Hey there, coffee shop owners! 

It's no secret that the coffee industry has been inundated with big chains setting up shop on every block. 

But fear not, fellow coffee enthusiasts, because I have some sage advice for you on how to not only survive but thrive when a Goliath-sized chain opens its doors right next to your beloved David-like coffee shop.

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First and foremost, let's address the elephant in the room: competition. 

When a big chain moves in next door, it can be daunting, and the knee-jerk reaction may be to panic.

 But take a deep breath and remember this: you bring something unique and special to the table that large chains simply cannot replicate. Personalized service, a sense of community, and expertly crafted beverages are just a few things that set your coffee shop apart.

Here’s the thing – don’t ignore the competition and try to pretend they don’t exist.

Your customers aren’t dumb. They know a competitor just opened up and they’ve likely gone there already.

But that doesn’t mean all is lost.

Face the competition and differentiate yourself – maybe they do X better, but you’re amazing at Y.

It's essential to ensure that your coffee shop stands out from the chain next door.

Embrace your individuality, whether it's through a signature drink, a cozy ambiance, or exceptional customer service. Highlight what makes your coffee shop special and make it the centerpiece of your marketing strategy

Your regulars are the lifeblood of your coffee shop, so be sure to show them some love.

Offer loyalty programs, host special events, and create a sense of community to keep your customers coming back for more.

A personal touch goes a long way in building and maintaining customer loyalty.

Don’t just sign up for Square’s loyalty program and call it a day – do meaningful things that make your coffee shop more than a business, but an experience.

Loyalty programs are great, but the best they can do is offer discounts on products – very transactional. Whenever you can, think about how you can surpass this and go beyond a simple discount.

Use social media to your advantage by showcasing your unique offerings and engaging with your customers – but also highlight your local presence. Something that a large chain really can’t do.

Team up with local influencers, businesses, and locations.

Highlight your coffee shop's personality and values to attract like-minded individuals who prefer authenticity over mass-produced experiences.

In the battle of David vs. Goliath, never forget that David's slingshot was his unique selling proposition, and Goliath's size was his downfall.

Embrace what makes your coffee shop special, nurture your customer base, and stay nimble in the face of competition.

✌️,

Tom at Coffee Shop Keys