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Owning a Coffee Drive-Thru: An Entrepreneur's Complete Guide to Get Started
Owning a coffee drive-thru isn't as easy as brewing a pot of joe and waiting for the customers to roll in. Before you get started, there are a few things you need to know that will go a long way to helping you not only open your coffee drive-thru but also be successful.
For the budding entrepreneur, entering the wonderful and exciting world of the coffee industry makes sense. The coffee industry is a robust market that's not only growing but is also widely considered recession-resistant.
Here is your entrepreneur's guide to getting started in the coffee industry and what you need to know to set yourself and your business up for success.
Start by Defining What You Want Your Goals to Be
People start their own businesses for all kinds of reasons. You may be tired of the rat race and are ready for a career change. You may be looking to improve your work-life balance, or you are prepared to set out on your own and be your own boss.
You also may see owning a coffee drive-thru as an investment for the future for you and your family. It's important that you sit down and make a list of why you want to own a coffee drive-thru and what you hope to get out of business ownership.
Do Your Research and Set Realistic Expectations
They say that prior preparation prevents poor performance. It's a saying that is as true in life as it is in business. Once you understand exactly why you want to invest in your own business, the next phase is clearly defining your expectations and making sure they are realistic.
If you're planning on owning a coffee drive-thru, it's important to take the time to do your research about the business — and be thorough. Give yourself a reasonable understanding of how much revenue you can expect to bring in, what your expenses will be, and how much money you can stand to make after everything is said and done.
Make a list of the things you need to know before you open your own coffee drive-thru. By the time you're ready to open your doors, you should be reasonably confident that you can answer most people's questions about your business, and if you don't know the answer, you know where to look.
Learn How Much Owning a Coffee Drive-Thru Costs
A big advantage of doing your research beforehand is avoiding potential surprises. This is especially true when it comes to how much things cost. A lot more goes into owning a coffee drive-thru than buying beans and coffeemakers.
You also need to consider additional equipment like espresso machines, microwaves, ovens if you plan on offering baked goods, blenders, and more. On top of your food equipment, you'll also need display cases to show off and store your products, furniture like tables and chairs, lighting, signs, and the list goes on. And this is all just to get started. We haven't even touched on coffee shop expenses for rent, utilities, and labor.
Needless to say, there's a lot to consider when starting a coffee drive-thru, and it doesn't come cheap. Don't let yourself be caught off guard by unexpected expenses. The better your understanding of what it costs, the better off you'll be.
Understand How Much You Stand to Make Personally
As with any business venture, you're going to want to know how much you stand to make when it's all said and done. Just like how you shouldn't be surprised by how much it costs to start your business, it also isn't helpful to be shocked when you get that first paycheck.
Reports show that an owner of a medium-sized coffee shop can make an average of approximately $60,000 to $160,000 per year. However, it's important to remember that this is an industry average and can vary depending on you, your business, and your circumstances. This is a ballpark average, but things may be different for you, which is why it's important to do your research!
Review your numbers and your business plan carefully to determine what sort of salary will work for your business and give yourself a reasonable estimate of how much you can expect to bring home.
Know What Running Your Business Will Look Like
While many people drink coffee throughout the day, there's no question that mornings are a busy time for many coffee drive-thrus. Whether on the way to work, school, or simply starting their day right, many people need their morning coffee to get going. That means being prepared for many an early morning as a coffee drive-thru owner.
Owning a coffee drive-thru is one of those things where, as an owner, you determine your own level of involvement. Surrounding yourself with the right team is crucial in creating a recipe for success and how much you'll be getting your hands dirty (and how often).
Hiring a manager you can trust to run your business the right way goes a long way to making your coffee drive-thru run smoothly. By taking the time to build the right team, you have more time to focus on working on your business, not just in it.
Ask Yourself If You Want to Start From Scratch or Buy a Franchise
No one ever said that owning a coffee drive-thru was going to be easy, but starting one can go a lot more smoothly when you partner with the right franchise. One of the biggest benefits of a franchise is that they've done this more than a few times before, and can provide you with the know-how and the training to get your coffee drive-thru started on the right foot.
Scooter's Coffee is growing rapidly throughout the United States. One of the many reasons for this sustained success is the support it offers its franchisees. Learn how you can start your own journey to owning a coffee drive-thru when you start your Scooter's Coffee franchise today!
The Future of Drive-Thrus Post-Coronavirus
As national awareness and concern about COVID-19 really came to a head in mid-March, business operators had to adapt. Many stores, including restaurants, changed their practices to accommodate social distancing.
And then, in a matter of days — as experts determined the situation to be more grave than simple in-store distancing measures could answer — the COVID-19 pandemic began to result in shutdowns and shelter-in-place orders in communities across the country. Customer access to food from restaurants and shops became much more limited.
Both consumers and operators became extra cautious and hyper-vigilant to reduce the opportunity for the spread of germs. This trend bodes well for the future of drive-thrus.
Profit-Saving Pivots
Foodservice businesses, including restaurants and coffee houses that didn't completely close, began to serve customers at drive-thru windows, as well as curbside service and delivery, helped by online ordering and ordering via apps. Even restaurants that did not have drive-thrus previously created makeshift versions in their parking lots.
In many cases, drive-thru business has increased business year-over-year for a number of establishments offering it.
At many chains, The New York Times reported in May 2020, " … drive-through accounted for as much as 70 percent of revenue before the crisis, generating billions of dollars for the industry every month. During the pandemic, sales have mostly held steady. In March, drive-throughs generated $8.3 billion across the fast-food industry, an increase from $8 billion in sales over the same period in 2019."
People Will Be Cautious Going Forward
In the last few months, both food service staff and customers alike have been careful and cautious of one another, even in the few moments they interact at a drive-thru. Nonetheless, drive-thru service has been the best option for many.
Even as most cities and towns have reopened to some degree, businesses and customers carry on with limitations, including additional sanitation measures and required mask-wearing inside stores. Meanwhile, the future of drive-thrus is strong.
Tapering out of the quarantine, America generally is not likely to fully re-embrace the old normal anytime soon. With a new outlook on sanitary practices, businesses can expect to continue utilizing some of the changes they have already made.
Consumers Will Continue to Rely on Drive-Thrus
Though many consumers relish their return to dining inside restaurants and coffee shops, more people than ever will favor drive-thrus as they continue to look for convenient ways to limit risk. Contactless pickup and delivery, as well as drive-thrus, will continue to be the best, most simple avenues.
Considering that many Americans arguably have jumped the gun and rushed back into "normal" life too quickly — increasing the risk of spikes in COVID-19 in their communities — those who are still prudent and practicing smart precautions will seek to limit contact in most aspects of daily life.
Research by QSR Magazine in May 2020, discovered that 13 percent of people still don't feel safe visiting a dine-in restaurant. The key is offering them options.
Drive-Thrus Will Adapt to Meet the Need
One of the biggest challenges — and it's a good problem to have — from the increased demand for drive-thru service is longer lines of cars.
Operators will have to get creative to accommodate the influx. Where possible, coffee shops and other establishments may need to open an additional drive-thru lane or send staffers to carry food out to customers in cars who have ordered via app.
In the kitchen and food prep area, operators may need to reconfigure the layout for more efficiency or even more staff to produce more food and drink for drive-thru customers.
Drive-Thrus Are Good Business
Arguably, there has never been a better time to have a drive-thru franchise. Always a classic offering for convenience-seeking customers — especially coffee lovers — the drive-thru concept will not just endure but become more popular and relied upon as lifestyles change toward more caution.
Scooter's Coffee, LLC, the Midwest-based drive-thru coffee franchise that is experiencing booming growth, recently ranked in Entrepreneur magazine's 2019 Fastest-Growing Franchises. This highly sought-after honor recognizes the 150 fastest-growing brands, based on the number of new franchise units added in the United States and Canada from July 2017 to July 2018. Scooter's Coffee opened an impressive 22 new units during that time period. In fact, Scooter's Coffee was named a fastest-growing franchise in 2018 as well, signaling an exciting trend for the brand.
Specific benefits of owning a Scooter's Coffee franchise include location selection assistance, wholesale product pricing, a recession-resistant industry, ease of operation, construction assistance, a team of marketing professionals, and world-class operational support.
Scooter's Coffee has been serving up delicious coffee, tasty treats, and genuine smiles since 1998. Visit OwnAScooters.com today to learn more about joining the Scooter's team and making your dreams a reality.
Buy a Coffee Shop: 10 Make-or-Break Questions to Ask
Starting or investing in your own business is a thrilling time in an entrepreneur's life. Even so, purchasing a business or franchise is a big investment. You need to know how to identify red flags and make sure you're investing in a business that makes sense for you. That means asking the right questions. Here are 15 make-or-break questions to ask when you buy a coffee shop.
1. Why are You Selling?
The first question you need to ask before you buy a coffee shop is also one of the most obvious. Why is the owner selling their coffee shop in the first place? There's a good chance the owner may be retiring or moving to a new state or town. If that's the case, then it makes sense that someone would sell their business.
What you want to look out for are financial problems or issues with the business itself. Has business declined recently? Are there other financial issues to consider? Ask for the reason the owner is selling to make sure it's for the right reasons.
2. How Did You Decide on This Price?
Next, it's important to understand how the owner arrived at the price at which they are selling their business. Ask about what factors informed the price and why they are valuable. These may include the value of the location or building.
Is the building included in the price or will you need to sign a new lease? Be sure you get a clear breakdown of the costs associated with buying a coffee shop so you can be confident in your purchase.
3. How Long is Left on the Lease?
Unless the building comes with it, you're also entering the existing lease. You need to speak with both the business owner and the landlord before signing anything. You'll want to know how long is left on the lease, what the terms are, and the landlord's plans for the future of the building. The last thing you want is to buy a business only to discover your lease runs out in six months!
4. Do You Like Working Here?
This is another question that may seem obvious but is really important. Did the previous owners enjoy working at their coffee shop? Just like their reasons for selling, it's important to learn more about their experience running the business.
You don't want to buy a business where you won't be happy. If the previous owner is experiencing burnout or is tired of running the business, that's a red flag that it could happen to you too. Make sure the business is a place where people like working and spending time.
5. What is the Competition Like?
If you're about to buy a coffee shop, there's a good chance you've done research on the competition. Still, it's best to learn about what the previous owner has to say about their competitors and how they have impacted their business.
You should know who your competition is, and have a general idea of how they're performing compared to your store. This is important because these are the shops you'll be jockeying with for customers.
6. How is This Coffee Shop Different?
There are all kinds of places where people buy their coffee. What makes this coffee shop different? You're going to want to ask about what separates this coffee shop from everybody else. Are there specialty drinks people love? Maybe they serve amazing snacks and breakfast items.
Whatever they're doing, make sure your potential coffee shop is doing something to stand out from the crowd.
7. Is the Coffee Shop in a Good Location?
An important consideration when you buy a coffee shop is where the coffee shop is located. Your coffee shop location is crucial to the success of your business. Is the business in a high traffic area? Is it easily accessible from the road? All of these are important questions that should determine whether or not you want to buy.
8. Who are Your Customers and What are They Like?
Once you know the coffee shop is in a location to attract customers, you should also get a feel for what those customers are like. Does the coffee shop rely on foot traffic and serve a lot of college students or young professionals? Depending on whether you want to buy a drive-thru coffee shop or a traditional coffeehouse, you may do most of your business during the morning rush. Learn more about the coffee shop's clientele and how this affects business operations.
9. Are there Any Liens, Debts, or Lawsuits?
This is an important question when you buy a coffee shop that many people don't think of. When you buy the coffee shop, are you also buying their debt? You need to know exactly what you're buying and everything that comes with it. If you're getting equipment or other goods with the sale, make sure they're all bought and paid for. The last thing you want to do is buy somebody else's problems.
10. Is the Equipment and Furniture Included?
When you buy a business, you should know everything that comes with it. Equipment, furniture, décor, and signage are all essential to any successful coffee shop. Find out if you're buying more than just the building and the name. If you need to buy new coffee makers and furniture you weren't planning on then you would be in for a rude awakening.
Buy a Coffee Shop with a Scooter's Coffee Franchise
Clearly, there are a lot of important questions to think about when you buy a coffee shop. One great way to have a lot of these questions answered up front is by partnering with a franchise like Scooter's Coffee.
Questions such as how much your investment will be and where that money goes are clearly explained so you can buy a coffee shop with confidence. Other considerations like site selection, training, and marketing will be handled for you as well.
See how you can buy a coffee shop and start your road to success when you become a franchise partner with Scooter's Coffee today!
How to Start a Franchise That Stands Apart
First-time entrepreneurs with the drive to launch a business concept are anxious to get started, but the learning curve to make it happen as a moneymaking endeavor can be steep. In addition to just the idea for the product or service to be offered, there are plenty of nuts and bolts, so to speak.
Partnering with a franchise brand, instead of launching an independent business, drastically reduces that learning curve and sets the owner on a faster path to profit.
But make sure you know how to start a franchise that stands apart from the pack.
Some entrepreneurs make the mistake of thinking that to truly stand apart they must open an independent business. That is just not true. By choosing the right franchise for the market, a franchise business can shine and separate itself from the competition.
Going independent and becoming a franchisee each have pros and cons. If you start a business yourself, you make 100 percent of the decisions, but you do so without a strong foundation of wisdom, market insight, and support. Especially if you don't have a background in the particular industry or segment, you'll make honest — but costly — mistakes along the way. You will have learned a lot, but at a cost, with a steeper learning curve.
Also, a franchise brand has methods to strategically size up their biggest competitors and determine how to differentiate themselves from them. A franchise relationship with an existing brand allows you to catch the wave of growth trends and get running more quickly and smoothly.
Plus, marketing and grand opening strategies enable an entrepreneur to make an immediate splash with the right franchise.
How Can My Franchise Business Stand Apart From Others?
The first order of business is to choose the right franchise.
Deciding on the type of concept for a business may start with two threshold factors: (1) an entrepreneur's available budget/capital and (2) a determination of what unique product or service — or twist on existing products or service — the market in question needs.
The options available could range from a home-based "side hustle" type of concept or a retail or foodservice business open to the public. Entrepreneurs can choose from a wide range of franchises at initial investment costs from relatively inexpensive to pretty pricey.
For starters, you can save time in your search by looking to the experts for guidance on which franchises are special. For instance, Entrepreneur annually ranks the 500 best franchises in the country. Scooter's Coffee this year came in at number 225 for its outstanding performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power.
Points of Difference
The business model will be important in setting the establishment apart in the market. Study the landscape of businesses in the area and what they offer — and what they don't. For example, perhaps there are a couple of popular coffee shops and even one with a drive-thru, but a burgeoning area of town needs one, too.
That presents a window of opportunity. Success in business thrives with not only a unique-to-market brand but also a real point of difference, which could be the product itself or convenience or service approach.
And what better way to stand out than to introduce your area to a new brand that is a break from the norm?
Little differences add up to big motivation for people to take their business to unique concepts. For example, Scooter's Coffee differentiates itself from competitors in a number of ways. The brand focuses on serving amazing coffee with great service.
Differences for Franchisees, Too
A franchise should stand out not just to consumers but to potential franchisees as well. Scooter's Coffee separates itself from the pack by being an established brand with a reputation for quality — and a marketing team that works to expand the brand's reach nationally. The company's franchise system provides continued coffee franchise support, as well as a network of franchisees who share wisdom.
The Scooter's Coffee concept is proven, with more than 200 locations, making it ready to enter a new market at full speed. To that end, the company makes sure that new franchises aren't too close to existing ones — ensuring that it will stand apart — and conducts market research to make sure each location has the potential to thrive.
Scooter's Coffee is also different from many businesses in that it is resilient in times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The brand's drive-thru locations are perfectly suited for seamless operation throughout times of social distancing.
How to Start a Franchise
The first step toward starting a franchise is what you're doing right this minute, as you read this article: research.
Your decision on what type of franchise to pursue will come after much soul searching and number crunching.
You've read reports and articles and picked the brains of people you know in the industry. You've visited and observed other businesses in the area, getting an idea of what type of business you want to start. You've examined the possibilities of opening your own independent business, buying an existing independent, or opening a franchise location, and you've decided on a franchise.
You can narrow the field of choices based on factors such as what you are willing or able to invest. The cost of entry may be quite low or very high, depending on the chain brand with which you opt to partner.
Each company's Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) enables you to evaluate the franchise, with a breakdown and range of the initial investment costs under Item 7. For example, according to the 2019 Entrepreneur list, the initial investment amounts for the top five restaurant franchises range from $229,000 to $4.7 million, making the average initial investment for a single unit around $2.5 million.
Once you've chosen the franchise you want, the franchise application is the next step in how to start a franchise. Think of it like you would a job application. You will be sharing your educational background, employment history, former and current business ventures and their results, and more.
This is your opportunity to impress the franchisor and stand out from the many people clambering to try to get one of their franchises. Demonstrate your knowledge of the brand, their offerings, their value proposition, and their history in the marketplace.
The franchisor will want to know what kind of prospect you are — how interested and serious you truly are, what financial resources you have, and whether you meet their qualifications.
The company will want to get to know your personality and work ethic. They will want a self-starter who takes initiative but also is willing to follow the specifications and practices of the brand.
If you and the franchisor agree that you'll be a good fit with one another, you will need to secure financing. Though some entrepreneurs may be fortunate enough to have the funds in hand, most franchisees take out loans to meet the funding requirements. You may have family or friends willing to loan you funding, or you may borrow from a bank or other lending institution.
Your current assets and ability to obtain funding will be important in the application phase. The franchisor contributes much to the relationship, including established systems, marketing, management techniques, purchasing power, and much more. The franchisee will need to finance launching the new location from that foundation.
If you are a first-time business owner looking for guidance, systems, and support, or a seasoned entrepreneur looking for your next investment opportunity, check out Scooter's Coffee.
Scooter's Coffee Named to Entrepreneur's Top Food Franchises List
Mary Lindsaye Boyd mboyd@919marketing.com 919.459.8160
Drive-Thru Coffee Franchise Listed Among Top Food Brands in 2020
OMAHA, Neb. (August 25, 2020) — For more than two decades, Scooter's Coffee has grown in its mission to become one of the nation's most reliable coffee brands. That goal has become reality, especially considering the success in recent years. That success was honored yet again, this time in the August issue of Entrepreneur.
The business magazine and website listed 500 of the country's top franchises. Not only did Scooter's Coffee make that list, but was named one of the top 200 food franchises, making the top three in the coffee category.
The list was comprised based on 150 data points, including cost and fees, size and growth, franchisee support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability.
"As dining rooms were shut down in response to the coronavirus pandemic," the Entrepreneur article reads, "food franchisors rose to the occasion, quickly finding ways to keep serving customers and communities and help their franchisees survive—and, in some cases, even thrive."
Scooter's Coffee was a brand that was well-positioned to thrive. Its drive-thru model fit the need for limited contact during the pandemic. More importantly, it allowed the popular Midwest-based brand to continue meeting its longstanding commitment to quality coffee and service.
"Our brand is incredibly important to us, not only for the customers we serve each day but for the franchisees that make our growth possible," said Tim Arpin, Vice President of Franchise Sales. "Living up to our promise of 'Amazing People, Amazing Drinks, Amazingly Fast' is key to continuing our strong standing in the franchise business."
You can view Scooter's Coffee in Entrepreneur's online list of top food franchises or find the list in the August 2020 issue.
About Scooter's Coffee
Founded in 1998 by Don and Linda Eckles in Bellevue, Nebraska, Scooter's Coffee roasts only the finest coffee beans in the world at its headquarters in Omaha, Nebraska. In more than two decades of business, Scooter's Coffee's success is simple: stay committed to the original business principles and company core values. The Scooter's Coffee Brand Promise, often recited to franchisees, customers and employees is: "Amazing People, Amazing Drinks… Amazingly Fast! ® " It represents the company's business origins from 1998 and reflects a steady commitment to providing an unforgettable experience to loyal and new customers.
Scooter's Coffee is at the dawn of a strategic growth phase in the Midwest and nationwide. The U.S. coffee market is an estimated $48 billion a year recession-resistant industry, and Scooter's Coffee is striving to become the #1 drive-thru coffee franchise in the nation. Visit ownascooters.com to learn more about the benefits of owning a franchise with a well established and fast-growing brand.
For more information, visit scooterscoffee.com, facebook.com/scooterscoffee, ownascooters.com, or call 877-494-7004.
Steady Growth Garners Scooter's Coffee Another Inc. 5000 Recognition
Scooter's Coffee Makes Third Appearance in Four Years
OMAHA, Neb. (August 11, 2020) — In a year marked by economic uncertainty, there may be no more important factor for businesses than stability. That has been a hallmark for Scooter's Coffee, and once again earned the Midwest-based drive-thru franchise a spot on the Inc. 5000 list.
For the third year since 2017, Scooter's Coffee was recognized among the fastest growing private businesses in the country. An appearance in Inc. Magazine's rankings have long been considered a barometer of a company's sustained growth, a goal Scooter's Coffee has now achieved on numerous occasions.
"We are thrilled to once again land on the Inc. 5000 list," said Tim Arpin, Vice President of Franchise Sales. "Even considering the instability caused by the current health crisis, our growth in the years leading into 2020 has proven the strength of our business model. We're confident the growth that earned us our spot on the list will carry us into the years to come."
Scooter's Coffee previously appeared in the Inc. 5000 rankings in 2017 and 2018, and reported 57% growth in the three-year duration used for the 2020 list.
You can view more information about Scooter's Coffee's franchising success by visiting https://franchising.scooterscoffee.com/ and see its Inc. 5000 placement at https://www.inc.com/profile/scooters-coffee.
Starting a Coffee Business that Delivers Profits
We've told you all about what it takes to open a coffee shop. By now, you should understand the steps required to get the doors open. But have you researched what it takes to run a successful coffee shop? When we say successful, we mean a coffee business that regularly turns a healthy profit.
There's a lot more than goes into it than serving an amazing cup of coffee (although that helps a lot). Here are important tips you need to know to open a successful coffee business in your area.
Start with a Business Plan
We've covered this before, but it bears repeating. Your business should always start with a business plan. Your business plan lays out all the details for your company before you even consider breaking ground on your location.
At its core, your business plan breaks down the nuts and bolts of your business and what your goals are for your new endeavor. It should also incorporate a detailed analysis of both the market and your competitors to ensure your plans make sense for your industry.
A strong business plan goes even further, detailing your day-to-day operations, financial plan, marketing strategy, and more. In short, your business plan is the treasure map you need to follow on your road to success.
Put Together a Budget (And Stick to It)
You should have already worked on your financial plan as part of creating your business plan. The next step in your financial plan is turning it into a business budget. How can you expect to run a successful coffee business without a thoughtful, balanced budget?
Begin by making note of all your expenses and fixed costs. These are expenses that will more or less stay the same every month. They include things like your rent, payroll, bills, and supplies.
Your budget should also include variable expenses that change month to month as well as an "in-case" fund for emergencies and unexpected costs. With a firm idea of how much money it costs to run your business, you'll have a much better idea of how much you need to bring in if you want to turn a profit.
Have a Marketing Strategy to Attract Customers
Even the best coffee shop with a strong business plan is going to have a hard time if it can't attract customers. This is where a marketing plan comes into play. If you've already done your homework on your competitors, you should have an idea of what other people are doing to bring in business.
You're going to want a marketing strategy that takes advantage of everything possible to bring in new business. That means making full use of social media, digital advertising, and even your local newspaper. You may also want to organize events or contests to bring more exposure to your business and get your name out there.
Ground Your Success With the Support of a Franchisor
No one ever said starting a coffee shop was easy. Opening a successful coffee business is even harder. Building a business plan, establishing a budget, and putting together a marketing plan takes a lot of time and effort. And this is all before you get started! Thankfully, you can start a coffee shop with all of these steps already taken for you by opening a coffee franchise.
One of the biggest advantages of opening a franchise is the opportunity to own a business with a well-established brand. By working with a company that already has strong brand awareness, customers will line up just to enjoy their favorite products from a name they trust.
What's more, a coffee shop franchise already has the business plan, budget, and marketing plan in place for you. The right franchise has carefully crafted a comprehensive plan that is tested and designed to be successful. A profitable, repeatable business model is the whole point of a franchise!
Be Part of a Profitable Coffee Business with Scooter's Coffee
By following the steps outlined above, you should be well on your way to starting a coffee business that will turn a profit. Of course, you could also partner with an established system that already has a track record of success. Learn how you can partner with Scooter's Coffee and start your franchise today!
6 Ways Great Managers Increase Sales
The secret to a great coffee shop may start with the best beans, but it's having the best people that helps sustain that success year after year. Having amazing people run your coffee shop starts with an amazing manager.
But why does managing a coffee shop make such a big difference in its success? What kind of training makes a good manager? Here are six ways great managers increase sales, and why it's worth investing in the right people and the right process.
1. Managers Train Employees to Do Things the Right Way
If you're going to have a successful coffee shop, consistency is key. Customers want and expect the same great experience every time they visit your shop. That amazing drink that blew their minds the first time should put a smile on their face every visit. The best way to achieve this kind of consistency is by properly training your employees.
Managing a coffee shop and training employees is more than giving them a handbook full of recipes and setting them loose. The best managers lead by example and invest themselves in the success of their employees. This is because the success of your employees directly correlates to the success of your business.
Take the time to show, not just tell, employees how to make your drinks to ensure that they're amazing every single time. You should also demonstrate how employees should treat your customers to create an experience that keeps people coming back.
2. Teaching Employees How to Do Things Right Helps You Save in the Long Run
Establishing a set of best practices for your drinks and food is crucial to not only boosting sales, but also saving money. It may not seem like much at the time, but waste and freebies add up quickly, and it's not long before they start to eat into your bottom line.
Lay down a set of hard and fast rules your employees are expected to follow that will both ensure consistency (see number one) and increase profitability. Define how much flavored syrup goes into beverages and exactly how much whipped cream employees add to people's drinks. Little things like extra shots of espresso or an extra squirt of syrup cost more than you may think. If your manager isn't on top of it, you could be losing money.
3. Managers Inspire and Motivate Employees
Whether you decide to be the manager yourself or you hire someone to manage your coffee shop, a good manager is the most important employee in your business. The manager sets the standards for what is expected of employees and how your business is run.
It's difficult to expect employees to put in their best work if the manager isn't doing it themselves. The right manager understands the strategies necessary to inspire and motivate employees to not only work hard, but take pride in their work to provide amazing service to their customers.
When employees are happy and motivated, it's reflected in the quality of their work. More often than not, motivated staff means more sales. By taking pride in their job and showing passion for your products, employees are better able to sell customers what they want. Employees can also better upsell customers on different products or convince them to go ahead and buy that extra muffin to go with their coffee.
4. Managers Connect With Customers
Your customers are the most important part of your business. But it's more than getting customers in the door. You also need to build relationships with those customers to keep them coming back again and again. The right manager is personally invested in the business, which means they are also invested in their customers.
When managers take the time to meet and greet their customers, it puts a smile on their face and helps to build a level of loyalty you don't see with other stores. Developing repeat business is a surefire way not only to increase sales in the short term, but drive sustainable growth for your business in the future.
5. Support and Training Systems are Keys to Success
If you're going to be successful at managing a coffee shop, then you're going to need a system to make it happen. That means putting together a comprehensive training guide for both you and your employees. Your training manual should explain all your operations and job duties from start to finish.
In addition to job duties, your training should also explain to employees what is expected of them and the sorts of values and attitudes you want to see in your business.
Putting together a plan for managing your coffee shop is a big undertaking and can take a long time to put together. Depending on your level of experience, you may or may not know everything you need to do. This is why partnering with a franchise makes a lot of sense for so many entrepreneurs!
6. The Right Franchise Has the Training and Support You Need
The advantages of partnering with a franchise is, through years of trial and testing, they've already developed a system that works. By starting a franchise, you're taking advantage of that brand's identity and systems to help your business be its best.
Scooter's Coffee offers comprehensive coffee franchise training to ensure you know everything you need to know when it comes to managing a coffee business. By combining training with a reliable manual for recipes and operations, you can be positive your manager is prepared to train themselves and your employees for success.
Start a Scooter's Coffee Franchise and Find the Training You Need to Succeed
Managing a coffee shop doesn't have to be hard, but it does take patience and planning. Learn how you can partner with an established franchise with the support and training you need to manage your coffee shop successfully. Get more information on how you can start your Scooter's Coffee franchise today!
How to Open a Coffee Shop: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Many people are eyeing the next step in their careers. This may be due to an unexpected job change or a desire to take more ownership of their future. One industry new entrepreneurs are looking at is the retail coffee industry. Coffee has proven time and again to be a recession-resistant industry. Not only is the industry itself well-built to weather an economic downturn, but the concept of a drive-thru coffee shop is uniquely positioned to pivot and adapt in even the most difficult times.
There are many positives to opening a coffee shop, but nobody said it was going to be easy. It's important you understand everything that goes into starting a coffee shop of your own. It's a lot more than a few coffee makers and a bag of beans! Our step-by-step guide for how to open a coffee shop will show you everything you need to know to start brewing your own success story today!
1. Establish a Concept for Your Coffee Shop
The first step in opening a coffee shop begins with the idea itself. If you're considering starting a business, then you've probably been thinking about this for a while. Maybe opening a coffee shop has been a dream of yours for years. This is the time to put it all on paper.
What type of coffee shop have you been thinking of? Have you always wanted a cozy café with lots of seating where people can hang out? Maybe you've always wanted a hybrid coffee shop and restaurant featuring a wide variety of tasty treats. Your goal might be to serve the best coffee to as many customers as you can as fast as possible. Sit down and make a list of pros and cons for each kind of coffee shop to determine which business model works best with your goals.
2. Write a Coffee Shop Business Plan
So, you've figured out what kind of coffee shop you want to start. The next step in how to open a coffee shop is to put a plan together to make it happen. Having a solid business plan in place is essential to starting a successful business. Your business plan is the blueprint for building your company from the ground up. Because your business plan is so vital to your success, it's important that you're as thorough as possible.
A strong business plan should outline every aspect of your company and how it works. It should clearly define your mission and your objectives. It also needs to outline all your products and services and how they relate to market opportunities in your industry.
Your business plan should also provide a detailed analysis of your competitors and identify what they're doing right, and what they're doing wrong. Last, but certainly not least, should be a detailed financial analysis that illustrates how the numbers work and that this is a profitable concept.
3. Nail Down the Right Location
The next step is one of the most important, and also one of the toughest when it comes to opening a coffee shop. It's time to discover the right location for your business. Site selection is crucial to the success of your coffee shop. That's why you need to take your time and consider all the factors for selecting the right location.
Chief among these factors is the amount of traffic that passes by your business. When it comes to coffee, everyone is a potential customer. You're going to want your brand front-and-center when the caffeine craving hits.
Also, think about your location's accessibility. If your business relies on a lot of drive-thru traffic, then you're going to want your building on the right-hand side of the road. Otherwise, customers will have a hard time turning into your store!
4. Design Your Building
Once you've decided where your coffee shop is going to go, it's time to design your coffee shop itself. Depending on your location, you may be renovating an existing building or constructing a new shop from scratch.
If you've dreamt of owning a café for years, then you may already have a good idea of the décor and color scheme you want with your new building. Whatever you choose, make sure your building aligns with your business model. Is your goal to serve as many customers as possible? Then you should avoid dark colors and comfy couches that encourage people to stay awhile.
Beyond the aesthetics of your building, you also need to account for your kitchen area. Will you be preparing food? In that case, you'll need to make space for microwaves, ovens, and other equipment. Your building layout should cover all aspects of your building, not just the interior design.
5. Find Your Funding
No one said opening a coffee shop was going to be easy. No one said it was going to be cheap either. Regardless of which kind of business you want to start, it's going to take a good deal of cash to make those dreams a reality.
There are any number of ways for you to find the cash you need. You may be in a position to borrow from friends and family. However, not everyone is in this position. That means applying for a small-business loan. Get your business plan together and start applying with local banks or the Small Business Administration to shore up funding for your coffee shop.
6. Get the Right Business Licenses
You can't just open the doors and start doing business. There are licenses and permits you will need to apply for and receive. These differ depending on the state and county where your business is registered. Make sure you speak with business resources near you and make sure you have all your paperwork in order. The last thing you want is to delay your opening because you forgot to apply for your building health permit.
7. Identify Suppliers for Your Products and Equipment
One of the most important factors in how to open a coffee shop is the coffee itself! The quality of your product will help determine the success of your business. That starts with having the best beans. You need to find a reliable supplier to consistently provide quality coffee beans, in the quantity you need.
When you franchise your coffee shop, your franchisor often has suppliers already picked out for you. Scooter's Coffee gets its beans from its own roastery, Harvest Roasting. Harvest Roasting only roasts from the top 10 percent of specialty coffee beans in the world — for a quality product every time.
What's more, through its relationship coffee practices, Scooter's Coffee is able to give back to its growers and suppliers, ensuring a responsible and sustainable supply chain for its franchisees.
And finding supplies for your business goes beyond ingredients. You're going to need equipment to turn those beans into an amazing cup of coffee. That means sourcing suppliers for coffee makers, espresso machines, and more.
8. Start Marketing and Attracting Customers
So, you found a location, secured your business permits, installed your equipment, and found a supplier for your coffee beans. Now it's time to get people in the door. To do this, you're going to need to market your coffee shop. This may mean purchasing local advertising, offering specials, and building a robust social media presence to build your brand.
Building a brand through marketing and advertising is a process that can take time. It takes successful coffee shops years to establish the kind of brand loyalty they need to sustain their business. This is another big reason why so many entrepreneurs look toward franchising when opening a coffee shop.
When you purchase a franchise, you're buying into a brand that has already been established, with a proven and successful business model. This kind of name recognition can be invaluable, especially for a new business, because customers will already associate your product with a name they know and trust.
Skip the Steps and Start a Coffee Shop Franchise!
When you're asking how to open a coffee shop, the answer can be overwhelming. There are a lot of steps to follow, and these steps take time and money. Even if you follow each step to the letter, you may be fighting an uphill battle until your coffee shop can establish itself and its reputation. That is why so many entrepreneurs choose to partner with a franchise model instead of going it alone.
Scooter's Coffee has built its name through more than 20 years of amazing drinks and amazing service. With almost 300 locations open across the United States, customers already associate the brand with quality, and this association extends to franchisees as well. Learn how to open a coffee shop when you start a Scooter's Coffee franchise in your territory today!
Best Coffee Franchise: 10 Tips on How to Choose a Coffee Franchise
The coffee industry is a prosperous one, and coffee franchises are hot. Deciding to partner with a franchise brand, rather than going independently, to open a coffee shop is a wise choice for many reasons. Finding the best coffee franchise for your goals is the next step.
A franchise comes with brand awareness and reputation, built over years before you even buy your franchise. And the system that comes with franchise ownership gives franchisees a strong business plan from day one, with technology, support, and programs for success.
Buying a franchise also gives the local owner the benefits of larger marketing and advertising campaigns, helping drive business traffic and interest.
Knowing that going the franchise route holds such advantages over opening an independent business, the big question, then, is how to choose the best coffee franchise.
1. Investment Level
You will want to look at the total initial investment level, as well as the franchise fee and ongoing royalty fees of the best coffee shop franchise opportunities. Initial fees get you the right to use the franchise brand and get you set up to start your business. Royalty fees contribute to things such as the national advertising fund for the brand.
If you have a cap on the amount of funding or financing available to you, your budget may help you narrow the field to franchises you can afford, right off the bat.
2. Type of Franchise Model
Within the coffee world are sit-down-and-hang-out coffee shops, drive-thru coffee kiosks with no customer seating, and other models. Determining which is the right fit is a function of various factors, including how much you want to invest up front, how much overhead (labor being a large percentage of cost), and what your area or neighborhood needs or demands.
Some franchise brands may not offer different models, so deciding which type you want to open will help narrow the field to those that do.
3. Brand Awareness and Reputation
The more well known the brand, the more instant momentum your venture will enjoy from the start — even before the start, as buzz begins to build around your community about the approaching opening.
Consider the correlation between a chain's geographical reach and the brand awareness created. A brand that has garnered attention but hasn't yet opened in your area may be the perfect choice.
But also pay attention to what the franchising industry itself has to say about which brands are on the rise.
4. What Franchisees Say
The proof is in the pudding or, in this case, the coffee cup. Don't be shy about contacting current franchise owners in nearby regions to ask about their experience with the brand.
Ask them if the company follows through on its promises and support. Find out what it was like to open; was it difficult, or was it a seamless process? Did the company help with site selection and pre-opening advertising and grand-opening help?
What guidance does the brand give along the way? How long did it take to break even and then realize a profit?
What are any negative aspects of owning the franchise?
5. Support
This is part of number four above, but also one of the more important pieces of the puzzle. Every brand will promise comprehensive ongoing support, but talking to franchisees is a great way to find out what's true where the rubber meets the road.
6. Operating Costs
This is something you evaluate when choosing the type of coffee shop model, and talking to franchisees is a good way to find out if the company's estimates hold true in the real world. The scope of your examination should include costs of labor, property/rent, goods sold, and more.
Evaluate what works for you. For instance, if you want to keep things as simple as possible and keep labor and other costs to a minimum, a drive-thru kiosk may be the right model. If a given brand doesn't offer that type of shop, find one that does.
The coffee industry itself continues to show growth, so you're in the right arena already.
Any good franchise brand should be able to show a trajectory of year-over-year growth. All brands will experience dips as the market fluctuates, but limit your final options to brands that are able to show increases in revenue over time.
8. Innovation and Point of Difference
Strongly consider choosing a brand that offers something a little different for the area. Whether it is an angle of drive-thru convenience in an under-served location or a better product, look at what is missing and fill that void.
For instance, maybe a number of customers in your area would love to have an alternative to the Starbucks locations they are used to, and a fresh brand would be welcome.
9. Your Own Experience
Trust your instincts, too. After reducing your choices to a final several, visit locations of the different coffee shop brands. Experience the vibe, the service, and the products. Factor your findings into your decision.
10. Scalability
Some say buying one franchise location is "buying yourself a job," but by buying into multiple locations, it can become more than just a job. It can become a business.
A lower-cost, simpler franchise concept such as a Scooter's Coffee franchise may lend itself more readily to being scalable, adding new locations as you go. When those locations are in the same region, it becomes a strong network, and profit grows exponentially.
By studying coffee brands through the lens of these factors, you can find the best coffee franchise for you.
Scooter's Coffee has been serving up delicious coffee, tasty treats, and genuine smiles since 1998. Contact Scooter's Coffee about starting your franchise today to learn more about joining the Scooter's team and making your dreams a reality.
Drive Thru Franchise Profitability vs. Dine-In Locations
The coronavirus pandemic has upended plans for people across the world. Thankfully, the resiliency and spirit of the amazing people in our communities gives us faith that things will eventually get back to normal. Beyond wondering when this will all end, many people are already asking what their next big step will be.
It may be difficult to imagine now, but it might be a good time for investors to consider purchasing a franchise. Do circumstances have you eyeing a career change? Maybe you're at a point in your career where you want more control over your future. If this is the case, starting a business may be just the thing. But how do you know which business is right for you?
If you're considering opening a coffee shop, it's important to gauge the profitability of a drive thru franchise compared to a dine-in location. Here's what entrepreneurs need to know about the differences between the two, and what you need to consider for the future.
Drive Thru Options are Already Growing
The popularity of drive thru options at most restaurants is already growing. It's estimated that 60 to 70 percent of a restaurant's sales are from the drive-thru, provided they have one. More brands have recognized the importance of a drive thru for years. As recently as 2018, major franchises have been searching for ways to improve the drive thru experience.
Brands clearly know where the industry is headed. As customers demand more convenience with their coffee, they're going to head to the fastest drive thru in town. Starbucks Coffee is notorious for long waits at its drive thru windows. Wait times at the chain average nearly five minutes long! As other dine-in brands desperately try to improve drive thru wait times, Scooter's Coffee is already way ahead of the game. In fact, wait times at Scooter's Coffee are 40 seconds long, on average.
Scooter's Coffee has trumpeted the benefits of its innovative drive thru franchise model since its founding back in 1998. It's all right there in the company motto: Amazing People, Amazing Drinks, Amazingly Fast. This commitment to speed and quality service is exactly what has catapulted Scooter's Coffee to the top of the drive thru franchise industry. With more than 250 locations across the country and agreements to build over 200 more, it's safe to say the drive thru franchise model works.
Drive-Thru Franchises are More Than Convenient, They're Essential
Drive thru franchises are more than convenient to customers. They also provide essential services to communities. The COVID-19 crisis has further illustrated the how valuable a drive thru is to the success of a business. Everyone is trying to do their best to remain mindful of CDC guidelines and maintain social distancing. However, the logistics of this become difficult when dealing with a dine-in space.
Pivoting to drive-thru only service has become a vital revenue stream for restaurants feeling the brunt of the pandemic. Even fine dining restaurants are adding drive-thru options for their customers. At Scooter's Coffee, the drive thru is already a core part of our business model. This has helped position franchisees to weather the current storm much better than their dine-in counterparts.
Low Overhead Keeps Drive Thru Franchises Lean and Agile
Nothing will ever replace the experience of a nice, sit-down meal. We all look forward to breaking bread with friends and family at restaurants soon. Even so, dine-in restaurants must contend with more overhead than drive thru franchises. This is on top of the difficulty of adapting to business models mindful of social distancing.
Operating a successful dine-in restaurant is already tough under the best of circumstances. Larger retail footprints, greater staffing requirements, increased utility costs, and expensive equipment create enormous overhead costs that erode profitability.
By comparison, the drive thru coffee kiosk model only takes up 550 square feet of space. This enables franchisees to build locations where other restaurants and coffee shops cannot go. Furthermore, the small retail footprint brings other economic advantages. The drive thru coffee kiosk has lower staffing requirements than a normal restaurant and greatly reducing expenses. There are also no expensive fryers and stoves to purchase, which cuts costs even more.
A Drive Thru Franchise is an Investment in the Future
No one knows what the world will look like when this is all over. Regardless of what shape the future takes for restaurants, it's a safe bet that there is going to be a drive thru involved. A drive thru franchise is an investment in a recession-resistant industry uniquely positioned to operate during even the most difficult times. Learn how you can start your drive thru franchise with Scooter's Coffee today.
The Drive-Thru Coffee Industry and the Impact of Coronavirus
The global COVID-19 pandemic has impacted every part of our lives. From how we work to how we buy our coffee, it's unlikely things will ever be the same. They say that when the going gets tough, the tough get going. That's just what the drive-thru coffee industry has done to adapt to these difficult times.
What steps are businesses taking to keep customers safe? Learn what the drive-thru coffee industry is doing to keep customers secure and healthy during COVID-19.
Drive-Thru Coffee Is Built to Adapt
Social distancing and contact-free service are now the norm. But drive-thru franchises are uniquely positioned to succeed despite these restrictions. While dine-in restaurants and other businesses scramble to adapt, the drive-thru coffee industry is prepared for the challenge.
Social distancing is practically built into the business model. This has helped drive-thru franchises thrive at a time when even the most popular restaurants struggle to stay afloat. Now, drive-thru and pick-up service is a lifeline for businesses. This includes everyone from quick-service restaurants (QSRs) to fine dining establishments. Not only have these changes provided a much-needed sense of normalcy to the lives of many people, they have also helped to save many jobs across the industry.
So, it comes as no surprise that some of the industry's biggest brands are adopting many of the same strategies as the drive-thru coffee industry. Businesses with dine-in areas or those that lack drive-thru capabilities have also added contactless service through take-out orders.
However, traditional restaurants are quickly learning something the drive-thru coffee industry has known for years; speed matters at the drive-thru. Diners may be willing to wait for food in a sit-down setting. They are much less forgiving when it comes to take-out or the drive-thru.
Scooter's Coffee has long prided itself not only on its amazing drinks and people, but that the brand also does it amazingly fast. The average wait time at a Scooter's Coffee drive-thru coffee shop is a mere 40 seconds before customers are on their way.
Drive-Thru Coffee Goes Above & Beyond to Protect Employees and Customers
Of course, a drive-thru alone is not enough to allay the fears of the most cautious customers that still need their caffeine. The natural social distancing of a drive-thru is helpful. Even so, the drive-thru coffee industry is doing everything it can to protect both its customers and its employees.
These extra steps follow the best practices for responding to COVID-19 as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The practices include encouraging employees to wear face masks. This further reduces the possibility of transmission between drive-thru windows and vehicles. Steps also include the use of gloves by employees in addition to the regular disinfecting of surfaces.
Drive-Thru and Take-Out May Become the Norm
Some states are beginning to re-open more businesses. Even so, the impact of the coronavirus pandemic will be felt for years to come. Many of the considerations restaurants currently have in place are likely to stick around for some time. This means drive-thrus could be busier than ever as the service practically becomes a necessity for QSRs to succeed.
Scooter's Coffee has led the charge against coronavirus through its swift actions to combat the spread of the virus. And it has done it while protecting both its amazing customers and employees. Discover more about our innovative drive-thru coffee kiosk and how you can own a franchise built for the future, no matter what happens.
The Importance of Corporate Social Responsibility in Franchising
It seems like every brand wants to talk about corporate social responsibility these days. Brands want to put on a good face and say the right things for positive publicity. The catch is that words don't mean much without the actions to back them up.
That's why some brands are taking things a step further. These companies understand that corporate social responsibility is more than talking the talk. It means walking the walk, too. Scooter's Coffee is going above and beyond for its community, both at home and abroad. Discover what Scooter's Coffee is doing and how corporate responsibility starts from the ground up.
Responsibility Starts at the Source
For Scooter's Coffee, corporate social responsibility begins at the source, literally! The popular drive-thru coffee franchise works directly with farmers to provide them with the support they need to flourish. It's called relationship coffee, and it's changing the way customers look at coffee from the beans to the brew.
Bill Black is Chief Marketing Officer of Scooter's Coffee. He says relationship coffee and corporate social responsibility are a natural fit with the brand's core values of integrity, love, humility, and courage.
"In a nutshell, relationship coffee is about building relationships directly with farmers," Black says. "The coffee farmers are very passionate about their way of life and their coffee, and they espouse all of our core values."
Black explains that the journey from farm to market for coffee beans often involves unnecessary steps that cut into the already tight profit margins for farmers. Due to these additional expenses, farmers often lose money on the production of their coffee. This creates difficulties in the farmer's ability to sustain a living wage and way of life.
"We stepped back and said, 'There has to be a better way,'" he says. "In relationship coffee, we cut out a lot of those middlemen, and we go straight to the coffee farmer or representative and build relationships with them directly and buy from them directly."
Micro Mill Coffee Means More for Farmers
A key way in which Scooter's Coffee supports its farmers is through micro mill coffee. Micro mill farms keep the milling and production of coffee within the farms themselves. This method requires fewer hands in the production process, further reducing costs for farmers.
"The micro mill revolution really started with a group of coffee farmers who were trying to find a better way than going through the co-ops and the commodity market," says Black. "They were trying to find a way they could keep more of their income, instead of giving it away to the government or to middlemen."
Scooter's Coffee prides itself on always paying farmers a fair price for their beans to ensure a greater profit for the farmers and their communities.
"We pay a premium for the coffee beans so that they make more than it costs them to produce," Black says. "This way, they can continue to invest in their business and their coffee farms so it can continue to be a part of their way of life for generations to come."
Corporate Responsibility Means Supporting Your Community
Beyond ensuring corporate social responsibility at where your product begins, it's just as important to continue that support where the product ends its journey. For franchises, that means considering your own small-business impact on the community and finding the way that works best for you.
"I think what corporate responsibility means to me, and means to us, is that we're good corporate citizens and we're giving back," says Black. "We've been blessed with a healthy business and those that are blessed need to return some of that blessing."
Black explains how the franchise system enables Scooter's Coffee to support vital programs across the country that help both their communities and causes that are important to them.
"We have franchisees throughout the country who are extremely involved in their local communities and giveback programs," he says. "One of our largest franchises is very active in helping support human trafficking initiatives and bringing education to people about that and human exploitation."
"We have other franchisees that are very involved locally through local food banks, cancer programs, and research programs," Black continues. "Almost every franchisee in our organization is active in some kind of giveback program in their local community. We encourage that and provide resources for them to do that."
Relationship Coffee Always Comes Back to Love
Scooter's Coffee is expanding rapidly across the country, with more than 270 stores currently open and expectations to open 40 more before the end of 2020. Black says the greatest challenge for Scooter's Coffee going forward will be the education of new franchisees as they keep up with the rapid pace of the brand's growth.
"I hope that we continue to keep it embedded in our DNA, and grow the knowledge and coffee knowledge," he says. "As new franchisees come on board, the biggest challenge is making sure our new stores and employees are ramped-up with relationship coffee."
Ultimately, Black points out that the approach by Scooter's Coffee toward corporate social responsibility and relationship coffee stems from the company's core values.
"I think it comes back to the core value of love," he says. "First of all, what company puts love in their core values? We do. Love encompasses a whole lot, and with relationship coffee, it's just that. If you don't have love in your DNA, then it's hard to build a relationship."
Learn more about how you can become part of a company where corporate social responsibility is not another buzzword. In keeping with its core values of integrity, love, humility, and courage, Scooter's Coffee continues to set the bar for corporate responsibility in the coffee industry.
Find out how to start your own Scooter's Coffee franchise today and make a difference not only in your local community but also in communities across the world.
Scooter's Coffee Ranked a Top Franchise in Entrepreneur's Highly Competitive 41st Annual Franchise 500
Quickly-Growing Coffee Franchise Increases Ranking over 200 Spots
OMAHA, Neb. (January 22, 2020) – Scooter's Coffee, LLC, the rapidly-expanding drive-thru coffee franchise, has recently been recognized in Entrepreneur magazine's 41st annual Franchise 500®, the first, best, and most comprehensive franchise ranking. Placement in the Franchise 500 is a highly sought-after accomplishment, as evidenced by the over 1,100 applications received this year, demonstrating how the franchise industry is more competitive than ever.
Recognized as an invaluable resource for potential franchisees, the Franchise 500 ranks Scooter's Coffee as 225th for its outstanding performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power. With this ranking, Scooter's Coffee shot up 235 spots from 2019's ranking.
"We are incredibly proud of our growth, and we hope to carry this momentum into the future as we continue to expand," said Tim Arpin, Vice President of Franchise Sales of Scooter's Coffee. "I attribute our success to our unique focus on culture as well as our ability to foster and support emerging franchises."
The Franchise 500 collects more than 150 data points on applicants across the five key factors of brand strength, support, costs and fees, size and growth, and financial strength and stability. The applicants with the highest cumulative scores become the Franchise 500 in ranking order.
"The 500 companies on the list all have something in common: They understand what consumers want now," says Entrepreneur Editor-in-Chief Jason Feifer. "They may be an upstart in a brand-new category, or a brand that's ranked highly on our list for decades. Either way, making our list means they're a forward-thinking company, nimble, and closely in touch with their customers' needs — because, in an ever-changing business environment, that's what a franchise must do to thrive."
Over its 41 years in existence, the Franchise 500 has become both a dominant competitive measure for franchisors and a research tool for potential franchisees. Scooter's Coffee's position on the ranking is a testament to its strength as a franchise opportunity. With over 200 locations across 14 states and a new relationship with KeyBank, Scooter's Coffee is just beginning the strategic growth journey.
To view Scooter's Coffee in the full ranking, visit https://www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500/2020.
Founded in 1998 by Don and Linda Eckles in Bellevue, Nebraska, Scooter's Coffee roasts only the finest coffee beans in the world at its headquarters in Omaha, Nebraska. In more than two decades of business, Scooter's Coffee's success is simple: stay committed to the original business principles and company core values. The Scooter's Coffee Brand Promise, often recited to franchisees, customers and employees, is: "Amazing People, Amazing Drinks… Amazingly Fast!®" It represents the company's business origins from 1998 and reflects a steady commitment to providing an unforgettable experience to loyal and new customers.
Scooter's Coffee is at the dawn of a strategic growth phase in the Midwest and nationwide. The U.S. coffee market is an estimated $48-billion-a-year recession-resistant industry, and Scooter's Coffee is striving to become the #1 drive-thru coffee franchise in the nation. Visit ownascooters.com to learn more about the benefits of owning a franchise of a well-established company.
For more information, visit scooterscoffee.com, facebook.com/scooterscoffee, ownascooters.com or call 877-494-7004.
Running a Sustainable Coffee Shop: Doing Well by Doing Good
You hear a lot of people talking about sustainability these days. At times it can feel like everyone is trying to "go green" or be more sustainable. Still, there's a difference between talking the talk and walking the walk when it comes to running a sustainable coffee shop.
Sustainability is about so much more than recycling or reusable straws. At its core, sustainability is really all about relationships. Relationships are at the core of every successful business. Valuing each relationship and working diligently to strengthen these bonds is a big part of what makes Scooter's Coffee so amazing.
That's why we have "relationship coffee." But what is relationship coffee and why is it so important to everyone at Scooter's Coffee? We'd like to take a moment to explain the concept of relationship coffee and why it matters so much to everything we do.
Taking the Time to Build Amazing Relationships with Amazing Farmers
The secret to our world-class coffee starts with the farmers who grow our beans with love and care. We know that coffee is a competitive business. Sometimes, in the midst of all this competition, farmers become the ones who lose out. In fact, many farmers lose money on each crop of coffee beans they sell. The result is an economic crisis that puts farmers, families, and communities at risk. That's why we knew we needed to be the change we wanted to see in the coffee industry.
Scooter's Coffee removes the middleman and buys its beans directly from the farmers. This cuts down on extra costs and ensures that more money finds its way into the hands of the people that deserve it and need it most: the farmers.
What's more, we always take care to pay above market price for our coffee beans. By paying our farmers fairly, our amazing farmers can reinvest this money back into their own communities, their farms, and their surrounding environments. This is what creates a sustainable relationship that we can be proud of and will carry on for generations.
Start At the Source with World-Class Coffee
When you work with the best people, the best products often follow. That's the case with the quality coffee beans we get from each of our farmers. We take pride in only using the very best ingredients for our amazing drinks. That starts with sourcing only the top 10 percent of specialty coffee beans. Every bean that goes into a cup of Scooter's Coffee is hand-picked by farmers with whom we have carefully developed relationships built on trust and respect.
The quality of these beans is a big reason behind the care and attention we put into how our ingredients are treated. We painstakingly roast our beans in-house to ensure that each bean is handled with the care and attention we expect from our amazing products. Our roasting process applies special attention to the time, temperature, and origin of our coffee to maintain the absolute highest quality possible.
Coffee Grown and Crafted with Integrity, Love, Humility, and Courage
Sustainability is much more than a buzzword at Scooter's Coffee. It's a lifestyle. Our mission is to create an amazing experience for each life we touch. That goes for our customers, our employees, our franchisees, and our farmers.
Our farmers made a big decision when they chose to move away from the corporate industry model. It took courage to leave the established industry, and we're honored that they chose to work with us. More than that, we can't speak highly enough of the integrity with which they grow their crops and treat every tree and bean with the same attention and care.
It's a demonstration of the love they have for what they do, and what they're creating. It's truly an honor to work together with these passionate and humble cultivators, and it is a privilege to share their products with our amazing customers.
See How You Can Support a Truly Sustainable Coffee Shop
Now that you know our story of sustainability, it's time to see how you can step up. You can become a part of the change that Scooter's Coffee is making across the coffee industry, thanks to our relationship coffee. See how you can take the next step in starting your own amazing relationship. Learn more about how to start a Scooter's Coffee franchise and bring a sustainable coffee shop to your area.
What to Look for in a QSR Franchise Opportunity
Quick service restaurants (QSRs) make up one of the largest categories in franchise investment. One look at the booming industry and it isn't hard to see why. These businesses have dominated the food sector for years. They continue to be one of the surest bets for franchisees and entrepreneurs. Where other restaurant concepts may falter, an established QSR franchise is ready to take off. But what do entrepreneurs need to know to find the right franchise for them?
Know the Costs of a Restaurant Franchise
A QSR franchise can be a sound investment for entrepreneurs willing to take a chance. Even so, it's important for investors to understand that partnering with an established brand isn't cheap. These partnerships often require that potential franchisees have a particular minimum net worth. This is in addition to also having a specific amount of liquid assets. You may hear people talk about net worth and liquid assets, but do you know what these terms actually mean?
What is Net Worth?
How does an individual determine their net worth? In a nutshell, a person's net worth is whatever properties or assets a person owns, minus any outstanding debts they may have. This means any specific debts owed to someone else. To get a clear definition of your own net worth, you may want to consult with your accountant.
What are Liquid Assets?
Other terms you may hear when applying for franchises are liquidity and liquid assets. What are liquid assets? A liquid asset is any asset a person has that can turn into cash quickly. The asset can also make this conversion without losing much value, or any at all.
Examples of liquid assets include cash on hand, stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. Real estate is not considered a liquid asset because it may take months to sell and receive cash from the sale.
Do the Math Before You Buy
Before you decide to start a franchise of your own, it's important that potential franchisees do the math first. You're going to want to have more than the bare minimum necessary to open your franchise. You never know what sort of unforeseen costs may come up. It's crucial that you're prepared for everything. Understand what you're getting into before signing on the dotted line.
What Resources and Support Can You Expect?
A key benefit of investing in a franchise as opposed to starting an independent business is the support of the parent company. This support comes in the form of training, marketing, operations, products, distribution, and more. Your franchisor has a vested interest in having its franchisees succeed. This is why the best franchises have dedicated training for new franchisees. This helps them understand everything from product preparation to finding the right personnel and optimizing operations.
As a potential franchisee, you should have a reasonable expectation of what to expect regarding the support of your parent company. If a franchisor doesn't take the time to help its franchisees be the best they can be, it may not be the right fit for you. Franchisor support reflects more than how much it cares about franchisees. It also correlates to how the parent company is doing. Do your research beforehand and see how involved the parent company is before you make a commitment.
Know the Rules of Your Franchise
Partnering with a franchise means you don't have to worry about branding and décor. Franchisees don't have to spend time trying to nail down the look and feel of a brand. All this is already done for you. People all over already know and trust your brand. That's why you want to invest in a QSR franchise!
Because of this, customers also have specific expectations every time they visit a location. Consistency is key to retaining customers and reinforcing the brand. This is why franchises have very specific rules as to what you do and how you run your business. These rules are for the benefit of franchisees as much as they are for customers. Be sure you know the rules. Know what franchisors expect of you before committing to a franchise agreement. Make sure that these are reasonable requests that you'll be happy to fulfill.
Franchisors want their franchisees to be more than business partners. They want people who love the brand and believe in the concept as much as they do. Even so, being a big fan of a brand doesn't necessarily make you qualified to run a franchise.
You don't need to have a background as a business owner to start a franchise. In fact, you don't even need experience in the restaurant industry. What's most important is a leadership background and a passion and willingness to learn.
Do Your Homework to Find the Right QSR Franchise for You
Under the right brand, with the right owners, a QSR franchise can be a veritable gold mine for entrepreneurs. What's most crucial is to know you're asking the right questions and getting the right answers before making your investment.
The best franchise opportunities have this information available on their websites. Learn about the benefits and qualifications of a Scooter's Coffee franchise, and how you can become a part of a franchise family that gives you the support you deserve.
Drive-Thru Coffee Stands vs. Traditional Coffee Shops
When determining what type of coffee business to launch, the decision may come down to what type of brand you want your establishment to become. Every entrepreneur is different, and the perfect choice of coffee shop business model ideally comes down to what the market needs and wants and what goals the entrepreneur has.
For some, a traditional, sit-down coffeehouse is the dream. Others may be interested in a more simplified, efficient drive-thru model to be a trusted and convenient favorite in the community. There are differences in operation and costs as well.
If you're moving toward planning and opening a coffee-centric business but can't quite decide between a traditional model or a drive-thru franchise, here is a comparison of the two. Consider which is a better fit for your own goals.
The Traditional Coffeehouse
From the consumer's perspective, the traditional, sit-down coffeehouse is a place to stay awhile, or at least to not necessarily be in a hurry. A traditional coffeehouse is perfect for the laptop-wielding professional or student looking to enjoy a cup of gourmet coffee while getting work done. It's a great place for old friends to meet and catch up over their favorite roast.
Patrons park and go inside, or walk there, and while they may need to be somewhere soon, this way of getting coffee is still markedly less convenient than pulling up at a drive-thru window.
Have you always pictured yourself as the gracious host of a sit-down experience, filled with the rich aromas of the beans you're roasting and the chatter of lively patrons in conversation? If that's your goal, the traditional coffeehouse model may be for you.
While all coffee operations require certain supplies, the overhead for a traditional model of coffeehouse will be substantially higher than for a drive-thru kiosk. Real estate purchase costs and taxes, or rent, will be a large line item, as will the labor costs of staffing a full-size coffeehouse.
Furnishings and improvements to the space aren't cheap, and renovations typically will be necessary every few years due to wear and tear — as well as to freshen up the aesthetics to keep people coming back to hang out.
An important factor to consider is that because people like to hang out, turn-times are much slower, and you cannot serve as many customers.
The Drive-Thru Coffee Stand
There is a time and place for everything, and though sometimes it's nice to kick back in a chair inside a coffeehouse on a Saturday morning, people commuting to and from work and other engagements value the ability to get an amazing cup of coffee quickly, on the go, from a drive-thru coffee stand.
The value proposition is simple, straightforward, understood, and appreciated. As a result, more customers can be served than in a sit-down coffeehouse.
Costs are significantly lower for a drive-thru than for a traditional coffee shop. Real estate is less expensive, as the drive-thru coffee franchise typically has a much smaller footprint and need not be in a hip or upscale area to succeed; it must only be convenient for motorists. Fewer employees are needed in a smaller operation, helping contain the important metric of labor.
The costly interior decor and furnishings necessary to set the scene in a traditional coffeehouse are not an issue for the bottom line of a drive-thru operation.
A drive-thru coffee stand is also an efficient model for multi-unit franchising. As more units set up shop in a market or region, consumers become even more familiar and comfortable with the brand and rely on it for convenient coffee.
Scooter's Coffee utilizes both models, a coffeehouse and a drive-thru kiosk, and according to a report by QSR, which covers the quick-service food and beverage industry, the brand's two business models offer excellent opportunities for entrepreneurs. Depending on the model, the cost of entry to open a Scooter's Coffee is only in the $381,000 to $587,000 range, which includes the franchise fee of $40,000.
Whether you dream of serving coffee to relaxed, seated patrons or appreciative go-getters on their way to the next adventure, Scooter's Coffee can help. Find out more about how you can start your Scooter's Coffee franchise today!
The 3 Types of Coffee Shops You Can Own
From a business standpoint, it would be hard to imagine a more entrenched concept than a coffee shop. Americans rely on a good cup of coffee, and entrepreneurs have found a number of ways to offer them that product with different angles on the experience — with various types of coffee shops.
The coffee industry enjoys considerable growth globally, and a big part of that is consumers buying coffee on-premise, outside the home. Gourmet coffee is the choice of the majority of coffee consumers, according to the National Coffee Association, as reported by Forbes. From traditional coffee to cold brew to nitro to other specialty drinks, consumers have more reasons than ever to frequent coffee businesses.
For entrepreneurs aiming to open a coffee shop, that's encouraging, exciting news.
And the landscape includes multiple types of coffee-consuming experiences. Coffee shops come in many different varieties, from sit-down traditional shops to drive-thru, convenient coffee kiosks. Here's how the coffee shop models stack up to each other.
The Coffee Cafe or Coffee Shop
Many sit-down restaurants have relatively extensive menus for breakfast and lunch, and even sometimes dinner, while maintaining a coffee focus. A coffee-centric cafe is branded around its quality coffee, while still serving sandwiches, soups, salads, entrees, and desserts.
Customers go here solo or with friends to enjoy a traditional dining experience, and coffee is a point of promotion, but ultimately just part of a bigger food and beverage picture. It might be called a cafe, a diner, a bistro or a coffee shop.
This style of coffee establishment could range from fine dining to very casual.
The Coffeehouse or Coffee Bar
Among the coffee shop models, this is one that feels like an extension of the guest's living room — only cooler. Customers come here not just for coffee and food but to hang out for a while. WiFi is free to customers, and there is no table service or consequent drive to turn over tables.
The coffeehouse may offer a limited selection of baked goods, snacks, and desserts purchased at the counter. This boutique-style coffee establishment puts a keen focus on high-quality coffee, prepared by serious baristas.
Some customers bring a laptop and work papers and settle into a corner table at this type of coffee shop, using it as a mobile office. Others may just enjoy a couple of hours of reading a new book in a big armchair while enjoying coffee. Still, others may come with friends to have a comfortable place to sit and talk.
A hangout coffee shop is decidedly laid-back and relaxed.
The Drive-Thru, Grab-and-Go or Kiosk
Convenience is king in drive-thru, grab-and-go and kiosk types of coffee shops.
Grab-and-go coffee shops are just what the name says: a place for a customer to grab a quick cup of coffee or other beverage and food and proceed on with their day.
Grab-and-go shops may be in kiosk form. An example is the small coffee-counter operation in a hotel or office building lobby. Others may be freestanding along a busy sidewalk in an urban area, as an actual shop the guest steps into to order.
One unique and very important type of grab-and-go coffee kiosk is the kind that doesn't even require the customer to get out of the car before they go.
As much fun as it may be to kick back for an hour with friends and chat on a leather couch at a coffeehouse, or as great as a hangout coffee bar might be for a self-employed or traveling professional to get work done, a drive-thru coffee shop is extremely valued in a community or neighborhood.
People on their way to work or elsewhere need coffee and other drinks fast, without sitting down for a leisurely lunch or an afternoon with a paperback. In fact, Daily Coffee News shared findings of the National Coffee Association, showing across all types of establishments in America offering coffee, over the course of one day — including cafes, convenience stores, fast food restaurants, donut shops, and others — 46 percent used a drive-thru, up from 44 percent last year.
The drive-thru style of coffee shop has a history of proven success for brands such as Scooter's Coffee in being convenient, efficient and fulfilling for customers and profitable for owners.
Regardless of which coffee shop models an owner chooses, coffee trends affirm that the customers will come.
How to Start a Starbucks Franchise: Why You Can't Franchise a Starbucks
Entrepreneurs interested in opening a location with a successful national franchise sometimes wonder or inquire about getting in on a Starbucks franchise. After all, franchising is a proven system for growth and profit. Brands such as McDonald's, KFC, and many others have utilized the concept for many decades. But potential franchisees interested in opening at Starbucks may find there is nothing brewing.
I'm Looking to Franchise a Starbucks. How Can I Do It?
You can't. Starbucks Coffee doesn't franchise. Even though franchising is a classic, successful growth strategy for myriad beloved, familiar brands, Starbucks does not grant franchises. It's not because franchising isn't a time-tested model for growth. Many companies offer franchises. Operators pay to build and operate a location of the franchise brand in return for a portion of the profits.
In other words, the franchisee operator is investing money in the company, and the company gets that investment as capital. Chains such as McDonald's and Subway use the franchise system, allowing them to open increasing numbers of locations, and it works. So why does Starbucks not go the same route?
Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz wrote in his 1997 book, "Pour Your Heart Into It," why he avoids franchising: he wants to maintain a "fanatical" level of control over his locations.
"To me, franchisees are middlemen who would stand between us and our customer," Schultz wrote. "If we had franchised, Starbucks would have lost the common culture that made us strong. We teach baristas not only how to handle the coffee properly but also how to impart to customers out passion for our products. They understand the vision and value system of the company, which is seldom the case when someone else's employees are serving Starbucks coffee."
Starbucks does grant licenses for locations within hospitals, colleges, and other businesses, which are different from franchises. However, the company does not allow franchising of Starbucks store locations. As of October 2017, there were 13,930 Starbucks stores in the United States, according to Statista, and about 41 percent of those were licensed locations. Though Starbucks does help licensed stores with design, menu, equipment, training, and support, operating with a license may not be a good fit for everyone. The location must be in a spot Starbucks wants to open. Also, the licensee must have the resources to open the store. A licensed Starbucks is probably not the best option for a new operator to open as a first business or first big investment.
What Are My Alternatives for Getting Into the Coffee Business With a Well-Established Brand?
Many chain concepts, including successful coffeehouse brands, take advantage of franchising to achieve incredible growth. They do not share Schultz's stance.
A franchise provides many built-in benefits for operators. This lets franchisees hit the ground running with an established concept, proven processes, and well-oiled support system. Being a part of a well-established franchise system offers all sorts of benefits. These include a low failure rate, instant brand recognition, established operational systems, buying power, ongoing support, protected territories, and a built-in network of other franchisees. Coffee concepts continue to rise in profitability. The love of quality coffee shows no signs of abating anytime soon, and there are plenty of opportunities to get involved.
Starbucks believes that owning all its locations is necessary to achieve adequate control over brand standards, but that isn't necessarily true. Other franchise brands with well-developed systems are more comfortable with helping qualified franchisees operate; trusting those trained operators and their employees to carry out their detailed standards.
One such franchise coffee company is Scooter's Coffee. Earlier this year Scooter's Coffee announced the opening of its 200th store, and currently is up to more than 215 locations. As 2019 progresses, we continue to build on our success with retail expansion, toward the goal of having 1,000 stores open by the end of 2023.
A Coffee Franchising Model Built on Trust and Reputation
Our trajectory is getting noticed, proving that corporate ownership of locations, like the Starbucks model, is not necessary for giving customers a world-class coffee experience. Scooter's Coffee has garnered much recognition and accolades from many of the top names in the franchising and business world. This includes being named as a Top 50 for Franchisee Satisfaction by Franchise Business Review, a Top 50 Fastest-Growing Franchises by Franchise Gator, among the Top Franchises for Women by Franchise Business Review, a Top 5 Coffee Company and one of the Top 200 Food-Based Franchises by Entrepreneur, and in the Top 200 Franchises by Franchise Times.
A key reason we enter franchise agreements with operators, rather than insist on absolute control of all of our locations, is that our leadership believes in Scooter's Coffee franchisees. It's because we look for franchisees with leadership qualities. We trust those individuals to serve customers to our high brand standards and make sure their employees do, too. Think about it: a franchise chain that owns but does not franchise thousands of stores can't have its corporate leaders present to oversee daily operations. So, granting franchise agreements to motivated leaders makes perfect sense.
Scooter's Coffee empowers franchisees who have passion, self-confidence, developed communication skills, decisiveness, an eye for talent, perseverance, adaptability, and an eye toward the future. Franchising one of our locations is an ideal fit for someone with these traits who is interested in getting involved with an amazing coffee concept that is on the rise.
And we are making the experience more accessible than ever. We recently partnered with ApplePie Capital to help new and current franchisees access up to $20 million in debt capital to further expand Scooter's Coffee. The coffee market in the United States produces an estimated $48 billion in revenues a year and is resistant to recession, and Scooter's Coffee is striving to become the #1 drive-thru coffee franchise in the nation. Don't wait for your chance to join an established and growing brand in the coffee industry. Reach out about how you can start your Scooter's Coffee franchise today!
Why to Choose a Coffee Franchise Instead of Starting Your Own Shop
You've decided that the coffee industry is where you want to be. Starting your business is an exciting time. It's also a time that comes with all sorts of questions. How do you choose between opening an independent shop or partnering with a larger coffee franchise? Each option has its own benefits. It's really a matter of deciding what works best for you and your goals as a business owner.
What do you need to know when starting a coffee franchise? What are the advantages of a franchise compared to starting an independent shop? There are plenty of reasons why entrepreneurs are opting for franchise partnerships rather than going it alone. Here is just some of what you need to know when it comes to making the decision for your business.
Brand Awareness and Reputation
Building brand identity and earning a solid reputation isn't something that happens overnight. Even the best businesses require years and years to become trusted, household names in their respective industries. That includes your beloved quirky local shop. If you readily know the name of a business, it's likely because it went through years of hard work to carve out a foothold for itself.
Starting From Scratch Takes Time and Patience
Developing the right kind of reputation as a leader in your industry depends on a lot of variables going right. You also need everything to continue to go right for some time to come. If you're starting an independent business, you may not have the luxury of taking years to build your brand identity. Just think of how many coffee shops, restaurants, and wannabe coffee franchises have come and gone in your neighborhood.
As a new business, it takes time and effort to cultivate a crop of reliable customers. You need marketing, promotions, deals, and more to establish a customer base that can sustain your business. Larger brands enjoy a level of recognition that comes with a ready-made customer base eager to give you their business.
Hitching Your Wagon to a Name Customers Know and Trust
Becoming associated with a major brand is a key advantage of partnering with an established and proven coffee franchise. In doing so, business owners can take comfort in knowing that they are buying more than a business. They are buying a name, and the name recognition, that comes with it.
A Scooter's Coffee franchise is a prime example of this principle in action. Scooter's Coffee started in 1998. That's more than 20 years of serving amazing drinks, amazingly fast. In that time, the coffee franchise has grown to over 230 locations across the United States with franchisee commitments for over 200 more. Amazing fans across the country flock to stores for signature beverages. They look for the brands they know when visiting or moving to new places. This is a level of cultural cachet that takes years to build.
Buying Into a System That Works
For many entrepreneurs, the idea of starting their own independent business requires a serious leap of faith. Much of the success of a new business is directly relies on its business plan. Depending on what industry an entrepreneur is coming from, they may or may not be starting with a business model at all! An investment like starting your own business is hardly the time or place to "wing it." That said, there can still be some perks to starting an independent business from scratch.
An Opportunity to Blaze Your Own Trail
When you're starting an independent business from the ground up, you're starting with a blank canvas. This can be exhilarating for entrepreneurs with a vision of what they want to achieve and how they want to get there.
When it comes to an independent business, there's no one to tell you what to do or how to do it. Many people find this thrilling and crave the freedom to find their own way. However, this freedom comes with a caveat. When hard times come, an independent business owner only has themselves to blame.
A consultant or industry knowledge can help a great deal. Regardless, developing the proper processes and best practices to make your business successful takes time. More often than not, it also requires a fair deal of trial and error until you get it right. In an industry where margins can already be tight, making these errors is something that most businesses can ill afford.
Partnering With a Proven Concept
By partnering with an established franchise system, you're signing onto a model that is both time-tested and proven to work. Your parent company is proof positive of a business model that can set your business up for success.
These business models have been rigorously tested and honed over time. Companies carefully consider each factor to ensure that the same sort of success can be replicated in other locations. It's the entire basis of a franchise model. Of course, much of the success of any business comes down to the owners themselves and how they run their operations. Even so, by following the business model given to them, franchisees ensure that they are starting things off on the right foot.
Make the Most of Marketing Might
One of the biggest advantages of partnering with an established franchise is having some extra power in your corner. Joining forces with a larger company in effect puts all the advantages of that company at your back. That means making the most of the larger marketing and advertising clout afforded by a larger operation.
Tell Your Own Story
There are still some benefits to going it alone when it comes to marketing. When you choose to do it yourself, you have the opportunity to create your own story. You're the one establishing the messaging, the marketing campaigns, and what you do or don't want to do.
As an independent business owner, you're starting from scratch and building your story from the ground up. That means coming up with your own logo, your own messaging, and your own advertising. This can quickly become be very expensive, and you're paying for all of it.
Standing on the Advertising Shoulders of Giants
By partnering with a larger coffee franchise, you get to make the most of more than just the name. Your location will also reap the benefits of the larger marketing and advertising campaigns of the parent company. Part of your franchise costs go directly to the national marketing budget, so everything the company is doing on a larger scale also goes to help you better promote your business.
When your parent company tells everyone about an amazing new product, your customers will know, too. When a national campaign is being run or a charity initiative is taking place, your business will also benefit from positive press. Thanks to deeper pockets and the aforementioned proven business model, franchisors can provide their franchisees with the marketing firepower they need to get their message to the world.
Finding the Right Coffee Franchise to Start Your Business
Building your own business is one of the most rewarding processes you can undertake. It can also be one of the scariest. With everything riding on the line of the success of your business, there's little that you want to leave to chance. When you choose to team up with the right coffee franchise, you can follow a path specifically designed to help your business succeed. Find out more about how you can start your coffee franchise with the team at Scooter's Coffee, and learn more about how we invest in your success.
Franchising vs. Independent Business: Which Is Right for You?
If you're thinking about opening a business, you may already be an entrepreneur—or about to become one. But what exactly does that mean?
In a 2012 article, The Real Definition Of Entrepreneur — And Why It Matters, Forbes defines entrepreneurs as "those who identify a need — any need — and fill it. It's a primordial urge, independent of product, service, industry or market."
But scoping out a void to fill is one thing. Deciding the best way to fill it is another. Among the available options are doing it as a franchise vs. independent business. Yes, a franchised brand may already have identified and filled the same need you may have in mind, but perhaps not yet in your area.
Thinking of starting a business, but don't know if you should start something from scratch or be a franchisee? Here are key factors to help you make a decision.
Start With Your Motivation
Most people who become entrepreneurs have worked for someone else at some point and have felt unfulfilled. The reliable paychecks and benefits are terrific, but for some, corporate careers do not satisfy a fundamental need for more than just a check.
When examining how to make a change to entrepreneurship, consider your options. Examine what type of business you want to start. Ask yourself how it will enable you to achieve short- and long-term goals.
Research, research, and do more research on the market, both locally and nationally.
Go deep in understanding local businesses so you can properly map out their common qualities that drive success, as well as note challenges they may have had. Next, identify opportunities these businesses have not explored and how you can attract customers from the local area. What need can you fill within the community, and how can doing so help you toward your personal and financial goals?
Then expand your research nationally and even globally to learn about what business sectors have seen growth and what is trending upward. For instance, a late 2018 MarketWatch.com report stated that steady growth has continued in the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry in the past five years and is projected to keep rising through 2022. Within the QSR world, the U.S. coffee shop market grew to $45.4 billion in 2018.
Franchise vs. Independent Business
While sweat equity and inspiration can take an entrepreneur far, the road to failure is often paved with good intentions. As with any endeavor, starting an independent business, regardless of how much homework the owner has done, involves a lot of learning the hard way through trial and error. This is especially true for a new entrepreneur who has never built a business from scratch.
Even if the business concept exists within a growth segment of the industry, knowing how to ride that wave and capitalize on trends is a skill usually learned from experience.
Franchising offers the aspiring entrepreneur a considerable boost, head start, and guide. A franchise brand has been through tons of trial and error and has honed its systems for success—while constantly re-examining what they do, to prepare for the future. A franchise partnership enables the franchisee to benefit from vast support, training, and brand recognition.
Interestingly, the NPD Group, a market research company based in the U.S., found that the number of indie restaurants has decreased, while franchised QSR units have proliferated.
Finding Success in Franchising
Pros and cons exist for both independent business models and franchise concepts. Indie biz is terrific in that it affords the owner more autonomy, but on the flip side, autonomy means no support. The independent operator is on his or her own.
This can be especially problematic if the operator has little or no experience in restaurant operation.
With a franchise operation, though the brand isn't derived from the individual entrepreneur's own creativity. Franchising allows the owner to hit the ground running with a proven concept — while also filling a need in the community. A franchise empowers the operator to capitalize on growth trends efficiently, helping the entrepreneur meet their goals more quickly.
For example, Franchise Business Review named QSR brand Scooter's Coffee a 2019 Top Multi-Unit Franchise. The list featured brands whose franchise partners had positive feedback on their investment and their relationship to the franchisor. In other words, the franchisor-franchisee partnership is integral to growth. And Entrepreneur magazine named Scooter's Coffee to its list of fastest-growing franchises. Think franchising is right for you and your goals as a businessperson? Learn more about how you can start your own coffee franchise with an established brand today.
6 Ways Small Businesses Impact Their Communities
It's easy for the average person to rave about how wonderful it is to have a quirky local business nearby. But the truth is, small businesses have much more of an impact on their communities than just being a nice idea. They make a difference. Here are six of the ways you can see the small business impact on community in your area.
According to the Small Business Administration, small businesses employ more than half of the working class in the U.S. It's simple: having more small businesses means more opportunities. As those employees spend their paychecks, it benefits the economy. This fosters the growth of other small businesses.
A small business also keeps local talent from having to commute to a nearby town or city, which improves quality of life. Businesses in the immediate halo of a small business benefit from their new neighbor. This is because employees eat and shop at other stores and patronize nearby service providers.
And this pattern does more than enhance fellowship in the community. The money also circulates within the local region and helps everyone.
Increasing the Tax Base
When people patronize small businesses, money goes back into their local community through taxes. The more successful the business becomes, the more taxes it pays back to the community. Roads, police, schools, fire departments, and more continue to serve the people thanks to an increasing influx of tax dollars.
Competition and Creativity
In striving to offer a point of difference, each small business must stand out. As the number of small businesses presenting their own unique value propositions grows, the local dynamic becomes richer. We all know that competition is good for business, but it's also great for the community. The market thrives, and customers benefit.
Involvement in community endeavors is good for more than promoting the business. It is also the right thing to do. A business could be donating to the local school's athletic booster club, contributing food and drink for a community event, or lending a hand to those less fortunate. Whatever the case, a small business's community involvement impacts the people around them.
In fact, research shows that fifty-two percent of small business owners donate to charity. What's more, 46 percent donate up to $1,000.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the existence of walkable areas or clusters of small businesses near residential areas helps reduce auto traffic and, consequently, pollution. With more people walking and cars on the road, the streets become safer.
Easier to Maintain
Major developments, such as shopping malls or superstores, demand immense resources. Small businesses typically have smaller footprints, use far fewer public resources, and need much less public maintenance in general. They usually do not require new roads or special ordinances.
In other words, there are all sorts of ways to measure small business impact on communities and how they contribute to the local scene. If you are interested in adding a valuable community cornerstone, Scooter's Coffee is a wonderful place to start. For more information about owning a Scooter's Coffee, visit www.ownascooters.com.
How Much Does It Cost to Open a Smoothie Franchise?
You're a savvy franchisee or entrepreneur. As such, you understand the importance of diversifying your products. World-class coffee is a solid foundation for a business. But it's offering a whole host of other amazing products that makes your franchise a success. You need to have food, iced and blended drinks, smoothies, and more.
Smoothies keep growing in popularity, and it looks like the franchise market for smoothies is set to explode. But what if you could open a beloved coffee franchise and a smoothie franchise at the same time? You can get the best of both worlds, expand your market, and make even more customers happy! It sounds like the perfect solution to making the most of the beverage franchise market. But how you do you start a franchise, and what can you expect it to cost?
What Will It Cost Me to Open My Franchise?
You've chosen to open a drive-thru coffee shop, a smoothie franchise, or a combination of the two. Now it's time to figure out how much you're going to spend, and where the money is going. Your coffee shop franchise cost and a smoothie franchise cost are going to be very similar, and cover many of the same expenses.
Architecture, Engineering, and Leasehold Improvements
Even the best store with a great business plan will have a hard time without the right location. Site selection plays a crucial role in setting your franchise up for success. You want a spot with high traffic that is also both visible and accessible.
Your leasehold improvements are all the upgrades and changes you make to your location. These improvements help your store align with the design of your franchise. These improvements can range from new shelves and counters to outfitting the entire space from the ground up. That could mean adding HVAC, plumbing, and more to your franchise. These are frequently the most expensive part of your new franchise by far.
Opening Inventory and Supplies
Now that you've found the right location and you've completed construction, you're ready to get blending and brewing. The saying goes, "What's a good plate with nothing on it?" You could also say, "What's a great store with nothing in it?" You need inventory and equipment to make the most of your beautiful new space.
That means investing in blenders, coffeemakers, and ingredients for your amazing products. As part of a franchise, you'll have a list of what you need, and you'll also know exactly how much you should order for the amount of business you expect. It's much easier than playing guessing games — like you would as an independent business.
Franchisee Fees, Deposits, and Licenses
Your franchise fee is an important part of your expenses. After all, you've chosen to invest in a business that is already established. They're providing you with a proven business model that works. The hard part of building a brand reputation, earning customer trust, and finding recipes people love is already done for you.
The franchise fee and royalty fees are part of the privilege of working with a company that has worked hard to set all this up for your benefit. A large part of a franchisee's success can be attributed to how hard they work and how committed they are to their business. The other part comes from all the behind-the-scenes work and support already done by the parent company.
Additional Expenses
As with any business, it's always important to expect the unexpected. You will need to account for paying your staff and initial training, as well as your point-of-sale system and the software you'll need to run it.
Without these investments, you'll have a hard time taking all of those orders that will be coming in. That's not to mention knowing how to operate that software in addition to making your products just the way customers love them!
Find a Franchise That Gives You the Best of Both Worlds
There's a lot that goes into opening your own franchise. It's the same as what an entrepreneur can expect with opening any business. Of course, costs can vary between franchises, where your location is, and what type of store you decide to build. The difference with opening a franchise is that you don't have to go through it alone. You're working with a larger company that has seen it all before and is here to help you on your journey.
Scooter's Coffee is a trusted company that has been in business for over 20 years. In that time, the company has grown to more than 230 locations across the United States. And there are franchise commitments for over 200 more. See what the costs could be for your new franchise. Find out more about how you can start your Scooter's Coffee franchise when you ask about your next steps today.
How to Create a Coffee Shop Business Plan
When you're dreaming about wowing the public with your coffee, it all seems so simple: brew it, and they will come. But many factors go into planning the business of a coffee shop, before you can open it, to get it going and operating in the black (with room for cream, of course). Creating a smart coffee shop business plan will enable you to increase the odds that your fledgling coffeehouse not only will survive but will thrive. The plan will not only be crucial in demonstrating the validity of your concept to lenders and investors, but it will also help clarify your vision, strengthen your own confidence in the path ahead, and serve as a roadmap as you go.
The U.S. Small Business Administration outlines the key sections of a traditional business plan: the executive summary, the company description, the market analysis, organization and management, your service or product line, your marketing and sales plan, the funding request (if applicable), financial projections, and an appendix of supporting documents. These key pieces of the puzzle apply directly to the business plan for a coffeehouse.
By the time you start to assemble your business plan, you should already have done extensive research and planning about what offerings your coffeehouse will have, what your point of difference will be in your local market among competitors, and much more. The Executive Summary is your chance to begin to tell your story to the world.
Consider this section your "elevator pitch," summing up your vision, from where you'll source your beans, to the flavor profiles of the coffee you will serve, to how many people you'll need on staff to make it, to where it's going to happen, and beyond. You can flesh this out in the following sections, but here's your chance to secure the reader's attention with a succinct summary.
Here, you can delve into more detail about the company and your vision. Explain what demand your coffeehouse will answer or what niche it will fill. Describe your target customer and where they live, what they do, what their income is, and where your coffeehouse site will be located to serve them.
If you already have certain resources such as partial funds, loan collateral, equipment, background in coffee service or operations — or just a strong, unique point of view about what makes for a great coffee experience — put it in your Company Description.
This section picks up where your Company Description left off. Give more insight from your deep research of the area and the competition. Are you competing with Starbucks or a couple of independent coffeehouses — or a mix of chain and indie?
How far are they from your site? What will your coffeehouse's strengths be compared to them? How many residents are in the area, and what other businesses are there whose employees may come to you for coffee? If your price points will be a differentiator, explain. If you've already determined a site for your coffeehouse, talk about why you chose that location.
By now, you should already have a fairly good idea who you'll bring on board to help carry out your coffeehouse concept and who you can count on. Are you going to hire a manager who has three years' experience managing another successful coffeehouse? Tell the reader all about her. Have you recruited a talented barista? Share the story of his skills in this section. Are any of your coffee crew entrenched in community organizations? Talk up their networks and reach. All of this adds to the success potential for your coffeehouse.
Also set forth here what business structure you'll use, such as a sole proprietorship, an LLC with other members, or a corporation. Consult a trusted attorney for guidance on what form to take.
Service or Product Line
You'll have to get more specific than just telling the reader you're opening a coffeehouse. If you want investors or lenders to get behind your passion, show them how you're going to be different from the pack.
What types of coffee and other beverages will you offer? If you're going to use specialized equipment that may be atypical in your market, say so. Will you be seizing on emerging coffee trends that your competitors may not be utilizing? Will you be the only coffeehouse in the market or part of town with a drive-thru window? Maybe you've even surveyed consumers in the area and discovered feedback on how other coffee businesses have failed to provide good service, and you aim to do better.
Here's where you persuade the reader that you have something special to offer. Even if you're offering fairly typical products, maybe your coffeehouse will set up shop in an underserved area of the market that previously had no supply or demand. If so, explain that.
Remember all that data you mined for intel on your potential customers? If you're doing due diligence, you should also have calculated the best ways to market to them. Do you plan some newspaper ads to alert older consumers of your arrival?
Will you have a visually savvy social media guru on the team posting tantalizing photos of coffee, tea, and croissants every day on your coffeehouse's Instagram account, along with information on specials of the day or week? And once you spur customers to their first trial of your products and your brand, how will you keep them coming back? What is your pricing strategy?
Funding Request
If you've done a good, persuasive job of making your case in the previous section, the Funding Request will feel natural to the reader. You've crunched the numbers again and again. You've read expert advice to make sure you're not forgetting anything you may need.
Whether you're presenting your coffee shop business plan to a bank or to a wealthy grandparent who may invest in your coffeehouse dream, show them you know what you need for success and that every dollar will be accounted for.
This is a reassuring data set for potential lenders or investors after they've read your Funding Request. Starting out, you may want to break it down by month. For example, in your first months, you may still be absorbing startup costs and your profit and loss picture won't be as positive as later in your evolution. That's common. Just be sure to show a detailed plan over time to demonstrate you know how to become gradually more profitable.
In earlier sections, you introduced readers to key personnel, product concepts, and a lot more. If you wrote those sections well, you explained just enough to keep the reader's interest, without getting bogged down. The Appendix is where you can include deeper information on specific matters, in case the reader is interested in reading further. You might even add copies of insightful business articles touting the great performance of similar businesses in other areas. You can also include formation documents from your entity and any other documentation that helps paint the picture that this coffeehouse is much more than a fantasy — it's the real deal.
Of course, as thrilling as it can be to come to the point in your journey where you're putting together the business plan for your coffeehouse, if you opt to open a franchise of a coffeehouse brand instead of opening a from-scratch independent shop, you will avoid having to shoulder the burden of doing all the research, number-crunching, and business planning. Either way, realize that you can't do it all yourself, and you'll need help. Your business plan is a launchpad for setting forth who will be helping you and how, and what additional help you need.
The Best Franchise Opportunity Deals You Can Start Today
Entrepreneurs have an incredible field of franchise businesses before them. In fact, the plethora of brands and options is nothing short of overwhelming. It can be downright difficult to sift through the information available and determine which brands can really deliver a substantial return on investment by continuing to grow.
What Options Are Out There at a Relatively Small Investment Level?
A big, big help in parsing through the universe of brands is QSR magazine's annual list of the Best Franchise Deals, and for 2019, they added a Franchise Council of five experts in the industry. The result is QSR's list of the top franchise opportunities in the American limited-service restaurant industry, narrowed by examining Franchise Disclosure Documents, return on investment, brand elements, franchisor support, and more. For entrepreneurs looking to enter the market at a lower investment level and achieve a good return, this is a go-to list of star brands with well-developed systems and strategies for success.
Each brand's listing includes franchise fees, start-up costs, and more information. Here is QSR's full list of the nine best franchise deals in 2019 with stats and analysis. The brands that made the list are quite diverse:
Nékter Juice Bar
Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
Scooter's Coffee
Jersey Mike's Subs
Newk's Eatery
Auntie Annie's
Why is Scooter's Coffee an Amazing Opportunity?
Let's take a closer look at one of the brands on that list: Scooter's Coffee — because that's us! QSR's Franchise Council confirms what we've known for quite some time, which is what an amazing investment opportunity becoming a Scooter's Coffee franchise partner can be. Those who study the industry have taken notice.
The Scooter's Coffee franchise fee is $40,000, and total start-up costs range from $381,000 to $587,000, making the cost of entry much more comfortable than it is for many other franchise restaurant brands — with a solid return in store for franchise partners. QSR found that Scooter's Coffee's two business models (a coffeehouse and a kiosk) provide opportunities for franchise partners. Every great brand has a point of difference from its competitors, and the Franchise Council found that Scooter's Coffee's keen determination in honing its drive-thru demonstrates the brand's dedication to standing out by delivering better speed of service.
That we made this list is no small feat. It is proof positive of the amazing success and continuing growth of Scooter's Coffee. And the evidence is mounting. In May 2019, Scooter's Coffee was named a 2019 Top Multi-Unit Franchise by Franchise Business Review. One factor in making it onto that list was what existing franchise partners had to say about how they feel on their investment and what their relationship with Scooter's Coffee has been and continues to be.
Also this year, Entrepreneur magazine named Scooter's Coffee to its list of fastest-growing franchises. What these accolades mean for franchise partners is that for a relatively small investment, they are becoming part of a brand that is only growing bigger and stronger. Entrepreneurs don't have to take our word for it: our franchise partners and experts in the industry affirm that Scooter's Coffee is a solid investment.
Coffee Shop Food Safety Standards: What You Should Know
The average consumer or someone new to foodservice may think of "food safety" in terms of keeping, for instance, raw chicken away from serveware. They may not even have thought about the importance of food safety in a coffee shop. Even if there is no food menu in a coffeehouse, coffee roasting and service itself requires close attention to food safety. Bad reviews on Yelp from people who got food poisoning can drop goodwill about an otherwise amazing coffee experience down to a one-star tragedy.
While a coffeehouse possibly might not handle, say, raw fish, what about that staffer who failed to adequately wash a mug that a previous patron with the flu just used? And did an employee just handle a customer's money and then touch the lip of the "clean" cup she's filling? It's enough to make a patron really sick and make the owner's skin crawl with worry.
Ignoring close attention to food safety is done at great risk, not just to the health of patrons but to the reputation of the coffeehouse. A foodborne illness gets people's attention — negatively — and the ill will can soon spread by word of mouth, especially on social media.
Anyone operating a coffee business should become educated in general restaurant food safety practices. Fortunately, myriad resources are available to get owners, management, and staff up to speed. Also, technological advances have greatly improved food safety management.
What food safety standards do I need to account for in a new coffee shop?
Comprehensive training on food safety is well beyond the scope of this brief writing; for now, be aware that there is much highly-detailed work to be done to meet the standards from day to day. Some basics bear focus and attention. Any operation serving food and drink should heed the four C's: Clean, Cook, Chill, and avoid Cross-Contamination. For the kind of deep-dive necessary into how to carry that out, it's best to secure professional training for the staff.
Coffee itself is, in fact, a low-risk food item, but with the proliferation of coffee-centric businesses, in 2011 FDA established the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), which requires food safety plans for foodservice operations including any business roasting coffee.
It's hard to go wrong if staff are trained in a deep, thorough certification platform such as the ServSafe program —that will cover national standards. But an operator will also have to bone up on state regulations and make sure staff are trained on those, too.
How much does it cost in time and money to abide by those standards?
How much overhead and effort it requires to ensure food safety depends on the operation. We all know time is money. An independent coffeehouse operator starting out may have a lot of research to do to determine what is required, though consulting with the local health inspector will help keep the plan on track. Maintaining the plan is not just day-by-day effort but minute-by-minute, and that requires thorough training of staff, use of proper equipment, and keeping up with a checklist of food safety measures.
On the other hand, opening a location of a successful franchise brand means immediate access to established, effective sanitation and food safety practices, and training on how to implement and maintain a safe environment. Being a franchisee also brings with it the franchise brand's pipeline to the equipment and products needed to keep in step with food safety standards, through its relationships with vendors. This helps reduce the ultimate cost for the franchisee; while locking food safety into a proven system — reducing the likelihood of contamination and bad press and increasing the owner's peace of mind.
Why Your Coffee Shop Needs More than Just Coffee
We all love our coffee. Some of us would say that we don't just love it, we need it! This demand for world-class coffee is what makes franchising a coffee shop such a successful business model. Still, even with the world's best coffee, roasted only from the top 10 percent of specialty beans in the world, it's important to diversify your menu.
Variety is the spice of life, and that's what customers demand. When you diversify your menu, you become more than a coffee shop. You become the place people come to for smoothies, blended drinks, teas, and more. We want to show you why it's so important to think outside the bean and offer a wide range of amazing beverages that your customers can't enough of.
Drinks for All Seasons
People want coffee all year round, but sometimes they might not be looking for a steaming cup of joe on a summer morning. Did you know that a hot drink can actually cool you down on a hot day? It works because hot beverages increase body heat. When your body heat increases, you sweat more, which helps to regulate temperature and keep you cool. Of course, sweating on a summer day isn't everyone's idea of a good time, which is why iced drinks are so important!
When your coffee shop decides to offer a broader menu, it lets your business offer a variety of beverages that are perfect for all kinds of seasons and weather. Looking for something warm and comforting on a rainy day? Our world-class coffees and hot beverages have you covered. Need a tasty treat to beat the heat? Our selection of iced drinks and teas are just the thing to cool you down. Want some extra energy on a hot day? Try new a Red Bull Infusion! What about something for the health-conscious customer? Scooter's Coffee is also proud to provide sumptuous smoothies. By diversifying your menu, your store is able to truly offer something for everyone. More than that, it expands your market presence into a number of untapped verticals to better maximize your profits.
Expanding Your Market Makes Everyone Happy
Our business is continuously innovating to offer customers new and exciting products to keep them happy and coming back for more. This means leading the pack in creating new flavors (like our Next Amazing Caramelicious® Contest) in addition to taking advantage of the latest trends in the beverage world.
Smoothies are one of the most popular beverages around the world and the market keeps growing. The popularity of the smoothie has grown by leaps and bounds since its introduction as a health-food item in the '90s. Today, smoothies are seen practically everywhere. As consumers become even more health-conscious, smoothies are predicted to become even more popular. This puts forward-thinking coffee shops ahead of the game in a growing industry.
One of the most popular new additions to the Scooter's Coffee menu has to be our Red Bull Infusions. Everyone is looking for ways to find more energy throughout the day. Whether it's through coffee, energy drinks, or energy shots, we all need a little extra something to keep us going. Red Bull Infusions are an amazing, and delicious, way for customers to find an extra pick-me-up while also cooling down. With a variety of flavors including Prickly Pear, Tart Cherry, and Blueberry, new Red Bull Infusions provide a tasty treat for every palate.
Agile Menus Make for Adaptable and Successful Franchises
The coffee industry has proven to be both successful and resilient, even in the face of a recession. By diversifying your menu options, the right coffee shop can quickly and easily expand beyond coffee and into the burgeoning markets of smoothies, energy drinks, and more. With the right menu, a well-run coffee shop can be a one-stop beverage shop for consumers of all stripes.
That's why Scooter's Coffee is always looking for a new and exciting way to expand our menu and keep customers coming back for more. See how you can get in on this forward-thinking franchise model. Turn your coffee shop into the place people come for smoothies, energy drinks, and much more when you get your franchise brochure.
7 Coffee Shop Locations That Will Drive Your Shop's Business
Some entrepreneurs begin their brainstorming about opening a coffee shop with what they think is a great idea for a location. They may have lived in an area and observed an unanswered demand for quality coffee. Or, they may have developed an affinity for a particular vacant storefront they envision as a thriving coffee business. However, for many people looking to open a coffeehouse, thoughts about location may not come up until far along in the discussions — well after determining which beans to use, how to brew the coffee, what the offerings will be, and other concerns.
Either way, there is more to determining the right location for your coffeehouse than just having a good hunch.
What Factors Go Into Selecting the Right Location?
CoffeeShopStartups.com suggests two valuable factors to consider when looking at locations: (1) the lease terms and (2) traffic (both vehicle and foot) at the location. You'll also want to consider who your customer will be as well as available parking (less is needed if your shop will primarily be a drive-thru). A lot of traffic may not amount to much if they aren't interested in your product or service.
The type of coffee business (sit-down, drive-thru, coffee stand, coffee truck, etc.) and other factors will figure into rent and overhead costs, which is a separate but intertwined issue. In this article, we will discuss types of locations, but when you get ready to factor in leases and other expenses as part of narrowing down locations, be sure to read this.
Part of determining who your customers are is considering what they are doing — such as what other activities and business errands they may be doing in the area near your location. Some activities may have them grabbing a quick cup of coffee on the go, while sometimes they might be using your coffeehouse as a place to not just sip a cup, but hang out a while to kill time between errands. In other words, the best spots are on the way to other destinations or near those destinations.
With these considerations, here are a "lucky seven" ideas for good coffee shop locations, but, actually, luck should have nothing to do with it; it's all about planning and being smart.
Near a School or University Campus
Let's start with a no-brainer. Coffee and free WiFi are a magnet for college students, who may constitute the majority of your clientele in the evening or at night. Other customers, who aren't studying, might be finished with coffee consumption for the day. Students love to get out of the dorm or roommate-filled apartment and set up camp in a coffeehouse to work on projects or study, and the longer they're there, the more they spend.
You'll also get business from faculty and staff who want to have an off-campus small meeting with colleagues. But, according to Statista, only 48 percent of the 18 to 24 age group drink coffee. That's compared to 63 percent of the 25 to 39 set, 66 percent of those 40 and older, and 72 percent of those and 60 and older. So, don't forget to position yourself near the latter groups if you can.
Near a Company (or Companies) With Many Employees
If you are a nearby go-to and stay top-of-mind for employees of companies with lots of people, your business will have an amazing block of ongoing revenue. Office break room coffee can only go so far before workers crave a truly satisfying cup of coffee and come to you — whether on the way to work or during a break in the day. They may also step away from the office for small meetings over coffee. And if you offer quick breakfast-type foods, you'll score even more revenue from hurried workers.
Near Apartment Buildings
By and large, people who live in apartment buildings gravitate toward convenience, such as the convenience of not having a lawn to maintain. Apartment living is a neat little package. As such, the ability to grab a good cup of coffee very close by is a big attraction for tenants, on their way in or out. The more apartment complexes in a cluster the better.
Near a Repair Shop (Auto/Computer/Etc.)
Think about those times you've taken your own car for service that would only take an hour or two. Maybe you had a ride to take you somewhere in the interim, but if not, wouldn't it be great to step to a nearby coffeehouse with your laptop and get some work done, or just chill? The same applies to other types of repair shops, such as places that repair computers or cell phones and turn around a minor repair in a short time. For some customers, it's easier to sit and wait at your coffee shop than to coordinate rides to and from an auto shop, or to drive back and forth for repairs that only take a couple of hours.
Near a Gym or Fitness Center
People drink coffee for many different reasons. Some drink it for the practical pick-me-up of the caffeine, while others view it as a reward or comfort beverage. People going to a fitness center may want a jolt of caffeine before a workout, or they may want a soothing, sippable latte afterward. Be there for them. If they can drive through, that's even better for those who would rather not be seen in their sweaty state.
Near a Library or Bookstore
Books and coffee seem to go hand-in-hand. While some bookstores may have their own coffee kiosk, you assume you're offering a better product — and do it nearby. Library goers will also want to stop in for a hot cup.
A Little Farther Out
Your first instinct may be that your coffee shop needs to be right in the thick of downtown or very busy commercial centers. But consider all the businesses, including coffeehouses, who already had that idea. Turn your mind toward growing areas of the community with new or progressing development, where residents have little or no access to quality coffee service. This isn't really a different approach than discussed above; you still need to study traffic and who your consumer would be. It's just that you may identify different consumers or catch them at a different phase of their day.
Suggestion: Talk to the developer of a shopping center or other commercial development in a burgeoning area. Point out that your coffeehouse would stand to become a community hub for that suburb or area, attracting people to the shopping center, leading them to shop at other businesses there. Persuade the developer/landlord for a favorable rent rate for your coffeehouse, based on the fact that it will anchor the development and bring life and traffic to it.
Ultimately, whatever location you decide on must have traffic, but not just anyone. They must be coffee-loving consumers. Getting deep research on this can be overwhelming and hard to achieve with accuracy. If you opt to open a franchise location of a strong coffeehouse brand, the franchisor company usually will do all that hard work for you — and get it right. Scooter's Coffee, for example, knows how to find just the right spots to capture coffee consumers on their morning commutes, and the company knows who those consumers are and what they want. It seems so simple, but finding the right location for a coffeehouse to become a regular stop for people passing by is truly a science.
Scooter's Coffee Bringing Family Home to Houston
Lisa Guerrero knew she was ready to get back into the business world. She just wasn't sure how to go about it. After taking a break from full-time work to dedicate herself to raising her son, she found herself itching to get back in the game. Lisa's journey ultimately led her to Scooter's Coffee. Now she's bringing the first Scooter's Coffee location to the Houston, Texas, area.
"That's what makes this story interesting," she says.
Everything's Bigger in Texas, Including Careers
The Dallas native moved to Houston with her husband when they were both in their mid-20s to pursue new career opportunities. She transferred to Houston as a sales manager before taking on a district manager role with one of her largest customers. Her success quickly led to her being recruited by a competitor. It was with this employer that Lisa says she got her first taste of how to successfully open new businesses. Guerrero opened 11 stores before deciding her family needed to be her top priority.
"I left a big career, and I went through an identity crisis," she says. "Going from a busy career woman to a stay-at-home mom overnight was very hard. It was a big transition. My grandmother always told me that you need to raise your own kids. It always stuck in my head. It's the hardest job I ever had."
Lisa wasn't content to let a string of nannies raise her child while she missed out on precious moments like his first steps.
"I've been a stay-at-home mom for the last 12 years. I was still in the salon industry, and I found myself not being able to experience all his firsts. I waited until I was 37 years old to have this child, and I'm missing everything."
Ready to Return to the Workforce
Once her child hit his teenage years, Lisa knew she was ready to get back into the workforce. The first thing she did was focus on what she loved.
"I asked myself, 'What can I do?' I asked myself, 'What do I enjoy doing?' she says. "I love going and having coffee and meeting my friends and love to socialize and love that atmosphere."
After deciding her region was in a position to support a new coffee franchise, Lisa began her research. She says that the personal attention she received from Scooter's Coffee played a big part in her decision.
"I called a few places, and I ended up speaking to people that weren't with the franchise. You'd look up the franchise and call the people and you'd get a consultant that's not even affiliated with the organization," she says.
"When I called Scooter's, I left a message and I got a call back directly from Scooter's."
She found herself impressed during the call by the selectiveness and care shown by Scooter's Coffee.
"They wanted to vet me, and that impressed me," says Lisa. "I don't want just any Joe Schmo to be able to open up a store around me. We're all the same company to the customer. If they have a bad experience at another store it's going to reflect on me."
Amazing Drinks Attract Amazing People
Lisa says another deciding factor was falling in love with the quality of the amazing products at Scooter's Coffee.
"I had never tasted their coffee before I went there," says Lisa. "They roast everything there at the corporate office, and it's just incredible quality. I hope that when we open up that our customers will be able to tell instantly what goes into this."
For Scooter's Coffee, Lisa went beyond the ideal example of the passion and perseverance they look for in a franchisee.
Demonstrating a Commitment to Diversity
Lisa also aligned perfectly with the company's values. As its first Hispanic franchisee, Lisa is a reflection of Scooter's commitment to diversity.
"Scooter's told me that my husband and I will be their first Hispanic franchisees. They want to diversify," she says. "I'm from Dallas born and raised, my husband also. My husband's family is from Monterrey, Mexico, and he's a first-generation American. My family is a little more diverse than his. My grandmother is from Cuba, and my grandfather was the consul before Castro when she met him there. People say she's the first Cuban who ever moved to Texas, because she came here before Castro."
As the first Scooter's Coffee location in the Houston metro area, Lisa says that she sees a need for drive-thru coffee and that she is looking to fill that void. For Lisa, starting a Scooter's Coffee franchise was about much more than a business decision, it was about starting a new chapter.
"I'm not choosing Scooter's just for the money," she says. "I'm choosing it because I want to change my lifestyle."
Coffeehouse Supplies: A–Z Needs of a Coffee Shop
So, you've purchased or ordered the key equipment you'll need for your coffeehouse. That's one of the fun parts of the process. Today's coffee shop equipment works efficiently to produce world-class beverages and food items to enhance the experience for your customers. It all combines to deliver the flavors, look, and feel of what they expect in a coffeehouse. But that's just the start.
Think about your coffee shop like a car. Your equipment is your engine, but an engine needs fuel and much more to run smoothly. The fuel of a coffeehouse is found in its day-to-day supplies.
What Do I Need Besides Coffee Shop Supplies?
Besides your back-of-house hardware, you'll need many supplies for your coffeehouse ongoing. A franchise brand can make this easier than it might be for an independent startup. Here are just a few of the kinds of coffee shop supplies you will need, including a few invaluable, intangible ones, from A-Z.
A: Aprons
Foodservice can get messy, and every barista needs a good apron. Luckily, uniform purveyors can supply anything from very basic white aprons to more customized, logo-embroidered looks with pockets for barista implements, pens, and more.
B: Beans
It all starts with the quality of beans. Part of the fun of getting your coffeehouse ready is testing and selecting amazing beans for your operation to create world-class coffee. The need for the best beans is why Scooter's Coffee only roasts from the top 10 percent of specialty coffee beans in the world. Determine which beans strike the right balance for your goals.
C: Cups and Containers
There are few coffee shop supplies that are as important as your cups. Try out different options and decide what you like best. Chances are, your customers will have the same preference. It could be insulated paper cups or cups with cardboard sleeves with your brand's logo. Remember that the cup offers a key way to spread your name as customers get out and about with your coffee in hand. You'll also need containers for food to go. One of the benefits of partnering with a franchise is that all of your cups and containers will be picked out for you. Every cup, from the material to the logo, is thoroughly tested to ensure the best product for your customers.
D: Drinks
It's easy to become so consumed with the coffees themselves that you may forget to devote planning to other beverage offerings. Sometimes customers — including those who come to your coffeehouse with a coffee-loving friend but aren't themselves coffee fans — may be in the mood for a smoothie or other seasonal beverage, so be sure to offer more than just coffee. Tea will be in high demand; more on that below.
E: Electric Outlets
Yes, it's obvious that you'll need electrical utility service, but don't forget to plan ahead. Be sure you have enough outlets for your coffee shop machinery and also for customers' laptops and charging their devices. A depleted battery on a device usually results in a customer leaving. Think about your layout, and place several power sources in proximity to seating clusters. If customers are plugged into your outlets, they are plugged into you.
F: Food
You likely want to keep your concept simple, and not try to be all things to all people, but food is one of those core offerings that many consumers expect to find at the place they get coffee. It adds to their ticket total and can keep them in your establishment to spend even more. Whether your menu is limited to muffins and cake pops or encompasses bagel sandwiches and wraps, food can increase your revenues if kept to a reasonable cost and produced efficiently without much added labor. The right choices of equipment can help in that regard. Or, you might partner with a local bakery for fresh fare.
G: Grab-and-Go Snacks
In addition to more substantial food offerings — or instead of them, depending on how simple you intend to keep your menu — consider offering prepackaged, sweet and savory snack items for customers in need of a quick bite on the go.
H: Honey
See also "S" below about sweeteners, but honey is in a class of its own. Make sure to "bee" at the ready with honey for coffee and tea.
I: Ice
Customers will love smoothies, iced tea, and other iced drinks, such as cold brew, so make sure you have a ready supply of ice. Talk with equipment vendors to choose the right ice machine(s) for your operation. Consider factors including your projected sales and traffic, your back-of-house space, what shape and size ice you want, and more.
J: Jars and Canisters:
This might fall into the coffee shop equipment category, but you will need jars and canisters for food items, condiments, and much more.
K: Knowledge
Another intangible you'll need in steady supply is knowledge. Labor turnover is a challenge in today's foodservice industry, so making sure team members are trained well is crucial. A cup of incorrectly brewed coffee or a poorly prepared food item can turn a customer off and lose a repeat visit. Operators of franchise locations have a helping hand when it comes to programs and resources for efficiently training team members.
L: Lids
As important as your to-go cups are your lids. Test and test again to determine what you think is the best option. Make sure your lids fit securely onto your cups and don't create a dribble down the customer's chin each time she takes a sip. Remember: the sip is your ultimate point of contact, and a sloppy one caused by a poor quality cup or lid can make or break return business. This is another time when being a franchise partner is helpful because you can count on your lids being reliable.
M: Mugs
Depending on your concept, you may choose to serve coffee to non-to-go customers in mugs. Even if you only serve coffee in paper cups normally, consider selling branded mugs as an up-sell. Insulated mugs are a great retail sales item, and you can even offer an incentive for customers to buy them, such as offering $1 refills of the mugs. And it keeps them coming back, loyal to your location.
N: Napkins
Napkins are another must-have, to catch and wipe drips and minor spills as well as mouths. Enough said!
O: Organic and Origins
"Organic" and "single-origin" are important watchwords for consumers. Scooter's Coffee, for example, answers the demand with hot and iced organic teas and single-origin coffees.
P: Prep Space
Included in necessary supplies is a good amount of prep space, with a prep table — for food items and any other prep work that needs to be done. This is something to consider when laying out your back-of-house footprint.
Q: Questions
This one's an intangible commodity you should keep in great supply. To be successful, you'll need to constantly ask questions of yourself and your business. This helps you determine how to improve going forward. If you choose a franchise coffeehouse concept, you'll find that your franchise company has answers to questions you haven't even thought of yet. What's more, they can help answer questions that arrive as your business — and theirs — evolves.
R: Rags
Your team will be wiping and cleaning from before opening for the day until after closing. Be sure to have plenty of clean rags.
S: Sweeteners, Syrups, and Spices
Wouldn't it be simple if everyone took their coffee black? Alas, many want a touch of sweetness, so you'll need to have syrups for baristas behind the counter as well as options for customers to finish off their coffee. That means stocking an ample supply of sugar, raw sugar, artificial sweeteners, Stevia, spices, and more. It's up to you how extensive your selection is. You can expand or contract the array of sweeteners based on customer feedback after you get rolling.
T: Tea
Tea's popularity shows no signs of slowing, and consumers expect to find tea in coffeehouses. It's especially important to offer tea since a group of friends may include one or two people who want tea while others want coffee. If you don't have both, they'll all go elsewhere.
U: Utensils
From spoons, forks, and knives to stir sticks and straws, you can't do without utensils. Disposables are a must for customers. Depending on your concept, you may also want to have washable options on hand.
V: Veggie and Fruit Smoothies
In line with food and non-coffee drinks, smoothies have become ubiquitous at coffeehouses. Fresh veggie and fruit smoothies provide a healthy, refreshing alternative or addition to coffee orders, and customers may expect their favorite coffeehouse to offer them.
W: Wi-Fi
Free internet access for customers is a must now. If you don't have it, they might pop in for a cup to go, but they won't hang around and spend more on coffee and food. It's also a draw for groups of people who need a spot for a meeting over coffee and lunch. Today's coffeehouse is more than a place to grab a cup. A coffeehouse is a hangout, refuge, and business meeting spot. But not without Wi-Fi.
X: Sirius XM
You'll need a good source of background music that you can set and forget. Consider subscribing to a service such as SiriusXM, and you can easily change from one themed channel to another throughout the day as your crowd and atmosphere shift.
Y: You
It can't be overstated: YOU, yourself, your talented baristas, and your team will be among your most critical supplies. An eye for talent, passion, and perseverance are all traits you'll find in successful coffee shop owners. The human factor — labor with a smile — drives everything. Don't get so wrapped up in ordering your napkins and coffee beans that you don't take time and give significant thought to who you hire.
Z: Zen
Finally, here's another key intangible. Starting any business creates a lot of anxiety and uncertainty. The more you try to keep yourself in a zen state of calm attentiveness, following intuition, the more successful you'll be. Operators of a franchise coffeehouse have a big head start in this regard. When an operator has support from a company that has already gone through a lot of trial and error to determine best practices, they can be much calmer in the face of challenges. A franchisee also benefits from ongoing market research and improvement of best practices from a brand that sees the big picture.
We hope this helps flesh out your growing list of what you'll need to open and operate your own coffeehouse. It's not an exhaustive list by any means, but at least you have a general idea of what you can expect. This list may feel overwhelming, but don't worry, our affiliate company, Harvest Roasting, has you covered! See our list of coffee shop equipment for a more detailed understanding of everything that goes into running a successful coffeehouse.
Coffee Shop For Sale: What to Look for Before You Buy a Coffee Shop
Maybe you've worked in coffeehouses before and are inspired to become an owner. Perhaps you have no experience at all but feel a calling to own and operate a business where the community gathers for amazing coffee. To open your own coffee business, you have three options. The first is to start from scratch and open a brand-new business. The second is to buy an existing independent coffeehouse. Last, but not least, you can join a franchise system.
Let's rule out the first option for the purposes of this discussion. Even if you have some experience as a barista, but especially if you have no experience at all, the latter two paths give you a head start. The following is what to look for when considering buying a coffeehouse, along with a comparison to entering a franchising agreement with an established brand.
What Should I Look for When Buying a Coffeehouse?
The advantages of buying an existing coffeehouse are pretty obvious. Someone else has already done a lot of work building the business from the ground up. This lets you avoid many of the startup costs (even though some of these costs may be reflected in the sale price of an established shop). But be cautious. Look into whether the owners really have grown the business and want to sell while it's a hot property (that's good). Or, if they are selling because the business is in decline. Don't buy a sinking ship.
Examine whether the coffeehouse is being run efficiently. Any honest owner will allow you to look at profit and loss statements and balance sheets, prepared by their accountant, so you can get a true picture of what you are thinking about buying. Have your own accountant examine the records and give you an outside opinion on what they mean.
It would also be a great idea to ask the owner to let you work at the coffeehouse for a while before they sell. This can give you a ground-level feel of whether the financial statements really match how busy (or not) and how well (or poorly) the shop is run. It will also allow you to see what labor is needed, day-to-day costs, and more.
Have a lawyer review any lease relevant to the location that you may be taking on for the remainder of a term. If there is not much time left on the lease, and the location is critical to a smooth continuation of the current business success, you'll need to negotiate terms to make sure you can stay there. Find out if the landlord is planning to increase the rent after the current term ends. This may be one reason the current owner wants out. Your lawyer can also check to see whether any creditors have liens on the existing business which could affect factors such as whether important equipment is repossessed after you take ownership.
Be sure to check out all coffee shop equipment and fixtures thoroughly. The owner, in anticipation of selling, may have decided a while back not to put more money into the business, like replacing dying equipment. Don't buy someone else's problems.
What Advantages Does a Coffee Shop Franchise Offer?
While an established independent coffee shop offers a head start for the person buying it, once the transition of ownership is complete, the new owner is pretty much on his or her own. This scenario is in stark contrast to a franchisee who operates a branded coffeehouse as part of a franchise system.
By working in a franchise partnership, franchisees can expect to receive a significant amount of support from a trusted company that is invested in their success. This support includes everything from site-selection to training and marketing.
Franchisees can also enjoy instant brand recognition. This recognition is continuously bolstered by national, regional, and local marketing campaigns that keep people coming through the doors. Moreover, a franchise location comes with established operational systems that typically are more efficient and honed than those of an independent business.
A franchise system also uses its buying power, through established relationships with suppliers, to make purchasing easier for owners. Other franchise benefits include ongoing support, a built-in network of other franchisees, and the company's vested interest in each location's success.
Now that you have a better idea of your options, you're ready to get going on a shop of your own. Franchise opportunities are available across the country for people looking to get started and learn more about opening a coffee franchise.
Coffee Shop Startup Costs: How to Open Your Own Café
The dream of owning a coffee shop is an aspiration for all kinds of people across the United States. The aroma of freshly ground beans, the hiss of the espresso machine, the sweet scent of baked goods, and the smiles of happy customers all have an irresistible allure. It's no wonder everyone wants to open their own coffee shop! And did you know that 64 percent of Americans over the age of 18 drink coffee every day? That's a lot of people. And a whole lot of coffee!
Owning your own coffee shop can be a wonderful way to own your own business in a thriving industry that has also been called "recession-proof." Add that to a market you can be passionate about while also maintaining a work-life balance, and it's clear why so many people want to join in.
Before you get ahead of yourself though, there are some things that you need to consider. It's important to understand your coffee shop startup costs, and know exactly what you're getting into before you decide to get brewing.
What Expenses Come With Opening a Coffee Shop?
The first thing you need to understand is exactly what you have to buy in order to open a coffee shop. There's a lot more to it than just coffee beans and cute mugs. Here's a small example of some of the expenses for your coffee shop startup costs.
Rent and Build-Out Expenses
Before you open your coffee shop, you have to have a place to put it. Depending on your square footage and your location, this price can vary greatly. Your build-out expenses are made up of a number of different things. These can include your franchise fee, architecture and engineering costs, point-of-sale system and software, signage, and other additional expenses.
How are you supposed to make world-class coffee without the right equipment? You're not going to set up a Mr. Coffee and call it a day! You're going to need coffee grinders for both regular beans and espresso, a high-quality espresso machine, high-capacity drip coffee brewers, blenders, a fridge, and more. Depending on what you buy, the cost can fluctuate, but it can get expensive fast.
You have your space, you've invested in your equipment, now you need amazing coffee beans to create world-class coffee. That's in addition to other key items like milk and syrups. Because every coffee shop and market are different, so is the amount of inventory you'll want to have on hand. You should have a strong idea of your projected sales before investing in inventory so you can make an informed decision.
Like many of the other considerations, this expense isn't necessarily a fixed cost. It's going to be determined by the size of your location and how busy you are. The most important part of staffing your coffee shop is putting together a great team of baristas you can rely on for amazing service led by a strong manager.
What Kind of Coffee Shop are You Running Here?
Now that you know what goes into a store, it's time to decide exactly what kind of coffee shop you want to open. Are you looking to set up a stand in an area with high foot-traffic and low overhead, like in a mall or a hospital? Maybe you're hoping to get in on the food truck craze. Do you dream of a cozy café with big, comfy couches? You'll have fewer customers, but they might stay longer and order more drinks. What about a drive-thru coffee store? A drive-thru gives you the opportunity to have a brick-and-mortar location while serving a world-class product to as many customers as possible. Here's a breakdown of available options so you can see what works best for you.
Coffee Stand
A coffee stand is probably your most economical option. Thanks to its small footprint and low overhead, a coffee stand can be a smart decision to place in a popular area. This could be an outdoor area like an outdoor shopping mall or even indoors at a place like a hospital or near a sports venue. The downside is that with this small space, there's not really any room for expansion. With no space for inventory, or even extra employees, you can outgrow a kiosk pretty fast.
Coffee Food Truck
Food trucks are experiencing tremendous popularity across the country. The opportunity to own your own truck and take it wherever the people are can be a huge help for your business. Of course, like a coffee stand, it's easy to outgrow the small space of a food truck. Also, a food truck comes with many of the problems of a restaurant combined with a lot of the issues of a high-mileage vehicle.
Sit-Down Coffee Shop or Café
With a sit-down café, you get a lot more space, and can embrace the traditional coffee shop vibe that likely springs to mind. A sit-down coffee shop gives you the space you need for inventory while also providing a spot for people to study, work, or chill. However, because people stay longer, you aren't able to serve as many customers. Anyone can tell you about the dreaded "coffee shop squatter" who monopolizes a table for two hours and only gets a cup of drip coffee! There's also the higher overhead to consider. Not only do you have to purchase or otherwise secure land for your shop, but there's also furniture, lighting, and other interior decorating expenses to consider. Visit the website for Scooter's Coffee for a more detailed estimate of your costs when opening a coffee shop.
Drive-Thru Coffee Shop
Are you looking for the best of both worlds? In that case, a drive-thru coffee shop may be right for you. People are falling in love with the drive-thru coffee franchise concept, and it isn't difficult to see why. If you want to maximize your number of customers, while also appreciating the square footage to prepare and store your world-class coffee, look no further! Drive-thru coffee shops are built with maximum efficiency in mind. The size of your location gives you the space you need for the best equipment and inventory to create amazing drinks. Furthermore, the drive-thru concept pairs all of this with a thoughtful and convenient location that can help you serve more customers amazingly fast!
Do you think opening your own coffee shop might be right for you? Have you decided you're ready to take the plunge? Learn more about opening a coffee shop with the percolating pros at Scooter's Coffee!
Click Here to Download Scooter's Coffee Franchise Brochure.
Learn more about how we are serving up world-class coffee.
Scooter's Coffee Named a 2019 Top Franchise
Scooter's Coffee is delighted to be named a Top Multi-Unit Franchise for 2019 by Franchise Business Review. We are proud to be recognized for achieving what we set out to accomplish in our brand promise: Amazing People, Amazing Drinks …, Amazingly Fast! Add that to our high standards for operational excellence and you have a recipe for success.
Being chosen as a Top Multi-Unit franchise is more than an indicator of how successful you are as a business. Franchise Business Review picks its selections of the best multi-unit franchise opportunities by talking with existing franchisees. That means the award reflects how franchisees feel about their investment, and what it's like to work with Scooter's Coffee. Our relationships with our franchisees speak for themselves, and franchisees are more than happy to tell you how much they love their Scooter's Coffee franchises.
Reinforcing an Amazing Reputation
We were already confident that our franchise partners love doing business with us. Now, Franchise Business Review has done more than put it in writing. FBR is an independent, third-party confirmation of how amazing it is to run a Scooter's Coffee franchise. The FBR rankings are considered the industry benchmark for franchisee satisfaction — the best indication we can get about what kind of brand we are, because we're rated by the people who know us best!
For nearly 15 years, Franchise Business Review has been viewed as the last word for franchise brands committed to continual improvement through franchisee satisfaction. FBR understands the value of franchisee satisfaction, and we're proud to be honored by a publication that recognizes the importance of franchisees as much as we do.
Insights Leading to Innovative Improvement
The FBR survey of our franchisees asked for their evaluations of Scooter's Coffee in a variety of areas. These factors run the gamut of operating a franchise with excellence to the relationship with the franchisor. That includes training and support, leadership, core values, the franchise community, communications, the use of effective technology, team culture, effectiveness in driving results, and having a clear vision. Together, these qualities combine to define what it takes to be a Top 50 Multi-Unit Franchise.
But being named a Top 50 Multi-Unit Franchise by Franchise Business Review is about so much more than acclaim and reinforcing facts about us that we already know. It's about getting better. When FBR talks with franchisees, we're able to take this data and use it further improve our business. These helpful insights into our partners and their experiences help us to make Scooter's Coffee an even more attractive franchise opportunity.
Scooter's Coffee was also named a Top Franchise by FBR in 2018, making this an exciting trend in our continuous success. We're already applying the lessons learned from this year's award to become even more amazing for potential franchisees interested in partnering for their own Scooter's Coffee franchise.
Opening a Coffee Shop: 10 Things You Need to Know to Brew Your Success
It seems like everyone dreams about opening a coffee shop these days. The idea of starting a franchise with a brand you love can be an attractive prospect for entrepreneurs, investors, and people that want to own their own business. The right franchise can set you up with everything you need to run a successful company. With the right brand, in the right industry, the sky can be the limit.
The coffee industry is big business in the United States. In fact, the market is estimated to be worth $48 billion. And it keeps on growing! Did you know that Americans drink an estimated 400 million cups of coffee each day? That's a lot of java! It doesn't take a big piece of that pie to quickly add up to a large chunk of change.
With more consumers leading busier lives, they need to be able to get their coffee on the go. Thanks to the high demand for quality coffee people can grab quickly, the drive-thru coffee model is exploding in popularity. Scooter's Coffee is right there at the head of the pack!
But what does it take to run a successful coffee franchise?
At Scooter's Coffee, we know a thing or two about what it takes to run a successful coffee franchise. Here are 10 things you need to know to brew up a recipe for success when opening a coffee shop.
1. Trust the Process
Always remember that you're joining a franchise for a reason. If you wanted to start your own business and create your own business model, you would have done it. Thankfully, an investment in a Scooter's Coffee franchise is an investment in proven processes and support for running your business. That means you're buying into a business that has already been built to run like a well-oiled, lean, mean, coffee bean machine. These practices have been developed through extensive experience over years in business, and the processes are here to help.
2. Take Advantage of Franchisor Support
When you're opening your coffee shop, you don't have to do it alone. A good franchisor is dedicated to helping its franchisees succeed. That means providing you with the necessary guidance you need to get your new business off the ground during real estate selection and construction. Scooter's Coffee also offers extensive on-boarding for all its franchisees and is here to lead you on the path to success. This support will continue far beyond your opening week with the marketing and field operations teams, so be sure to make the most of it!
3. Find the Best Location Possible
You probably know the old saying, "location, location, location." One of the most important aspects of opening a coffee shop is finding the right location for you and your business. That means finding a spot that gets the right amount of traffic and is also convenient for customers to drive in and out. At Scooter's Coffee, we know that location makes all the difference. A Scooter's Coffee store needs to be on a busy route for morning commutes. We know this can seem like a lot, but it's all tested to help you get the most out of your store, and you don't have to do it all by yourself! We'll help you navigate the site selection process.
4. Marketing is a Franchisee's Best Friend
Even the most well-organized franchises can't succeed if customers don't know about them! Marketing is key to keeping people in your community informed about your business. Scooter's Coffee wants all of its franchisees to succeed. This is why Scooter's Coffee works extensively with its franchisees on marketing campaigns well before your new location even opens.
5. Have a Backup Plan for Money
When you're opening your own coffee shop, or any franchise for that matter, it's important to overestimate when it comes to expenses. The importance of capital to fuel franchise growth cannot be overstated. Your franchisor will be clear about overhead expenses and any fees ahead of time, but it's up to you to stay on top of things. What if you need to hire more employees? Maybe you have to replace equipment early on. Whatever it is, things always have a way of coming up. Be prepared by having a rainy-day fund for unexpected expenses.
6. Understand the Competition
Before you take the plunge with your own coffee shop, it's important that you size up potential competition in your area. How many other coffee shops already exist in your community? Are these sit-down cafes or drive-thru operations? The better you understand the competition, the better you can see why Scooter's Coffee is so much better — our fast and friendly service!
7. Talk to Other Franchisees
One of the most valuable resources available to you is the experience of other franchisees. It's important to talk about things with other franchisees. They've dealt with the same things you are experiencing, and can offer support, guidance, and advice that you can't find anywhere else. Your fellow franchisees can let you know what to expect and help keep you grounded during what's a busy and exciting time in your life and your career.
8. Remember that Building a Business is a Team Effort
No matter how talented of a businessperson you might be, you can't do it all yourself. A successful franchise takes a whole team working together to succeed. From the parent company to the franchisee to the employees, it takes everyone to make the dream work. Your friends, family and community members are all invested in your success. With the support of a strong team behind you, you can achieve anything and turn your coffee shop into the best business it can be.
9. Serve an Amazing Product
There's a reason that everyone loves Scooter's Coffee so much. We have amazing people, serving amazing drinks, amazingly fast! Note that a third of this winning formula is our amazing drinks. We pride ourselves on the quality of our products, and it's important to us that all our franchisees do too! We provide all of our franchisees with the recipes and ingredients they need to deliver the same amazing products that people expect from Scooter's Coffee. When you combine amazing service with an amazing product, you get a recipe for success every time.
10. Service Keeps Customers Coming Back
Amazing products bring customers to your business, but it's amazing service that keeps people coming back. Amazing people are an integral part of our brand promise, and we take it seriously. Customers like returning to a place where they had a good experience. It takes more than an amazing cup of coffee to make a repeat customer. It takes a friendly smile and positive attitude to keep people visiting day after day.
Starting your own coffee shop can be an incredibly fun and rewarding endeavor that can bring out the best in both you and your community. Scooter's Coffee can provide you with the platform and support you need to make your drive-thru coffee franchise a success. Sign up today and fill out our franchise form to learn more about the next steps for owning your own Scooter's Coffee franchise!
How to Start a Drive-Thru Coffee Shop
There are few things more exciting for an entrepreneur than opening a coffee shop. Coffee shops are one of the biggest American lifestyle trends today. The only way you could make opening a coffee shop more amazing is by starting a Scooter's Coffee drive-thru kiosk.
Starting a successful drive-thru coffee shop lets franchisees tap fully into America's growing thirst for out-of-home coffee-consumption experiences.
Everything from real estate to overhead costs are much lower when you're dealing with a drive-thru coffee shop. What makes the drive-thru model particularly attractive is that it still has the potential to expand, because the on-the-go coffee industry is constantly growing.
Trusted Business Model and Extensive Training Make for a Smooth Transition
A drive-thru coffee kiosk is a relatively straightforward business to establish, because Scooter's Coffee already has a proven business model laid out for you. The Scooter's Coffee drive-thru kiosk model is the original business model of the company and remains at the core of the brand.
That said, the success of a sound business model still relies on amazing people to follow through on it. That's why franchisees receive extensive training for both them and their employees. Training is about more than teaching you how to make amazing drinks. It's also about helping you learn the soft-skills necessary to operate your drive-thru coffee kiosk with excellence and provide customers with an amazing experience every time.
How a Drive-Thru Coffee Kiosk Can Kickstart Your Coffee Franchise
When we say "kiosk," Scooter's Coffee really means a building of about 500 square feet that is designed to serve world-class drinks to drivers on the go. Kiosks are typically situated on 2,000 to 5,000 square foot lots large enough for at least four employee parking stalls. This is in addition to the outside space required for the free flow of customers in cars on either side of the building.
Here are some of the guidelines you need to be aware of when starting a drive-thru coffee shop:
Decide whether you want to buy or rent property for your drive-thru store. Like owning a home, buying the property for your kiosk can be advantageous because you won't have to deal with a difficult landlord or unexpected rent increases.
Scout Locations
Any retailer or restaurateur will tell you that location can be a bigger success factor for their business than just about any other consideration. That is especially true with a site that relies on making it easy for motorists to visit. Make sure that your drive-thru kiosk will be accessible from major commuter roads, because most of your business will come from people on their way to work. Thankfully, when you partner with an established franchise like Scooter's Coffee, you're working with a company that will guide you through site selection to find the optimal location to set you and your business up for success.
While you won't be waiting on tables, you and your employees still will be serving food and drinks through your drive-thru window. That means local laws about food handling and training, special licenses, building codes, zoning procedures, permits and other regulations are all going to apply. Make sure you know them and understand their implications before you get started.
Understand Your Costs
You'd think that it would be obvious, but it's always important to fully understand your costs before entering into any business venture. This can include everything from equipment to furniture to signage and more. You can find an estimate of build-out costs to give you a better idea of what to expect when it's time to open your own drive-thru coffee shop.
Decide on Your Key Relationships
A franchise partner like Scooter's Coffee can give you the best chance of success with your drive-thru coffee shop. A franchise partner brings a proven track record of success and understands what it takes to make a drive-thru coffee kiosk thrive. In exchange for franchise fees and royalties that represent only a small portion of your revenues, you can get a leg up toward success that you won't be able to find anywhere else.
Now that you have an idea of what it takes to open a drive-thru coffee shop, it's time to take the next step! Fill out your franchise form today for more info on how you can get started!
Coffee Shop Equipment: What You Need to Start Your Business
It feels like the popularity of coffee keeps growing every year. That makes it no surprise that new people are opening their own coffee shops every day. But there's a big difference between running a coffee shop and running a successful coffee shop. There's a lot that goes into amazing coffee and a great business than beans and water. Before you decide to get started, it's crucial that you at least have a general understanding of the equipment you'll need if you hope to compete.
How are you going to make world-class coffee drinks without an espresso machine? This is one piece of coffee shop machinery that no self-respecting café should be without. Having an espresso machine that can create amazing beverages like mochas, cappuccinos, americanos, lattes and more is essential to the success of your coffee shop. You're going to want one or two restaurant quality espresso machines that can make multiple drinks at a time so you can serve customers fast. When you partner with Scooter's Coffee on your franchise, you'll get guidance for all the best equipment so your coffee shop will have everything you need, and nothing you don't.
Automatic Drip Coffee Makers
You can also expect to get plenty of orders for good old-fashioned drip coffee. Because you'll be serving so many cups of coffee, you're going to need a fast and effective way to brew up a high quantity without sacrificing your quality. The first step in that process is working with the best coffee beans. Scooter's Coffee roasts its own beans and only roasts from the top 10% of specialty beans in the world.
The next step is investing in the right coffee shop equipment. In this case, that means a restaurant-quality drip coffee maker. With a top-notch coffee maker, you can have your drip coffee hot and ready to go at all times!
Even the best beans don't matter if you can't get your grind right. That's why you need a quality grinder to help you get the most out of every coffee bean. You'll typically need two different kinds of grinders for your coffee shop. One is for espresso beans. This piece of coffee shop equipment gives you a fine grind that helps to open up the delicious oils and rich aromas that come with quality beans.
The second grinder you need is for your drip coffee. This grind tends to be coarser, but it's still crucial that you properly grind your beans to ensure you get the most flavor out of every cup. Some coffee grinders can pull double duty and work for both espresso and drip coffee. When you set up your franchise, someone will be there to point you in the right direction. After more than 20 years in the business, we know a thing or two about making a world-class cup of coffee, and we can make sure you have the perfect grind, every time.
Blenders for Smoothies and Frozen Drinks
Iced and blended drinks are popular all year round, but they're must-have treats during the warmer months. For the amount of amazing blended beverages that you'll be whipping up, you're going to need a couple blenders that you can put through the ringer. You need high-grade blenders with dependable motors that are designed to stand up to the test of hundreds and thousands of ice-blended beverages and smoothies.
All those blended drinks require a lot of ice. The ice maker in your fridge isn't going to cut it, and you can forget about those old-school ice trays! You need an industrial ice machine that reliably crank out all the ice you'll ever need, every day.
Ice machines like this come in all sorts of sizes, so you'll want to find one that works best for your business and how many customers you regularly serve. When you're setting up your franchise, Scooter's Coffee will help you find just what you need.
Making delicious drinks can require a lot of ingredients. Many of those ingredients, like milk, will need to be refrigerated. You're going to need a restaurant style refrigerator with plenty of space to hold your existing available inventory. By partnering with the right franchisor, you can get the advice you need to make smart decisions on sourcing the right coffee shop equipment.
These represent just some of the biggest pieces of coffee shop machinery you'll need to run a successful business. Want to learn more about what it takes to open a coffee shop in your neighborhood? Learn more bout partnering for your own Scooter's Coffee franchise.
Scooter's Coffee Named to Entrepreneur Magazine's List of Fastest-Growing Franchises
"Scooter's Coffee is extremely proud to be recognized by Entrepreneur magazine's Fastest-Growing Franchise list," said Todd Graeve, Chief Executive Officer of Scooter's Coffee. "This achievement was accomplished by the hard work and dedication of our franchisees and the valuable team members who are committed to our brand's success. We are eager to continue this amazing period of growth and build relationships with new Scooter's Coffee franchisees and customers."
To view Scooter's Coffee in the full ranking click here. Results can also be seen in the March issue of Entrepreneur magazine.
In line with its successful and robust grand opening strategy, Scooter's Coffee recently opened five locations throughout Kansas and Missouri, opened the second of many locations in Arkansas, and is opening additional locations in markets such as Dallas, Texas and Northern Colorado. Scooter's Coffee has over 200 locations in 14 states and has over 200 franchise commitments to build new stores.
Coffee Franchise: 9 Traits of Successful Scooter's Coffee Owners
Owning a Scooter's Coffee franchise is an amazing opportunity for entrepreneurs. This is true whether it's your first big challenge in business or you're experienced in running a franchise. We've found that food service experience — or even ownership experience in general — isn't required to succeed with Scooter's Coffee. You know what we've found is a necessity? Experience as a leader.
There are all kinds of leaders. This background could be a franchisee's current or previous experiences as chief of a crew of building contractors, a captain or coach of a sports team, a project manager, a leadership position in a charitable or church organization, a position on a school board, or a host of other leadership positions.
Wanted: Winners with a Will to Learn
Scooter's Coffee wants winners and leaders who want to continue to grow and succeed. We have a great system for teaching our franchisees the ropes of starting a Scooter's Coffee and making it successful. Still, there are a few innate qualities we look for in future franchisees. These qualities include a passion for learning, a strong work ethic, and the instinctive or developed skills that you'd expect of a leader.
Probe your mind, your experiences and your background for that leadership quotient. If it's there, we'd love to talk with you about Scooter's Coffee. If you've been or are a leader in any capacity, you'll recognize these characteristics of entrepreneurial leadership that are important to success in running a Scooter's Coffee franchise or any other enterprise.
Qualities We Look for in a Leader
This is not an exhaustive list, but here are nine characteristics of leadership that are invaluable for a Scooter's Coffee franchisee:
Passion: There's no substitute for drive and commitment for a successful franchisee. Cold calculations can help you run the operation. But if you want to make the leap to becoming a Scooter's Coffee franchisee, you need a passion for business and the challenges of growing a company. This helps a leader get off to a fast start.
Self-confidence: History is awash with stories of leaders who have thrown reason — and even caution —to the wind because of their faith in themselves. You don't need to be Caesar or Mark Zuckerberg to run a Scooter's Coffee franchise successfully. Still, you need to have the confidence to not only to launch your enterprise, but also believe you'll win.
Communication skills: By definition, leaders must communicate. The ability to communicate effectively with us at Scooter's Coffee, with financiers, with real estate professionals, your employees, and your customers is vital to your success. You must be able to motivate your staff and engender loyalty in your customers.
Decisiveness: Making the decision to pursue a Scooter's Coffee franchise or master franchise agreement is a serious commitment that isn't to be taken lightly. It's a binding contract that explains the details of your business. Successful franchisees make all sorts of crucial decisions along the way. These include selecting specific locations for the operation, securing financing for the purchase and determining questions of timing.
Eye for talent: While franchise ownership — and all entrepreneurism — starts as a solo enterprise, it isn't long before success and growth take you to the threshold of an important next stage. You need other people to help you make it work. Scooter's Coffee owners must figure out how to hire the right people at all levels to ensure their success.
Integrity: This is a quality we value highly at Scooter's Coffee. Integrity is something we demand of ourselves as we work with our franchise partners. It's also a trait we expect of franchisees. Our franchisees must gracefully handle the challenges of starting a business. They also must work in harmony with financiers, managers, employees and customers. Integrity speaks volumes about someone's quality as a person, and as a leader.
Perseverance: Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither will your success as a Scooter's Coffee franchisee. We can get you off to a great start. And the thrill of the challenge will motivate you. But over the months and years as an entrepreneur, there will be times of challenge and even discouragement. Leaders are the people who work through them and emerge even stronger.
Adaptability: No matter how much of the other leadership qualities you have, openness to new information, and the willingness to learn from it and adapt to it, is essential for running a franchise; there's little room for ego. And actually, the best leaders have a curiosity that compels them into uncharted territory where they can learn, and tweak where necessary.
Future orientation: Successful leaders are all about the future. That's why Scooter's Coffee franchisees take the plunge in the first place. The best entrepreneurs have a vision for where they'd like to lead their enterprise over the longer term, and the ability to plan steps along the way that will result in realizing that dream.
While you may not have run the fast-casual restaurant down the street, do you have the qualities of a future leader of a Scooters Coffee franchise? Download our Franchise Brochure to learn more about owning your own Coffee Franchise.
What's Coming for the Coffee Shop Industry in 2019?
Consumers in America and around the world demonstrated a still-growing thirst for "joe" in all its varieties, and for the overall coffee-drinking experience. From the level of coffee exports exiting countries that produce the bean, to the growth in retail sales of consumer packaged good (CPG) coffees in the United States and elsewhere, to the increasing variety of coffee-drinking experiences in the foodservice industry, 2018 truly marked a continuation of renaissance days for coffee consumption. And there are strong reasons to expect this trend to continue in 2019.
Exports Just Keep Increasing
The business of specialty coffee continues to expand across the country, providing a number of opportunities to get involved. The U.S. coffee market is an estimated $48 billion a year industry, with a growing demand of 150 million daily coffee drinkers.
Consider where it all starts: Coffee production in major growers, led by Brazil, Vietnam, Columbia and Indonesia, continues to boom. Global output was an estimated 163.5 million bags for the "coffee year," which is considered to be October through September. From that, global shipments of coffee in the 12 months ended October increased by a whopping 4.2 percent over the previous year, according to the International Coffee Organization (ICO).
Mug After Mug
That's a good thing, because coffee drinkers in 2019 are expected to continue the robust consumption increases of java in its various forms over the last few years. The retail market for coffee grew by 5.9 percent over the past five years, to reach revenue of $46 billion, in 2018, according to market researcher IBISWorld.
The reasons coffee is expected to continue to ascend in 2019 includes the proliferation of drink varieties in America's coffee shops, including most recently the cold-brew trend. Another trend that will continue to drive the appeal of coffee shops is how many chains and independents come up with their own, specialty drinks, which increase the interest of loyal customers and new ones as well.
Two other trends can be expected to intensify in the coming year: the addition of more food items to coffee-shop menus, which increases the overall appeal of the outlets, and the adoption and spread of more mobile-ordering apps by coffee shops of all types.
And a Side of Synergy
Another development that is expected to continue to accelerate in 2019 is the expansion of coffee brands that began in coffee shops to retail shelves via a CPG line. Initial fears about packaged coffee varieties cannibalizing sales by coffee shops of the same brand never materialized, and in fact, by seeing their favorite neighborhood coffee-shop brand on a grocer's shelves, consumers' brand loyalties can be significantly reinforced.
In addition, the drive-thru concept continues to thrive in the intersect of busyness and convenience. Having the option to pick up your favorite local coffee while still ensuring timeliness to work or school is a necessity for consumers. Scooter's Coffee takes that to the next level by ensuring a world-class experience even in the drive thru with their brand promise – Amazing People, Amazing Drinks…Amazingly Fast!
Tapping Into Opportunity
With all of this, it's no surprise that the coffee shop industry is booming. If you've considered diving into the world of coffee shop ownership, now is the time to act. There are three main ways to enter into the industry — start a new business from scratch, buy an existing coffee shop or invest in a franchise. For many, franchising is often the most viable option.
Franchising offers you the opportunity to maintain the independence of a small-business owner while still benefiting from the support and expertise of a corporate team. When considering franchising, it's important to research and invest in a growing, reputable brand, such as Scooter's Coffee. With more than 200 locations open across the U.S. and 200 additional franchisee commitments to build new stores, Scooter's Coffee is proud to stay on top of consumer demands.
By offering baked-from-scratch treats, only roasting the top 10 percent of specialty beans and offering an easy-to-use mobile app, Scooter's Coffee ensures their customers will have the best coffeehouse experience possible. They ensure they are always on top of the coffee trends. For instance, Scooter's Coffee has had cold brew on their menu since the beginning 20 years ago and has featured the famous Carmelicious. These are important factors when looking at franchise options. If you want to learn more about how you can get own a world-class coffeehouse and Scooter's Coffee's tremendous growth, download our brochure.
Fall in Love with the Drive-Thru Coffee Franchise Concept
It looks like everyone is falling in love with the innovative drive-thru coffee franchise concept. Coffee-loving entrepreneurs who are eager to invest in the coffee industry, should note that the drive-thru business model is built on 20 years of success. It's convenient, efficient and fulfilling.
Benefits of a Drive-Thru Coffee Franchise
A drive-thru coffee establishment allows customers to get their morning caffeine fix without the hassle of long lines or even having to leave their car. Drive-thru coffee franchises are an easy choice for many commuters. Convenience paired with a strong brand reputation, great service and delicious coffee is sure to lead to success.
In addition to providing customers with a stellar coffee experience, the drive-thru business model is conducive to multi-unit franchising. Growing the number of units in a market helps build brand loyalty because the more access customers have to a brand, the more likely that brand is going to grow.
The Differences Between Drive-Thru and Traditional Models
A sit-down coffeehouse lends itself to a slower turnover rate. It's a matter of efficiency versus atmosphere. For entrepreneurs looking to create a place where students and professionals can relax and get some work done, a traditional coffeehouse may be the way to go. In a drive-thru coffee franchise model the focus is put on efficiency. The number of customers serviced is increased, you can maximize operational efficiency with lower overhead.
How Scooter's Coffee Helps Franchisees Succeed
Scooter's Coffee has seen tremendous success with their drive-thru coffee franchise business model. In 1998, founders Don and Linda Eckles started Scooter's Coffee in Bellevue, Nebraska on the belief that quality coffee served quickly and with a smile would lead to success. Increasing efficiency without sacrificing quality has always been the heart of Scooter's Coffee.
Scooter's Coffee offers franchisees unparalleled support, including help with arguably the most important aspect of a new drive-thru business: site selection. Choosing the right location is key for a drive-thru business model. Luckily, Scooter's Coffee has experience picking just the right spot for new locations. Scooter's Coffee professionals have a formula that works : build on the right side of the road for morning commuter traffic, ensure easy access to the building (preferably at a stop light) and take visibility into account. No two markets are exactly the same, so Scooter's Coffee's team of professionals are there to do research and help the new franchisee choose the just the right spot.
With the drive-thru coffee franchise business model, Scooter's Coffee has found a recipe that works and has seen tremendous growth as a result. There are currently 180+ stores open with more than 150 additional franchisee commitments to build new stores. After all these years, the Scooter's Coffee brand promise still holds true: "Amazing People, Amazing Drinks… Amazingly Fast!™"
Scooter's Marked Big Gains in 2018 With Huge Plans for 2019
We have much for which to be proud and thankful at Scooter's Coffee as 2018 ends and 2019 welcomes us. Our company has grown and prospered in some very notable ways over the past year, and we have laid the groundwork for even greater prosperity in the years ahead.
The Scooter's Coffee family of companies — including Harvest Roasting, Boundless Enterprises and Boundless Operations, as well as the eponymous Scooter's Coffee brand — has been advancing not only relative to our own past performance but also compared with the quick-serve restaurant industry in general. Our executive team and franchise partners have worked together to formulate a promising strategy for elevating our brands and the company overall in the years ahead.
Here are some of the main components of our recent success and our plans to add to it:
Retail expansion: We are currently operating more than 200 stores in 14 states, with franchisee commitments for more than 200 additional locations in 18 states to be built in the future. In 2018 we opened 33 new stores. In 2019, Scooter's Coffee plans to open an additional 67 stores. We are structuring and resourcing our company to grow to 1,000 stores by the end of 2023.
Seeds of growth: Scooter's Coffee made significant moves for the future beyond ongoing store expansion. We secured $20 million in financing for our franchisees through ApplePie Capital to help fuel franchise growth. We also finalized plans to launch a line of consumer-packaged goods in 2019. These plans will diversify the Scooter's Coffee brand and retail footprint in significant new ways.
Top and bottom lines: Our store annual unit volume and new starting volumes are the highest in the 20-year history of Scooter's Coffee. And our year-to-date same-store sales growth, for outlets that have been open at least one year, is far outpacing the QSR industry average*.
Customer satisfaction: Scooter's Coffee is upgrading our smartphone loyalty application, which already has surpassed 43,000 users and accounts for about 10 percent of our transactions — a portion that is increasing daily.
Corporate governance: In May, our executive team met to establish a new set of core values and a mission statement for our company: "Amazing People, Serving Amazing Drinks… Amazingly Fast." Scooter's Coffee also invested heavily in expanding the capabilities of our leadership team that will help us realize the mission. We hired a chief marketing officer, chief development officer, vice president of operations and senior vice president of commercial sales in 2018.
External recognition: The industry has taken notice of Scooter's Coffee's growth and success. Recent third-party rankings of Scooter's Coffee have included the Inc. 500 Fastest-Growing Food and Beverage Companies in America, Top 50 Fastest-Growing Franchises by Franchise Gator, Top 50 for Franchisee Satisfaction by Franchise Business Review, Top 200 Franchises by Franchise Times, Top 200 Food-Based Franchises by Entrepreneur, Top 5 Coffee Company by Entrepreneur, and a Top Franchise for Women by Franchise Business Review.
Our chief executive officer, Todd Graeve, has been featured recently in the Wall Street Journal, Franchising Today, and Business News Daily and has been featured by the International Franchise Association. Chad Hartnett, our chief financial officer, was a featured speaker at the Franchise Times Finance & Growth Conference in May.
Company milestones: In May, Scooter's Coffee moved into our new national headquarters, roastery, bakery and fulfillment center to add to our capacity. We also celebrated Scooter's Coffee's 20th anniversary of opening our first store in Bellevue, Nebraska. We concluded the year with the opening of our 200th store, a new Nebraska location, in December.
*Review our Franchise Disclosure Document for details on these about these numbers. Your results may differ and there are no assurances you will do as well and must accept that risk.
Scooter's Coffee Opens 200th Store in Hometown
National Franchise with Extraordinary Growth Reaches a New Milestone
Scooter's Coffee, the Midwest-based drive-thru coffee franchise that is on track for another record-breaking year of growth and is anticipating its 200th store opening mid-December. This store opening is particularly unique because it will be in Omaha, Nebraska where the growing coffee chain had its beginning.
The chain has been growing quickly thanks to the appeal of its drive-thru concept and adherence to its core values and brand promise, "Amazing People, Amazing Drinks… Amazingly Fast!" Scooter's Coffee had 193 stores in 14 states as of the beginning of November. Franchisees in an additional 18 states have signed development contracts to open Scooter's Coffee kiosks in the coming months.
"Scooter's Coffee's appeal now stretches across much of the country, but it's especially amazing to build on our brand franchise in the city where it all started," said Todd Graeve, Chief Executive Officer of Scooter's Coffee. "We didn't target Omaha for our 200th store, but we certainly appreciate the way it's working out for us to reach that milestone in our hometown."
Scooter's Coffee, based in Omaha, specializes in hand-tamped espresso drinks, baked-from-scratch pastries and features its signature drink, the Caramelicious. Scooter's Coffee roasts its own shade-grown coffee, sourced through the Arbor Day Foundation. The company added depth to its profile last year with a new line of organic hot and iced teas, single-origin coffee and Cold Brew & Cream.
Amazingly Fast Coffee Facts
Shepherds discovered coffee in Ethiopia circa 800 A.D.
Coffee is the second most traded commodity on Earth.
Brazil produces 2.9 million (U.S.) tons of coffee. It has been the highest global producer of coffee beans for more than 150 years.
Coffee stays warmer when you add cream.
Scooter's Coffee has been serving world-class coffee for over 20 years and has over 150 franchise commitments to build new stores. To find out why Scooter's Coffee is among the best coffee franchises in the nation, click to learn more about franchise opportunities.
Scooter's Coffee's Holiday Cups Spread Holiday Cheer
The holiday season is upon us! Snow is falling, children are playing, and families are spending time together. Amidst all the hustle and bustle, it's important to take time and recognize what the holidays are all about – togetherness. Take a break, warm up and soak in the magic this season with a special cup of holiday cheer from Scooter's Coffee.
A Coffee Winter Wonderland
This year, Scooter's Coffee's magical winter cup depicts a serene winter scene, set against a pale-blue sky. With each turn of the cup, there is a new scene to enjoy. A family sleds down a hill together; children make the most of the snow and build a snowman. It's reminiscent of simpler times – spending hours outside with a cold nose and a happy heart. Perhaps you relate to the person feeling confident and documenting the day with a fun selfie. There's even a cardinal representing good luck and prosperity for the coming new year! Each character is enjoying the season, ready to warm up with some delicious coffee at the nearby Scooter's Coffee kiosk.
Scooter's Holiday Line Up
It's only right that such a fun, festive cup be filled with the best kind of cheer – coffee! Scooter's Coffee is sharing the warmth this season with an amazing holiday trio: Gingerbread Caramelicious, Peppermint Mocha and Sugar Cookie Latte.
The Gingerbread Caramelicious is a unique spin on Scooter's Coffee's famous Caramelicious. It has the classic velvety caramel and espresso as the base with a seasonal update featuring nutmeg and cinnamon. Peppermint Mocha is perfect for a cold winter's day. Combining the classic peppermint flavor with chocolate sauce, this drink is full of holiday cheer. It even comes adorned with whipped cream and peppermint chips! Finally, the Sugar Cookie Latte rounds out this festive trio. The sweet cookie flavor is sure to put a pep in your step and a smile on your face as it warms you from the inside out.
These drinks pair well with Scooter's Coffee's delicious winter treats like gooey cinnamon rolls, unforgettable chocolate peppermint cake pops or a classic sugar cookie topped with buttercream cream cheese frosting and holiday sprinkles.
Share Warmth, Be Amazing
At the end of the day, sipping delicious coffee from a Scooter's Coffee's holiday cup is a terrific way to get in the holiday spirit. So grab a loved one, share warmth and be amazing.
Amazing People, Amazing Drinks… Amazingly Fast! ®That's the Scooter's Coffee difference. Scooter's Coffee strives to become part of the community and plays a positive role in each customer's daily life. Every experience should be unique, fulfilling and exciting. For more information on how you can join the Scooter's Coffee team and share holiday warmth with your hometown, visit OwnAScooters.com.
The Many Gifts of Working for Yourself
The holiday season is upon us, and this year, give yourself the gift of being your own boss. If you've always dreamed of a flexible work schedule, finding your place in your community and taking charge of your destiny, now is the time to act. Franchising is an exciting (and lucrative) career option for the hardworking entrepreneur looking for a new adventure. Franchising gives you the freedom of small-business ownership with the support of a corporate team. Just remember to do your research, and select a reputable franchise brand, such as Scooter's Coffee, to ensure long-term success.
Set Your Own Schedule
Running a small business takes hard work and dedication, but there are certainly some perks that come with the job. As the owner, you'll be able to manage your own schedule. By hiring top-notch managers and employees, you can carefully arrange the daily schedule so you can be home in time for family dinner. In addition, through careful planning and preparation, you could take that vacation of which you've always dreamed. Balancing family and work life is often challenging in corporate positions, but through investing in franchising, you'll be in control.
Become a Part of Your Community
Local restaurants and shops are an integral part of communities across the country. By becoming a small business owner, you'll have a chance to connect more with your community. You'll also have the opportunity to network with fellow entrepreneurs through organizations such as a Rotary Club or chamber of commerce. And of course, you'll slowly build relationships with your regular customers as you become a part of their daily routine. Before you know it, you'll be presented with opportunities to sponsor the local Little League or get involved with local charities. Franchising can open doors to making new friends and making a positive impact right in your own backyard.
Take Charge of Your Future
It's the season of spending time with friends and family and shopping for that perfect gift, but don't forget about yourself! Placing value on you and your dreams will enable you to live a fuller, happier life. By investing in a reputable franchise brand, you are investing in your future. At Scooter's Coffee, you are given the tools and the recipe for success, but it's up to you to fulfill your true potential. Your hard work will determine your income, your success and ultimately your happiness. Avoid being bogged down by irritating bosses, incompetent coworkers and a stuffy office space, and take control of your future through franchising.
Scooter's Coffee has been serving up delicious coffee, tasty treats and genuine smiles since 1998. The innovative drive-thru model lets customers get the top-of-the-line coffee they crave with none of the typical coffee shop hassle. This year, don't just set New Year's resolutions, act on them! Visit OwnAScooters.com today to learn more about joining the Scooter's team and making your dreams a reality.
Sippin' on Small Business Saturday
Black Friday is often considered the official kickoff to the holiday shopping season, and for many small business owners, the Saturday after Thanksgiving is when their big sales occur. Small Business Saturday has become increasingly popular in recent years, and local businesses are reaping the rewards. This year Small Business Saturday falls on Saturday, Nov. 24, and Scooter's Coffee's franchisees are getting ready!
What is Small Business Saturday?
Small Business Saturday is an American shopping holiday where consumers are encouraged to support local small businesses. Originally created by American Express in 2009 as a PR and marketing campaign, it has since blossomed into a much larger movement. In 2011, Congress made the day official and declared the Saturday after Thanksgiving each year to officially be Small Business Saturday. Now every year, excited holiday shoppers are eager to purchase gifts locally and bring awareness (and income) to small businesses. An estimated 108 million consumers participated in Small Business Saturday in 2017. This generated almost $12 million in reported sales.
Why is Supporting Local Businesses Important?
Supporting local businesses can help boost the local economy. Consumers can help their community and invest in their neighbors by shopping locally. With their small businesses, franchisees have a chance to know the people buying the product and can develop a relationship with them. This results not only in more personalized customer service but also puts money back into the community. A Chicago study found that shopping locally has a huge impact on the community. On average, 48 percent of revenue from local purchases are recirculated in the community.
Kick Off Your Holiday Season with Scooter's Coffee
This year, celebrate the holidays at your community Scooter's Coffee location. Scooter's Coffee is a nationwide franchise; however, each location is owned locally. That means the owner is a small-business owner with an investment in the community. With fun, seasonal drinks and treats like the Gingerbread Caramelicious, a visit to Scooter's Coffee is the perfect way to ring in the holiday season.
Interested in joining the Scooter's Coffee community? Visit our contact page for more information!
Scooter's Coffee is Thankful
This holiday season, Scooter's Coffee has much for which it is thankful. With hard work and tasty beverages, Scooter's Coffee has had a tremendous year; however, none of this success and growth would be possible without wonderful customers, supportive communities and amazing franchisees.
World Class Franchisees
Scooter's Coffee is grateful for the continued hard work of its franchisees, which has led to long-term success and growth. Since its founding in 1998, Scooter's Coffee expanded to 193 stores across the U.S., with an additional 175 franchisee commitments to build new stores. The growth has expanded the reach in the U.S. with agreements signed in 18 states. That growth would not be possible without every team member and franchisee giving it their all. The franchisees' commitment and implementation of Scooter's Coffee's core values sets each franchise apart and provides an amazing experience for customers.
This holiday season, Scooter's Coffee gives thanks for wonderful customers who are the heartbeat of the business. Loyal customers are the key to success, and Scooter's Coffee is thankful for the opportunity to provide great experiences for coffee lovers every day of the week. Scooter's Coffee shows its appreciation by consistently providing world-class customer service. Each employee is carefully trained to best serve the customer, and each order is prepared with meticulous attention to detail while still being served Amazingly Fast. Happy customers keep coming back because they know they will experience great service!
Opportunity to Serve Local Communities
While Scooter's Coffee has locations nationwide, each store is owned by a local small-business owner. Each owner works hard to impact his or her community to become an amazing part of the customers' daily routines. These relationships make Scooter's Coffee an intricate part of the community. In addition, each franchise provides multiple jobs to the community. These jobs often have a huge impact on employees' futures.
Our Company Culture
Finally, Scooter's Coffee is thankful for a network of people who feel like family. Through open communication and a shared passion for coffee, Scooter's Coffee has thrived because of the people. From corporate executives to franchisees to employees, everyone associated with Scooter's Coffee works together to provide an amazing experience for all.
While Scooter's Coffee ensures quality in everything it does, the company still has fun doing it! Moving into the holiday season, Scooter's Coffee will embrace the holiday spirit through friendly service, delicious treats and amazing beverages. Staying up-to-date on seasonal trends results in higher customer satisfaction, which is why Scooter's Coffee is proud to be serving up festive drinks like the Peppermint Mocha, Gingerbread Caramelicious, Sugar Cookie Latte and Cinnamon Roll Latte as a special holiday celebration for customers.
Lastly, Scooter's Coffee is grateful for the amazing people who are considering introducing Scooter's Coffee to their communities. If you are interested in joining the Scooter's Coffee family and providing this delicious coffee choice to a new area, visit OwnAScooters.com.
Drive-Thru Coffee Is Growing
The days of traditional coffeehouses may be numbered as people see a rise in drive-thru coffee shops. Scooter's Coffee, known for our business principles and company core values, caters to those on the go. Over the past year, we have experienced tremendous growth, especially with our drive-thru only models.
Why are more people turning to franchising?
Buying a coffee franchise comes with a multitude of benefits. It's a quick way to expand your business, gain access to an established support system and proven processes, and maximize expansion capital while minimizing growth risks.
Why Coffee Kiosk Models Are Gaining Popularity in the Industry
The coffee kiosk models are gaining popularity because of the benefits such as being easier to manage, more opportunities for market penetration and convenience. For customers, the drive-thru offers easy and fast access to what makes Scooter's Coffee famous — fresh, world-class coffee of course.
What are the benefits of a drive-thru coffee franchise?
With nearly 200 Scooter's Coffee locations nationwide, the rise and increasing demand for drive-thru coffee shops are only trending upwards… and so are the benefits. Some of these benefits are:
Established support system and processes: When you become a franchise owner, we already have a work system that is efficient and easy to follow. Our team is there every step of the way to support your success from training to marketing and beyond.
No need for parking or queuing: Parking and lines complicates everything for the customer — and by extension the shop's owner. Coffee drinkers looking for a fast pick-me-up without the hassle of parking will gravitate to a Scooter's Coffee drive-thru.
It saves time: Nothing offers better, quick services like a drive-thru coffee franchise. It saves both you and the customer time, and that's something we can all appreciate!
Drive-Thru Coffee
Convenience is the key to the rise of drive-thru coffee franchises, and it's the reason for Scooter's Coffee's tremendous growth and expansion. Not everyone is a morning person before they've had their coffee, which makes the drive-thru option even more appealing. Our friendly baristas welcome you at our drive-thru windows, with a fresh cup of coffee to improve your day!
Being Your Own Boss is a Sweet Treat
Remember the saying, "if you love what you do you'll never work a day in your life"? Well, that applies to you too! You don't have to stay in a haunted workplace where you feel more tricks than treats by taking control of your career. For many entrepreneurs, investing in a franchise is the perfect way to unlock happiness. Through franchising, you can enjoy the independence of small business ownership while still having access to a knowledgeable network of support. Being your own boss is such a sweet treat!
Happy Employees Work Harder
According to Inc.com, only 48 percent of U.S. employees report being satisfied with their job. Dissatisfaction in the workplace can greatly affect employee performance. In fact, studies show that happier employees work harder and are more successful. Highly-rated workplaces report an average increase in revenue up to 22.2 percent. Unhappiness while at work often stems from working too many hours, a lack of motivation and uninspiring tasks and projects. It's time to break out of the 9–5 rut and make the most of your career. It's simple: If you love what you do, you'll work harder, and are more likely to see financial success as a result.
Franchising is the Future
Investing in a reputable franchise can be a sound business venture for a plethora of reasons:
This isn't the first rodeo — joining a franchise system provides you immediate access to well-established operational systems. You won't have to start from scratch or go it alone because you become a member of a built-in network with ongoing support.
Growing franchises typically have a strong corporate presence that will help new franchisees with everything from site selection to construction to training to coordinating with suppliers.
A franchise has a vested interest in your personal success. If your location does well, it bodes well for the brand as a whole. They are on your side!
Just remember that not all franchises are the same. Different brands offer a different level of franchisee support. If the company has a high franchisee turnover rate and is known for terrible products and poor service, those are good indicators that the corporate support may be weak, and you should consider looking elsewhere. Instead, consider investing in a franchise brand that rapidly expanding, such as Scooter's Coffee.
Why Scooter's Coffee?
Scooter's Coffee is a well-known, much-loved brand, with nearly 200 locations open across the country. In 1998, Don and Linda Eckles, Co-Founders of Scooter's Coffee, began an amazing journey. As of today, Scooter's Coffee is quickly approaching 200 locations in 18 states and has 153 franchise commitments to build new stores. Scooter's Coffee's success over many years of history is very simple: stay committed to the original business principles and company core values. The Scooter's Coffee Brand Promise, spoken of often to franchisees, customers and employees is: "Amazing People, Amazing Drinks… Amazingly Fast!®"
To learn more, visit OwnAScooters.com, and turn your ghoulish workday into a sweet Halloween treat!
Scooter's Coffee Partners with ApplePie Capital to Help Fuel Franchise Growth
After tremendous nationwide growth over the past year, Scooter's Coffee is proud to announce that we have partnered with ApplePie Capital to offer new and existing franchisees access to up to $20 million in debt capital to drive continued expansion across the U.S.
We are at the dawn of a strategic growth phase in the Midwest and nationwide. The U.S. coffee market is an estimated $48 billion a year recession-resistant industry, and Scooter's Coffee is striving to become the #1 drive-thru coffee franchise in the nation.
"We are excited to be partnering with ApplePie Capital as they understand Scooter's business model, brand promise and core values. AppliePie Capital are proven leaders in the franchise financing world and help franchisees start and grow their business. $20 million in funding to our potential and existing franchises is a key step in Scooter's strategic initiatives to fuel growth and brand awareness.," stated Scooter's Coffee Chief Financial Officer Chad Hartnett.
"ApplePie Capital is thrilled to add Scooter's Coffee to the franchisors we serve," said Denise Thomas, CEO and co-founder of ApplePie. "We are very selective in the brands we partner with and look for franchisors with strong unit-level economics, low closure rates, and successful franchisees. The track record for Scooter's Coffee in these areas made it an easy decision to begin a partnership. We look forward to supporting their franchisees' long-term growth plans."
As of now, Scooter's Coffee has opened 16 locations in 2018 and quickly approaching 200 locations nationwide. As we are on the rise, Scooter's Coffee is always on the look out for the next franchisee and coffee lover. Could that person be you?
National Coffee Day – Saturday, September 29th
Scooter's Coffee. Two words that produce an amazing reaction. Sit down and buckle up, because we're about to add a third word to that phrase. Are you ready? Free Scooter's Coffee. That's right, we just said it. No, this is not a dream! This is a reality. Free Scooter's Coffee is heading your way. On Saturday, September 29, otherwise known as National Coffee Day, participating Scooter's Coffee locations will help celebrate by offering a FREE cup of brewed coffee to guests.
Coffee is the world's second most sought-after commodity, trailing only crude oil. However, you can't drink crude oil, so by default, coffee tops the list. Coffee consumption has been linked to living longer, as well as protecting against Parkinson's, type 2 diabetes and liver disease.
Whether it's at the crack of dawn or a post-dinner treat, there's never a bad time to enjoy a nice cup of joy. Particularly when you can get it for free. That will be the case at Scooter's Coffee on Saturday, September 29, on National Coffee Day. No strings attached. Simply visit your participating Scooter's Coffee and ask your barista for a free cup of brewed coffee. If you're in the mood, send us some love by tagging Scooter's Coffee on your social media feeds as you show off your free cup.
Scooter's Coffee Hires Cris Bengis, Beverage-Industry Veteran, as Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales
Scooter's Coffee, the Midwest-based coffee franchise that has experienced tremendous nationwide growth over the past year, announced that it has hired Cris Bengis as Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales. Bengis brings an extraordinary track record of opening distribution channels for newly-created retail products while also spending many years leading major foodservice accounts during his 12-year tenure at PepsiCo.
Bengis will be in charge of a crucial multifaceted new initiative for Scooter's Coffee: developing an exciting line of Scooter's-branded packaged goods products and then working with leading retail chains on distribution placement throughout the country.
"Sales are taking off for Scooter's Coffee, and we need to make sure we've got a seasoned leader who ensures that the growth will continue on a sustainable basis," stated Mike Rogers Chief Operations Officer. "Cris is a perfect fit for our new strategic initiative to build sales of Scooter's CPG products in many retailers beyond our franchises, having demonstrated remarkable effectiveness in helping beverage brands expand their sales and distribution footprints and extend their brands.
"Plus, he's got a passion for creating something from nothing and has shown success in leveraging that approach to develop new, successful distribution channels."
Most recently, Bengis served as Vice President of National Sales for Chicago-based Argo Tea, a fast-growing global premium-tea company. Previously, he held progressively responsible sales and marketing roles with PepsiCo., where he drove sales and developed strategic partnerships with multiple restaurant accounts. For many years, Bengis ran the U.S. Pizza Hut business for Pepsi and also spent time managing national restaurant chains such as Arby's and Quiznos. In these roles, Bengis closely collaborated with his customers' corporate and franchised entities.
In line with their successful and robust grand opening strategy, Scooter's Coffee recently opened five locations throughout Kansas and Missouri, opened the first of many locations in Arkansas and is opening additional locations in markets such as Phoenix, Arizona; Rapid City, South Dakota; Dallas, Texas; and Las Vegas, Nevada.
Americans love their coffee. The percentage of people in the U.S. who drink coffee daily is up to 62 percent in 2017. The National Coffee Association also recently discovered the percentage of Americans drinking coffee prepared outside of the home is at an all-time high of 46 percent in 2017. Scooter's Coffee, with the Brand Promise of Amazing People, Amazing Drinks…Amazingly Fast! ® is helping meet that demand.
Scooter's Coffee Hires John Todd as Chief Development Officer
Brings More Than 20 Years of Experience From Top Restaurant Brands
Scooter's Coffee, the Midwest-based coffee franchise that has experienced tremendous nationwide growth over the past year, announced that it has hired John Todd as Chief Development Officer. Todd is an exceptional and well-rounded leader, with more than 20 years of experience in the commercial development sector of prominent quick-service restaurant brands.
As Scooter's Coffee's CDO, Todd will guide Scooter's Coffee toward its goal of surpassing 1,000 stores by the end of 2023. He will oversee franchise sales, construction, real estate and acquisitions.
"Scooter's Coffee is growing rapidly, and we need leaders who can take us to the next level," stated Todd Graeve, Chief Executive Officer. "Throughout his considerable career, John guided several franchise-based restaurant brands toward success by securing significant market expansion while improving processes and optimizing profit. He holds to heart our core values, and he will make a great addition to our team."
Most recently, Todd served as Senior Vice President of Development with Cicis Pizza. Prior to that, he held the role of Chief Development Officer with Fiesta Restaurant Group and Arby's Restaurant Group.
Talk Like a Pirate Day at Scooter's Coffee
It's that time of year when we batten down the hatches, employ bad grammar and celebrate a pirate's life with our mateys. Wednesday, September 19, is International Talk Like a Pirate Day, and we're here for all of the shenanigans that come with the "holiday."
Historically, pirates were considered reprehensible human beings. They favored crime and chaos over respect and rule. Piracy is still frowned upon to this day. However, there is something about saying "yarrrr" and "aargh" that brings a smile to all your faces.
In recognition of International Talk Like a Pirate Day, we're encouraging all friendly buccaneers and landlubbers alike, to don your long-sleeved white shirt, black vest and black boots and walk the plank to your local Scooter's Coffee for a not-so-buried treasure.
When you visit Scooter's Coffee on Wednesday, September 19, the drink you order will be half the original cost, as long as you order it talking like a pirate. It's that simple. No need to plunder, pillage or pilfer. No need to storm the beach or sail the seven seas. Give us your best impression of a pirate. You get half-off your drink order.
Avast me mateys, and make ye way to Scooter's Coffee on Wednesday, September 19. Using broken English has never been more prosperous. We can't wait for you to join us for an Amazing adventure!
*Red Bull drinks excluded from promotion*
Franchise Business Review — Scooter's Coffee a Top Franchise Leader in 2018
Scooter's Coffee, the Midwest-based coffee franchise that has experienced tremendous nationwide growth over the past year, was identified by the independent satisfaction research firm, Franchise Business Review, as being one of only 50 franchisors to qualify for its 2018 list of the Top Franchise Leaders.
Todd Graeve has served as CEO of Scooter's Coffee for the last two years, after working his way up through the ranks. Graeve has a background as a CPA. Under his leadership, Scooter's Coffee is quickly approaching 200 locations, while expanding its Midwest footprint.
To select the executives on the list, Franchise Business Review analyzed 18 months' worth of data from approximately 27,000 franchisees, representing 240 brands, regarding their brands' leadership and culture as well as their overall satisfaction with their brand and their likelihood to recommend it to others.
Scooter's Coffee franchisees were surveyed on 33 benchmark questions about their experience and satisfaction regarding critical areas of their franchise systems, including leadership, training and support, operations, franchisor/franchisee relations and financial opportunity.
"The Scooter's Coffee brand is making sure we deliver the most amazing service possible while improving the lives of those we come into contact with," says Mike Rogers, Scooter's Coffee COO. "That commitment to quality service extends to our franchisee partners. As their satisfaction is vital to the success of this company, we are thrilled franchisees are satisfied with the leadership and vision of the executive team under the guidance of Todd Graeve. Todd has put forth a concerted effort to maintain a community-like atmosphere as we grow, and the results of this survey indicate franchisees are appreciative."
"Most of the franchisees we talk to are investing in a business to make a profit, certainly," says Michelle Rowan, President and COO of Franchise Business Review. "But they also want to feel that the executive team cares about their personal success and communicates openly and transparently. That's how you develop relationships built on trust and respect — and that's what makes a great leader. The fact that Todd Graeve was chosen by the people whose business success is dependent on his leadership is a clear recognition of his talent, vision and dedication to franchisee satisfaction."
Lesson Plan: The Gerch Family Introduces Scooter's Coffee Franchise to a New Community
Learning never stops. Not when you're in elementary school. Not even when you're the owner of a Midwest-based drive-thru coffee franchise that is on track for another record breaking year of growth. The equation for success is a simple one for Todd and Catherine Gerch, owners of two San Antonio, Texas, area Scooter's Coffee locations. The Gerches believe in faith, family and a commitment to learning and growing.
The Gerches opened the doors to their first Scooter's Coffee about a year ago in Boerne. "We wanted to have more control over our livelihood," says Catherine Gerch. "The idea of being your own boss, with the support of a nationally recognized franchise was appealing to us." The Gerches settled in the San Antonio suburb after moving from California where Todd had a career in finance. Catherine was a professor. Their young children, two daughters, were instrumental in their move.
"We wanted to give them a more family-friendly upbringing," says Todd Gerch. "Catherine and I re-evaluated our personal family situation and made the determination that moving to Boerne was best for our well-being, professionally and personally."
So how did they settle upon Scooter's Coffee? Todd is from Nebraska and had become familiar with the brand. With the lack of quality drive-thru coffee opportunities in their blossoming bedroom community, the Gerches made the bold decision to deliver Scooter's Coffee to the neighborhood. "It's a pretty straightforward business model compared to owning and operating a restaurant," says Catherine. The idea of a coffee shop gives us the ability to be actively involved with the community."
The Gerches love to collaborate with several entities in the community. They're particularly fond of activities dealing with churches and schools. "We jump at the chance to do a day of giving where we partner with a church or school," says Catherine. Their locations also support Scooter's Coffee's commitment to honor military, veterans and first responders. Todd and Catherine relish the chance to chat with the local police officers and firefighters when they make surprise pastry drop-offs.
There are perks that come with entrepreneurship. "Being your own boss gives you freedom and more flexibility with your schedule," says Catherine. It also comes with its own set of challenges, including what they call finding the proper work-life balance. But the Gerches are up for the task. They've learned to appreciate planting the seed of the entrepreneurial spirit and watching it grow.
"It's exciting to be a part of the process of introducing the Scooter's Coffee brand to San Antonio and watch it grow," says Catherine. "The brand is taking off here in San Antonio and across the country. It's giving us the opportunity to be out in the community and establish great relationships with customers who we truly call our friends now."
Their daughters get in on the act as well. You'll find their children, ages seven and five, in the shop putting stickers on the cups. "I hope to teach our daughters that starting anything new takes a lot of work," says Catherine. "With a lot of work, you can have success, and you can have a positive impact on people's lives."
Ultimately, the Gerches' plan is to have at least five Scooter's Coffee shops in the San Antonio area. That plan leans heavily on their faith. "We are firm believers in God's plan," says Todd. "We'll continue to have faith in His plan, and always look back at the new opportunity as a learning experience. Every step happens for a reason."
In the present, their plan involves helping to produce excellent coffee while making Scooter's Coffee a household name. While she's traded a classroom for a coffee house, teaching remains close to Catherine's heart. She loves the opportunity to work with the baristas and give them guidance. Her lesson to them and all who are willing to learn is quite simple. "My advice is to work hard. You can have the American dream if you're willing to work for it."
Midwest Mom Is Living the American Dream
There's no need to pinch Jenna Moulton. She's awake and living the American dream every day at her Scooter's Coffee franchise. Coffee is not only her livelihood, it's her passion. If there's anything about coffee Jenna doesn't know about, it probably hasn't been invented. In less than two decades, Jenna's java enthusiasm has blossomed from a part-time job into a successful owner of a Scooter's Coffee franchise.
Jenna has called Omaha, Nebraska, home her entire life. For more than half of her life the 32-year-old has been serving fresh-brewed coffee to her fellow neighbors. Her life in coffee began when she turned 15 years old. "My first job was at a mom-and-pop coffee shop," says Moulton. "I worked there for five-and-a-half years."
Today her reality is the living embodiment of the American dream. She is living life as a wife, proud mother of three children and an owner of a Scooter's Coffee franchise. Jenna hasn't worn the owner's hat for too long. It's been less than a year since she became a top barista.
Jenna's road to success wasn't paved with too many trials and tribulations – simply tenacity and the will to be the best at everything put before her. She first joined Scooter's Coffee in 2007 as a barista, following a brief stint at a local restaurant. As Jenna bluntly puts it, "I started from the bottom." Responsibilities included greeting and serving customers and learning how to make specialty coffee. The little things that, if done correctly, build a foundation of upward mobility.
The career trajectory was on a steep incline in no time. Within nine months at Scooter's Coffee, Jenna was a manager. "Managing is all about how to lead a team," says Moulton. "Managing is how to get people on board about what your vision is for that store, have them follow your vision, serve great coffee, give great customer service, all while having fun in the store."
Scooter's Coffee was a perfect match for Jenna professionally. Little did she know the coffee industry would play the role of matchmaker personally. Scooter's Coffee is where a relationship with her future husband Kurt blossomed. Before saying "I do," both worked at Scooter's Coffee, albeit in different locations. Their bond to the company was so tight, they received a gift from the corporate office when Kurt proposed to Jenna.
"I had a passion for people and coffee. I loved what I did, I could handle stressful situations, I could problem solve. My vision wasn't to be a manager, my vision was to be a leader of the store," said Moulton.
After eight-and-a-half years as manager, she was looking for the next step. And that next step presented itself in the form of an opportunity to become an owner of her very own Scooter's Coffee franchise. "I couldn't imagine doing anything else except being in a coffee shop. I wanted to make a long-term commitment, I wanted to make it my life. My husband and I sat down, planned it out, and next thing I know we were signing paperwork and on our way."
She recalls the ownership acquisition process as terrifying. But her apprehension didn't linger long, as Jenna says she received nothing but words of encouragement from Scooter's Coffee corporate offices, starting from the very top. "(Scooter's Coffee Founder) Don Eckles has been such a huge believer in myself and Kurt. He's really helped us when it came to the job. My first boss, Jay Baker, was a huge influence when I worked and managed my first store. They both helped my husband and I get to where we are."
It wasn't all smooth sailing for Jenna and her family during the ownership acquisition process. Her youngest daughter was dealing with a diagnosis that kept her in the hospital for several weeks. Jenna calls the current situation a daily battle. If there was any semblance of comfort during this trying time, Jenna says being a new owner gives her the scheduling flexibility to handle her daughter's care.
Jenna is living out her American dream. "I am so happy from where I started, being a barista, that's where my passion is, I love working at the store every day. I'm still at the store 40 hours a week, that's the biggest aspect of the job and that's my favorite part."
And her message to future Jenna Moultons out there? "Don't be afraid to take chances. If you find something that you like, keep doing what you're doing. Believe in yourself, ask plenty of questions, don't be afraid to ask questions. Work hard and don't ever give up!"
Why Does Our Brand Promise Specify Amazing People?
Think back to the last time you had an amazing cup of coffee at a coffee shop. What made it amazing? Was it the beans? The way the milk was frothed? The cup it was served in? The ambiance? Those all were important. But the thing you probably remember is the person you talked to. The barista who asked what you wanted, who helped you decide, who smiled and brightened your day while making that drink. The coffee is important. The skill it takes to make it right is important. But the most important ingredient is the person wearing the apron. It's so important to Scooter's Coffee, it's the first thing we have to say about ourselves: Amazing People, Amazing Drinks … Amazingly Fast.
The Culture at Scooter's Coffee
Scooter's Coffee isn't just a business. It's a culture. The attitude starts at the top. Jen Chaney, VP of Franchise Development, says that Scooter's Coffee values friendships, relationships and family. That's the very thing that drew Salt Lake City franchisees Mike and Deanna Braunberger to Scooter's Coffee. Mike says he talked to probably a dozen potential businesses while searching for the perfect fit before finding Scooter's Coffee. How did he know it was the right one? "The people," Mike says, "It is a family culture. They do have values and they do live and breathe those values." Scooter's Coffee looks for people who share those values and want to be partners in the approach to opening and running a coffee business. Success takes teamwork. A big part of that is the team that works day-to-day behind the counter or at the drive-thru window, serving customers.
A Good Barista
What makes a great barista isn't the ability to craft a great latte. That's a skill you can teach. What's even more important is the ability to interact with customers and to develop a rapport with them. That's what turns an occasional order into a "usual" order. When a customer feels welcome, they are more likely to become a repeat customer. An amazing barista can help make that happen. The barista sets the tone for the entire experience, whether the customer walks inside or drives up to the window. Being a barista is really about dealing with people: listening, helping, engaging. Being calm under pressure doesn't hurt, either — coffee shops and drive-thru windows get hectic!
Finding the right person doesn't mean finding someone who already knows their way around an espresso machine. It means finding a person with the right personality. Then, Scooter's Coffee is there with franchise owners — step-by-step, helping teach employees how to make signature espresso drinks, lattes and blender drinks like the Caramelicious. Before a store even opens, every franchisee and store manager spends four weeks going through training — including how to make every drink and develop staff. After the store opens, ongoing training is available as well as coaching to help the team grow.
Whether it's to get going in the morning, or as a sweet treat in the afternoon, coffee is a part of the daily routine for a lot of people. Like any routine, that includes stopping in the same spot each day. The people who work there are really what makes someplace a favorite spot. That's why Scooter's Coffee puts the people first when we say we have Amazing People, Amazing Drinks… Amazingly Fast! If you are one of these amazing people, visit ownascooters.com or call 877-494-7007 to learn about owning a coffee business.
Simply the Best: Scooter's Coffee Named a 2018 Top Franchise
Scooter's Coffee, the Midwest-based coffee franchise that has experienced tremendous growth over the past year, is sitting on top of yet another highly-coveted ranking. You know what? These Amazing accomplishments never get old! We are excited to share that Franchise Business Review named Scooter's Coffee a 2018 Top Franchise. This designation is no small feat. It speaks to the partnership and synergy found every day in the corporate office and among the franchisees in the Scooter's Coffee system.
This is the 13th annual ranking of the top 200 award-winning franchise opportunities. Franchise Business Review seeks out the opinion of franchise owners to gauge their satisfaction with the brand's performance. You can check out the list when you click here.
"When you make a commitment to do the right thing, as we strive to do here at Scooter's Coffee, you will achieve positive results," says Mike Rogers, Scooter's Coffee COO. "We're honored to receive this recognition from Franchise Business Review. We're humbled by the responses of our franchise owners that allowed us to earn the title of 2018 Top Franchise. It's confirmation that our processes and procedures, designed to help entrepreneurs who choose to invest in Scooter's Coffee, are producing the desired results."
Now is a great time to join the franchise industry! Our brand is quickly expanding on a national level. Scooter's Coffee has more than 180 stores across the country with a focus on opening at least 35 new stores in 2018. Our expansion plan requires a collaborative effort between Scooter's Coffee, like-minded franchise owners, and potential franchise partners who share the same passion.
More than 28,000 franchise owners representing 307 franchise brands participated in Franchise Business Review's research. Scooter's Coffee franchisees were surveyed on 33 benchmark questions about their experience and satisfaction regarding critical areas of their franchise systems. Those benchmark questions included training and support, operations, franchisor/franchisee relations, and financial opportunity.
Franchise Business Review, a franchise market research firm that performs independent surveys of franchisee satisfaction, provides the only rankings of franchises, such as Scooter's Coffee, based solely on actual franchisee satisfaction and performance. Franchise Business Review publishes its rankings of top franchises in its annual Guide to Today's Top Franchises, as well as in special reports throughout the year that rank the top franchises in specific sectors.
To hear more about what makes Scooter's Coffee an Amazing franchise from our franchisees, please click here. If you're ready to become part of the brand that continues to stack up awards and honors, such as the 2018 Top Franchise, please visit ownascooters.com or call 877.494.7004.
Grounded in Family: Scooter's Coffee Franchise Owner Travis Rhoades
Successful Entrepreneur. Job Creator. Tee-ball Coach. Travis Rhoades carries several titles, but it's the title of husband and father that brings him the most joy. Rhoades is the proud owner of two successful business ventures; seven Scooter's Coffee locations and a website design company. June marks a very special month for the Rhoades family. He'll celebrate his tenth wedding anniversary with wife, Kristen. Travis will also celebrate Father's Day with his two sons, six-year-old Caleb and three-year-old Calvin, along with an eight-year-old foster child living in their care.
Scooter's Coffee is a family affair for Rhoades. Travis and Kristen own six locations in the Sioux Falls, South Dakota area they now call home. The couple also owns the Scooter's Coffee in Blair, Nebraska, their hometown, with Travis' mother and father. "It's nice to have boots on the ground in the area. If something happens or needs attention, we have someone there to keep an eye on our dedicated team and location," says Rhoades.
Blair is about a half-hour drive north of Omaha, the home of Scooter's Coffee. The thirty-three year-old Rhoades remembers Scooter's Coffee first popping up in Omaha. It would be years before he would try the product. "Neither my wife nor I drank coffee growing up," he says.
Travis grew up in a household built on entrepreneurship. "My dad is the owner of Enterprise Publishing Company, which owns 12 community newspapers in eastern Nebraska and western Iowa," says Rhoades. The family business dates back more than 100 years. "I grew up in a family-owned business that goes back 6 generations. I was inclined to think owning your own business is a good way of life."
The family's business trait revealed itself in Rhoades at a young age. "In elementary school, I would sell Jolly Ranchers to kids on the bus," Travis recalls. "The margins were fantastic, my mom would buy them, and I would sell them for a dime. I ended up making around 16 bucks before the bus driver shut down my enterprise."
Rhoades continued his enterprise streak during high school. He would take photographic "action shots" at sporting events and use those pictures to create buttons to sell to players' parents. "I raised enough money to go to Portland for a journalism trip," says Rhoades.
The entrepreneurial bug didn't take long to bite in Rhoades' professional life. Fresh out of college, he landed a digital advertising sales job at the Sioux Falls daily newspaper. Just over two years into that gig, Rhoades left to launch a web development company, called Web Concentrate, with a college roommate. "I was 25 at the time," says Rhoades. "If I was going to do it, there was no better time in my life. I specifically remembering thinking, worst-case scenario, if it doesn't work, we deplete our savings and I'll get another job. We didn't have many obligations, outside of a mortgage. I felt I would regret it if I didn't try it."
His determination to go out on his own is indirectly how he teamed up with Scooter's Coffee. Rhoades was a member of the chamber of commerce when a Scooter's Coffee correspondence popped up in a chamber member email seeking an owner in Sioux Falls. Again, faced with a fork in the road, Rhoades refused to take the "what if" route.
"Kristen and I sat down and determined that if someone was going to pursue Scooter's Coffee ownership, it might as well be us," Rhoades recalls. "If we didn't seize the opportunity, we would regret passing by the store and seeing lines wrapped around the store every day."
The decision to open a Scooter's Coffee, came just months after the Rhoades welcomed their first child, Caleb, into their lives.
"We were pumped about Caleb, because Kristen and I always knew we wanted kids," Rhoades recalls. "I was excited about having a boy, especially for our first child. Before Caleb was born, I would get home from the office at six or later. After his birth, I constantly went home earlier, because he became our top priority. We would sit on the floor and just sort of stare at him."
Three years later, the Rhoades family welcomed Calvin into the fold. "Caleb and Calvin are best buds." The fun didn't stop there. Kristen was a teacher for years and had always had a passion for helping children. That made for a smooth transition when the Rhoades family made the decision to become foster parents. "Kristen has a big heart," says Rhoades. "When she left teaching to be home with our boys, becoming foster parents filled a little void with helping the greater good."
It's a process that has brought joy to the entire Rhoades family. "We've been fortunate so far because we've had some good outcomes," says Travis. "In our placements, it's rewarding to know that we have hopefully helped a family get back on track. We're really happy for everyone when the kids move home."
Rhoades brings the same family values present in his home to his Scooter's Coffee locations. Travis takes care of the operational side. Kristen manages the hiring process, bookkeeping and accounting. "We are a family-run business." With nearly 100 employees, he is responsible for far more than serving specialty coffee. He's helping to change lives.
"We really are happy and pride ourselves on the fact that we offer positions that provide for our people," says Rhoades. "Just recently, in April, two of our managers closed on their first home. It was a proud parents' moment for us. They purchased a house from being employed at Scooter's Coffee. It was satisfying that we're providing the opportunity to allow them to buy a home, buy a car, and they can make a living. That is something I didn't see coming as being as enjoyable as it is when we made the decision to become an owner."
An additional perk of being a Scooter's Coffee owner is forming an even greater bond with his Sioux Falls community. "People say it all of the time, especially visitors, but Sioux Falls is a wonderful place. It's a nice place to live and raise a family."
With his parents also serving as business partners, Rhoades never misses an opportunity to call or get together with his loved ones. "My whole family is pretty close," he says. "I'll drive down to Blair just to watch Cornhusker football games with them. It's great to be in business with my dad in some capacity and still get the opportunity to work together. We hang out a lot. It's fun!"
The family dynamic plays out for Rhoades in everything he does. His goal is to pass those lessons to his sons. "The apple doesn't fall far from the tree. I remember tagging along with my dad when he would run errands or make quick business trips. I'm sure I slowed him down, but now, I do the same with my kids."
"I hope they can observe that it's okay to treat people with compassion and empathy," Rhoades says. "I hope they never take things for granted and remain grateful for the people in their lives. If they're in the family business years from now, I hope I have instilled the value of being kind and compassionate to people. It's a universally accepted trait, no matter what you're doing. Work hard and do the right thing."
Do you want to realize your own business ownership dreams, like Travis Rhoades? Does the Scooter's Coffee franchise opportunity sound like it could be for you? If so, learn more at https://franchising.scooterscoffee.com/.
Coffee Franchise: So You Want to Own a Coffeehouse
For many entrepreneurs, small business ownership is a life-long dream. For those business-savvy coffee enthusiasts, it's only natural to have an interest in opening a coffee establishment. In today's world there are three primary ways to become a coffeehouse owner: start your own, purchase an independent existing shop or invest in a coffee franchise.
Taking the leap and building a brand-new coffee brand from the ground up presents a unique set of challenges. One of the biggest hurdles is often building brand recognition. With small shops just starting out, it can be tremendously difficult to get the word out about your store. You'll have to develop a marketing and advertising strategy – no easy feat.
Humans are creatures of loyal habit, and many customers are inclined to return to the same coffeehouse day after day based upon a relationship. Customers often believe taking a risk on a new coffeehouse is both a hassle and a gamble. A bad experience or a terrible cup of coffee is a rough way to start the day, so why risk it? That mentality can make getting customers in the door incredibly difficult for new brands.
Independent coffee shops also don't come with any support. It's up to you to find your builders, contractors, employees, and even suppliers. Unreliable hires lead to expensive setbacks. It is very time-consuming to do the necessary research to ensure that your new shop will be up and running on time.
Buy a Local Coffeehouse
Many entrepreneurs choose to simply purchase an existing coffeehouse. This too can prove to be difficult. If the brand has a less-than-stellar reputation, that can pose quite the challenge. Turning around an establishment for the better is no easy task! Many customers will be unaware of the change in ownership and thus unwilling to return for a second try. Turning over a new leaf will require critical evaluation of current business practices, an aggressive marketing campaign and even potential staff changes.
On the other hand, if the coffeehouse is well-loved, many customers and even employees may be resistant to any change at all. Generally, entrepreneurs find independent ownership appealing because of the freedom to customize your business to your specific preferences. With an existing location, you may find that freedom is hampered. Again, coffee enthusiasts like their daily routines and loyal relationships they've built.
Invest in a Coffee Franchise
Coffee-enthusiasts may choose to invest in a franchise. With franchising, new business owners will have support in site selection, marketing campaigns, training, and even supplier relationships. Franchisees get the freedom of small business ownership with access to the tools they need to succeed – you don't have to go it alone.
However, the most important aspect of franchise investment is choosing the right company. It's vital to do your due diligence and research as much as possible about the brand's reputation, turnover rate, franchisee satisfaction, and corporate support. Not all franchises are the same and selecting the right company will make a huge difference in your overall success.
Entrepreneurs who are business-minded and hard-working have done very well with Scooter's Coffee, a loyal coffee brand full of Amazing! With nearly 200 locations operating across the U.S., Scooter's Coffee is a rapidly growing brand known for serving up quality coffee with a big smile! Scooter's Coffee has a recipe that works. To learn more about joining the Scooter's Coffee community call 877-494-7004.
Coffee Franchise: Site Selection is Key to Success
Since its founding in 1998, Scooter's Coffee has seen tremendous growth. Today, there are more than 270* Scooter's locations across 16 states. The rapid growth is due to quality products, fast and friendly service and convenient locations. The founders, Don and Linda Eckles, have always been passionate about the importance of site selection in determining the fate of a franchise location. With a drive-thru oriented business model, accessibility paid off big for Scooter's Coffee.
Capitalize on Commuter Traffic
Local traffic patterns and morning commuter routes are incredibly important to consider when opening a Scooter's Coffee location. As a business that thrives on becoming a part of so many coffee enthusiasts' morning routines, location is key! Commuters want a place that they can swing by on their way to work or school, ideally on the right-hand side of the road with great accessibility.
It's important for the location to be visible, convenient, and easy to get in and out quick. Those key factors, combined with Scooter's top-quality coffee, will lead to community acceptance and long-term success.
Scooter's Supports Franchisees
Finding the perfect spot can be tricky. A Scooter's Coffee store must be along a popular morning commute route, on the right side of the street with excellent visibility and accessibility. A hard corner or stoplight are greatly preferred with a speed limit between 25 and 45 miles per hours. The store must also be accessible from all directions with appropriate signage.
Those requirements (along with a slew of technical preferences) may seem overwhelming, but Scooter's Coffee franchisees don't have to do it alone! The Scooter's Coffee Franchise Development team will help new business owners find the perfect location. That's the beauty of franchising! Franchisees maintain their independence as a small business owner, but still have the support they need to succeed.
Scooter's Coffee has a recipe that works. With quality, coffee roasted from the top ten percent of beans in the world and a carefully constructed method of site selection, it's no wonder the brand is growing. To learn more call us at 877-494-7004.
*As of February 13, 2020
The Buzz: Coffee Industry Trends
Investing in a franchise is the perfect way to dive into the world of small-business ownership, without having to go it alone— franchises come with built-in corporate support. When selecting a business, it's important to choose a franchise that has a strong, competent core structure; one that stays on top of industry development. Scooter's Coffee does extensive research on the latest trends and then capitalizes on the ever-changing preferences of modern-day coffee drinkers —Instagram-worthy presentation, trendy and tasty concoctions, and top-of-the-line coffees.
Appeal to Millennials
According to U.S. Census data, Millennials have unseated Baby Boomers as the largest living generation, and Scooter's Coffee continuously works to appeal to this new generation of coffee drinkers. As a whole, Millennials are more mobile and active on social media than previous generations, preferring to indulge their coffee craving while out and about rather than at home. Scooter's Coffee is the premier drive-thru destination for the on-the-go Millennial. With aesthetically-pleasing packaging, an active social media presence and quality coffee, choosing Scooter's Coffee for their morning coffee stop is a no-brainer.
Cold Brew at Your Drive-thru
Over the past several years, cold brew coffee has been growing in popularity. Come summertime, no longer is the sophisticated coffee drinker yearning for an iced coffee – they'll take a cold brew. The difference? Unlike iced coffee, cold brew is never exposed to heat. Instead, cold brew uses time to extract coffee's natural sugars, oils, and caffeine. This leads to a richer, more luxurious taste than the average, iced coffee.
It may seem like a minor difference, but the numbers don't lie. According to a recent Mintel report,cold brew sales jumped up 580 percent between 2011 and 2016. All signs point to continued growth through 2018 as well. Scooter's Coffee has taken note of this dramatic industry growth and perfected their very own signature cold brew. Furthermore, Scooter's Coffee has set themselves apart from the crowd with fun variations of the classic cold brew, such as the limited time Cold Brew & Cream – a Papua New Guinea single-origin coffee mixed with a splash of delicious, real cream. The drink is even customizable with fun flavors like chocolate & coconut and chocolate & hazelnut.
Gourmet is Growing
Another industry trend upon which Scooter's Coffee capitalizes is the growing preference toward gourmet and specialty coffees. According to the Specialty Coffee Association of America, in the $8 billion U.S. retail coffee market, roughly 55 percent of the spend will go towards higher-end coffee. Scooter's Coffee is known to be a quick way to get delicious coffee. The slogan says it all: Amazing People, Amazing Drinks… Amazingly Fast™.
Since its founding in 1998, Scooter's Coffee has seen tremendous growth. Currently, there are nearly 200 locations operating throughout the U.S., with 40 additional stores predicted to open in 2019. Scooter's Coffee has found success through premium locations, top-quality products, fast and friendly service, and a big smile! To learn more about how you can become a small-business owner and invest in your very own Scooter's location, call us at 877-494-7004.
Franchise Due Diligence: Brew Up a Delicious Franchise Relationship
SIT, SIP, AND STUDY
Taking your time to develop a perfecting brewed franchise relationship
At Scooter's Coffee, we know that the relationship between the franchisee and the franchisor is a symbiotic one; our success depends upon your success. When Don and Linda Eckles opened that first Scooter's Coffee in Bellevue, Nebraska, back in 1998, they knew the keys to success were simple. It begins with finding a great location, staying committed to providing quality drinks, speedy service, a clean store, and of course, a big smile! By 2001, that formula expanded to include successful and happy franchisees. Like any great relationship, it starts with getting to know one another. That's where your "due diligence" comes into play.
If you're considering entrepreneurship, you owe it to yourself to take it in steps, exploring the countless opportunities. In Scooter's Coffee terms, think of it as a cup of our classic Scooter's Blend coffee blended and roasted with love and care in small batches, then take it up a notch to our signature Caramelicious, after just one sip of this heavenly journey you won't want to turn around! Due diligence is designed to protect you, to ensure you're making the right decision. We won't rush you or pressure you, but we do expect that once you begin our process, you'll be excited and ready to move forward.
A closer look at the FDD
The first step in our process is as simple as a phone call or an email. We begin answering your questions right then and there, while we learn a little something about you as well. If we're uncovering a mutual interest, we will send you our Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) for your review. This is where potential franchisees really should take extra time and care. The FDD is full of important information that will help you decide whether this business relationship is the right one. It includes information like:
Our company history and ownership
Startup costs
You should read this document over very carefully. It's a good idea to have an attorney to look it over as well. Write down your questions, comments, and concerns, and we'll provide you with the answers.
We encourage you to come to the Scooter's Coffee headquarters in Omaha once a mutual prequalification has been reached. Get a look at how we run things, meet Leadership and the Franchise Support Team, and see for yourself all the amazing components that make up Scooter's Coffee! Inspect our coffee roasting and distribution facility. If we're going to be working together, it's important that you "check under the hood" and "kick the tires" so to speak. It's all a part of the process of getting to know one another. But before you sign on the dotted line of the Franchise Agreement, there's still one more step we encourage you to take.
Getting to know yourself
Do your core values organically align with Scooter's Coffee? Do you have the passion to want to be a successful franchisee, and knowing your business heart and soul? If you're looking to model a successful business plan in the drive-thru coffee business all while making it your own, we'd love to talk with you! We pride ourselves on our established operational systems and our built-in network of support between corporate and other franchises. Our relationships with our franchisees are of upmost importance. That's why we believe when you look at a Scooter's Coffee franchise you should sit down, sip your coffee, and think over every aspect of joining our growing community.
Scooter's Coffee: Home to Rockstar Franchisee Tracy Bouwens!
Tracy Bouwens has been considered one of Scooter's Coffee's rockstars for some time now. Now, the title is official. Bouwens, the owner of multiple Scooter's Coffee locations, was just identified by Franchise Business Review as being one of the 2018's Rockstar Franchisees! Bouwens joins a very exclusive club. She was one of only 50 to receive the designation of Rockstar Franchisee, from a list of more than 28,000 nominees representing more than 300 brands.
Bouwens first joined with Scooter's Coffee 14 years ago in Omaha. Now, she owns 40 Scooter's Coffee restaurants in multiple states, with several additional leases signed for sites this year. She says she's grateful for the recognition through the Rockstar Franchisee award.
"The success I have been able to have over the past 14 years, I attribute in large part to my amazing team," says Bouwens. "Many of them have been with me for several years and have really developed their business and leadership skills to the point where they are the true 'rockstars'! Having such a strong group of people on my team is something that I do not take for granted. I enjoy linking arms with them as we continue to grow our company. This year, we will be adding nine new locations to our fleet of stores, and I honestly could not do it without the strength of my leadership team."
"On behalf of all Scooter's Coffee employees, I would like to congratulate Tracy for this fantastic honor," says Mike Rogers, Scooter's Coffee COO. "Tracy's knowledge and insight are invaluable resources for the entire Scooter's Coffee system as she remains a wonderful ambassador throughout Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas and Missouri where she and her team currently own and operate multiple locations. We have always held Tracy in high regard so it is extremely gratifying to know she is garnering this well-earned praise and recognition."
Bouwens was nominated as a franchisee who sets an admirable example when it comes to leadership, business acumen, financial and professional success and contributing to the community.
"There are so many fantastic success stories out there; it was painful to narrow our list down to just 50 Rockstar Franchisees," said Michelle Rowan, President of Franchise Business Review. "There were hundreds of deserving business owners. In the end, we picked 50 individuals that really stood out. Franchisees that not only excel in their businesses but provide strong leadership within their franchise organizations and their local communities."
"Building a business has not always been easy, but persevering through the hard times is where I have found that the most growth happens, both personally and professionally," says Bouwens. "I love the challenges that come with business building, growth and strategy. I am excited to continue building my business and I am thankful for the success we have been able to achieve through the Scooter's Coffee franchise system."
If you are considering owning a Scooter's Coffee franchise, call 877.494.7004 to learn more about the opportunities.
Cream of the Crop: Scooter's Coffee Named a 2018 Top Multi-Unit Franchise
Scooter's Coffee's dedication to "Amazing People, Amazing Drinks… Amazingly Fast!"™ is paying off in huge dividends. We're proud to announce we were recently recognized as a Top Franchise by Franchise Business Review in its 2018 Top Multi-Unit Franchises Report. This award speaks to the teamwork and rapport we've built with our cherished franchisees. We covet our relationship with our franchise partners. Together we strive to bring our customers the best specialty coffee on the planet, in an efficient manner, all with a smile. With the 2018 Top Multi-Unit Franchise award, we all have a reason to have big smiles on our faces.
The independent survey examines how satisfied multi-unit franchise owners are with the company's performance. This survey found multi-unit franchisees are extremely satisfied with their decision to join the Scooter's Coffee community.
Scooter's Coffee is among a select list of franchise brands that participated in Franchise Business Review's research. Our franchisees were surveyed on 33 benchmark questions about their experience and satisfaction regarding critical areas. These areas include financial opportunity, leadership, training and support, operations and product development, core values (honesty and integrity of franchisor), general satisfaction and the franchisee community.
Our brand is quickly expanding. Scooter's Coffee has more than 180 stores with a focus of opening at least 35 new stores in 2018. Ultimately, Scooter's Coffee has a goal to reach 1,000 stores by December 2027 and expanding our footprint across the Midwest, where specialty coffee options remain limited. The expansion plan requires a collaborative effort between Scooter's Coffee and like-minded franchise owners.
"Our franchisees are the backbone of our success and growth as a company," says Mike Rogers, Scooter's Coffee COO. "Franchisees had the choice to respond to this survey however they see fit. It's affirming to know our multi-unit franchise partners hold the company in such high regard. We're ecstatic to find Scooter's Coffee on a coveted list that shows prospective franchisees that our company culture and growth potential is worthy of their investment."
If you're ready to become part of the brand that took home one of the 2018 Top Multi-Unit Franchise award, call 877.494.7004.
Franchise Story – Mike and Deanna Braunberger
Watch Mike and Deanna's story about owning a Scooter's Coffee franchise
Embracing Change: Veterans In Franchising
Scooter's Coffee franchisee and Army veteran Michael Taylor certainly enjoyed his time in the military as a 91 Delta, and he explains his military experience built a strong foundation for what would come next in life. Discipline, accountability, and responsibility—principals once ingrained from Michael's service days have now found new life in his entrepreneurial tool belt.
Forty years after enlisting in the military, Michael and his wife, Cris, would embark on a new journey and embrace change with open arms. Running his own business had always been a dream, and, after much consideration, the two decided Scooter's Coffee franchising was right for them. Michael shares this advice for aspiring business owners: "Find a business you're passionate about; if it's something you love to do, there's a better chance you'll be successful."
Coffee Franchise Celebrates Two Decades in Business
Scooter's Coffee is celebrating 20 years in business and the birthday gift they're giving their employees and franchisees is a world class headquarters and training facility.
The company is currently in the process of putting the finishing touches on a massive new warehouse and office in Omaha, NE that will be the home for both Scooter's Coffee and its sister company Harvest Roasting, which roasts beans and distributes them to all Scooter's Coffee franchises around the country.
Scooter's Coffee CEO Todd Graeve said the new headquarters should be open next month. "Right now, we've outgrown our current facility and were located in multiple offices around the city," he said during a recent interview. "By this May, we'll consolidate our offices into one space. We'll have a much larger warehouse, roasting facility, and bakery, which will allow us to stay ahead of the curve on a rapidly growing franchise system. And we're going to invest substantially in high capacity production equipment, including a much larger coffee roaster to handle growing volume."
Also a feature of the new facility will be a full-sized and fully functional Scooter's Coffee store for training and testing purposes.
"It will have the same dimensions as our drive-thru kiosk store on the road, and it will be fully functional with coffee production equipment, headsets, order box and pick up window," Graeve described. "While training, it will feel like you're in a drive-thru kiosk out on the road, but yet in a safe environment for optimal training and preparation."
This will allow the Scooter's Coffee franchisor to train new franchisees and their managers in a controlled environment before furthering their training at corporate-owned locations around Omaha and then continuing their training at the franchisees' locations… [Read Full Story]
Ted Straub – Scooter's Coffee Franchisee's Perfect Recipe for Success
Blend a powerhouse world-class coffee chain with a charismatic and confident entrepreneur, sprinkle in a Texas-sized furniture retail shop, and what do you have? You have Ted Straub's first, of what he believes will be dozens, Scooter's Coffee location.
You've heard the saying, "Age is just a number"? Straub, at 34 years old, is the living embodiment of that phrase. Straub is the product of hard work, an ethic forged during his early years growing up working on the family farm in Nebraska.
"I've always had a lot of responsibilities growing up," Straub says. "I was always driving farm equipment and handling real expensive machinery. In fact, at age 14 I was driving so much that I would drive my brother and myself to school. The day I got my license when I turned 16, my parents gave me the keys to a semi-truck and I ferried a trailer full of horses from our farm to Texas and back in a 24-hour span. I was always given a high level of responsibility and respect from my parents."
Straub got the keys to his first Scooter's Coffee location at the 560,000-square-foot Nebraska Furniture Mart of Texas location in The Colony, Texas because he put in the hard work. The facility that sits on 100 acres is a home furnishings store on steroids. Located 30 miles north of Dallas, Nebraska Furniture Mart sells furniture, electronics, flooring, home décor, fitness equipment and coffee, thanks to Straub.
The opportunity to open a Scooter's Coffee in such a massive location culminates a long, and at times pothole-filled, road for Straub. Upon graduation from college, Straub spent a couple of years selling advertising for a local TV station in Omaha. Ever aggressive, Straub wanted a management role. He joined a historic national chain of department stores. "I became store manager and was able to do day-to-day operation functions, oversee inventory and product placing, make hiring decisions and elevating managers and employees," says Straub. "I was happy with the experience. However, I quickly decided at some point that entrepreneurship was in my future."
Straub's confidence in himself is as strong as his work ethic. It's because he believes in preparation and continuous education. "I'm always big on personal development," Straub says. "I try to read one or two books a week. I listen to podcasts, particularly from business influencers."
One of Straub's top philosophies is being an open book with his employees. He is a firm believer in preparing employees for leadership. "Your employees are your biggest asset," says Straub. "I have 100 percent belief in my employees because I know they're invested 100 percent in our Scooter's Coffee business. The common belief is customer service is the number one priority. I realized that's backwards thinking. Employees are the key to success."
The teaching template Straub follows was molded during his youth, following his parents. "Both of my parents were small business owners," he says. "I saw a level of satisfaction with them as they were excited to go to work every day. My family was always supportive of my efforts. My dad has been a big proponent. He saw characteristics in me that I didn't know I had. He knew I wasn't going to be happy unless I was owning my own business."
His father was right. Straub would go on and become an entrepreneur. But the success wasn't immediate. After departing the retail business, Straub invested in real estate. He also started a small health care equipment company. "That wasn't successful at all," he says. "I owned and operated it for about a year and a half. Even though it failed, the business ownership bug was alive and well. I was passionate and driven to succeed."
His hard work ethic was put to the test after his first attempt at entrepreneurship. After consulting with a friend who also owned Scooter's Coffee franchises in Lincoln, NE, along with the executives in the corporate office, Straub was ready to join the team. "They were on board with my big picture," he says. "I was on board with their business model that facilitated marketing, construction, and inventory. I saw it as an easy model to duplicate in other metro areas."
Straub signed a deal that had him packing up his belongings and moving to introduce Scooter's Coffee to people in Madison, WI. It was the opportunity of a lifetime. However, things weren't going according to his plan. "Location is the key to success with any business, and I was struggling to find what I call an A+ location," Straub says. "I spent two years working with brokers, landlords, city officials, trying to get my first site up. I hit nothing but speed bumps."
Not only was Straub striking out, he found himself back on a farm. "I was working with a part-time dairy farmer as a second job," says Straub. "I was working there mornings and nights, feeding cows and milking cows to make ends meet. I was eating sardines out of cans with crackers for meals. I was literally going for broke with my Scooter's Coffee investment."
Momentum would eventually swing back in Staub's favor when Scooter's Coffee struck a deal with Nebraska Furniture Mart of Texas. The retailer wanted an owner who would be hands-on. Scooter's Coffee corporate knew exactly the person who fit that description.
"Scooters Coffee reached out to me, knowing I was working hard to find a site in Madison," says Straub. "They said if you're willing to pick up and move again to Dallas, we'll let you open this site. I spent two seconds making the decision before I jumped on it."
Within three months of moving to the Dallas metro area, Straub had opened his first Scooter's Coffee location. "Failure was never an option," he says. "I told everyone I was going to open a shop and I got one open."
A hardcore advocate of location, Straub says Nebraska Furniture Mart passes the test with flying colors. That's because it's situated near Frisco, one of the fastest-growing municipalities in America. "It's home to several Fortune 500 companies," says Straub. "The Dallas Cowboys headquarters is located in Frisco, Toyota just opened its new North America headquarters in nearby Plano. When those company employees come to Nebraska Furniture Mart to purchase furniture, appliances and home goods, when they walk in, Scooter's Coffee is one of the first things they see and smell. It doesn't get any more A+ than this!"
Straub has a crew of 12 employees, ranging in age from 18 to 22 years old. "It's been the coolest experience because these kids come rolling in, and we're slinging coffee as fast as we can on a busy Saturday, and these guys think it's the best job ever. They are go-getters and take initiative. I'm not sure if it's the free caffeine I supply, but they're excited to be here. There's not one of them I wouldn't trust to run the shop by themselves."
Straub encourages his employees to read the same books he reads. He also is training them for leadership. "I have a goal to open 30, 40, 60 Scooter's Coffee locations in Dallas and beyond," he says. "I want to make sure my employees are ready to open and run those shops. I haven't done my job if I fail to prepare them to be successful."
Success is in Straub's blood. He feels the same success is possible for the next generation of entrepreneurs, especially if you join the Scooter's Coffee team. "Scooter's Coffee is a fantastic business model," Straub says. It provides clear operations and clear product options to sell to your customers. They walk you through the entire construction process and are there to offer you support when necessary. I am pleased with corporate through the whole process. The amount of success of how many locations you want to grow is up to you. The sky is the limit."
The sky is indeed the limit for this 34-year-old, and he knows it. "Tenacity is 99.9 percent of success for your business," Straub says. "I've read a lot of biographies of successful entrepreneurs, listened to podcasts of amazing companies, and there isn't a difference between them and me. Their success was based on tenacity and not taking no for an answer. They're not smarter, they don't have anything I don't have. But I have one thing going for myself. I can do it better than anyone else."
Do you want to realize your own business ownership dreams, like Ted Straub? Does the Scooter's Coffee franchise opportunity sound like it could be for you? If so, learn more at https://franchising.scooterscoffee.com/.
Seeds of Change: The Community Partnership of Julian Young and Scooter's Coffee
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The brainchild of our co-founder Don Eckles and community leader Julian Young has turned into a friendship and partnership that will rejuvenate a neighborhood on the verge of a rebirth.
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I'm interested in learning more about Franchising
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From the NFL's Gridiron to Scooter's Coffee: Shawn Bouwens Plows a Path to Success
The Super Bowl is the pinnacle of every NFL player's career. Sixty minutes to determine what team was the league's best. To the victors go the spoils. Teams and players will forever be immortalized. Shawn Bouwens, like millions of fans here in America and overseas, will be watching intensely to see who will step up in the clutch moments to help raise the Lombardi Trophy. Bouwens will have a different perspective of football's ultimate game compared to the average viewer. That's because Bouwens, once upon a time, earned a living playing in the NFL.
Bouwens — along with his teammate for life, wife Tracy — is the successful owner of several Scooter's Coffee franchises in the Kansas City metro area. Serving coffee is his heart, but football remains in his soul.
"I still watch it to this day," says Bouwens. "I enjoy both college and the NFL; the NFL more so because you're watching the highest level of competition."
The six-year veteran spent his professional football career with the Detroit Lions and the Jacksonville Jaguars. "I cheer for both teams," Bouwens says. His six-foot-five-inch frame served him well as an offensive lineman, a position that is referred to as being "in the trenches." His job required him to tussle with 300-pound defensive linemen every single play. Bouwens protected the quarterback and gave running backs room to run. Being "in the trenches" for Bouwens now means making decisions that impact hundreds of baristas, managers and others under his company's employ. As Bouwens found, there are several skills that he learned playing football that translate well as a business owner.
"As a pro-athlete, you prepare yourself to be the very best every week," says Bouwens. "You study, you meticulously watch film, you practice throughout the week. We had fun, but we worked hard. I take that same outlook in everything I do now with my business, with my family, with my relationship with Tracy. I'm always studying, I'm always analyzing, trying to figure out what procedure I need to take myself and my employees to the next level. Nothing beats hard work."
Bouwens has found success in a career off the playing field. It's a well-documented feat that many athletes to this day have difficulty navigating. Bouwens is first to admit it took him about 18 months to find his footing. "It was tough. When I was playing ball, that was my identity. That's all I knew. When I retired, I knew it was going to be difficult. It wasn't that I didn't have a sense of purpose. But I ate, slept and drank football. Then it was gone. It was difficult not being recognized or being able to say, 'Yes, I do play football.'"
"He mowed the lawn like clockwork for the first two years of retirement," Tracy says. "I remember saying to myself, 'again with the grass.' The NFL does a good job educating and preparing players and wives of the various aspects of being a professional athlete, including the exit strategy. But discussing it and going through it was two different cases. When we went through it, it was hard. It was an interesting transition. We didn't really have a plan for after the NFL."
What they did have was each other. Tracy, who stayed at home to raise their three children while Shawn was playing, was now on a mission. She was ready to be an entrepreneur. Just as Tracy cheered Shawn on the field, he was now doing the same, as Tracy researched America's love affair with specialty coffee.
That's how they were introduced to Scooter's Coffee. "We were watching the coffee industry emerge in the Midwest, and we're ready to make the investment," says Shawn. "After meeting with (Scooter's Coffee co-founder) Don Eckles, we knew they were a perfect fit for us."
Shawn wasn't exactly sitting on the sidelines as Tracy was conducting her research. He was getting back to his family roots. While he and Tracy were cultivating their blooming Scooter's Coffee franchise, Shawn was also jumpstarting his own general contracting business. Construction is something he's passionate about. Bouwens advises athletes that it's the passion for their post-athletic career that will keep them sane.
"Ask yourself what it is you want to do after athletics before that time actually arrives," says Shawn. "Find something that you enjoy doing, whether it's a trade, behind a desk, selling insurance, and determine how you can turn that into your own business."
Bouwens advises players to be smart with their money while still on the field. Shawn says obviously when you're a 22-year-old man making a significant amount of money, of course you're going to make some extravagant purchases. "You've earned it," he adds. Bouwens says the key is to have a supportive spouse by your side. "Tracy was my biggest cheerleader. She would challenge me. She told me whatever I set my mind to, I could do it. She always encouraged me, and that support has worked well for us ever since."
While it isn't as exhilarating as knocking a 300-pound defensive lineman flat on his back, Bouwens admits being a business owner has its own version of excitement. He notes, being part of the Scooter's Coffee team brings back great memories. "They have fantastic systems in place to help entrepreneurs such as me and Tracy be successful," Bouwens says. "We've been with Scooter's Coffee for most of its existence, and the company's systems, which have improved over time, gives franchise owners a great opportunity to help us succeed."
Scooter's Coffee Builds Colorado Presence National Franchise Signs Agreement for Broomfield
Omaha, Neb., December 6, 2017 – Scooter's Coffee, LLC, the Midwest-based drive-thru coffee franchise that is on track for another record-breaking year of growth, is expanding in Colorado's Front Range region as it brings additional world-class drive-thru coffee locations to Broomfield.
Scooter's Coffee, based in Omaha, Nebraska, specializes in hand-tamped espresso drinks, baked-from-scratch pastries and features its signature drink, the Caramelicious. Scooter's Coffee roasts its own shade-grown coffee, sourced through the Arbor Day Foundation. The company added depth to its profile last year with a new line of organic hot and iced teas, single-origin coffee and Cold Brew & Cream.
Americans love their coffee. The percentage of people in the U.S. who drink coffee daily is up to 62 percent in 2017. The National Coffee Association also recently discovered the percentage of Americans drinking coffee prepared outside of their home is at an all-time high of 46 percent in 2017. Scooter's Coffee, with the brand promise of "Amazing People, Amazing Drinks…Amazingly Fast!"™ is helping Americans meet that demand.
The new Scooter's Coffee locations will be owned and operated by Mountain Joe, LLC, a locally-based family-run organization.
"We're excited for this tremendous opportunity to serve as ambassadors of the Scooter's Coffee brand," say the members of Mountain Joe, LLC. "Broomfield is a community that is always on the go and we're confident our neighbors will gravitate to Scooter's Coffee because of the quality, speed and convenience of the product. We look forward to playing an active role in the community and cultivating the future generation of job creators."
Scooter's Coffee is extremely excited about this expansion into a bustling community. Scooter's Coffee signed a five-unit agreement to establish a presence in strategic locations throughout Broomfield. Situated along the technology corridor, Broomfield was recently named America's top city to live.
"We are excited to continue our expansion in the state of Colorado," says Todd Graeve, Scooter's Coffee Chief Executive Officer. "The Broomfield market is vibrant and growing, and we want to fill a need for quality coffee served through a drive-thru window. We look forward to bringing more of our world-class coffee, amazingly fast service and friendly baristas to this area."
Brazil produces 9 million (U.S.) tons of coffee. It has been the highest global producer of coffee beans for more than 150 years.
Founded in 1998 by Don and Linda Eckles in Bellevue, Nebraska, Scooter's Coffee roasts only the finest coffee beans in the world at its headquarters in Omaha, Nebraska. In nearly two decades of business, Scooter's Coffee's success is simple: stay committed to the original business principles and company core values. The Scooter's Coffee Brand Promise, often recited to franchisees, customers and employees is: "Amazing People, Amazing Drinks…Amazingly Fast!"™ It represents the company's business origins from 1998 and reflects a steady commitment to providing an unforgettable experience to loyal and new customers.
For more information, visit: scooterscoffee.com, facebook.com/scooterscoffee, or ownascooters.com.
Sippin' on Small Business on Saturday
Black Friday is often considered the official kick off to the holiday season, but for many small business owners, the Saturday after Thanksgiving is when their big sales happen. Small Business Saturday has become increasingly popular in recent years, and local businesses are reaping the rewards. This year, Small Business Saturday falls on Saturday, Nov. 25.
What is Small Business Saturday
Small Business Saturday is an American shopping holiday where consumers are encouraged to support local, small businesses. It was originally created by American Express in 2009 as a PR and marketing campaign but has since blossomed into a much larger movement. In 2011, Congress made it official and declared the Saturday after Thanksgiving each year to officially be Small Business Saturday. Now every year, excited holiday shoppers are eager to purchase gifts locally and bring awareness (and income) to small businesses. It's no secret that many large consumer retail shops take in a good portion of their revenue during the holidays, but thanks to the recent consumer shift toward local businesses, now smaller retailers can benefit from the holidays, too. According to Fortune, 95 million consumers participated in Small Business Saturday in 2015. In 2016, American Express estimates that number increased to 112 million consumers.
Why Supporting Local Businesses is Important
Supporting local businesses can help boost the local economy. Consumers can help their community and invest in their neighbors by shopping locally. Small businesses give you the chance to know the people behind the product. In addition, you'll often enjoy better, more personalized customer service while simultaneously putting money back into your home town. A study on Chicago, IL found that shopping locally had a huge impact on the community. On average, 48 percent of dollars spent on local purchases are recirculated in the community, compared to less than 14 percent of dollars spent on large stores.
This year, as you're enjoying your local holiday shopping, stop into your community Scooter's Coffee location. Scooter's Coffee is a nationwide franchise, but each location is owned locally. That means the owner is a small business owner and has made an investment in your community. With fun seasonal drinks and treats, a visit to Scooter's Coffee is the perfect way to ring in the holiday season.
Scooter's Coffee has been serving up delicious coffee since 1998. Known for amazing beverages, Scooter's Coffee only roasts from the top five percent of specialty beans in the world. In addition to premium products, customers can expect to be treated with respect. The brand promise says it all: Amazing People, Amazing Drinks… Amazingly Fast™. This year, support your local Scooter's Coffee and start your Saturday shopping off right!
What's the Gratitude Café?
This holiday season, many men and women are stationed overseas serving our country. Those who are at the American base in Afghanistan may know of the Gratitude Café – a coffee shop that's run on donations from those back in the States.
Donating to the Gratitude Café was a perfect match for Scooter's Coffee as we looked for a way to show our thanks for the men and women's military service.
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While supporting the troops is often something that individuals and businesses would like to do, they may not know how to go about it. Fortunately, a natural route presented itself to Scooter's Coffee. Jamie Wiechman, Director of Marketing at Scooter's Coffee, expressed it best as she enthusiastically said, "When we heard they needed coffee, we said YES, we can DO something!"
Our volunteers came together to stuff care packages with coffee, creamer and sugar that were sent over to the Gratitude Café. These care boxes are one small thing we can do to show our appreciation for the amazing gift that members of the Armed Forces give to us each day.
Thank you to KNTV News Now for helping us share the story.
Veterans Explore Franchising
Military members pour their heart and soul into protecting our country day in and day out. Unfortunately, once our service members come home they often have a hard time adjusting to their new normal. However, there are opportunities for veterans to find a fulfilling second-act career that utilizes the skills they mastered through their experience in the military.
Transitioning to Civilian Life
It's an unfortunate trend, but often military service members have a difficult time adjusting back to every day civilian life. Veterans may be faced with hardships such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), social anxiety or unemployment.
According to Prudential:
Veterans name finding a job as their greatest challenge during their transition back to civilian life
One in five veterans surveyed are unemployed and actively seeking employment
The majority of veterans feel their military service is respected, but three in five veterans express concern about cultural barriers in the workplace
Not all jobs are accommodating for veterans; often, service members are faced with bosses and coworkers who don't understand the gravity of their experiences. Finding employment is the first challenge; securing a job you enjoy can seem almost impossible, but there are options.
Is Business Ownership a Viable Option for Veterans?
Business ownership, particularly franchise ownership, can be a tremendous career opportunity for veterans. Through franchise investments, owners are able to maintain the independence of a small business owner while still benefiting from the support of a corporate team. Veterans can utilize their leadership skills to effectively direct their team, but still have support with tasks such as site selection, planning, training, operations and marketing.
There are several veteran-friendly franchises, such as Scooter's Coffee, which recognize the value of our nation's veterans. Working with a reputable company provides instant brand recognition, established operational systems and a built-in network. Independent business owners are forced to start from scratch, while franchisees have a leg up on success right from day one.
How Can Veterans Find the Right Opportunity?
Despite 45 percent of veterans stating they have used 10 or more resources in their job hunt, the unemployment rate still remains at a staggering 33 percent. The most commonly used job-search resources are online, newspapers and online job boards. For veterans interested in franchising, the leading resource is Vetfran.com.
VetFran is a strategic initiative of the International Franchise Association (IFA). Founded in 1991, VetFran's mission is to provide opportunities in franchising for veterans and their spouses. Through the work of partners like Scooter's Coffee, VetFran strives to be the go-to resource for veterans and their spouses who are looking to enter the franchising industry.
Scooter's Coffee welcomes veterans who are interested in becoming part of the family, recognizing that military men and women are ideal candidates for franchisees. Veterans tend to be driven, ambitious, self-disciplined and incredibly hardworking – all traits that serve a franchise owner well. As a salute to service members, Scooter's Coffee offers veterans a $20,000 credit towards the purchase of products during the veteran's first year of operation. With Veterans Day coming up on November 11, Scooter's Coffee wants to reaffirm the respect we have for the men and women who serve — and have served — our country.
If you or a veteran in your life are interested in learning more about franchise opportunities with Scooter's Coffee, click the "Next Steps" link above and we'll be in touch.
Brewing Up a Family-Friendly Lifestyle
Burning the candle at both ends used to be considered the only way to climb to the top of the corporate ladder. The idea of work-life balance was for those who didn't care about getting ahead. Millennial businesses are changing that attitude. According to a 2016 Gallup poll, millennials not only want to hold engaging jobs, they want to lead purposeful lives outside of work. It's a balance that can be difficult to achieve, but it's part of the culture that makes Scooter's Coffee a unique workplace and such an attractive option for owners with young families.
Take Scooter's Coffee franchisee Jenna Moulton, for example. She's a 32-year-old mother of three. Jenna and her husband, Kurt, signed on the dotted line and bought a Scooter's Coffee location after working several years at different Scooter's Coffee locations. Jenna admits the process was terrifying – but says that feeling was short-lived thanks to the outpouring of encouragement from people on the Scooter's Coffee corporate team. Time and time again, franchisees describe the family-like attitude at Scooter's Coffee as a crucial factor in their decision to take the plunge and become a Scooter's Coffee business owner.
How does franchise ownership with Scooter's Coffee help provide the work-life balance many seek? It puts you in control of your time. Your commute no longer steals hours behind the wheel, stuck in traffic, missing time with your family. That time is a gift to spend not only with your kids but with your spouse. It may sound counter-intuitive, but they are a vital part of your business. Talking about your day — your successes and your stumbles along the way — are all an important part of finding and keeping that important work-life balance.
On a grander scale, ownership offers flexibility to handle life changes. Soon after buying their own Scooter's Coffee business, Jenna and Kurt's young daughter became ill and needed to spend time in the hospital. Jenna clearly wanted to be available to her daughter and family during that period. Owning her own business allowed her a schedule she hadn't had when she was managing a store.
It's important to remember that the work-life balance Millennials are after doesn't look the same for everyone. Your perfect balance may change from week to week or year to year. And balance means being in the right place at the right time, not giving half your time to work and half to your family. Scooter's Coffee VP of Franchise Development Jen Chaney says it herself, Scooter's Coffee values friendships, relationships and family. That makes all the difference.
Learn more and find out if Scooter's Coffee is the right family-friendly franchise option for you.
Sip with Certainty
Investing in a franchise is a great way for an entrepreneur to maintain his or her independence while still having support from a corporate office. However, it's important to choose your franchise wisely! With today's economy, it's vital to invest in a franchise that will last, such as Scooter's Coffee. Scooter's Coffee has been around since 1998, has a loyal customer base and is continuing to grow year-over-year. With an innovative menu and friendly service, Scooter's Coffee has proven that it is one of a kind.
Scooter's Coffee is Expanding
First and foremost, Scooter's Coffee is on the up-and-up. Even throughout the recession, Scooter's Coffee was still growing and opening new locations. With more than 168 stores currently operating throughout the country, new franchisees are in good company. In fact, our more than 60 franchisees have committed to building more than 145 new stores!
Scooter's Coffee is not only seeing success as an entire system; local stores are booming. With fast, friendly service and quality products, it's no wonder the average Scooter's Coffee ticket price is climbing as more and more people add on food purchases to their regular drink order. Scooter's Coffee only roasts the top ten percent of specialty coffee beans in the world, and it also takes care to serve quality food made from real ingredients.
Scooter's Coffee Customers Are Loyal
Generally, coffee drinkers are creatures of habit. Many can't start their day without their morning coffee – in fact, coffee is the second-most traded commodity in the world! That said, coffee enthusiasts have no shortage of options where they can fulfill their coffee fix. That's where the Scooter's Coffee brand stands out. The convenient drive-thru option and enjoyable menu have kept customers coming back time and time again. With fun favorites like the Caramelicious®, a rich, velvety caramel drink, Scooter's Coffee has something special to offer every palate.
In addition, the Scooter's Coffee brand has an excellent reputation. Each franchisee is encouraged to be active in their community and get to know their customers. That special relationship helps create unshakeable customer loyalty.
Scooter's Coffee Corporate Team Provides Unparalleled Support
Investing in a Scooter's Coffee franchise is a stepping stone to a brighter future. With Scooter's Coffee, you'll get the help you need from day one; you aren't left to struggle through the initial set up phase alone. The Scooter's Coffee corporate team will help get you on your feet and aid with things like site selection, wholesale product pricing, construction and even marketing campaigns.
As you sit sipping your latte, thinking about what it would be like to own a Scooter's Coffee franchise of your own, feel certain that you're considering a solid brand that stands the test of time and offers the support you need to run a successful business. For more information on how you can join the Scooter's Coffee family, use the "Next Steps" form above and we'll be in touch.
Scooter's Coffee Baristas: Creating A Coffee Franchise Team
The smiling faces of Scooter's Coffee baristas who greet your customers and make their drinks are crucial to your success as a coffee franchise, because they create the positive experience that keeps people returning to your coffeeshop time and again. Because of that, we recognize that our baristas are critical to franchise success. We want to make sure that franchisees have the tools they need to develop a happy, effective team.
Moreover, Scooter's Coffee understands the importance of helping franchisees reduce employee turnover: While there's not a column for it in your ledger, one of the biggest expenses a business owner faces is employee turnover. So, for Scooter's Coffee, it's not just hiring the right people that's so important — but keeping them.
Fortunately, Scooter's Coffee has brewed up an approach to business success that franchisees believe is truly special — and that makes Scooter's Coffee baristas excited about being part of the team. The approach includes creating a culture of support and providing top-notch training to everyone involved so that each coffee franchise can maximize its success.
The Scooter's Coffee Culture
From Scooter's Coffee franchise owners to the baristas, the team is a family. That's not just a slogan. That's how employees describe their workplaces.
Travis Rhoades, who owns six Scooter's Coffee locations in South Dakota, told Franchise.org that franchisees are treated like family at Scooter's Coffee. "They know my kids and spouse, and I know theirs. They've been able to keep that personal touch even with their notable growth in recent years. They have that kind of relationship with almost all their franchisees; It's not just unique to me."
Other franchisees echo that sentiment. Todd and Catherine Gerch who own a Scooter's Coffee in San Antonio, Texas, say, "You just get the feeling when you talk to them that they are family." Deanna and Mike Braunberger, franchisees in Salt Lake City, say they signed on the dotted line with Scooter's Coffee because of — "the people. It is a family culture." When you treat your franchise owners and employees like family, that means you want the best for them.
Scooter's Coffee also knows that training is vital. Training begins as soon as the franchise agreement is signed. New owners spend several weeks learning everything they need to know about their new business before construction even gets underway. That's followed up by a comprehensive training program in the classroom and then on-the-job training in company-owned stores.
But Scooter's Coffee doesn't just send new owners out alone to hang a "now open" sign and fend for themselves! The training team helps train the new staff, and the Franchise Support Team continues to lend a hand after opening. Scooter's Coffee believes that continual learning and training are important parts of doing business well. Any struggle a franchise owner encounters, the trainers can address, and they'll stand by you and help you through.
Scooter's Coffee invests in people. They get to know their franchise owners. They care. Even the customers become like family. And that's the difference that matters to the people who put on an apron each day behind the counter or drive-thru window at Scooter's Coffee. In fact, it often makes being a barista so much more than just a job, keeping good team members around for years to come.
Perks of Loyalty Perks
What's better than a happy customer? A happy, loyal customer. One of the easiest ways to turn a one-time happy customer into a repeat customer is with a loyalty program. Now, there's an app for that! Scooter's Coffee has brewed up a new loyalty program that serves up benefits for customers and franchise owners, too.
Good Reasons for a Loyalty Program
Getting a coffee drinker in the door to buy a cup of coffee one time is good. Getting her to come back is better. Nearly 70 percent of consumers say they'll spend their dollars where they can earn loyalty points. And nearly half spend more after they've joined the loyalty program. Restaurant loyalty programs see visits go up 35 percent. The numbers clearly make a case for Scooter's Coffee investing in its loyalty app.
Smiling Customers and Franchise Owners
Sarah Robinson, author of Fierce Loyalty: Unlocking the DNA of Wildly Successful Communities and an expert on creating loyal customers, says people want to feel special when they go in a store. And she believes that loyal customers should be treated differently. Robinson also says a good loyalty program begins to hand out perks the minute a customer signs up.
That's exactly what the rewards program at Scooter's Coffee does. When a customer downloads the rewards app on his or her phone and signs up, he or she receives an email with an offer for a free drink. Then, each time he or she buys a drink or snack, he or she earns a fun smiley face on the app. A dozen smiling faces on the phone turns into a real-life smile when he or she gets a next free drink. And, the Scooter's Coffee rewards app also sends members various offers, so it's something special to try out.
Cost-Effective Marketing Tool
Scooter's Coffee franchise owners will smile, too, as more new customers become regulars. According to Forbes, keeping a customer is seven times less expensive than bringing in a new one. Another perk of satisfied regular customers? They tend to tell their friends about their favorite spot for a Caramelicious, and there's no better advertising than word of mouth.
The rewards program Scooter's Coffee customers can download on their phone is just one way that Scooter's Coffee supports its franchise owners. From the moment you make the decision to go from coffee drinker to coffee shop owner, Scooter's Coffee is there with the training, marketing and guidance you need to ensure your Scooter's Coffee business is as amazing as the drinks. Scooter's Coffee promises "Amazing People, Amazing Drinks… Amazingly Fast!"
If you're interested in joining a franchise system that is focused on customer loyalty, use the Next Steps Form to learn more about owning a Scooter's Coffee.
Join Scooter's Coffee in Celebrating National Coffee Day
Coffee lovers rejoice! September 29th kicks off National Coffee Day. (Technically, this celebration was created in 2015 by the International Coffee Organization lasts through October 1.) This day is an opportunity to relax and linger over the beverage that kick-starts your morning. It's an invitation to slow down and appreciate how coffee's warmth encourages friendship, conversations and community.
Beyond that, however, National Coffee Day is meant to recognize the effort that it takes to cultivate great beans and create delectable drinks. It's meant to honor the men and women — the farmers, harvesters, roasters and baristas — whose labor brings satisfying beverages to you and your family.
At Scooter's Coffee, we celebrate both: the joy of the beverage and the effort that goes into making this tasty treat.
Celebrate the Art of Coffee
If you're looking to celebrate National Coffee Day with a premium cup of joe, look no further than your local Scooter's Coffee. Since Scooter's Coffee was founded in 1998, quality has been a priority. Founders Don and Linda Eckles have been determined to provide customers with an amazing experience at each and every visit. That's why Scooter's Coffee is committed to only roasting from the top 10 percent of coffee beans in the world!
Quality doesn't end with the coffee; customers can always expect fast, friendly service at Scooter's Coffee. In fact, prompt and pleasant service is a staple of the Scooter's Coffee brand. Each staff member is carefully selected to ensure the best possible experience for each customer. The slogan says it all: "Amazing People, Amazing Drinks… Amazingly Fast!™"
Embrace the Spirit of the Day
Celebrating National Coffee Day with Scooter's Coffee goes much further than supporting a local small business owner. Scooter's Coffee is committed to changing lives – and not just those stopping by for their morning pick-me-up. Scooter's Coffee has teamed up with the Arbor Day Foundation, a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit conservation and education organization, to source coffee responsibly and benefit local farmers. Today, Scooter's Coffee sources 100 percent shade-grown coffee, which makes a huge difference: each pound of shade-grown coffee preserves 70 square feet of rain forest. That works out to be roughly two square feet of rainforest saved per cup of coffee purchased. Each sip makes an impact!
Through their partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation, Scooter's Coffee is also helping to aid local farmers and preserve habitats of hundreds of species of animals. The Arbor Day Foundation works to ensure that farmers receive fair wages and enables them to improve education, health care and infrastructure in their communities. At Scooter's Coffee, we appreciate the work that goes into crafting our quality beverages, from farm-to-coffeeshop, and partner with the Arbor Day Foundation to ensure that we're doing our part to care for people every step of the way.
How Will You Celebrate?
Certainly, we hope you'll indulge in your favorite cup of joe, sipping slowly and letting the warm flavors soothe your thoughts.
However, if you're a coffee-loving, hard-working entrepreneur, you may also want to consider joining the coffee community. Scooter's Coffee franchisees enjoy established operational systems so they don't have to reinvent the wheel. They have the freedom of a small business owner, but with the luxury of a built-in support network. Scooter's Coffee staff helps with everything from location selection to construction to marketing.
Scooter's Coffee is more than just a place to get coffee; at Scooter's Coffee, customers can enjoy a quality cup of joe and feel good knowing that they are helping to give back by saving the rainforest and honoring coffee growers. So, come celebrate National Coffee Day with Scooter's Coffee on September 29th and learn more about franchising with Scooter's Coffee at OwnAScooters.com.
Consider Scooter's Coffee and Bring Your Friends Along
Making the leap to entrepreneurship can be a challenge. You might be concerned that you'll be left alone to deal with all the questions and all the decisions all of the time! With Scooter's Coffee, you'll always have a team that's got your back. We care about our franchisees and their business and strive to create a place where they are inspired to grow and succeed. Still, it's important to have a few key business professionals by your side as you go through the process.
Find a good lawyer. Sound legal advice is invaluable. Legal wording can be confusing, especially when there are pages and pages of it. Scooter's Coffee prides itself on working to keep a quality and open relationship with our franchisees, throughout the process and beyond. Once a mutual decision is made to move forward, we'll send you our Franchise Disclosure Document for you to look over. Before you sign anything, we're happy to answer any questions you (and your lawyer!) have until you are completely satisfied. We'd also like to meet with you face to face. That's why we invite our potential franchisees to Discovery Day at our headquarters in Omaha, Nebraska. Another Tip: Consider hiring a lawyer that specializes in franchises. They're out there.
Get to know your banker. According to the Wall Street Journal, "…most bank loans to new franchisees occur when a borrower has established relationships with a banker…" They also prefer businesses with brand names and long track records, so your choice of a franchise system can help or hurt you. Scooter's Coffee has been around since 1998. We've been franchising since 2001. We try to make it as simple as possible: Our franchisees must believe in our brands and our concepts.
Hire an accountant. Having an accountant on your franchise team is something to consider. Besides helping you put together your financing, an experienced accountant could be an invaluable help come tax time. A good accountant should be a trusted advisor and someone you can call at any time with questions. Another Tip: The best way to find a good accountant, according to Entrepreneur, is to get a referral from your attorney or banker. You can also check in with your state's professional organization or society of certified public accountants.
Locate a Real Estate Broker. Scooter's Coffee knows that site selection is key. That's why we'll happily assist you and your real estate broker with site selection and lease negotiation. We'll make sure all the site requirements are there; you and your broker will have the inside track on promising locations. Things to look out for: You'll want to pay particular attention to traffic patterns and find out about any future developments planned for the area.
Get to know other franchisees. Talking to people who've "been there and done that" is priceless. You'll gain advice that doesn't cost you anything. Scooter's Coffee has a built-in network so you can learn from and share with other franchisees. We encourage you to talk with other franchise operators and find out more about their experiences.
And don't underestimate the power of a conversation with the corporate team too! Franchisees always have access to the Franchise Support Team for ongoing training, questions, and advice. We have annual and quarterly franchise meetings to give franchisees and their management teams the opportunity to learn about new programs, sample products, receive training and share information. Another Tip: Consider joining a professional franchising organization, your chamber of commerce or other local business organization.
It all begins with you. The first step is always yours to make. If you've never been to Scooter's Coffee before, pay us a visit! Sample our delicious, hot, shade-grown coffee or grab a refreshing Iced Latte. When you're ready, visit us at www.ownascooters.com and we'll get to brewing up your success!
The Making of a Multi-Unit Franchisee
Investing in a coffee shop franchise is an excellent way to become a small business owner without the stress of having to go through the business-building process alone. Still, this business venture is not to be taken lightly, particularly if you are looking to make the most of your investment through a multi-unit franchise deal. There is a plethora of benefits to investing in a multi-unit franchise, including higher profits, increased overall freedom, more capital, shared marketing plans and lower vendor-related costs.
However, before diving into a multi-unit franchise agreement, determine if you are a good candidate. Here are the top five traits that indicate you may have what it takes to become a successful multi-unit franchisee.
Strong Management Skills
With multiple units to run, it is vital that you possess solid management skills. Without strong leadership, even the most experienced teams will flounder and fail. Think for a moment:
Do you love solving problems?
Are you adept at overseeing more than one project at a time?
Are you able to quickly identify priorities and address them?
Is business growth a constant focus for you?
If so, you may be a natural manager who is ready to take on the challenge of operating multiple units.
When owning multiple franchise units, you must be able to build strong relationships and establish trust with a wide array of people. Stay true to your word and treat employees with care. In turn, you will establish a strong foundation upon which to build relationships. Open communication between yourself and your managers is also necessary to create a productive and world-class experience for both your employees and your customers.
To become a multi-unit franchisee, you must be able to motivate yourself. You are the leader in this business venture. While you may often have support from the corporate offices, you are ultimately responsible for your success. For some people, that concept is exciting and drives them to work hard to see the biggest pay off. For others, the idea of driving the train is overwhelming. If you fall into the first group, multi-unit franchising may be the path for you.
Knowing your strengths and weaknesses will be crucial to attaining success as a multi-unit franchisee. If you know that day-to-day management is not your strong suit, consider working with a partner who specializes in operations. Not adept at money management? Hire a bookkeeper. Knowing what skills you lack and coming up with creative solutions to make up the difference is ultimately going to help ensure a well-rounded business. Responsible delegation is vital to success.
When it comes down to it, in order to successfully run multiple franchise units, you must be responsible. Major decisions are going to fall to you, and you should be ready to come up with a logical and responsible solution. Ensuring orders get placed on time, reliable staff is hired and everything runs smoothly is ultimately the franchisee's responsibility.
Scooter's Coffee, a beloved drive-through coffee franchise in the U.S., actively seeks multi-unit franchisees who believe in quality service and the Scooter's Coffee brand. Sound partnerships with smart people ultimately lead to profitable business ventures. Multi-unit franchising is not for everyone, but if you feel you are a good fit for the job, download our franchise brochure to learn more.
National Coffee Day Means Free Coffee at Scooter's Coffee
Scooter's Coffee, the Midwest-based drive-thru coffee franchise that is on track for another record-breaking year of growth, is amped up as National Coffee Day, Friday, September 29, approaches. Scooter's Coffee is the nation's fastest-growing drive-thru coffee concept and has experienced exponential growth in the last three years. Inc. Magazine ranked Omaha, Nebraska-based Scooter's Coffee in its most recent exclusive ranking of the nation's 5000 fastest-growing companies.
Complete article at Franchising.com.
Coffee consumption in 2017 is experiencing robust growth. The National Coffee Association found the percentage of Americans who drink coffee daily is now up to 62 percent. The NCA cites soaring consumer enthusiasm for specialty coffee varieties as a key factor in the consumption surge. A variety of gourmet coffee is embedded in Scooter's Coffee's DNA. Scooter's Coffee specializes in hand-tamped espresso drinks, baked-from-scratch pastries and feature their signature drink, the Caramelicious®.
"Drinking coffee is a time-honored tradition that unites families, colleagues and strangers across America," says Todd Graeve, CEO of Scooter's Coffee. "Coffee is not only a way of life for enthusiasts, it is an industry that provides a livelihood for millions, including our hard-working employees and franchisees. I take pride in the fact that our loyal customers carve a moment out of their daily schedules to stop by and enjoy our speedy service and their favorite Scooter's Coffee offering."
In recognition of America's never-ending quest for quality coffee, Scooter's Coffee is proud to announce it is participating in the celebration of National Coffee Day with several enticing promotions:
Purchase any food item and receive a small brewed coffee.
Hourly giveaways on Facebook. One $10 gift card will be given away every hour to users who comment, like and share the post.
Snapchat "Happy National Coffee Day" filter at all locations.
Scooter's Coffee is also spreading the love to America's first-responders on National Coffee Day. Many local franchise owners will provide complimentary items to the first-responders within their community or provide coffee for a charitable cause. Scooter's Coffee is committed to serving those who make its local communities a better place to live.
Robust Growth Fueling Scooter's Coffee Success in Dallas
Adam Cockerill knows a good thing when he sees it, and he senses something is brewing in Dallas. In his eyes, the Dallas-Fort Worth metro is the perfect spot for a passionate, entrepreneurial-minded individual. Adam should know. He's on the verge of opening his sixth Scooter's Coffee franchise in Dallas later this fall. And he's looking for strong strategic partners to help North Texas become Scooter's Coffee Country.
Adam Cockerill
The latest store will be in McKinney, a northern suburb of Dallas. The Dallas metro area has been kind to Cockerill and Scooter's Coffee. The fact Scooter's Coffee is finding success in the area comes as no surprise to the seasoned franchise owner.
"I think the brand is starting to take hold in Dallas. We are getting more and more customer awareness and loyalty," he says. And he believes Scooter's Coffee presents the perfect opportunity for a forward-thinking self-starter. "Our business is a unique and fun concept that lends itself to anyone with entrepreneurial spirit."
According to the most recent census figures, the Dallas-Fort Worth metro is America's fastest growing metro. The area welcomed more than 140,000 people from July 2015 to July 2016. Dallas' northern suburbs, where you will find all 5 of Cockerill's Scooter's Coffee stores, are experiencing explosive growth.
Cockerill feels Dallas embodies the best of what America offers—a thriving economy along with loving and caring residents – a perfect blend as he prepares to establish and grow the Scooter's Coffee business model with like-minded entrepreneurs. Cockerill is specifically looking for these like-minded entrepreneurs in Plano, Frisco, and Allen, Texas.
"From a people standpoint, people in Dallas treat each other with respect and kindness. It's the people and the culture that accentuates the spirit of North Texas."
Cockerill was first introduced to Scooter's Coffee in 2007. Cockerill was sold on the idea faster than it takes a Scooter's Coffee customer to place and receive an order.
"It was the uniqueness of Scooter's Coffee that first lured me into becoming a franchisee. The concept — to deliver world-class coffee at an amazing pace — was an opportunity I couldn't pass up."
Six years, and 11 additional locations later, Adam was looking to expand to new frontiers outside of Omaha, Nebraska, where Scooter's Coffee originated. And that's when he made the decision that the good folks in North Texas needed a shot of some real coffee, delivered fast. He had a hunch it would succeed in Dallas, and the people in Big D didn't let him down.
"Every time I was in Dallas I got the same feelings of culture and vibe that permeate Omaha, and thought Scooter's would be a great fit. Scooter's has thrived in Omaha, and I expected to see the same results in Dallas."
His intuition was right on the money. Cockerill now owns 17 (and counting) franchises. Part of his Texas growth plan now involves finding men and woman who share in his vision to capitalize on Dallas' population boom and America's insatiable demand of coffee.
Adam relies on one concept that has withstood the test of time, KISS — Keep It Simple, Stupid. He says keeping things simple, remaining true and not deviating from Scooter's Coffee's core principles keeps his franchises thriving. "My job is to make sure the right people are in place, and make sure they are put in positions to succeed. I love building relationships with my team, and watching them grow."
Adam is a proud husband and father of two children, a seven-year-old son and a four-year-old daughter. He is also a giver of his time, volunteering with several organizations in the Omaha area. He serves as a board member of The First Tee of Omaha, and a mentor with TeamMates, a mentoring program established by former congressman and legendary University of Nebraska football coach Tom Osborne.
It's the commitment to his community, both in Omaha and Dallas, that drives Adam — and the relationships he is building drive more and more customers to his Scooter's Coffee stores. In his eyes, success is built off relationships. And he continues to find success everywhere he sets up shop.
Interested in opening a Scooter's Coffee in the Dallas area? Contact us for additional Scooter's Coffee franchise information.
Scooter's Coffee CEO Featured in Franchise Update Magazine
Scooter's Coffee CEO Todd Graeve gave the world an inside look into the company, his management style and even his early morning routine. Graeve was featured in the most recent edition of Franchise Update magazine. It's the only industry publication 100% dedicated to franchisors. Scooter's Coffee's top executive was featured in the quarterly publication's CEO Profile series.
Graeve, 48, worked his way up through the ranks before earning the title of CEO at Scooter's Coffee just more than a year ago. Graeve tells Franchise Update he's seeking to expand Scooter's Coffee's footprint. The company is quickly approaching 200 franchised units in 15 states, and 144 franchisee commitments to build new stores. Graeve says the goal is to have 500 profitable stores under its belt within six to eight years. More importantly, the husband and father of two daughters says it will happen while maintaining Scooter's Coffee's culture of family with the employees and franchisees. "Taking time to help others find success and purpose will be our testimony," says Graeve. "It will be what characterizes us at the end of the day."
Graeve is a firm believer in family and faith. He counts his parents in helping to set the foundation for his leadership style. He strives to lead on a platform of humility and an "others first" frame of mind. The ability to influence the success of others is how Graeve says he will measure his success. Graeve revealed he is an early riser who likes to work and read at his home desk (over coffee, of course) by six a.m. When it comes to relaxing, Graeve leans on his wife, who has helped him learn to take time away from work.
To read the entire article highlighting Scooter's Coffee's "March to 500," CLICK HERE. You'll find Todd Graeve's profile starting on p. 12 of the digital copy (p. 10 of the hard copy).
Stay in the Shade this Summer
At Scooter's Coffee, we don't do anything halfway. A good cup of coffee isn't good enough! We want our customers to enjoy an amazing cup of coffee. That's why we made a commitment to sell coffee that not only tastes great, but also helps make a positive change in our world. We've done that by partnering with the Arbor Day Foundation, to source 100 percent shade-grown coffee beans.
A Partnership in Preservation
Switching to shade-grown coffee was no small task, but it was worth it. Doing the right thing was easier with the help of the Arbor Day Foundation. Founded in 1972, the Arbor Day Foundation is a nonprofit conservation and education organization. The Arbor Day Foundation mission is to "inspire people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees." The organization's goal is not only to plant trees, but also to preserve existing forests. That's where our special coffee beans come in.
Sun vs. Shade
According to the Arbor Day Foundation, much of the coffee on the market is grown under the sun. As our coffee culture has exploded, so has the demand for beans. Farmers who grow these beans are paid on a per-pound basis. In order to increase their yield, many farmers clear-cut areas of rain forests to make way for more fields for more coffee. As they replant year after year, the land becomes spent, and they are no longer able to grow coffee beans in the same location, so farmers clear-cut more rain forest —a vicious cycle is born.
Shade-loving coffee plants actually thrive under the rain forest canopy. Growing coffee beans in the shade basically saves an entire ecosystem including plant life, trees, birds, insects and mammals. And there are even more environmental benefits according to the Arbor Day Foundation:
Maintains soil fertility
Helps prevent landslides and flash flooding
Eliminates or reduces the need for pesticides and fertilizers
Protects local water supplies
Higher quality of coffee
Additionally, shade-grown coffee beans take longer to mature than the sun-grown beans, resulting in a richer and fuller taste. This makes for an amazing cup of Scooter's Coffee!
A Positive Impact on Farmers
There are plenty of benefits to encouraging shade-grown coffee beyond saving precious rain forests and brewing up an amazing cup of coffee. The Arbor Day Foundation says the shade-grown beans help improve the lives of the farmers who grow them. Because the beans are a higher quality, the farmers are paid more for them. Each cup of Scooter's Coffee you drink helps provide the growers a fair wage, improves local infrastructure and increases access to health care and education.
A Delicious Difference
As the summer weather begins to heat up, our franchisees stay cool knowing that each cup of coffee they serve preserves two square feet of rain forest. When they pass a steaming cup through the drive-thru window, they know that they are not only making a difference in the lives of their customers, but in the world at large.
If you're interested in joining a franchise that makes a difference in the world, learn more about owning a Scooter's Coffee drive-thru business.
Six Benefits of the Multi-Store Development Agreement
When you want to give your morning a boost, you ask for an extra shot of espresso in your Scooter's Coffee drink. When you want to give your franchise ownership a boost, you can do that with a multi-store development agreement. In fact, a majority of franchises in the U.S. are owned by multi-unit franchise operators, according to a study by FRANdata. This is because there can be real benefits to a multi-store development agreement with a franchisor like Scooter's Coffee.
Once you have your first Scooter's Coffee up and running, you have the knowledge to do it again and again, becoming increasingly efficient each time. Multi-unit franchisees become more self-supporting over time. They understand the model and are able to implement it more swiftly each time.
Improved Employee Training and Retention
Similarly, training your staff gets more efficient and scheduling becomes more flexible. If you need to move employees between stores because of vacations or scheduling issues, that's an option. You can team up your more experienced employees with the newer employees to help them learn. And once you have well-trained workers you want to keep, there are advancement opportunities available to them. Given that you won't be able to be behind the counter at multiple locations each day, employing a top-notch staff is key.
Cost-Effective Marketing
As you open more locations, your marketing and advertising budget becomes increasingly cost-effective. While the cost of an advertisement doesn't change, the number of stores that contribute to the advertising budget does. Say, for example, a newspaper ad costs $100. If you have a single unit, you are paying $100 for that ad. If you owned five units, each would pay only $20 for the same ad, making the cost per unit more manageable.
Protected Territory
Pursuing a multi-unit agreement comes with the added benefit of launching your business within a protected territory. This means that those making an initial mult-unit commitment are not competing with other successful, established Scooter's Coffee locations to gain customers. This enhances the owner's ability to establish the business in their area.
Centralized Operations Lead to Consistency
All operations do not need to be managed on-site for each location. For example, tasks like human resources and accounting can be centralized in a single location which makes them easier to manage. Because there is a single person who is responsible for these types of services, they are handled in a consistent manner for each location. This helps to improve both efficiency and quality across the units.
The multi-unit owner is likely to be more profitable. This is not simply because there is increased opportunity for earnings, but also because risk is spread out over more locations. When there's a slow-down at one location, the others are likely to continue normal operations. This allows the owner to focus attention on the one that needs the most help.
Entering the world of franchising with a multi-store development agreement isn't for everyone. It takes someone with the right combination of business skills, people skills and willingness to partner with Scooter's Coffee. However, according to Franchise Business Review, satisfaction among multi-unit owners is higher than among single-unit franchisees. They cite the allure of more profitability and more freedom. You should take a look for yourself at ownascooters.com and see if the allure is there for you.
Fill Your Cup with Success
The Right Franchise Can Help You Overcome Your Fears of Entrepreneurship
How many people have let fear of failure keep them from finding success? Are you one of them? It can be frightening to make changes in your life. Stepping away from the norm, taking that chance, and making it happen isn't for everybody. But there are ways to make taking chances in business easier.
In fact, buying a franchise gives you the best of both worlds; you get the opportunity to start your own business while getting a helping hand at the same time. Scooter's Coffeeis striving to become the #1 drive-thru coffee franchise in the country. You can help us reach our goal as we help you reach yours. It's time to look at taking that first step.
Where to begin?
According to Entrepreneur magazine, not knowing where to start is one of the biggest roadblocks to business ownership. Scooter's Coffee makes it as easy as signing on to a computer so that you can download our franchise brochure and find a wealth of information about our company.
But we go much further than that. Owning a Scooter's Coffee franchise comes with benefits that you might not find with other franchises. If you don't know where to begin don't worry: you're not going to have to re-invent the wheel. Our business models offer complete packages. From location selection assistance to control of franchise products and their distribution, you can count on our corporate team to be with you every step of the way.
But I don't know anything about coffee!
It's another common fear that keeps us from success; "If I don't know anything about coffee, then I shouldn't own a coffee house!" But that's not true. Every Scooter's Coffee franchisee and the store manager spend four weeks going through a structured training course that includes product preparation, personnel development and store operations. In addition, our training team spends time before, during and after the opening week in the stores with the manager and barista team. Our operations team provides the hands-on business experience that helps franchisees understand how to implement a cost-effective program in their stores. They do this by monitoring cost of goods, labor costs, equipment maintenance and hiring solid team members.
What if customers don't materialize?
You've got a sparkling new store, eager employees, and a great product to sell, but you're worried that no one will walk through the door. That's where the power of Scooter's Coffee corporate marketing comes in handy. Long before your location opens, the marketing team is creating awareness. A specific "Grand Opening" campaign is designed to create an instant customer base in the surrounding area. The whole focus of marketing is to drive traffic to the stores. Marketing communications are constant, with training tips and videos available to help. "The Scooter's Coffee corporate support team cares deeply about our success in this business," says multi-franchise owner Tracy Bouwens. "They are constantly working to find ways to drive new customers to our stores while protecting the bottom line and profitability of our business."
If you succeed, we succeed.
At the end of the day it's very simple. Your success is our success. At Scooter's Coffee, our mission is to provide an atmosphere where the entrepreneurial spirit has room to grow. Together we can overcome fears and make great things happen. The first step is to contact us at today.
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