Hello hello, coffee crew!
In the previous newsletters, we’ve discussed how creating a theme and memorable menu can help make your business a star in the community. In today’s final installment of the “Standing Out” series, we’ll dive into how small perks can leave a big impression.
We’re talking about the little freebies, giveaways, and fun extras that surprise people and make their day. A cookie with their cappuccino, a free wellness shot on Friday mornings, a sticker they can slap on their water bottle—these small touches go a long way. They don’t just put smiles on faces; they also create loyalty, boost word-of-mouth, and give your business an undeniable uniqueness.
Here are some ideas for bringing perks into your coffee shop.
Table of Contents
Why Freebies Work So Well
But first, let’s make the case for investing the time, effort, and money into “giveaways.”
They make people feel good. That extra cookie or chocolate square isn’t about the food—it’s about the gesture. Customers walk away feeling taken care of.
They set you apart from the big guys. Chains focus on speed and consistency. You can focus on personality and thoughtfulness. That’s your edge.
They encourage people to spend more. Throw in a freebie after a certain dollar amount, and watch how many people add a pastry to their order just to hit the threshold.
They create “Instagram moments.” A spin-the-wheel game or a branded cookie is the kind of thing people post online. That’s free advertising for you.
Sweet (and Simple) Food Freebies
Pairing drinks with a little bite is always a hit:
Mini shortbread, biscotti, or cookies—tiny but delightful.
Chocolate squares, especially if you wrap them with your logo.
Seasonal bites, like pumpkin bread in the fall or fruit skewers in the summer.
You don’t need to give these out constantly—use them strategically. Surprise first-time guests, bring them out during slower times, or make them part of a special day of the week.
Make It a Habit: Daily Perk Schedule
A fun way to keep people coming back is to set up a Monday–Friday perk calendar. It gives customers something to look forward to and can even become part of their weekly routine. For example:
Monday: Free flavor shot with any latte.
Tuesday: Free mini cookie with every drink.
Wednesday: Discounted refills if you bring your mug back the same day.
Thursday: Free sticker or mini merch item with purchases over $8.
Friday: Free wellness shot with any purchase before 10 a.m.
Daily perks work best if you keep them simple and repeatable. Customers will start remembering them (“Tuesday = cookie day”), and that anticipation is what builds loyalty.
Stickers, Merch, and Other Fun Extras
Branded goodies double as freebies and marketing. Think:
Stickers for laptops and water bottles.
Reusable straws or sleeves for eco-conscious customers.
Seasonal or collectible designs that encourage repeat visits.
Give them away after a certain spend, on slower days, or as part of your daily perks. It’s a small investment with big visibility.
Gamify the Coffee Run
Why not add a little play into your customers’ routine? Options include:
Spin the Wheel: Customers who spend $10+ spin for prizes like free add-ons, discounts, or treats.
Scratch Cards: Hand out scratch-offs with random rewards instead of a basic punch card.
Mystery Mug: Hide a token under a random cup each week for a free drink.
Gamification not only excites customers—it also creates shareable moments that spread your brand.
Keep It Realistic
Of course, you’ll want to balance generosity with sustainability. A few tips:
Be strategic with timing. Offer perks during specific windows (like mornings or midweek lulls) to drive traffic when you need it most.
Rotate and refresh. Switch perks every season so customers stay surprised and engaged.
Partner smartly. Freebies don’t have to come from your own kitchen. Team up with local makers—like a chocolatier, granola company, or yoga studio—for samples or coupons. This supports your community and spreads costs while giving customers something unique.
Track what works. Keep an eye on whether perks are actually increasing sales or loyalty. If not, tweak them until you find the sweet spot.
Even a small gesture—like writing a thank-you on a to-go lid—can have a lasting effect without costing much.
The Bottom Line
Perks and freebies don’t need to be complicated or expensive. Whether it’s a daily perk schedule, a cookie on the side, or a spin-the-wheel game, these little extras help create memorable experiences that keep customers coming back.
Because at the end of the day, people may walk in for the caffeine—but they come back for the feeling your café gives them.
Until next time!
✌️,
Coffee Shop Keys
One last thing! Don’t forget about the first Independent Coffee Shop Industry Report. Get your copy of the full report today and use code CSK2025 at checkout to save 25% on your purchase.
