out nicely.
Use commercial grade parts and make the machine a rotary pump pourover with plumbing option, put it all in a shiny stainless steel package that would fit on a kitchen counter under the cabinets and you'd have the espresso world beating a path to your door.
The Brewtus II is not a bad start. It offers temperature control but, as far as I understand, not by PID. Like I said, I'm new to espresso but I'm starting to see that temperature in the boiler is controlled by pressure not internal water temp and there must be an advantage in that so thermostat control using a PID might not be ideal. The Brewtus uses a vibe pump rather than a rotary pump. As far as I understand a vibe pump by it's design does not offer as smooth a delivery of pressure and is noisier than a rotary pump.
The Ventrano is another supplier collaboration that offers a very good prosumer level machine to the home espresso market.
Higher end machines like the Astra Gourmet or the Elektra A3 interest me more, however.
There are a few suppliers with connections to manufacturers that are having machines designed to their specs. Those are the machines that intrerest me. IMHO, if the prosumer machine is rated for commercial use and can reliably operate in a low volume commercial setting, then I'm interested. Give me a machine that is powerful, durable, well designed, gives feedback with regards to pressure and temperature during operation, is easily adjustable and maintains rock steady temperature and pressure through a pull and I'd be happy to invest in it.
Good luck with your project. Advances in espresso machine design definitely a worthy niche that needs filling.
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View entire thread: Any thoughts on wega grinder?
Posted by Alun_evans on 2007-09-25 22:16:00 Post Subject:
Wega is actually a brand manufactured by CMA (Astoria, San Marino etc). I think they partner with Mazzer for their grinder systems, but tag them with the Wega brand name. I am therefore pretty sure that you will be getting a Mazzer built grinder- so you should check with new suppliers to see if the deal is good or not.
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Posted by Alun_evans on 2007-09-25 22:16:00 Post Subject:
Wega is actually a brand manufactured by CMA (Astoria, San Marino etc). I think they partner with Mazzer for their grinder systems, but tag them with the Wega brand name. I am therefore pretty sure that you will be getting a Mazzer built grinder- so you should check with new suppliers to see if the deal is good or not.
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View entire thread: Help me pick a bean...
Posted by GreggWNY on 2005-11-09 10:40:27 Post Subject: Help me pick a bean...
Hi, I'm new here and would appreciate some help finding a supplier of quality beans. I have been using Starbucks Expresso Roast whole bean for quite awhile. It really is my wife and my favorite, We tried buying beans from other suppliers but they didn't compare in flavor. We like our coffee very strong but not bitter. In our house coffee is referred to as "plasma". Anyway if some one has a suggestion for a similar but possibly even better tasting coffee bean than the current Starbucks we are using it would be appreciated.
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Posted by GreggWNY on 2005-11-09 10:40:27 Post Subject: Help me pick a bean...
Hi, I'm new here and would appreciate some help finding a supplier of quality beans. I have been using Starbucks Expresso Roast whole bean for quite awhile. It really is my wife and my favorite, We tried buying beans from other suppliers but they didn't compare in flavor. We like our coffee very strong but not bitter. In our house coffee is referred to as "plasma". Anyway if some one has a suggestion for a similar but possibly even better tasting coffee bean than the current Starbucks we are using it would be appreciated.
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View entire thread: Specialty Coffee Market - Including Organic
Posted by CoffeeLover on 2003-05-23 11:18:35 Post Subject:
I've seen advanced coffee menus at some of the restaurants I’ve been to with full pages devoted to coffee in the drinks menu. But I do agree with you, many fall short on this feature, I think it has something to do with the restaurants commonly changing who their coffee suppliers are and what brand they buy.
If you could spend a few minutes to talk to the management, or send a e-mail to the restaurants management you could help them in knowing what you're looking for especially if your a common patron at their establishment. A simple e-mail letting them know you’d like to see more specialty coffees available would be fine enough, recommended kinds of coffee could help the uneducated with it. Even offering your expertise in the matter free of charge could accommodate both your needs and their business ventures.
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Posted by CoffeeLover on 2003-05-23 11:18:35 Post Subject:
I've seen advanced coffee menus at some of the restaurants I’ve been to with full pages devoted to coffee in the drinks menu. But I do agree with you, many fall short on this feature, I think it has something to do with the restaurants commonly changing who their coffee suppliers are and what brand they buy.
If you could spend a few minutes to talk to the management, or send a e-mail to the restaurants management you could help them in knowing what you're looking for especially if your a common patron at their establishment. A simple e-mail letting them know you’d like to see more specialty coffees available would be fine enough, recommended kinds of coffee could help the uneducated with it. Even offering your expertise in the matter free of charge could accommodate both your needs and their business ventures.
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View entire thread: Bean grinders
Posted by CafeBlue on 2007-06-15 00:21:14 Post Subject:
"General consensus" means little in this case. You are looking for a specific custom application.
"Best" for you also depends on your needs/expectations for the performance, reliability, affordability and life expectancy of the grinding mechanism in your application.
I suggest you contact the manufacturers you will likely use as component vendors. If you have not yet identified suppliers, try the folks at Mahlkonig - they manufacture excellent grinders and grinding components.
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Posted by CafeBlue on 2007-06-15 00:21:14 Post Subject:
"General consensus" means little in this case. You are looking for a specific custom application.
"Best" for you also depends on your needs/expectations for the performance, reliability, affordability and life expectancy of the grinding mechanism in your application.
I suggest you contact the manufacturers you will likely use as component vendors. If you have not yet identified suppliers, try the folks at Mahlkonig - they manufacture excellent grinders and grinding components.
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View entire thread: Smoothies....
Posted by BeachTreats on 2007-01-24 08:18:41 Post Subject: Smoothies....
Looking to expand my offerings and have some questions/concerns.
1) on "smoothies" I'm currently using the JetTea line. Love the taste and texture, as do my customers, but they don't have the greatest or most extensive product line.
Anyone have any other suppliers? Have tried Dr. Smoothie. Not real thrilled with the taste. Prep takes too long, as you have to measure your ice, mix and water (JetTeas are just ice and mix). My exception to Dr S. is the Pineapple.... Now that one is good!!!!!!
For those of you that do offer Fruit Smoothies, how many offerings do you have available? What are some of the best sellers? For me my best is Jet Teas APB. Supposed to be seriously healthy, I push that and can also charge a premium on it. (Ok, it also helps that the Queen of afternoon talk-shows has had the Acai on her show, and I promote that fact, too...)
2) Powdered mixes. Do you all use them? For anything other than Hot Coco, and I'm getting away from it there, it seems like such an unprofessional means of making a drink. It looks like one is making a variation of commercial KoolAid... To us, it just doesn't appear professional.
Most of the concoctions that I make that seem to be the staple of the dry mixes, I make fresh, with the various ingredients. Thoughts, ideas????
Thanks all......
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Posted by BeachTreats on 2007-01-24 08:18:41 Post Subject: Smoothies....
Looking to expand my offerings and have some questions/concerns.
1) on "smoothies" I'm currently using the JetTea line. Love the taste and texture, as do my customers, but they don't have the greatest or most extensive product line.
Anyone have any other suppliers? Have tried Dr. Smoothie. Not real thrilled with the taste. Prep takes too long, as you have to measure your ice, mix and water (JetTeas are just ice and mix). My exception to Dr S. is the Pineapple.... Now that one is good!!!!!!
For those of you that do offer Fruit Smoothies, how many offerings do you have available? What are some of the best sellers? For me my best is Jet Teas APB. Supposed to be seriously healthy, I push that and can also charge a premium on it. (Ok, it also helps that the Queen of afternoon talk-shows has had the Acai on her show, and I promote that fact, too...)
2) Powdered mixes. Do you all use them? For anything other than Hot Coco, and I'm getting away from it there, it seems like such an unprofessional means of making a drink. It looks like one is making a variation of commercial KoolAid... To us, it just doesn't appear professional.
Most of the concoctions that I make that seem to be the staple of the dry mixes, I make fresh, with the various ingredients. Thoughts, ideas????
Thanks all......
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View entire thread: Vacuum Bag sealer and Bags
Posted by richnks on 2006-12-14 05:43:03 Post Subject: Vacuum Bag sealer and Bags
Hello everyone!
I'm in need of a good vacuum bag sealer (whole and ground) for shipping my coffee. Will just about any vacuum bag sealer machine do that is on the market?
I will also need the bags that are compatible with the machine. I have read that the "one-way" check valve bags are best.
This is for a start-up business. If anyone could recommend some suppliers of these items, I would greatly appreciate it.
Rich
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Posted by richnks on 2006-12-14 05:43:03 Post Subject: Vacuum Bag sealer and Bags
Hello everyone!
I'm in need of a good vacuum bag sealer (whole and ground) for shipping my coffee. Will just about any vacuum bag sealer machine do that is on the market?
I will also need the bags that are compatible with the machine. I have read that the "one-way" check valve bags are best.
This is for a start-up business. If anyone could recommend some suppliers of these items, I would greatly appreciate it.
Rich
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View entire thread: Parts and servicing
Posted by Volcano on 2008-06-03 18:56:18 Post Subject: Parts and servicing
I''ve got a 2.5 kg Aerabica 2000R electric roaster which needs a new on/off switch and is proving a real challenge to hunt down. Does anyone else out there have the same roaster? I know it''s a 2 pole 20 amp on/off switch but the exact size I don''t know. The electrical suppliers I''ve visited don''t have the larger size switches, they stock slightly smaller though similar looking ones.
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Posted by Volcano on 2008-06-03 18:56:18 Post Subject: Parts and servicing
I''ve got a 2.5 kg Aerabica 2000R electric roaster which needs a new on/off switch and is proving a real challenge to hunt down. Does anyone else out there have the same roaster? I know it''s a 2 pole 20 amp on/off switch but the exact size I don''t know. The electrical suppliers I''ve visited don''t have the larger size switches, they stock slightly smaller though similar looking ones.
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View entire thread: Vacuum Bag sealer and Bags
Posted by CafeBlue on 2006-12-14 14:17:07 Post Subject:
Pacific Bag is a good company to start your search. They specialize in short run printing and labelling, and can supply virtually everything for coffee packing.
"Start up volume" can have a variety of meanings. Think about the number of package designs, sizes and labels you would like. Consider the total poundage you will pack. Consider the trade off between equipment cost and labor, as you decide how much automation you need. The suppliers can help you with number of bags per minute capacity for the different options to help you determine your needs.
Consider your growth plan, get equiupment that you will not outgrow this year.
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Posted by CafeBlue on 2006-12-14 14:17:07 Post Subject:
Pacific Bag is a good company to start your search. They specialize in short run printing and labelling, and can supply virtually everything for coffee packing.
"Start up volume" can have a variety of meanings. Think about the number of package designs, sizes and labels you would like. Consider the total poundage you will pack. Consider the trade off between equipment cost and labor, as you decide how much automation you need. The suppliers can help you with number of bags per minute capacity for the different options to help you determine your needs.
Consider your growth plan, get equiupment that you will not outgrow this year.
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View entire thread: suppliers in illinois
Posted by j282smokey on 2006-05-03 02:22:45 Post Subject: suppliers in illinois
I'm looking for some info on local coffee suppliers and anyone who carries espresso equipment and machines. I'm located in illinois , really stinks I missed out on that coffee fest in chicago. Basically doing all my homework right now for a buisness plan. I'm finding all kinds of info on the net. to buy machines and supplies but would rather buy it locally. That way it could be serviced whenever it has to be. I appreciate any info I can get. Thanks
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Posted by j282smokey on 2006-05-03 02:22:45 Post Subject: suppliers in illinois
I'm looking for some info on local coffee suppliers and anyone who carries espresso equipment and machines. I'm located in illinois , really stinks I missed out on that coffee fest in chicago. Basically doing all my homework right now for a buisness plan. I'm finding all kinds of info on the net. to buy machines and supplies but would rather buy it locally. That way it could be serviced whenever it has to be. I appreciate any info I can get. Thanks
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View entire thread: Looking to get into the coffee business
Posted by Scuba_God on 2007-10-26 13:18:59 Post Subject: Looking to get into the coffee business
I am looking to get into the coffee business. I will be opening a shop in a foreign country and will need to have supplies shipped from the US. It will be take away paper cups only and may have up to 3 tables, most business will be take away. I am currently going through the process of business licenses for this country. Is there any particular suppliers that I could look at for beans, machines, cups/supplies and even consultation. Just looking for ideas right now.
I have been thinking on this for about a year and a half but am just now going forward with it.
Thanks
Barry
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Posted by Scuba_God on 2007-10-26 13:18:59 Post Subject: Looking to get into the coffee business
I am looking to get into the coffee business. I will be opening a shop in a foreign country and will need to have supplies shipped from the US. It will be take away paper cups only and may have up to 3 tables, most business will be take away. I am currently going through the process of business licenses for this country. Is there any particular suppliers that I could look at for beans, machines, cups/supplies and even consultation. Just looking for ideas right now.
I have been thinking on this for about a year and a half but am just now going forward with it.
Thanks
Barry
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View entire thread: Sumatra Buengee
Posted by Alun_evans on 2007-01-16 04:39:14 Post Subject:
I think you might be looking for Sumatra Tim-Tim, Blangili...although I may be wrong. Its a longish, flatish Arabica. I think if you have a look around with your suppliers using either Sumatra Timtim, and or Blangili, you should find what you are after. I am pretty sure that this varietal is originally from East Timor, hence the "Tim-tim" (Which is Indonesian for East Timor) in the name. In all honesty Indonesia is having a rotten 2006-2007 crop year so far. Crazy weather patterns have IMHO effected the cupping character of all the Sumatrans we deal with. Where I am (West Java) it is the middle of the Monsoon season...with very, very little rain in sight. We are hoping that things change real quick. Anyway good luck in the search.
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Posted by Alun_evans on 2007-01-16 04:39:14 Post Subject:
I think you might be looking for Sumatra Tim-Tim, Blangili...although I may be wrong. Its a longish, flatish Arabica. I think if you have a look around with your suppliers using either Sumatra Timtim, and or Blangili, you should find what you are after. I am pretty sure that this varietal is originally from East Timor, hence the "Tim-tim" (Which is Indonesian for East Timor) in the name. In all honesty Indonesia is having a rotten 2006-2007 crop year so far. Crazy weather patterns have IMHO effected the cupping character of all the Sumatrans we deal with. Where I am (West Java) it is the middle of the Monsoon season...with very, very little rain in sight. We are hoping that things change real quick. Anyway good luck in the search.
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View entire thread: Ordering supplies etc.
Posted by Juliann Castell on 2006-07-23 21:35:02 Post Subject: Ordering supplies etc.
OK - sounds simple BUT - do you order your own CUPS, LIDS, NAPKINS (paper supplies etc.) or does your Roaster also provide/supply these?
Any suggestions re: suppliers e.g., Insulair, Dixie - others?
Thanks!
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Posted by Juliann Castell on 2006-07-23 21:35:02 Post Subject: Ordering supplies etc.
OK - sounds simple BUT - do you order your own CUPS, LIDS, NAPKINS (paper supplies etc.) or does your Roaster also provide/supply these?
Any suggestions re: suppliers e.g., Insulair, Dixie - others?
Thanks!
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View entire thread: Buy Pre-Roasted or Roast My Own???
Posted by mrgnomer on 2006-02-16 11:08:05 Post Subject:
Sweet Maria's has a lot of info on roasting and roasting methods.
http://www.sweetmarias.com/
For freshness and quality, you can't beat home roasting. There's a learning curve and I don't think you'll hit the roasts or blends of some very experienced specialty/micro roasters but you'll top anything grocery store bought.
With home roasting you can pick your green bean and have available to you varietals that you won't find at the store. As well most green bean suppliers source out very high quality arabicas which makes for very tasty coffee. Fresh green beans can also be stored for years so if you home roast you can build up a stock and roast on demand to ensure freshness. Green beans are also considerably cheaper than roasted beans of the same quality so you'll save money as well. Where I live green beans are tax exempt.
It's also an interesting hobby to get into if you like coffee. There is so much I've learned about coffee just from home roasting that I don't think I would have learned otherwise.
You also don't need expensive, computer controlled equipment. Roasting coffee is like popping popcorn. Nice and even and try not to burn it. Expensive machines make the process easier but they're not essential.
It's a myth that home roasting is difficult and inaccessable to the public. Commercial coffee suppliers would like you to think that but it's really not true.
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Posted by mrgnomer on 2006-02-16 11:08:05 Post Subject:
Sweet Maria's has a lot of info on roasting and roasting methods.
http://www.sweetmarias.com/
For freshness and quality, you can't beat home roasting. There's a learning curve and I don't think you'll hit the roasts or blends of some very experienced specialty/micro roasters but you'll top anything grocery store bought.
With home roasting you can pick your green bean and have available to you varietals that you won't find at the store. As well most green bean suppliers source out very high quality arabicas which makes for very tasty coffee. Fresh green beans can also be stored for years so if you home roast you can build up a stock and roast on demand to ensure freshness. Green beans are also considerably cheaper than roasted beans of the same quality so you'll save money as well. Where I live green beans are tax exempt.
It's also an interesting hobby to get into if you like coffee. There is so much I've learned about coffee just from home roasting that I don't think I would have learned otherwise.
You also don't need expensive, computer controlled equipment. Roasting coffee is like popping popcorn. Nice and even and try not to burn it. Expensive machines make the process easier but they're not essential.
It's a myth that home roasting is difficult and inaccessable to the public. Commercial coffee suppliers would like you to think that but it's really not true.
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View entire thread: Opinions on this location
Posted by AJPRATT on 2007-04-12 10:29:50 Post Subject:
There are some great consultants you can hire for site evaluation. A couple of them post on this forum. Since I am a huge research nut, I would recommend purchasing some coffee industry books and read up on what they suggest for locations. Some include checklists to use when evaluating a location. There are a number of ways to evaulate a location. You can also do a search on this site for "location" and it might help to answer your questions. You could also do an internet search for "location checklist", too. I have also included a quick list...
Choosing a business location requires consideration of a broad range of factors, from local zoning and tax laws to the accessibility of your business to customers and employees. The following checklist includes several questions you should answer before making your ultimate decision on where to open your business. Be careful to factor in your own special circumstances, which do not necessarily appear on this list. Yes/No
Is the area zoned for this type of business?
Are qualified employees available in the area?
Is the site close to the markets served by the business?
Are any competitors in the area?
Are the inventory and supplies the business needs available in the area?
Can suppliers conveniently make deliveries to this area?
Is public transportation accessible?
Are the utilities needed to run the business available?
Are there facilities nearby for transporting goods?
Are the rates for transporting goods similar to or lower than in other areas?
Does the cost of this facility in this location compare favorably with other areas?
Do the taxes on this facility compare favorably with other areas?
Do the taxes on the business compare favorably to those in other areas?
Is the area suitable for expansion in the future?
Are there adequate parking facilities for customers?
Are there adequate parking facilities for employees?
Is the traffic in the area compatible with this type of business?
Are the wage scales in this area similar to or lower than other areas?
Is this a safe area for employees, suppliers, and clients?
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Posted by AJPRATT on 2007-04-12 10:29:50 Post Subject:
There are some great consultants you can hire for site evaluation. A couple of them post on this forum. Since I am a huge research nut, I would recommend purchasing some coffee industry books and read up on what they suggest for locations. Some include checklists to use when evaluating a location. There are a number of ways to evaulate a location. You can also do a search on this site for "location" and it might help to answer your questions. You could also do an internet search for "location checklist", too. I have also included a quick list...
Choosing a business location requires consideration of a broad range of factors, from local zoning and tax laws to the accessibility of your business to customers and employees. The following checklist includes several questions you should answer before making your ultimate decision on where to open your business. Be careful to factor in your own special circumstances, which do not necessarily appear on this list. Yes/No
Is the area zoned for this type of business?
Are qualified employees available in the area?
Is the site close to the markets served by the business?
Are any competitors in the area?
Are the inventory and supplies the business needs available in the area?
Can suppliers conveniently make deliveries to this area?
Is public transportation accessible?
Are the utilities needed to run the business available?
Are there facilities nearby for transporting goods?
Are the rates for transporting goods similar to or lower than in other areas?
Does the cost of this facility in this location compare favorably with other areas?
Do the taxes on this facility compare favorably with other areas?
Do the taxes on the business compare favorably to those in other areas?
Is the area suitable for expansion in the future?
Are there adequate parking facilities for customers?
Are there adequate parking facilities for employees?
Is the traffic in the area compatible with this type of business?
Are the wage scales in this area similar to or lower than other areas?
Is this a safe area for employees, suppliers, and clients?
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View entire thread: Where do I find a vendor for my non beverage items?
Posted by Jackson on 2006-12-05 18:00:00 Post Subject:
I totally recommend US Foods or Sysco for suppliers of high end products. The problem with them and most other companies that deliver food is, the minimum delivery amount. Most companies require at least $450.00 minimum order to be delivered. If you are only ordering a few cases of food per week, they may not an option for you.
I do not know where your store is in Georga, but there is a company there called "Restaurant Depot". The RD will not have the selection that US Foods or Sysco carries, and in some cases, the quality is not comparable either. The food quality will be above the Sams Club, as well as the prices.
One thing the Restaurant Depot excels at is paper prices. You may save quite a bit of money each month buying napkins, hand towels, paper cups and lids.
If you have a Sysco or US Foods house near you, one last option may be will-call. You call in your order and go pick it up when it's ready. If you try this option, remember to take a calculator with you, because I have had large fluctuations in prices over the years.
Keep us informed about what you find, it could help other independents make more informed decisions.
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Posted by Jackson on 2006-12-05 18:00:00 Post Subject:
I totally recommend US Foods or Sysco for suppliers of high end products. The problem with them and most other companies that deliver food is, the minimum delivery amount. Most companies require at least $450.00 minimum order to be delivered. If you are only ordering a few cases of food per week, they may not an option for you.
I do not know where your store is in Georga, but there is a company there called "Restaurant Depot". The RD will not have the selection that US Foods or Sysco carries, and in some cases, the quality is not comparable either. The food quality will be above the Sams Club, as well as the prices.
One thing the Restaurant Depot excels at is paper prices. You may save quite a bit of money each month buying napkins, hand towels, paper cups and lids.
If you have a Sysco or US Foods house near you, one last option may be will-call. You call in your order and go pick it up when it's ready. If you try this option, remember to take a calculator with you, because I have had large fluctuations in prices over the years.
Keep us informed about what you find, it could help other independents make more informed decisions.
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View entire thread: Roaster in the bay area?
Posted by dcparker715 on 2004-11-20 14:14:04 Post Subject: Roaster in the bay area?
Does anyone have any idea who good roasters/suppliers would be in the bay area?
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Posted by dcparker715 on 2004-11-20 14:14:04 Post Subject: Roaster in the bay area?
Does anyone have any idea who good roasters/suppliers would be in the bay area?
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View entire thread: Oh dear... another newbie with another story...
Posted by Renee on 2006-04-08 14:19:18 Post Subject: Newbie
Hi there
I am new to this forum so if some of what you read is redundant my apologies...but 3 years ago I was there were you are now. Just starting out.
The first year I researched, read everything I could find on the Coffee and Tea industry and wrote my business plan. The best book I found was Start and Run a Profitable Coffee Bar (Self-Counsel Business Series) It is written by Canadians but the information is not really country specific. They teach you about the different coffee types and have check off lists which gave you a sense of starting off organized.
I focused on organics and fair trade niche market and I wanted a business that was ethical and morally sound, ie didn't make me lose sleep at night, I did end up loosing a lot of sleep but for different reasons. Reasons not related to being ethically challenged thank goodness. :)
I went to all the suppliers and trade shows locally and in Vancouver, I live in Edmonton AB. I researched tons of equipment, cups, pots, trays espresso machines, even roasting beans. ( that’s were the money really is in ) It was love at first site when I found a local supplier that carried the Electra, I chose a semi automatic. I loved the hands on feel of it, I felt authentically Italian! :)
From my experience all suppliers need new blood so to speak walking through their doors. That’s how they stay in business, don't worry about how much money you have or don’t have, or that you are new at this. So were they at one time. No one has a crystal ball that knows if you'll be successful or not. Find a supplier that believes in your business and is excited about it as much as you are. But not just a flashy type that wants to sell you everything, one that has some common sense and wants you to still be in business 10+ years down the road, someone that you can 'argue' with as well. :) Someone that can guide or mentor you, and tells you 'NO you really don't need that for your type of cafe' kinda person. They're the ones that see the bigger picture, and long time customer loyalty for them as well.
I have that in the guy (Italian family owned business) that I bought the espresso machine from, by the way this was the only new piece of equipment I bought. He was also a good source for second hand equipment. Don’t worry about using used equipment, just clean it really well (all natural orange oil cleaners are great on cutting through coffee oils ) besides the customers won’t know the difference. You can also go to auctions but they can definitely be risky at times, there is often a lot of equipment to choose from, take someone that really knows their lines, dishwashers and espresso’s are the most trickiest mostly due to the number of things that can go wrong with them.
Though I bought his Authentically Italian blend, I also bought from organic/fairtrade roasters. He didn't get that part. :) I also used all natural syrups. No chemicals.
Here in Canada 80% of the restaurants don't make it. Unfortunately I became one of them. I was in business for two years and never had a salary and never stopped working. I burnt out basically. My husband was supportive most of the time, but not 100%, he paid most of the over head, and thought I should work harder, never taking time off. (He’s a just tad bit of a work alcoholic himself ) That is a huge thing, you need someone that can back you up and is as committed to your success and your health as well.
Partners have to be present, either emotionally, physically or monetarily, ie working or money people, and totally trust worthy, is this your dream or is it a 'we' thing. Money people often don't work in the cafe. But they will often want to tell you how they think you should work.
Another way to look at it is like having a baby…It becomes a part of your life 24/7, even if you are closed 10 hours a day those 10 hours aren’t necessarily yours to do want ever you want. There is shopping / cleaning / restocking / accounting / banking / staff scheduling etc etc etc :) Plus unless you have a housekeeper to look after you at home, there is shopping / cleaning / banking, well I’m sure you get the idea. Friends ? Family ? social life ? …well hopefully they’ll come by and be content to visit with you at the café. :)
I hope this didn’t come across as negative in anyway. There is a lot of hard work guaranteed but I’d do it again, my panini grill and espresso machine as well as all my teas are all sitting in my 600 sqft apartment! If you can imagine. Waiting for the next place to move too. Actually I want living accommodations above my next café. Reduce the traveling time I say.
Good fortune and feel free to email if you want to chat.
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Posted by Renee on 2006-04-08 14:19:18 Post Subject: Newbie
Hi there
I am new to this forum so if some of what you read is redundant my apologies...but 3 years ago I was there were you are now. Just starting out.
The first year I researched, read everything I could find on the Coffee and Tea industry and wrote my business plan. The best book I found was Start and Run a Profitable Coffee Bar (Self-Counsel Business Series) It is written by Canadians but the information is not really country specific. They teach you about the different coffee types and have check off lists which gave you a sense of starting off organized.
I focused on organics and fair trade niche market and I wanted a business that was ethical and morally sound, ie didn't make me lose sleep at night, I did end up loosing a lot of sleep but for different reasons. Reasons not related to being ethically challenged thank goodness. :)
I went to all the suppliers and trade shows locally and in Vancouver, I live in Edmonton AB. I researched tons of equipment, cups, pots, trays espresso machines, even roasting beans. ( that’s were the money really is in ) It was love at first site when I found a local supplier that carried the Electra, I chose a semi automatic. I loved the hands on feel of it, I felt authentically Italian! :)
From my experience all suppliers need new blood so to speak walking through their doors. That’s how they stay in business, don't worry about how much money you have or don’t have, or that you are new at this. So were they at one time. No one has a crystal ball that knows if you'll be successful or not. Find a supplier that believes in your business and is excited about it as much as you are. But not just a flashy type that wants to sell you everything, one that has some common sense and wants you to still be in business 10+ years down the road, someone that you can 'argue' with as well. :) Someone that can guide or mentor you, and tells you 'NO you really don't need that for your type of cafe' kinda person. They're the ones that see the bigger picture, and long time customer loyalty for them as well.
I have that in the guy (Italian family owned business) that I bought the espresso machine from, by the way this was the only new piece of equipment I bought. He was also a good source for second hand equipment. Don’t worry about using used equipment, just clean it really well (all natural orange oil cleaners are great on cutting through coffee oils ) besides the customers won’t know the difference. You can also go to auctions but they can definitely be risky at times, there is often a lot of equipment to choose from, take someone that really knows their lines, dishwashers and espresso’s are the most trickiest mostly due to the number of things that can go wrong with them.
Though I bought his Authentically Italian blend, I also bought from organic/fairtrade roasters. He didn't get that part. :) I also used all natural syrups. No chemicals.
Here in Canada 80% of the restaurants don't make it. Unfortunately I became one of them. I was in business for two years and never had a salary and never stopped working. I burnt out basically. My husband was supportive most of the time, but not 100%, he paid most of the over head, and thought I should work harder, never taking time off. (He’s a just tad bit of a work alcoholic himself ) That is a huge thing, you need someone that can back you up and is as committed to your success and your health as well.
Partners have to be present, either emotionally, physically or monetarily, ie working or money people, and totally trust worthy, is this your dream or is it a 'we' thing. Money people often don't work in the cafe. But they will often want to tell you how they think you should work.
Another way to look at it is like having a baby…It becomes a part of your life 24/7, even if you are closed 10 hours a day those 10 hours aren’t necessarily yours to do want ever you want. There is shopping / cleaning / restocking / accounting / banking / staff scheduling etc etc etc :) Plus unless you have a housekeeper to look after you at home, there is shopping / cleaning / banking, well I’m sure you get the idea. Friends ? Family ? social life ? …well hopefully they’ll come by and be content to visit with you at the café. :)
I hope this didn’t come across as negative in anyway. There is a lot of hard work guaranteed but I’d do it again, my panini grill and espresso machine as well as all my teas are all sitting in my 600 sqft apartment! If you can imagine. Waiting for the next place to move too. Actually I want living accommodations above my next café. Reduce the traveling time I say.
Good fortune and feel free to email if you want to chat.
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View entire thread: New Shop In Tampa has needs...
Posted by Insomniacs_Coffee_House on 2006-03-06 20:23:51 Post Subject: New Shop In Tampa has needs...
Hello. This is my first post. I am the owner of a new shop that is being built out in New Port Richey Florida (Tampa Area)
I am opening a 1500 sq. foot coffee house/lounge that is open from 7pm to noon (i.e. the night crowd... the place is next to a very popular nightclub. i figure i will have some traffic that stumbles out of the bar and into a coffee lounge because the bar is closing at 2am and at 2:01 am their night is not quite over)
I am looking to purchase a complete set of needed equipment for this shop (build out will be complete in 3 weeks, doors opening about a month)
my email is meccariello@tampabay.rr.com
if you have any or all of the equipment that i need, i will be very interested in speaking with you.
i will also be very open to suggestions, options, research, do's and don'ts, suppliers, layouts, opinions and even snide remarks as long as its directly related to the business (ok, a few jokes can lighten my day too ) etc. etc.
Thank you in advance
D. Meccariello
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Posted by Insomniacs_Coffee_House on 2006-03-06 20:23:51 Post Subject: New Shop In Tampa has needs...
Hello. This is my first post. I am the owner of a new shop that is being built out in New Port Richey Florida (Tampa Area)
I am opening a 1500 sq. foot coffee house/lounge that is open from 7pm to noon (i.e. the night crowd... the place is next to a very popular nightclub. i figure i will have some traffic that stumbles out of the bar and into a coffee lounge because the bar is closing at 2am and at 2:01 am their night is not quite over)
I am looking to purchase a complete set of needed equipment for this shop (build out will be complete in 3 weeks, doors opening about a month)
my email is meccariello@tampabay.rr.com
if you have any or all of the equipment that i need, i will be very interested in speaking with you.
i will also be very open to suggestions, options, research, do's and don'ts, suppliers, layouts, opinions and even snide remarks as long as its directly related to the business (ok, a few jokes can lighten my day too ) etc. etc.
Thank you in advance
D. Meccariello
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View entire thread: Starting an office coffee service
Posted by TakeFive on 2006-05-11 23:01:01 Post Subject: Starting an office coffee service
Hello all! I just found this site and have been very impressed with what I have seen so far. I do need some advice, though...
Not long after college I worked for a small office coffee service. Basically it was a one-man operation: I did the ordering, delivered the products, serviced the accounts, etc. Being part of a rather large institutional foods company, the accounts were already established, suppliers in place, corporate accounts, et al. As I recall it was a fun and simple job, but at about $3.50 an hour I soon moved on to bigger and better things.
Recently I have contemplated starting a similar office coffee service. I am somewhat familiar with operations such as Standard and Gold Cup, but I feel there is room for another, more "local" service. Can anyone give me some suggestions as to how to get such a business off the ground? I'm not interested in a franchise, and starting capital is pretty low.
Thanks in advance for any help you can give me!
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Posted by TakeFive on 2006-05-11 23:01:01 Post Subject: Starting an office coffee service
Hello all! I just found this site and have been very impressed with what I have seen so far. I do need some advice, though...
Not long after college I worked for a small office coffee service. Basically it was a one-man operation: I did the ordering, delivered the products, serviced the accounts, etc. Being part of a rather large institutional foods company, the accounts were already established, suppliers in place, corporate accounts, et al. As I recall it was a fun and simple job, but at about $3.50 an hour I soon moved on to bigger and better things.
Recently I have contemplated starting a similar office coffee service. I am somewhat familiar with operations such as Standard and Gold Cup, but I feel there is room for another, more "local" service. Can anyone give me some suggestions as to how to get such a business off the ground? I'm not interested in a franchise, and starting capital is pretty low.
Thanks in advance for any help you can give me!
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View entire thread: Coffee Price
Posted by Mr. Bingley on 2004-03-26 14:54:11 Post Subject:
In the US, coffee is just another commodity item; like gasoline, sugar, etc. The price is set by how high the corporations who control it are able to set it.
while this view may have a certain romantic politically-correct cachet to it, it is simply false. firstly, coffee is 'just another commodity item' all over the world, not simply in the us; europe as a whole consumes more coffee than the evil us, and in fact re-exports to the us the majority of the decaf consumed here. the fob price, which is what concerns vivian, is established as a differential to the new york 'c' (for arabica) futures market. there are no 'corporations that control it'. you are putting the cart before the horse. the futures mkt, which is a reflection of where the participants feel the fair value should be, sets the price for the corporations, not the other way around.
If there is a news story about an increase in coffee prices due to poor weather conditions, the price will go up as the perception of supply is unbalanced and the general public will be willing to pay more to maintain the supply to feed their demand.
and that perception very often becomes reality. and yes, people will pay more; consumption is very inelastic with regard to price.
Resellers generally get blamed for the price increases, but actually will make less money when prices are high as there is more price shopping by consumers and more competition for business.
some will make less, but others will make more; people will indeed move from brand to brand at the retail level, but, again, the basic amount consumed will not vary too much
Suppliers, like you, will not fair well either, as there probably will be some truth in the cut in supply, like bad weather, but the corporations purchasing the goods will have alternate sources and always will be able to find a low price. For example, when sugar became very expensive, companies not only looked to different countries for supply, they started using corn syrup as their sweetener offering.
sorry, but this shows a complete lack of understanding of coffee and the coffee market. coffee is not like sugar at all. sugar is sugar.is a santos brazil interchangeable with a colombian or a kenyan or a plantation grade from india? of course not. most roasters sell a blend of different coffees from different origins, and they try to maintain a consistant flavor profile. they will not 'always be able to find a low price'; they may be able to find useable coffee from another origin at a cheaper price than you may want to sell, but that's a different animal and that's their job. suppliers in countries outside of brazil do exceedingly well when there are frosts in brazil, as they are able to offload their stocks at very high prices to roasters scrambling to replace the brazils. the problem becomes that at high prices too much coffee gets planted, and 3-4 years down the line there are huge surpluses.
As a grower, it is your “gameâ€
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Posted by Mr. Bingley on 2004-03-26 14:54:11 Post Subject:
In the US, coffee is just another commodity item; like gasoline, sugar, etc. The price is set by how high the corporations who control it are able to set it.
while this view may have a certain romantic politically-correct cachet to it, it is simply false. firstly, coffee is 'just another commodity item' all over the world, not simply in the us; europe as a whole consumes more coffee than the evil us, and in fact re-exports to the us the majority of the decaf consumed here. the fob price, which is what concerns vivian, is established as a differential to the new york 'c' (for arabica) futures market. there are no 'corporations that control it'. you are putting the cart before the horse. the futures mkt, which is a reflection of where the participants feel the fair value should be, sets the price for the corporations, not the other way around.
If there is a news story about an increase in coffee prices due to poor weather conditions, the price will go up as the perception of supply is unbalanced and the general public will be willing to pay more to maintain the supply to feed their demand.
and that perception very often becomes reality. and yes, people will pay more; consumption is very inelastic with regard to price.
Resellers generally get blamed for the price increases, but actually will make less money when prices are high as there is more price shopping by consumers and more competition for business.
some will make less, but others will make more; people will indeed move from brand to brand at the retail level, but, again, the basic amount consumed will not vary too much
Suppliers, like you, will not fair well either, as there probably will be some truth in the cut in supply, like bad weather, but the corporations purchasing the goods will have alternate sources and always will be able to find a low price. For example, when sugar became very expensive, companies not only looked to different countries for supply, they started using corn syrup as their sweetener offering.
sorry, but this shows a complete lack of understanding of coffee and the coffee market. coffee is not like sugar at all. sugar is sugar.is a santos brazil interchangeable with a colombian or a kenyan or a plantation grade from india? of course not. most roasters sell a blend of different coffees from different origins, and they try to maintain a consistant flavor profile. they will not 'always be able to find a low price'; they may be able to find useable coffee from another origin at a cheaper price than you may want to sell, but that's a different animal and that's their job. suppliers in countries outside of brazil do exceedingly well when there are frosts in brazil, as they are able to offload their stocks at very high prices to roasters scrambling to replace the brazils. the problem becomes that at high prices too much coffee gets planted, and 3-4 years down the line there are huge surpluses.
As a grower, it is your “gameâ€
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View entire thread: GREEN COFFEE
Posted by ourcoffeebarn on 2005-07-26 21:22:24 Post Subject:
It depends on the amount of each coffee you are talking about buying. Most of us suppliers have volume discounts.
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Posted by ourcoffeebarn on 2005-07-26 21:22:24 Post Subject:
It depends on the amount of each coffee you are talking about buying. Most of us suppliers have volume discounts.
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View entire thread: pre-packaged treats
Posted by gimme_coffee on 2005-05-09 05:24:05 Post Subject:
I hear ya there! But if someone couldn't get the treat they were after locally, then who would you recommend?
*makes note to start looking around for local suppliers*
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Posted by gimme_coffee on 2005-05-09 05:24:05 Post Subject:
I hear ya there! But if someone couldn't get the treat they were after locally, then who would you recommend?
*makes note to start looking around for local suppliers*
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View entire thread: Awkward Transition
Posted by Comfy Place on 2006-12-04 14:58:58 Post Subject:
Hmm, I certainly have many questions, but I'll try to stick to a few for now. First, do you know why or have any ideas as to why sales have been declining? How long have they been declining? What changes in traffic patterns, new stores opening/old stores leaving, or new competitors arriving/leaving could have impacted the business even before you purchased it?
I don't think that where you are is necessarily a bad location, but its how you can creatively use it to generate more traffic. Can you add any signs on your property that would be highly visible to those people entering/leaving the adjoining parking lot? Certainly something to consider is advertising the fact that the business is now under new management/ownership. Many people will at least be willing to give you a shot if they know its not the "same old, same old".
As for the franchise deal, that will require more legwork on your part. You will need to start looking around for replacement products for those that will not be available to you if/when you ditch the franchise. Some of the suppliers will still be available to you (I would imagine...) after you go independant, but some will not. You will need to speak with them individually to see what will happen. This also is a good time to start looking around to increase your product quality. I would bet that you could get similar products to offer your customers that are higher in quality but wouldn't necessarily mean higher costs or prices.
I prefer going independant (because that's what we are!), but it definitely means more work for you to find and keep solid suppliers. It couldn't hurt to do in-store surveys on your current customers to see what they would really like and what they don't like, then evaluate those responses against what you want for your business. This is just a little bit, but hopefully it will help you out. Cheers!
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Posted by Comfy Place on 2006-12-04 14:58:58 Post Subject:
Hmm, I certainly have many questions, but I'll try to stick to a few for now. First, do you know why or have any ideas as to why sales have been declining? How long have they been declining? What changes in traffic patterns, new stores opening/old stores leaving, or new competitors arriving/leaving could have impacted the business even before you purchased it?
I don't think that where you are is necessarily a bad location, but its how you can creatively use it to generate more traffic. Can you add any signs on your property that would be highly visible to those people entering/leaving the adjoining parking lot? Certainly something to consider is advertising the fact that the business is now under new management/ownership. Many people will at least be willing to give you a shot if they know its not the "same old, same old".
As for the franchise deal, that will require more legwork on your part. You will need to start looking around for replacement products for those that will not be available to you if/when you ditch the franchise. Some of the suppliers will still be available to you (I would imagine...) after you go independant, but some will not. You will need to speak with them individually to see what will happen. This also is a good time to start looking around to increase your product quality. I would bet that you could get similar products to offer your customers that are higher in quality but wouldn't necessarily mean higher costs or prices.
I prefer going independant (because that's what we are!), but it definitely means more work for you to find and keep solid suppliers. It couldn't hurt to do in-store surveys on your current customers to see what they would really like and what they don't like, then evaluate those responses against what you want for your business. This is just a little bit, but hopefully it will help you out. Cheers!
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View entire thread: Coffee: Is It Getting Too Complicated?
Posted by Alun_evans on 2007-06-01 18:29:29 Post Subject:
Ha..ha.. agreed on all that and more! Often, indeed, it has been the case of the semi-educated (suppliers), leading the uneducated (retailers) = poor quality coffee and low, even declining, skill sets.
I think though that Singapore is about due for an influx of quality coffee roasters/suppliers from downunder. On my recent trip to NZ I talked to a number of friends in the industry down there, and there is a general interest in many of them taking the next step - into Asia (bypassng Australia
).
We ourselves are currently looking very, very closely at a couple of sites in the Lion City. I too love Singapore, and a natural and easy progression for our business would be to pop accross the Java Sea and setup there. By Easy I mean moving plant, staff etc 1200miles is doable.
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Posted by Alun_evans on 2007-06-01 18:29:29 Post Subject:
Ha..ha.. agreed on all that and more! Often, indeed, it has been the case of the semi-educated (suppliers), leading the uneducated (retailers) = poor quality coffee and low, even declining, skill sets.
I think though that Singapore is about due for an influx of quality coffee roasters/suppliers from downunder. On my recent trip to NZ I talked to a number of friends in the industry down there, and there is a general interest in many of them taking the next step - into Asia (bypassng Australia
). We ourselves are currently looking very, very closely at a couple of sites in the Lion City. I too love Singapore, and a natural and easy progression for our business would be to pop accross the Java Sea and setup there. By Easy I mean moving plant, staff etc 1200miles is doable.
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View entire thread: Frozen dough pastries?
Posted by nentony on 2006-08-16 07:49:01 Post Subject: Frozen dough pastries?
Hello. I have purchased an existing coffee shop and take over 8/31. Currently there is no food sold there and I am going to add typical coffee shop fare, pastries, cookies. paninis, etc. Does anyone have any recommendations as to frozen dough suppliers? I would appreciate any info.
Thank you!
Tony
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Posted by nentony on 2006-08-16 07:49:01 Post Subject: Frozen dough pastries?
Hello. I have purchased an existing coffee shop and take over 8/31. Currently there is no food sold there and I am going to add typical coffee shop fare, pastries, cookies. paninis, etc. Does anyone have any recommendations as to frozen dough suppliers? I would appreciate any info.
Thank you!
Tony
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View entire thread: help finding product - non-coffee based lo-carb mix
Posted by susansaddiction on 2006-03-10 17:58:50 Post Subject: help finding product - non-coffee based lo-carb mix
Hi all - I have a customer - a daily regular (though soemtimes I wish she wasn't - lol) who hates the taste of coffee and wants a lo-carb blended drink. I have tried the lo carb BT mixes but they do have coffee in the mix. Is anyone aware of a smoothie mix that is lo-carb? I've called my major suppliers, but no luck yet. Any ideas?
Thanks in advance!
Susan
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Posted by susansaddiction on 2006-03-10 17:58:50 Post Subject: help finding product - non-coffee based lo-carb mix
Hi all - I have a customer - a daily regular (though soemtimes I wish she wasn't - lol) who hates the taste of coffee and wants a lo-carb blended drink. I have tried the lo carb BT mixes but they do have coffee in the mix. Is anyone aware of a smoothie mix that is lo-carb? I've called my major suppliers, but no luck yet. Any ideas?
Thanks in advance!
Susan
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View entire thread: Restaurant wants equipment as well as coffee
Posted by Alun_evans on 2008-10-15 08:07:49 Post Subject:
I always found in Office coffee service (OCS) I would need to warn them that when we replaced the not very good coffee with great coffee that the consumption in pounds of coffee would go up by quite a bit. but that can also be a great selling point because they know less people will be leaving office to get coffee.
It is a tough one to figure out how to compete and the most important thing is not to risk much and you cant compete on price. You can offer a better coffee and the proof should always be in the cup. You may want to walk away as I have from an account that has thousand in free equipment , with some sitting in storage that does not believe that the quality of the coffee does not matter only the cost.
Top points Mark- as a green horn, about the same time I had the early morning Hotel call, my boss at the time sent me to convince a hotel to change suppliers. We blind cupped the coffee, we killed the encumbents product. What I failed to realise was the historical usage that I estimated future usage on was based on, at best, morning buffet dinners having 1 cup of terrible coffee at best (worst). Of course usage blew out, costs were way over and we ultimatley lost the account back to "terrible coffee Inc". Lesson learnt
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Posted by Alun_evans on 2008-10-15 08:07:49 Post Subject:
I always found in Office coffee service (OCS) I would need to warn them that when we replaced the not very good coffee with great coffee that the consumption in pounds of coffee would go up by quite a bit. but that can also be a great selling point because they know less people will be leaving office to get coffee.
It is a tough one to figure out how to compete and the most important thing is not to risk much and you cant compete on price. You can offer a better coffee and the proof should always be in the cup. You may want to walk away as I have from an account that has thousand in free equipment , with some sitting in storage that does not believe that the quality of the coffee does not matter only the cost.
Top points Mark- as a green horn, about the same time I had the early morning Hotel call, my boss at the time sent me to convince a hotel to change suppliers. We blind cupped the coffee, we killed the encumbents product. What I failed to realise was the historical usage that I estimated future usage on was based on, at best, morning buffet dinners having 1 cup of terrible coffee at best (worst). Of course usage blew out, costs were way over and we ultimatley lost the account back to "terrible coffee Inc". Lesson learnt
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View entire thread: Coffee Price
Posted by Gulliver on 2004-03-20 10:01:11 Post Subject:
In the US, coffee is just another commodity item; like gasoline, sugar, etc. The price is set by how high the corporations who control it are able to set it. If there is a news story about an increase in coffee prices due to poor weather conditions, the price will go up as the perception of supply is unbalanced and the general public will be willing to pay more to maintain the supply to feed their demand. Resellers generally get blamed for the price increases, but actually will make less money when prices are high as there is more price shopping by consumers and more competition for business. Suppliers, like you, will not fair well either, as there probably will be some truth in the cut in supply, like bad weather, but the corporations purchasing the goods will have alternate sources and always will be able to find a low price. For example, when sugar became very expensive, companies not only looked to different countries for supply, they started using corn syrup as their sweetener offering.
As a grower, it is your “gameâ€
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Posted by Gulliver on 2004-03-20 10:01:11 Post Subject:
In the US, coffee is just another commodity item; like gasoline, sugar, etc. The price is set by how high the corporations who control it are able to set it. If there is a news story about an increase in coffee prices due to poor weather conditions, the price will go up as the perception of supply is unbalanced and the general public will be willing to pay more to maintain the supply to feed their demand. Resellers generally get blamed for the price increases, but actually will make less money when prices are high as there is more price shopping by consumers and more competition for business. Suppliers, like you, will not fair well either, as there probably will be some truth in the cut in supply, like bad weather, but the corporations purchasing the goods will have alternate sources and always will be able to find a low price. For example, when sugar became very expensive, companies not only looked to different countries for supply, they started using corn syrup as their sweetener offering.
As a grower, it is your “gameâ€
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View entire thread: Looking for green bean supplier
Posted by mcohveca on 2005-09-06 16:28:23 Post Subject:
You should check out www.HollandCoffee.com, and also www.atlascoffee.com
Oh, and RoyalCoffee.com
All great green coffee suppliers.
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Posted by mcohveca on 2005-09-06 16:28:23 Post Subject:
You should check out www.HollandCoffee.com, and also www.atlascoffee.com
Oh, and RoyalCoffee.com
All great green coffee suppliers.
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View entire thread: Where do you find...?
Posted by CoffeeLady on 2004-07-26 19:28:27 Post Subject: Where do you find...?
I am new to the boards, but what I have read has seemed very useful. Can anyone direct me to resources for tables and chairs, comfy chairs, and ideas for layout and cafe design? I'm looking to open a coffeehouse, and I have an idea of what I'm looking for, but in searching the web I have found very few suppliers or photos of what I'm looking for. Maybe I'm just surfing with the wrong key words. Can anyone point me in the right direction?
Thanks!
Natalie
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Posted by CoffeeLady on 2004-07-26 19:28:27 Post Subject: Where do you find...?
I am new to the boards, but what I have read has seemed very useful. Can anyone direct me to resources for tables and chairs, comfy chairs, and ideas for layout and cafe design? I'm looking to open a coffeehouse, and I have an idea of what I'm looking for, but in searching the web I have found very few suppliers or photos of what I'm looking for. Maybe I'm just surfing with the wrong key words. Can anyone point me in the right direction?
Thanks!
Natalie
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View entire thread: East Coast Training
Posted by AJPRATT on 2007-03-11 19:55:28 Post Subject: East Coast Training
I am on the East Coast and would love to attend barista and/or roasting training. I have noticed that there are schools in the Oregon area, but I am having trouble arranging for time off to get out there for the training. I am still at my day job, until we get closer to opening.
Also, I would love any recommendations of suppliers in the area.
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Posted by AJPRATT on 2007-03-11 19:55:28 Post Subject: East Coast Training
I am on the East Coast and would love to attend barista and/or roasting training. I have noticed that there are schools in the Oregon area, but I am having trouble arranging for time off to get out there for the training. I am still at my day job, until we get closer to opening.
Also, I would love any recommendations of suppliers in the area.
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View entire thread: Need Help
Posted by Comfy Place on 2006-07-27 14:55:52 Post Subject: Powder Mixes
I can't speak to the tea aspects, as we have a very limited selection of prepackaged teas, however I can give you input on the powder mixes.
We use Big Train mixes for our Blended Iced Coffees. We have had great success with them, and there are a large number of flavors to choose from (12+ at my last count). We also use BT for our hot and cold Chai drinks, and again we have had a good response from our customers.
My best advice to you is to try to get some samples from different potential mix suppliers, and taste-test them all. Look for quality ingrediants, good taste, and ease of use. In the end, you'll be happier with the decision you made this way rather than just take mine or someone else's word for it. Sample, sample, sample, and then, sample some more! We still sample other suppliers products, because you never know, you might discover something new that would make a very profitable difference for your shop! Cheers!
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Posted by Comfy Place on 2006-07-27 14:55:52 Post Subject: Powder Mixes
I can't speak to the tea aspects, as we have a very limited selection of prepackaged teas, however I can give you input on the powder mixes.
We use Big Train mixes for our Blended Iced Coffees. We have had great success with them, and there are a large number of flavors to choose from (12+ at my last count). We also use BT for our hot and cold Chai drinks, and again we have had a good response from our customers.
My best advice to you is to try to get some samples from different potential mix suppliers, and taste-test them all. Look for quality ingrediants, good taste, and ease of use. In the end, you'll be happier with the decision you made this way rather than just take mine or someone else's word for it. Sample, sample, sample, and then, sample some more! We still sample other suppliers products, because you never know, you might discover something new that would make a very profitable difference for your shop! Cheers!
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View entire thread: Location in town
Posted by Kone Tiki on 2006-07-01 11:53:11 Post Subject: Location in town
This past October we opened a combo coffee shop/ice cream shop. Three ice cream shops had closed within 5 miles of us over the past few years. Through talking to Everyone, it wasn't because they weren't doing well, it was for various other reasons; divorce, unknowledgable owner selling poor product, and lastly owner absence & giving away of product.
Bottom line, talk to your neighbors, people who live in town because you never know what the history is. Although if you live in this town you know best...
Sounds like our town is about the same size as yours and people were thrilled that we opened. They were "waiting for a coffee shop" or "waiting for a homemade ice cream store" but I guess no one took the plunge (correctly) before us. Keep talking to everyone - even potential suppliers - and do it the best you can. People will notice.
By the way, we decided to open on the outskirts of downtown in a residential area because of some issues like poor parking and a bit of crime in some parts. Our downtown is being revitalized now but it can be scary to be there at the beginning. May be worth it to tough it out. Our main street is now hopping!
Good luck
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Posted by Kone Tiki on 2006-07-01 11:53:11 Post Subject: Location in town
This past October we opened a combo coffee shop/ice cream shop. Three ice cream shops had closed within 5 miles of us over the past few years. Through talking to Everyone, it wasn't because they weren't doing well, it was for various other reasons; divorce, unknowledgable owner selling poor product, and lastly owner absence & giving away of product.
Bottom line, talk to your neighbors, people who live in town because you never know what the history is. Although if you live in this town you know best...
Sounds like our town is about the same size as yours and people were thrilled that we opened. They were "waiting for a coffee shop" or "waiting for a homemade ice cream store" but I guess no one took the plunge (correctly) before us. Keep talking to everyone - even potential suppliers - and do it the best you can. People will notice.
By the way, we decided to open on the outskirts of downtown in a residential area because of some issues like poor parking and a bit of crime in some parts. Our downtown is being revitalized now but it can be scary to be there at the beginning. May be worth it to tough it out. Our main street is now hopping!
Good luck
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View entire thread: Coffee Franchise Profitability?
Posted by coffee4me on 2007-02-10 19:24:18 Post Subject:
Like most posts John P's redirect ends up like most frinchise vs inde coversations. The inde's direct the conversation about what a tough and long road the coffee business is. Heck if its so bad why would anybody want to be in the coffee business.
I personally have been involved with several franchises over the years and I am within days of signing on with a coffee franchise. It has been my experience that a well run franchise keeps you out in front of the independants, in any industry. If a new trend comes along the inde will still be researching while a good franchisee will have already implemented it.
Most posts tell us that it is stupid to pay a franchise fee when you can do it yourself. Heck I don't want to spend a year of more figuring out menues, recipes, suppliers, and advertising. A good franchise has all that figured out. By my calculation you can be up and running making money while the indes are still researching. Plus most franchises provide advertising assistance in the form of art, and marketing materials that cannot be purchased for the cost of the royalty.
Being with the right franchise will get you into locations an inde can't get to. Most franchises work with a realty group that can do thousands of dollars of demigraphic research that an inde can't afford to pay for. Good current demigraphic research costs $5000 min. Sign a franchise agreement and its included. Prime strip mall locations are usually leased before a building is built. A good franchise will get you into those locations before the inde even knows the land sold.
I'm not saying that indes don't have their place because they do. However, if you are like me I don't need a business that is more than just for fun. I need a business that provides predictable consistant growth and profits. Being with a franchise helps you focus on the big picture and not so caught up in managing the ball.
Keep in mind that I am not saying it won't be alot of work, because any new business is. What I am saying is that a good franchise, with the right product can put you ahead of the game. That's why the failure rate of a new franchised business is 20% when the failure rate of new business in general is 80%. I like the franchised odds better.
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Posted by coffee4me on 2007-02-10 19:24:18 Post Subject:
Like most posts John P's redirect ends up like most frinchise vs inde coversations. The inde's direct the conversation about what a tough and long road the coffee business is. Heck if its so bad why would anybody want to be in the coffee business.
I personally have been involved with several franchises over the years and I am within days of signing on with a coffee franchise. It has been my experience that a well run franchise keeps you out in front of the independants, in any industry. If a new trend comes along the inde will still be researching while a good franchisee will have already implemented it.
Most posts tell us that it is stupid to pay a franchise fee when you can do it yourself. Heck I don't want to spend a year of more figuring out menues, recipes, suppliers, and advertising. A good franchise has all that figured out. By my calculation you can be up and running making money while the indes are still researching. Plus most franchises provide advertising assistance in the form of art, and marketing materials that cannot be purchased for the cost of the royalty.
Being with the right franchise will get you into locations an inde can't get to. Most franchises work with a realty group that can do thousands of dollars of demigraphic research that an inde can't afford to pay for. Good current demigraphic research costs $5000 min. Sign a franchise agreement and its included. Prime strip mall locations are usually leased before a building is built. A good franchise will get you into those locations before the inde even knows the land sold.
I'm not saying that indes don't have their place because they do. However, if you are like me I don't need a business that is more than just for fun. I need a business that provides predictable consistant growth and profits. Being with a franchise helps you focus on the big picture and not so caught up in managing the ball.
Keep in mind that I am not saying it won't be alot of work, because any new business is. What I am saying is that a good franchise, with the right product can put you ahead of the game. That's why the failure rate of a new franchised business is 20% when the failure rate of new business in general is 80%. I like the franchised odds better.
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View entire thread: Saeco Brew Group accessories - UK?
Posted by turbine on 2006-08-10 17:50:26 Post Subject:
Ok, it's been a while but my quest continues.
After extensive Google searching and driving to local catering equipment suppliers, I cannot find anyone that sells this elusive 'food grade lubricant'. Have I hit a language barrier - is it called something different in the UK?
Now if I could just order Saeco's very own Brew group maintenance kit then I'd be using exactly what the manufacturer intended. But this kit only appears to be sold in the US, and US companies (including Saeco USA) are paranoid about shipping outside of the US so thats not an option. It's not even on eBay! Gaggia don't think that people need to worry about replacing o-rings or lube so they don't supply these items either.
Saeco use something called Lubri-Film, but again, it's a US product that you can't get here.
What do other non-US Saeco owners do? Should I forget I ever read Saeco's cleaning instuctions and not worry about it?
One last piece of advice if I may - when it comes to using descaling power, should I buy the Gaggia stuff or can I use the Krups descaling power that I've got left over as seen here? Thanks.
http://www.espressoplanet.com/detail.asp?PRODUCT_ID=Cleaning:054-00
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Posted by turbine on 2006-08-10 17:50:26 Post Subject:
Ok, it's been a while but my quest continues.
After extensive Google searching and driving to local catering equipment suppliers, I cannot find anyone that sells this elusive 'food grade lubricant'. Have I hit a language barrier - is it called something different in the UK?
Now if I could just order Saeco's very own Brew group maintenance kit then I'd be using exactly what the manufacturer intended. But this kit only appears to be sold in the US, and US companies (including Saeco USA) are paranoid about shipping outside of the US so thats not an option. It's not even on eBay! Gaggia don't think that people need to worry about replacing o-rings or lube so they don't supply these items either.
Saeco use something called Lubri-Film, but again, it's a US product that you can't get here.
What do other non-US Saeco owners do? Should I forget I ever read Saeco's cleaning instuctions and not worry about it?
One last piece of advice if I may - when it comes to using descaling power, should I buy the Gaggia stuff or can I use the Krups descaling power that I've got left over as seen here? Thanks.
http://www.espressoplanet.com/detail.asp?PRODUCT_ID=Cleaning:054-00
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View entire thread: Frozen dough pastries?
Posted by Deb LaJoie on 2006-08-20 11:25:43 Post Subject: frozen dough pastries
Hi Tony,
I have a big problem with display. The shop overgrew its original boundries and I haven't a pastry case or much shelving to display on either.
We display freshest pastries on the counter in cloth-lined baskets wrapped only in bakery tissue (5" X 10" tissue sheets folded in half) until they cool and then we wrap in plastic wrap. We place wrapped pastries in baskets or in a rack on a shelf near our bottled drink coolers. We have a display cooler for sandwiches, quiche and other refrigerated pastries.
(On another thread...I buy pre-cooked frozen quiche, thaw, cut and package in clear plastic containers. Easy and some brands are very tasty.
Just microwave (on a plate, not in plastic container) for a few minutes. Some folks like it cold.)
As you can see, I use way too much plastic and the only remedy for keeping pastries as fresh is to invest in a pastry case. I would buy one split between refrigerated and not. You can choose between you serving or self-serving. Check out www.millrock.com for ideas. They have nice stuff but I'm sure if you searched you'd find a few more dealers. Check out used restaurant equipment suppliers, too.
Let me know what you decide.
Deb
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Posted by Deb LaJoie on 2006-08-20 11:25:43 Post Subject: frozen dough pastries
Hi Tony,
I have a big problem with display. The shop overgrew its original boundries and I haven't a pastry case or much shelving to display on either.
We display freshest pastries on the counter in cloth-lined baskets wrapped only in bakery tissue (5" X 10" tissue sheets folded in half) until they cool and then we wrap in plastic wrap. We place wrapped pastries in baskets or in a rack on a shelf near our bottled drink coolers. We have a display cooler for sandwiches, quiche and other refrigerated pastries.
(On another thread...I buy pre-cooked frozen quiche, thaw, cut and package in clear plastic containers. Easy and some brands are very tasty.
Just microwave (on a plate, not in plastic container) for a few minutes. Some folks like it cold.)
As you can see, I use way too much plastic and the only remedy for keeping pastries as fresh is to invest in a pastry case. I would buy one split between refrigerated and not. You can choose between you serving or self-serving. Check out www.millrock.com for ideas. They have nice stuff but I'm sure if you searched you'd find a few more dealers. Check out used restaurant equipment suppliers, too.
Let me know what you decide.
Deb
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View entire thread: Green Bean Online Coffee Vendor, your thoughts please....
Posted by ourcoffeebarn on 2006-02-07 22:54:40 Post Subject:
There are a LOT of us out there that sell on line! I have a few customers that will buy from a few different suppliers and they still come back to me for more! But just do a google search or better yet a froogle search for Green Coffee Beans I am on that page twice!
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Posted by ourcoffeebarn on 2006-02-07 22:54:40 Post Subject:
There are a LOT of us out there that sell on line! I have a few customers that will buy from a few different suppliers and they still come back to me for more! But just do a google search or better yet a froogle search for Green Coffee Beans I am on that page twice!
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View entire thread: Are all beans created equal?
Posted by cawi on 2006-02-22 15:20:51 Post Subject: bean quality
If you aren't getting a good cup out of your green beans then I would revisit the way you are roasting them. Start with a Costa Rica bean if you have it, it is well rounded and will give you a good starting off place. Roast to different profiles and see the differences. Maybe you are roasting them too dark and need to lighten up the cup. You will need to experiment to see what profile you like the most with each bean. Most online suppliers will give you a profile guide so you have an idea as to how dark to roast each bean. Keep trying!
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Posted by cawi on 2006-02-22 15:20:51 Post Subject: bean quality
If you aren't getting a good cup out of your green beans then I would revisit the way you are roasting them. Start with a Costa Rica bean if you have it, it is well rounded and will give you a good starting off place. Roast to different profiles and see the differences. Maybe you are roasting them too dark and need to lighten up the cup. You will need to experiment to see what profile you like the most with each bean. Most online suppliers will give you a profile guide so you have an idea as to how dark to roast each bean. Keep trying!
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View entire thread: Plumbing Question
Posted by loose leaf on 2007-10-08 11:58:26 Post Subject: Arkansas bound...
Sorry this is a little off the subject, however I am in the process of putting together a kiosk business in northeastern Arkansas. I wanted to know if you had any local roasters/suppliers that you are working/have worked with and could recommend. You can email me on a side note if you would like at looseleafcafe@hotmail.com
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Posted by loose leaf on 2007-10-08 11:58:26 Post Subject: Arkansas bound...
Sorry this is a little off the subject, however I am in the process of putting together a kiosk business in northeastern Arkansas. I wanted to know if you had any local roasters/suppliers that you are working/have worked with and could recommend. You can email me on a side note if you would like at looseleafcafe@hotmail.com
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View entire thread: In House Roasting...
Posted by ElPugDiablo on 2005-11-17 17:51:01 Post Subject:
I roast in house on a Diedrich IR-12
a. Is it really that hard
First you need to set aside time dedicated to roasting. Then, it's as easy or as hard as you want it to be. Every step from green bean selection, profile development, espresso blend, to roasting consistency can be easy or hard. Obviously the more attention you put in, the better the end results will be. You can learn the basic operation, buy from one or two bean suppliers, pop the beans into the roaster, roast at a reasonable temperature for 12 - 18 minutes, dump them into the cooling tray, and you are ready for the next batch. If you don't burn or bake the beans, as long as you keep up with maintenance on your roaster, chances are you will have better beans by virtue of having fresher beans. If you choose to do it the hard way, then it is constantly roasting and tasting samples, constantly trying different roasting method, it's a never ending learning process.
b. What is the approximate start up cost to do this
You need to know what size roaster you will need. You need to know if your local code requires you to install afterburner. Even if you are not require to have one, you might one to set money and space aside for one just in case you have un-happy neighbors. If your exhaust chimney needs to go up through multiple floors, it can add up this cost really fast. Do you need to pipe gas line in to the building? Make sure you have enough BTU for the roaster and the afterburner. A small in house roaster such as Diedrich IR-3 or San Franciscan SF-6LB costs more than $8K, and their afterburner is about $6K. Going up in size to 12 Kg roaster, you are looking at $20K plus $10K for an afterburner. You can buy used, but set aside money for repair. Especially if you are not mechanically handy, like me
c. Do you save money roasting your own beans
Yes and no. If your batch is small, then your labor cost will eat into your saving. But even if you roast in very small batches, you can figure at least a saving of a dollar a pound, but two dollars a pound is probably more realistic. If you know the cost of setting up a roasting operation, then it's a matter of figuring out how many pounds you use a year, and multiply that by two dollars a pound. If you can recover your cost in two year or less then from a financial point of view, it is a worthwhile investment. However, you should not decide to roast or not base on money saved. You should roast because you want to have absolute control over roasting style, quality, and freshness. In another word, you should roast because of your desire for having better coffee. Money saved is a bonus, albeit a nice bonus.
d. Did you draw a new crowd because of this
Yes. But the expectation is also higher. If the end result is equal to or better than your current coffee, then business will increase.
Here are drum roaster makers and used drum dealers links for you to look at:
http://www.coffeeper.com/
http://www.diedrichroasters.com/
http://www.primoroasting.com/index.cfm
http://renegaderoasters.com/
http://www.usroastercorp.com/index.htm
http://ambexroasters.com/index.html
http://www.probatburns.com/
http://www.baltcoffee.com/catalog/page. ... 525d5ee22f
http://www.roastersexchange.com/
http://www.coffeetec.com/
Good luck
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Posted by ElPugDiablo on 2005-11-17 17:51:01 Post Subject:
I roast in house on a Diedrich IR-12
a. Is it really that hard
First you need to set aside time dedicated to roasting. Then, it's as easy or as hard as you want it to be. Every step from green bean selection, profile development, espresso blend, to roasting consistency can be easy or hard. Obviously the more attention you put in, the better the end results will be. You can learn the basic operation, buy from one or two bean suppliers, pop the beans into the roaster, roast at a reasonable temperature for 12 - 18 minutes, dump them into the cooling tray, and you are ready for the next batch. If you don't burn or bake the beans, as long as you keep up with maintenance on your roaster, chances are you will have better beans by virtue of having fresher beans. If you choose to do it the hard way, then it is constantly roasting and tasting samples, constantly trying different roasting method, it's a never ending learning process.
b. What is the approximate start up cost to do this
You need to know what size roaster you will need. You need to know if your local code requires you to install afterburner. Even if you are not require to have one, you might one to set money and space aside for one just in case you have un-happy neighbors. If your exhaust chimney needs to go up through multiple floors, it can add up this cost really fast. Do you need to pipe gas line in to the building? Make sure you have enough BTU for the roaster and the afterburner. A small in house roaster such as Diedrich IR-3 or San Franciscan SF-6LB costs more than $8K, and their afterburner is about $6K. Going up in size to 12 Kg roaster, you are looking at $20K plus $10K for an afterburner. You can buy used, but set aside money for repair. Especially if you are not mechanically handy, like me
c. Do you save money roasting your own beans
Yes and no. If your batch is small, then your labor cost will eat into your saving. But even if you roast in very small batches, you can figure at least a saving of a dollar a pound, but two dollars a pound is probably more realistic. If you know the cost of setting up a roasting operation, then it's a matter of figuring out how many pounds you use a year, and multiply that by two dollars a pound. If you can recover your cost in two year or less then from a financial point of view, it is a worthwhile investment. However, you should not decide to roast or not base on money saved. You should roast because you want to have absolute control over roasting style, quality, and freshness. In another word, you should roast because of your desire for having better coffee. Money saved is a bonus, albeit a nice bonus.
d. Did you draw a new crowd because of this
Yes. But the expectation is also higher. If the end result is equal to or better than your current coffee, then business will increase.
Here are drum roaster makers and used drum dealers links for you to look at:
http://www.coffeeper.com/
http://www.diedrichroasters.com/
http://www.primoroasting.com/index.cfm
http://renegaderoasters.com/
http://www.usroastercorp.com/index.htm
http://ambexroasters.com/index.html
http://www.probatburns.com/
http://www.baltcoffee.com/catalog/page. ... 525d5ee22f
http://www.roastersexchange.com/
http://www.coffeetec.com/
Good luck
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View entire thread: Are all beans created equal?
Posted by Jeff_Roaster_in_Training on 2006-02-25 18:11:47 Post Subject:
Coffee varies greatly as for quality, even sometimes from bag to bag in the same lot. We have gotten batches where the first bag was fine and the next bag had gotten a bit damp or something and the flavor was completely off. Let me tell ya, suppliers are sometimes a bit crabby when you tell them that your returning half a ton of Kenya AA at thier cost for replacement because the quality wasn't consistant. But you have to look at the beans before you roast them. How green are they? Insect damage? Immature beans? Diseases, fungus? In the case of Sumatras, piles of beans that got ran over by a truck when they dried it on the highway.
But watch your beans, if you find a good supllier stick with them, but never get complacent about quality.
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Posted by Jeff_Roaster_in_Training on 2006-02-25 18:11:47 Post Subject:
Coffee varies greatly as for quality, even sometimes from bag to bag in the same lot. We have gotten batches where the first bag was fine and the next bag had gotten a bit damp or something and the flavor was completely off. Let me tell ya, suppliers are sometimes a bit crabby when you tell them that your returning half a ton of Kenya AA at thier cost for replacement because the quality wasn't consistant. But you have to look at the beans before you roast them. How green are they? Insect damage? Immature beans? Diseases, fungus? In the case of Sumatras, piles of beans that got ran over by a truck when they dried it on the highway.
But watch your beans, if you find a good supllier stick with them, but never get complacent about quality.
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View entire thread: Dallas Area Roasters
Posted by cafemakers on 2005-12-04 11:21:24 Post Subject:
I find that although it is important to find competent technical service locally; so long as your roaster is supplying coffee within a typical 2-3 UPS range, you should have no problems.
For example, I was in Midland, TX setting up a coffee shop last week that is sourcing technical service and some of the heavier consumables (flavoring, dairy and such) locally, but will be working with a roaster in Kansas. We cupped coffees from a number of roasters to find the one best suited for their application, including from Houston, Lubbock and elsewhere, but ultimately the roaster from Kansas had the right flavor for the job.
Similarly, it can be beneficial for you to look in places that your local competitors may not. If there is a dominant roaster in one location, you may find that your direct competitors are using exactly the same coffees and trained to prepare beverages the same way as you, possibly making it difficult to differentiate your business from theirs. Although there are benefits to working with suppliers within your region, I would not limit your search for coffee to the Dallas area alone.
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Posted by cafemakers on 2005-12-04 11:21:24 Post Subject:
I find that although it is important to find competent technical service locally; so long as your roaster is supplying coffee within a typical 2-3 UPS range, you should have no problems.
For example, I was in Midland, TX setting up a coffee shop last week that is sourcing technical service and some of the heavier consumables (flavoring, dairy and such) locally, but will be working with a roaster in Kansas. We cupped coffees from a number of roasters to find the one best suited for their application, including from Houston, Lubbock and elsewhere, but ultimately the roaster from Kansas had the right flavor for the job.
Similarly, it can be beneficial for you to look in places that your local competitors may not. If there is a dominant roaster in one location, you may find that your direct competitors are using exactly the same coffees and trained to prepare beverages the same way as you, possibly making it difficult to differentiate your business from theirs. Although there are benefits to working with suppliers within your region, I would not limit your search for coffee to the Dallas area alone.
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View entire thread: Free Stuff
Posted by ElPugDiablo on 2006-09-18 17:35:44 Post Subject: Re: Free Stuff
I was reading a thread that mentioned that a smoothie company will loan you blenders if you use their products. I know that's a common practice in the coffee business and that leads me to my question. What equipment can I get for free without compromising my product? I know I will have to buy my own espresso machine, but grinders and blenders seems like something that won't "crappify" my products. Also, if anyone knows of a smoothie company who would buy me a blender or two, please let me know. I don't want to sound like a cheapass, but I'm looking (probably like everyone else) to cut costs as much as possible and still have happy customers at the end of the day. Thanks in advance.
Actually, to get equipment "free" you will need to meet a minimum order quantity. And they are not free, they are factored into the cost of the products. Some coffee suppliers have two prices, one with equipment, one without. You will see most of the time, they will make their money back on the equipment in less than a year. Also, coffee grinders will crappify your products. Try different brands and decide what work best for you. If your supplier offers them fine, if not buy them yourselves.
I think most smoothie suppliers have a blender program. In Island Oasis's case, they have a one price policy so if you use their product you might as well use their blenders. They have their cool looking ice shaver and other commercial blenders. I like the Blendtec Smoother or Hamilton Beach Tempest blender better, but a few of my customers like the ice shaver better, so that's what we use.
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Posted by ElPugDiablo on 2006-09-18 17:35:44 Post Subject: Re: Free Stuff
I was reading a thread that mentioned that a smoothie company will loan you blenders if you use their products. I know that's a common practice in the coffee business and that leads me to my question. What equipment can I get for free without compromising my product? I know I will have to buy my own espresso machine, but grinders and blenders seems like something that won't "crappify" my products. Also, if anyone knows of a smoothie company who would buy me a blender or two, please let me know. I don't want to sound like a cheapass, but I'm looking (probably like everyone else) to cut costs as much as possible and still have happy customers at the end of the day. Thanks in advance.
Actually, to get equipment "free" you will need to meet a minimum order quantity. And they are not free, they are factored into the cost of the products. Some coffee suppliers have two prices, one with equipment, one without. You will see most of the time, they will make their money back on the equipment in less than a year. Also, coffee grinders will crappify your products. Try different brands and decide what work best for you. If your supplier offers them fine, if not buy them yourselves.
I think most smoothie suppliers have a blender program. In Island Oasis's case, they have a one price policy so if you use their product you might as well use their blenders. They have their cool looking ice shaver and other commercial blenders. I like the Blendtec Smoother or Hamilton Beach Tempest blender better, but a few of my customers like the ice shaver better, so that's what we use.
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View entire thread: Coffee order over roasted.
Posted by justme on 2007-02-08 19:03:31 Post Subject: Coffee order over roasted.
I received my order from one of the better known and popular roasted coffee suppliers and it was very much over roasted. I am drinking it but my number of cups per day has gone way down until I finish the bag. I have ordered from this company numerous times with no problems and the coffee ordered is my favorite, not something new I was trying.
I won't mention the name of the company as I have been 100% happy with what I have received in the past and will order from them again. I have roasted beans and burnt a few batches myself.
I just wonder how often this happens and what type quality controls the more popular suppliers use to catch this before it gets sent on to the customer.
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Posted by justme on 2007-02-08 19:03:31 Post Subject: Coffee order over roasted.
I received my order from one of the better known and popular roasted coffee suppliers and it was very much over roasted. I am drinking it but my number of cups per day has gone way down until I finish the bag. I have ordered from this company numerous times with no problems and the coffee ordered is my favorite, not something new I was trying.
I won't mention the name of the company as I have been 100% happy with what I have received in the past and will order from them again. I have roasted beans and burnt a few batches myself.
I just wonder how often this happens and what type quality controls the more popular suppliers use to catch this before it gets sent on to the customer.
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View entire thread: Lmited commercial espresso maker brands for my start up
Posted by Alun_evans on 2006-09-25 07:13:58 Post Subject:
I would say the primary driver here in Southeast Asia is not generally the type of machine (LaScala, Nuovo Simonelli etc all make good quality commercial 2 groups). The real cncern for you will be to find an agent that will provide the technical assistence you may need to keep the machine performing day after day, month after month. Really who ever can deliver the best service package should be the one you look at first- even if the price is more expensive. I suggest you ask around other cafes using the machines listed. Ask about after sales follow-up, service, training, availability of spare parts, technician knowledge etc. KL has some reasonable cafes, and some reputable suppliers...so you should be fine.
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Posted by Alun_evans on 2006-09-25 07:13:58 Post Subject:
I would say the primary driver here in Southeast Asia is not generally the type of machine (LaScala, Nuovo Simonelli etc all make good quality commercial 2 groups). The real cncern for you will be to find an agent that will provide the technical assistence you may need to keep the machine performing day after day, month after month. Really who ever can deliver the best service package should be the one you look at first- even if the price is more expensive. I suggest you ask around other cafes using the machines listed. Ask about after sales follow-up, service, training, availability of spare parts, technician knowledge etc. KL has some reasonable cafes, and some reputable suppliers...so you should be fine.
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View entire thread: B2B
Posted by Osteele on 2006-10-25 12:19:31 Post Subject: B2B
Hello all.
My name is Peter and I am located in beautiful (but cold) Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
In addition to being coffee lovers, my wife and I are thinking of a B2B start-up.
Our primary goal is the resale of fine coffee. Potential clients would be:
Restaurants, Hotels, Offices, Sports bars.
We are in the data gathering process, and realize that there is much to learn.
Any assistance from users of this forum would be greatly appreciated.
Some questions we have for example:
Where can the coffee be purchased (locally or abroad)
We don't plan to roast it ourselves (now what?)
Pricing?
Canadian suppliers?
Thank you all in advance.
Peter
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Posted by Osteele on 2006-10-25 12:19:31 Post Subject: B2B
Hello all.
My name is Peter and I am located in beautiful (but cold) Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
In addition to being coffee lovers, my wife and I are thinking of a B2B start-up.
Our primary goal is the resale of fine coffee. Potential clients would be:
Restaurants, Hotels, Offices, Sports bars.
We are in the data gathering process, and realize that there is much to learn.
Any assistance from users of this forum would be greatly appreciated.
Some questions we have for example:
Where can the coffee be purchased (locally or abroad)
We don't plan to roast it ourselves (now what?)
Pricing?
Canadian suppliers?
Thank you all in advance.
Peter
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View entire thread: BIG suppliers vs. smaller ones
Posted by Juliann Castell on 2006-05-01 17:06:42 Post Subject: BIG suppliers vs. smaller ones
OK - Really would appreciate thoughts / feedback on use of BIG suppliers e.g., Imperial coffee; Van Houte etc. VS. smaller suppliers e.g., Equator or local roaster.
Here's what I've heard:
- smaller ones - variety in roast quality; no equipment; potentially higher costs; no marketing
- big guys - equipment and service provided (not to worry I would't use their ESPRESSO machine - only coffee brewing equip. and servers); marketing support
- some big guys such as Imperial are now teamed with folks that provide fair trade and certified organic coffees e.g. they carry Reunion Island coffees (HOWEVER - I got a quote of approx. $7-9 lb. for this "high quality" from a big guy.... )
Please respond if you're looking at this. 
sharing is great. thanks.
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Posted by Juliann Castell on 2006-05-01 17:06:42 Post Subject: BIG suppliers vs. smaller ones
OK - Really would appreciate thoughts / feedback on use of BIG suppliers e.g., Imperial coffee; Van Houte etc. VS. smaller suppliers e.g., Equator or local roaster.
Here's what I've heard:
- smaller ones - variety in roast quality; no equipment; potentially higher costs; no marketing
- big guys - equipment and service provided (not to worry I would't use their ESPRESSO machine - only coffee brewing equip. and servers); marketing support
- some big guys such as Imperial are now teamed with folks that provide fair trade and certified organic coffees e.g. they carry Reunion Island coffees (HOWEVER - I got a quote of approx. $7-9 lb. for this "high quality" from a big guy.... )
Please respond if you're looking at this.
sharing is great. thanks.
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View entire thread: Fresh Green Beans
Posted by ElPugDiablo on 2007-05-16 10:28:53 Post Subject:
Trust but verify. You should always request green samples for approval. And most of the reputable bean suppliers, when asked, will let you know if beans you are interested are current or past crop. But you need to cup them and decide if you like the coffee. Freshness by itself does not indicate quality; one of the espresso used in this year's US Barista Championship is a single estate past crop El Salvadorian.
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Posted by ElPugDiablo on 2007-05-16 10:28:53 Post Subject:
Trust but verify. You should always request green samples for approval. And most of the reputable bean suppliers, when asked, will let you know if beans you are interested are current or past crop. But you need to cup them and decide if you like the coffee. Freshness by itself does not indicate quality; one of the espresso used in this year's US Barista Championship is a single estate past crop El Salvadorian.
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View entire thread: Coffee Shop Startup Package incl. Faema E98 President
Posted by comedyaddict on 2005-01-19 22:59:20 Post Subject: Just my two cents... or pence
Hi there... I'd like to share my two cents (or pence as the case may be) about my expirience.
Faema expresso machines are very good machines. I am running a 3 group one in my cafe, having just upgraded from a 1 group.
However... in my humble opinion it doesn't make a bean of diffenece what sort of machine you use. Most owners have the favorites... but consumers don't really care.
What they care about (or at least the repeat customers you will need) is a great fresh tasting coffee.
So to me, more important then what machine you use, is which coffee supplier you pick. I have no idea about the one you've mentioned. I use a local roaster who roasts everyday, and get my beans weekly; so they are freshest I can get.
Over Christmas, I ordered a few extra bags to last while he went on holiday, and I could tell the difference between a brand new bag, and one 3 weeks old.
Basically, before you pick a supplier make sure there coffee is the freshest you can buy. Most major suppliers beans are probably a few weeks old (some may even be a lot more) and if you want to serve great coffee go for the freshest roasted beans you can.
Good luck... Brian
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Posted by comedyaddict on 2005-01-19 22:59:20 Post Subject: Just my two cents... or pence
Hi there... I'd like to share my two cents (or pence as the case may be) about my expirience.
Faema expresso machines are very good machines. I am running a 3 group one in my cafe, having just upgraded from a 1 group.
However... in my humble opinion it doesn't make a bean of diffenece what sort of machine you use. Most owners have the favorites... but consumers don't really care.
What they care about (or at least the repeat customers you will need) is a great fresh tasting coffee.
So to me, more important then what machine you use, is which coffee supplier you pick. I have no idea about the one you've mentioned. I use a local roaster who roasts everyday, and get my beans weekly; so they are freshest I can get.
Over Christmas, I ordered a few extra bags to last while he went on holiday, and I could tell the difference between a brand new bag, and one 3 weeks old.
Basically, before you pick a supplier make sure there coffee is the freshest you can buy. Most major suppliers beans are probably a few weeks old (some may even be a lot more) and if you want to serve great coffee go for the freshest roasted beans you can.
Good luck... Brian
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View entire thread: New business - NEED VENDORS
Posted by CoffeeShopPromos on 2008-02-20 03:34:52 Post Subject: Coffee House Supplier
If you are still looking for suppliers. We offer some of the latest and best selling travel mugs for your coffee shop. We research the trends so you don''t have to. The Maui Fusion Tumbler is currently our hottest selling item.
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Posted by CoffeeShopPromos on 2008-02-20 03:34:52 Post Subject: Coffee House Supplier
If you are still looking for suppliers. We offer some of the latest and best selling travel mugs for your coffee shop. We research the trends so you don''t have to. The Maui Fusion Tumbler is currently our hottest selling item.
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View entire thread: WILL WE EVER LEARN
Posted by Alun_evans on 2004-11-30 05:55:09 Post Subject:
Interesting comments. I know the SCAE is based in the UK, and from my dealings with them they are a very proffesionally run orgnisation. Driving quality is really the responsibility of all in the industry- suppliers (machine suppliers and roasters) can do their part but often unless the cafe/restaurant manager/owner has a real interest in coffee rather than profit, then shoddy practices from staff will always occur. Its really funny because in the long run well trained staff with a knowledge of coffee and a pride in what they do will result in increased sales and a succesful business. You just need toread some of the postings here and on other boards to see that unfortunatley our business still struggles with many aspects at the retail end. I would venture to say this is not a UK specific problem, but a global one. I have just got back from a trip myself around central Java. It was a buying trip but I had the opportunity to visit one of our cafe partners in Yogyakarta. Granted this is a smallish cafe, but the proffesionalism and real buzz these guys got from retailing coffee was fantastic to see. If only I could bottle there enthusiasm and install it in some of the other, bigger retailers we dealt with! BTW these guys from small beginnings have plans to open another 3 outlets in the next few months.
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Posted by Alun_evans on 2004-11-30 05:55:09 Post Subject:
Interesting comments. I know the SCAE is based in the UK, and from my dealings with them they are a very proffesionally run orgnisation. Driving quality is really the responsibility of all in the industry- suppliers (machine suppliers and roasters) can do their part but often unless the cafe/restaurant manager/owner has a real interest in coffee rather than profit, then shoddy practices from staff will always occur. Its really funny because in the long run well trained staff with a knowledge of coffee and a pride in what they do will result in increased sales and a succesful business. You just need toread some of the postings here and on other boards to see that unfortunatley our business still struggles with many aspects at the retail end. I would venture to say this is not a UK specific problem, but a global one. I have just got back from a trip myself around central Java. It was a buying trip but I had the opportunity to visit one of our cafe partners in Yogyakarta. Granted this is a smallish cafe, but the proffesionalism and real buzz these guys got from retailing coffee was fantastic to see. If only I could bottle there enthusiasm and install it in some of the other, bigger retailers we dealt with! BTW these guys from small beginnings have plans to open another 3 outlets in the next few months.
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View entire thread: Looking for green bean wholesalers
Posted by Waylum on 2006-11-13 21:16:16 Post Subject: Looking for green bean wholesalers
Hi, I'm new to the forum and I would just like to say this is such a great place for people new and experienced with coffee. Great site to join, I'll surely tell all my friends and customers to come check out this site!
Ok, I am looking for wholesalers, exporters, vendors, suppliers whatever that sells in quantities. I'm looking for sellers that count in 60kg bags and not in pounds. Looking for green beans please.
Here are a list of what I'm looking for:
Indonesian Robusta
Costa Rican
Guatemala
Honduras
KenyaAA
And any other green beans your company have. If any seller is interested, please contact me at wh84@hotmail.com
Cordially,
William Ho
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Posted by Waylum on 2006-11-13 21:16:16 Post Subject: Looking for green bean wholesalers
Hi, I'm new to the forum and I would just like to say this is such a great place for people new and experienced with coffee. Great site to join, I'll surely tell all my friends and customers to come check out this site!
Ok, I am looking for wholesalers, exporters, vendors, suppliers whatever that sells in quantities. I'm looking for sellers that count in 60kg bags and not in pounds. Looking for green beans please.
Here are a list of what I'm looking for:
Indonesian Robusta
Costa Rican
Guatemala
Honduras
KenyaAA
And any other green beans your company have. If any seller is interested, please contact me at wh84@hotmail.com
Cordially,
William Ho
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View entire thread: Good books on roasting
Posted by CafeBlue on 2007-02-04 14:19:35 Post Subject:
Ken Davids wrote several excellent coffee books including "Home Roasting". Try his web-site CoffeeReview.com (note that it is NOT thecoffeereview which is a different, virtually irrelevant site), it also has lots of coffee articles.
Usually, his books are also available from scaa, several consultants, some green coffee / home roaster suppliers, Amazon, and e-bay. You may also find Ken's book "Coffee: a guide to buying and brewing" useful. Eventhough it is a couple decades old, the basic tasting, descriptions, and vocabulary is an excellent starting point for a budding coffee connoisseur.
"Roast" magazine is also filled with information.
Search this and several other forums for related topics. Just about everything you will have questions about is already discussed. You may need to be creative with search terms and parameters, since the coffee sites usually will not search for too-common terms (like coffee, espresso and roast).
Enjoy the adventure.
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Posted by CafeBlue on 2007-02-04 14:19:35 Post Subject:
Ken Davids wrote several excellent coffee books including "Home Roasting". Try his web-site CoffeeReview.com (note that it is NOT thecoffeereview which is a different, virtually irrelevant site), it also has lots of coffee articles.
Usually, his books are also available from scaa, several consultants, some green coffee / home roaster suppliers, Amazon, and e-bay. You may also find Ken's book "Coffee: a guide to buying and brewing" useful. Eventhough it is a couple decades old, the basic tasting, descriptions, and vocabulary is an excellent starting point for a budding coffee connoisseur.
"Roast" magazine is also filled with information.
Search this and several other forums for related topics. Just about everything you will have questions about is already discussed. You may need to be creative with search terms and parameters, since the coffee sites usually will not search for too-common terms (like coffee, espresso and roast).
Enjoy the adventure.
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View entire thread: How do I know if my water filter is too much!
Posted by beefybean on 2006-03-29 11:26:09 Post Subject:
This is one of the least understood areas of coffee, by the coffee retailers. I have been looking into this for my own shop and there is some good info out there, but it is not what I would call a "mature" subject, in the way that espresso temperature, pressure, bean roast, etc. are.
Yes, you do need minerals in your water. Filtration will not take them out. Nano filtration and reverse osmosis will. RO can strip it back too far. Softeners take out the scale, but replace it with sodium. Antiscaling systems inject phosphates into the water, reducing the ability for scale to form.
For home use, a good sediment and carbon filtration system should be sufficient. Especially for brewed coffee. If you are making lots of espresso, you might consider doing something to reduce or inhibit the scale. The boilers take the hit on scaling up.
Cirqua offers systems that "re-formulate" water. For a few thousand and up, they will filter, RO, and then remineralize to targeted Total Dissolved Solids (TDS - hardness, scale) and ph.
Ideal TDS for brewers may not be ideal for expresso machines. I'm still working on this one, and on my own system design. Input that I have collected:
sodium - bad for taste in ice
scale - bad for espresso machine, bad for ice machine and flavor of ice
scale - needed for proper extraction of coffee
polyphosphates - bad for me, Cirqua calls it bad, but that is competitive marketing. popular technology, approved for use in food, no objective input on flavor available, but I don't want it in my brew.
RO - good for ice, pure RO can etch equipment over time, e.g. boiler.
Articles in FreshCup, other trade magazines are marketing platforms for the equipment suppliers. They do provide some good targets on TDS, ph. But no solutions other than their advertisers.
I have to say that Cirqua knows their stuff and this industry. I have been very impressed talking to them, but the pricing is high. Culligan can do the same thing, but did not know the business, and the pricing is high. Local water treatment shops thought I was crazy, "You want to take the minerals out and then put them back in? ...."
I currently have a system on the drawing board with under $1000 in parts that can provide over 500 gallons reforumlated water per day. Way more than enough. I haven't built it yet and, what scares me most, is that I have not had to maintain it yet. One mechanical item is rated at 100gpd, and I will be placing a heavier demand on that. Still trying to find out what the design factors are that give it the 100 gpd rating.
Here is probably the best document that I have found on water. Several pages, exhaustive detail of what and why. If my system works, it had better or that Cirqua system goes up by the $1000 wasted, I'll post it.
If anyone else has some definitive answers, please let me know. What I have is only opinions and conjecture obtained from articles and other postings.
Charlie
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Posted by beefybean on 2006-03-29 11:26:09 Post Subject:
This is one of the least understood areas of coffee, by the coffee retailers. I have been looking into this for my own shop and there is some good info out there, but it is not what I would call a "mature" subject, in the way that espresso temperature, pressure, bean roast, etc. are.
Yes, you do need minerals in your water. Filtration will not take them out. Nano filtration and reverse osmosis will. RO can strip it back too far. Softeners take out the scale, but replace it with sodium. Antiscaling systems inject phosphates into the water, reducing the ability for scale to form.
For home use, a good sediment and carbon filtration system should be sufficient. Especially for brewed coffee. If you are making lots of espresso, you might consider doing something to reduce or inhibit the scale. The boilers take the hit on scaling up.
Cirqua offers systems that "re-formulate" water. For a few thousand and up, they will filter, RO, and then remineralize to targeted Total Dissolved Solids (TDS - hardness, scale) and ph.
Ideal TDS for brewers may not be ideal for expresso machines. I'm still working on this one, and on my own system design. Input that I have collected:
sodium - bad for taste in ice
scale - bad for espresso machine, bad for ice machine and flavor of ice
scale - needed for proper extraction of coffee
polyphosphates - bad for me, Cirqua calls it bad, but that is competitive marketing. popular technology, approved for use in food, no objective input on flavor available, but I don't want it in my brew.
RO - good for ice, pure RO can etch equipment over time, e.g. boiler.
Articles in FreshCup, other trade magazines are marketing platforms for the equipment suppliers. They do provide some good targets on TDS, ph. But no solutions other than their advertisers.
I have to say that Cirqua knows their stuff and this industry. I have been very impressed talking to them, but the pricing is high. Culligan can do the same thing, but did not know the business, and the pricing is high. Local water treatment shops thought I was crazy, "You want to take the minerals out and then put them back in? ...."
I currently have a system on the drawing board with under $1000 in parts that can provide over 500 gallons reforumlated water per day. Way more than enough. I haven't built it yet and, what scares me most, is that I have not had to maintain it yet. One mechanical item is rated at 100gpd, and I will be placing a heavier demand on that. Still trying to find out what the design factors are that give it the 100 gpd rating.
Here is probably the best document that I have found on water. Several pages, exhaustive detail of what and why. If my system works, it had better or that Cirqua system goes up by the $1000 wasted, I'll post it.
If anyone else has some definitive answers, please let me know. What I have is only opinions and conjecture obtained from articles and other postings.
Charlie
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View entire thread: Flavoring Coffee Beans
Posted by Baugo on 2006-12-16 23:17:16 Post Subject:
All though I find flavoring a beautiful thing like coffee a “SIN”
, I do understand their importance in the coffee biz. I wish I could be like the “Soup Nazi” and say “NO COFFEE FOR YOU” but, here are a couple places to get oils, the instructions usually come with your order. Around a ½ oz to a pound I think. Hopefully this helps.
http://www.u-roast-em.com/coffee-beans.html
http://www.naturesflavors.com/default.php?cPath=16
Have a “Very Merry Christmas”
I am sure that these fine folks here will have some other suppliers to list for you.
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Posted by Baugo on 2006-12-16 23:17:16 Post Subject:
All though I find flavoring a beautiful thing like coffee a “SIN”
, I do understand their importance in the coffee biz. I wish I could be like the “Soup Nazi” and say “NO COFFEE FOR YOU” but, here are a couple places to get oils, the instructions usually come with your order. Around a ½ oz to a pound I think. Hopefully this helps. http://www.u-roast-em.com/coffee-beans.html
http://www.naturesflavors.com/default.php?cPath=16
Have a “Very Merry Christmas”
I am sure that these fine folks here will have some other suppliers to list for you.
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View entire thread: Help with choosing a coffee machine
Posted by Alun_evans on 2006-03-29 23:20:21 Post Subject:
I would assume most of the European manufacturers should have pretty decent service departments in France- as it is close to home for most ot them. C.G is correct, there are some +/- for the superauto's that you need to weigh up before taking the plunge. There is a very exclusive hotel I know of here that has a couple of very expensive supers sitting in their dinning area. The average time they take to make a shot is 3-5 seconds ...so I am saying having a super that is not set up properly, maintained properly or installed with training on the why's, hows etc will result is a big investment of money producing generally cruddy quality espresso. On the otherhand, in Europe you should certainly have the support in training and setup from the suppliers...
Anyway, have a surf around this site. Some of the proffessional barista guys like Andrew have commented in length in other postings about semi vs auto.
Good luck
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Posted by Alun_evans on 2006-03-29 23:20:21 Post Subject:
I would assume most of the European manufacturers should have pretty decent service departments in France- as it is close to home for most ot them. C.G is correct, there are some +/- for the superauto's that you need to weigh up before taking the plunge. There is a very exclusive hotel I know of here that has a couple of very expensive supers sitting in their dinning area. The average time they take to make a shot is 3-5 seconds
...so I am saying having a super that is not set up properly, maintained properly or installed with training on the why's, hows etc will result is a big investment of money producing generally cruddy quality espresso. On the otherhand, in Europe you should certainly have the support in training and setup from the suppliers...Anyway, have a surf around this site. Some of the proffessional barista guys like Andrew have commented in length in other postings about semi vs auto.
Good luck
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View entire thread: JacaBiz Question
Posted by cafemakers on 2006-11-09 13:28:05 Post Subject:
No, sorry. I am not familiar with this company; however, the licensing agreement to use their products sounds like a questionable attempt to skirt franchise and other "business opportunity" laws. I'll forward this information to the FTC.
Whatever consultant you choose to provide you with information should be free of financial entanglements from any suppliers that they recommend. The true practice of consulting assists clients by providing industry-specific advice and processes to improve the quality and performance of business - it should NEVER be a sale pitch for someone's licensing program. Be certain to pick the company that will provide information that is in YOUR best interest, not their own.
Best regards,
Andrew
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Posted by cafemakers on 2006-11-09 13:28:05 Post Subject:
No, sorry. I am not familiar with this company; however, the licensing agreement to use their products sounds like a questionable attempt to skirt franchise and other "business opportunity" laws. I'll forward this information to the FTC.
Whatever consultant you choose to provide you with information should be free of financial entanglements from any suppliers that they recommend. The true practice of consulting assists clients by providing industry-specific advice and processes to improve the quality and performance of business - it should NEVER be a sale pitch for someone's licensing program. Be certain to pick the company that will provide information that is in YOUR best interest, not their own.
Best regards,
Andrew
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View entire thread: Drink economics and startup costs
Posted by honor2006 on 2006-07-17 20:20:55 Post Subject: Cost
To save your cost, I think you'dy like to try to think about all the supplies u r getting now and spend more time to find the cheapest way to get them. Maybe you need to do a lot of online surfing and shop around. For example, I found there is a great website: www.honorusa.com.
It sells hot cups and cold cups, free of shipping charges. U can save cost per cup from the cups you use. U may compare the price from local to online suppliers and find out what is the best for you.
My suggestion is: "Each cent you spend, you spend carefully".
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Posted by honor2006 on 2006-07-17 20:20:55 Post Subject: Cost
To save your cost, I think you'dy like to try to think about all the supplies u r getting now and spend more time to find the cheapest way to get them. Maybe you need to do a lot of online surfing and shop around. For example, I found there is a great website: www.honorusa.com.
It sells hot cups and cold cups, free of shipping charges. U can save cost per cup from the cups you use. U may compare the price from local to online suppliers and find out what is the best for you.
My suggestion is: "Each cent you spend, you spend carefully".
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View entire thread: New Coffee Shop in Cocoa Beach, Florida
Posted by tlowing on 2008-01-23 19:03:33 Post Subject: New Coffee Shop in Cocoa Beach, Florida
Time to take the plunge. Put an offer in on a leased space. Comes with some restaurant equipment but needs lots of cleanup work, build-out and furniture. I''ll post pictures if the deal goes through.
Recommendations for green bean and/or on-demand roast suppliers? Name suggestions for Surf-themed cafe?
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Posted by tlowing on 2008-01-23 19:03:33 Post Subject: New Coffee Shop in Cocoa Beach, Florida
Time to take the plunge. Put an offer in on a leased space. Comes with some restaurant equipment but needs lots of cleanup work, build-out and furniture. I''ll post pictures if the deal goes through.
Recommendations for green bean and/or on-demand roast suppliers? Name suggestions for Surf-themed cafe?
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View entire thread: High quality bean source
Posted by bdatcabdes on 2007-11-13 16:57:03 Post Subject: High quality bean source
To those of you who have shopped around on internet coffee suppliers, are there any suppliers you'd reccomend in the midwest of the USA?
I am mostly interested in a high quality bean, the cost is not really an issue.
Oh, btw, I don't have roasting capabilities, so I am referring to a company that sells roasted coffee.
a;ldj
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Posted by bdatcabdes on 2007-11-13 16:57:03 Post Subject: High quality bean source
To those of you who have shopped around on internet coffee suppliers, are there any suppliers you'd reccomend in the midwest of the USA?
I am mostly interested in a high quality bean, the cost is not really an issue.
Oh, btw, I don't have roasting capabilities, so I am referring to a company that sells roasted coffee.
a;ldj
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View entire thread: Where to find cups and saucers?
Posted by Jackson on 2007-03-25 16:43:35 Post Subject:
I do not recommend buying anything that is not restaurant grade. If you are using a three compartment sink to wash dishes, cheap mugs will break, (in the water). Most sinks are deep enough that cheap china will get abused while washing. This is not a cost issue to worry about as much as a safety issue for the person washing dishes.
If you are looking for equipment suppliers, pm me, I will give you a small list to work with.
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Posted by Jackson on 2007-03-25 16:43:35 Post Subject:
I do not recommend buying anything that is not restaurant grade. If you are using a three compartment sink to wash dishes, cheap mugs will break, (in the water). Most sinks are deep enough that cheap china will get abused while washing. This is not a cost issue to worry about as much as a safety issue for the person washing dishes.
If you are looking for equipment suppliers, pm me, I will give you a small list to work with.
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View entire thread: Opening a new coffee shop
Posted by Comfy Place on 2007-02-14 20:32:13 Post Subject:
Congratulations on taking the steps to open your own business. You mentioned early on that you had a bad experience with SCORE - could you elaborate? I've attended a SCORE session (group, not individual) and found it to be very interesting and informative. As for your property manager not being very amenable to your coffee shop plan - have you gone over some of your business plan with him/her? That may help to show that you have done your homework and are serious about making things work.
Coffee Fest will be a great experience for you. Many good seminars, lots of potential suppliers to network with, etc.. We'll be there too, so if you see us, say "Hi" and maybe we could talk more. Cheers!
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Posted by Comfy Place on 2007-02-14 20:32:13 Post Subject:
Congratulations on taking the steps to open your own business. You mentioned early on that you had a bad experience with SCORE - could you elaborate? I've attended a SCORE session (group, not individual) and found it to be very interesting and informative. As for your property manager not being very amenable to your coffee shop plan - have you gone over some of your business plan with him/her? That may help to show that you have done your homework and are serious about making things work.
Coffee Fest will be a great experience for you. Many good seminars, lots of potential suppliers to network with, etc.. We'll be there too, so if you see us, say "Hi" and maybe we could talk more. Cheers!
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View entire thread: Looking for a different food offer
Posted by Kiwi Coffee on 2007-05-19 03:59:48 Post Subject: Looking for a different food offer
I’m about to buy a small café (9 tables) in a block that has 8 cafes within a 100 yard radius. I’m not too concerned about the amount of competition; I’m getting the place for a very, very good price. My question, for those interested in answering, relates to what I should be selling by way of a food line.
My café is also an ice cream parlour selling a hugely popular premium local brand with no competition nearby. The figures show it might be unwise to get rid of the ice cream and I’m OK with keeping it.
There is a very small food preparation area and I think I’ll on be cooking a limited range of muffins, panini, and cakes. I would buy anything else in from local suppliers, ready-made.
Everybody sells muffins and panini (standard café fare here) and I’ll do that too, I’m looking for some ideas on what else I might offer.
Enough there for some ideas?
Appreciated.
Big Wayne
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Posted by Kiwi Coffee on 2007-05-19 03:59:48 Post Subject: Looking for a different food offer
I’m about to buy a small café (9 tables) in a block that has 8 cafes within a 100 yard radius. I’m not too concerned about the amount of competition; I’m getting the place for a very, very good price. My question, for those interested in answering, relates to what I should be selling by way of a food line.
My café is also an ice cream parlour selling a hugely popular premium local brand with no competition nearby. The figures show it might be unwise to get rid of the ice cream and I’m OK with keeping it.
There is a very small food preparation area and I think I’ll on be cooking a limited range of muffins, panini, and cakes. I would buy anything else in from local suppliers, ready-made.
Everybody sells muffins and panini (standard café fare here) and I’ll do that too, I’m looking for some ideas on what else I might offer.
Enough there for some ideas?
Appreciated.
Big Wayne
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