With summer just around the corner, it's time to start thinking about how to spice up your coffee shop and bring in more revenue. Here's a few ways you may not have thought of.

Create a Signature Summer Drink

You can add watermelon, peach, or mango drinks to your menu, just like your competition will. But why not take it up a notch and create a signature, seasonal beverage that customers will associate with your brand? Think of the iconic Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte - it's synonymous with fall and brings customers back year after year. Your own signature summer drink could be just as memorable!

Pro Tip: Offer promotions and discounts to entice customers to try your signature summer drink.

Connect With Your Community

Link in with your local community and see what events are happening throughout the summer. Concerts, sports games, and film festivals are just a few examples of events that can bring in new customers. By partnering with events that align with your brand and menu, you can tap into new audiences. A coffee truck is also a great way to get around to local events. 

You could also consider offering catering services for summer activities like picnics or birthday parties. This can provide an additional revenue stream for your cafe and help you reach new customers.

Pro Tip: Get in touch with your local tourism board to stay on top of upcoming events, and use their marketing power to drive more people to your cafe. And don't forget to let your existing customers know about the events you'll be attending via email or social media!

Make an Occasion of it

Whether it's a formal holiday like Labor Day or a more casual event like National Coffee Day, special occasions are a great way to bring people together and fill up your cafe.

You could offer a special menu item or drink inspired by a holiday, or host an event or promotion to celebrate the occasion. For example, some coffee shops offer free coffee in your own keep cup on World Earth Day.

Pro Tip: Take a look at your national food and drink calendar for the summer months.

Here’s a few to get you started:

• April 30th - National Bubble Tea Day
• May 13th - National Brunch for Lunch Day
• July 26th - National Coffee Milkshake Day
• September 29th - National Coffee Day
  
  

Welcome Furry Friends

Summer is the season for outdoor adventures, and many pet owners love to bring their furry friends along for the ride. Make your cafe pet-friendly to attract a new group of customers, who may not have considered your cafe before. Try adding some water bowls the outdoor area or offering pet-friendly treats on your menu. Pet owners will appreciate these simple touches and it might even earn you some user-generated content on socials. 

Stay Open Later

During the summer months, people stay out later enjoying the warmer weather and longer daylight hours. Consider extending your hours of operation, especially on the weekends, to capture that evening audience.

Don’t Forget to Tell Everyone!

Share pictures of your seasonal menu items, highlight your outdoor seating options, longer opening hours, and post about any special events or promotions that you're hosting. Encourage your customers to share their experiences on social media as well.