Does anyone actually make money on drive-thrus?

[jensational829]

Hi Everyone,
Thinking of opening a drive thru shop and have been reading various posts and Im getting the impression that it may not be a very profitable business.
Have a good area in mind, and am looking at various franchises or existing businesses such as bear creek coffee as they provide assistance in all aspects of opening a shop, but wondering if anyone has any 2-cents on that as well.

Any input is much appreciated!

 

[Coffee Guy]

Well jensational829:

A lot depends on where you are located and the placement of your drive thru espresso or sit down location. Drive thrus can be very profitable if placed in areas with high commuter traffic. And if run correctly you would be susprised how soon you can get a return on your investment. But as in any business there are risks involved. Be prepared to work it yourself or put someone in there that you can trust to monitor it for at least the first 6 months.

What part of the country are you located? There may be someone in your area that could consult with you.

 

[elanmike]

There is money in Drive-thru

We have been running drive-thru coffee stores for 10 years. What saved us a good deal of money was purchasing a used building for our first sight. Drive-thrus were not in our area at the time and we wanted to "test the waters". It proved to be a successful site and saved us a good deal of capital up front. The key is location and visability! Find an accessable lot [easy in & easy out] and check with your local municipalities about license/regulations/codes.
We have a buildings for sale: All steel, air/heat, 9 x 15 ft., self-plumbed; for a trailer or cement pad [depending on plumbing code in your area]. I will also say that good dependable employees also help to gain regulars - which is what coffee sales are all about! elanmike@yahoo.com