Opening a coffee shop in my old neighborhood… is it a good idea?

It’s important that the coffee and bagels are high quality. If you’re just offering frozen bagels that you microwave, customers will notice. Make sure everything is fresh! Best of luck!

Jordan said:
It’s important that the coffee and bagels are high quality. If you’re just offering frozen bagels that you microwave, customers will notice. Make sure everything is fresh! Best of luck!

Don’t worry, the bagels will be made fresh, and all the ingredients will be prepared on-site.

Sandwiches could be a great addition. They’re high-margin products, and people love to eat while they’re out. It could be a real winner for you!

Fin said:
Sandwiches could be a great addition. They’re high-margin products, and people love to eat while they’re out. It could be a real winner for you!

Would you consider replacing bagels with sandwiches, or would you keep both on the menu?

It’s clear you’re passionate about creating a community space, and that’s crucial to success. You’ll put a lot of care into the business, and your customers will notice. I’d suggest offering the space for clubs and groups to meet, like book clubs or discussion groups. It’ll help keep people coming back.

@Chen
That’s a great idea! Thanks for the suggestion!

Consider offering discounts for customers who bring their own cups. Maybe track it with customer numbers or sticky notes. It’s a small way to reward loyal customers. Also, think about partnering with local businesses to create unique collaborations.

@Sorrell
Great idea! I’ll definitely think about it. Thanks!

Congratulations! I love seeing community-driven coffee spots. A lot of places don’t feel pretentious, and that’s what makes them great. I appreciate spots where there’s space to work and hang out. Make sure your pricing is reasonable so customers can visit often.

What experience do you and your brother have in the coffee shop industry?

Lyle said:
What experience do you and your brother have in the coffee shop industry?

My brother has years of experience as a branch manager in coffee shops, both in the US and Greece. I’ve built a few startups, so I’m bringing a business background.

If you want your coffee shop to be highly profitable, consider building a strong brand and using online marketing strategies. That can really help your business in the long run.

Think about whether your goal is to give back to the community or focus more on profits. If it’s community-driven, a business approach that focuses too much on profit might alienate locals. Combining the coffee shop with other activities, like book clubs or discussion groups, could help.

Make sure you have a solid online presence to start. A Google listing and even a simple Google website can really help potential customers find you!

Bennet said:
Make sure you have a solid online presence to start. A Google listing and even a simple Google website can really help potential customers find you!

Thanks! I’ll make sure we do that.

Go for it! People love cozy places with good coffee and a friendly atmosphere. Focus on comfy seating, fast Wi-Fi, and local touches to make it unique. Don’t forget to check out what hours work best for the area!

Just a heads up, I thought you were opening this in Athens, Georgia. But I see now it’s Athens, Greece. Haha! Sometimes I get mixed up. Anyway, best of luck!

Peyton said:
Just a heads up, I thought you were opening this in Athens, Georgia. But I see now it’s Athens, Greece. Haha! Sometimes I get mixed up. Anyway, best of luck!

It’s Athens, Greece! :smile:

@Aza
Oh, wow, I feel silly now. Thanks for pointing that out!

Peyton said:
@Aza
Oh, wow, I feel silly now. Thanks for pointing that out!

No worries, it happens!