Coffee is one of the most popular beverages throughout the world. It is relatively cheap; it can boost one’s energy levels and increase serotonin levels. For people who desire to open a coffee shop, this beverage is not only a drink but a passion. However, in modern times, when there are Starbucks and other popular shops, getting a solid clientele for someone new can be challenging. Therefore, this essay will discuss the possible differentiation strategies for my coffee shop in monopolistic competition conditions.
First, the most obvious way to differentiate my coffee shop from the rest is to create exclusive products to sell. One is encouraged to find unusual tastes and particularly blend them to stand out. Exciting options are the main reason clients will return to one’s coffee shop. The same can apply to the food choices; they need to be exclusive to attract consumers into one’s specific coffee shop. For example, while Starbucks or other shops sell blueberry muffins or croissants, one should try to sell vegan-friendly breakfast sandwiches of local production with great taste and a singular appearance. Instead of selling tons of chocolate-flavored additions to the coffee, an individual shop should try to incorporate seasonal dishes such as a pumpkin spice coffee cake.
However, the flavors are hard to choose from, thus, it is essential to involve other people in the process. For example, by asking customers about their needs, one would be more distinct from the other coffee shops, which tend to add new extensions to the menu without asking what their clientele thinks (Kim & Lee, 2017). Once the customer and their opinion are valued, one can assure that their coffee shop will gain more popularity.
Furthermore, once the menu is created and is as distinct as possible with the finest quality, it is time to provide an exciting addition to the shop. For example, the coffee shop needs to have its own aesthetic. It has to be unique but not too insane and cozy for the customers. The décor should arrange a place to take pictures, work as a freelancer, and maybe some distinct additions to fit in the aesthetic and present something special that aligns with the customer’s interests. While live music could be too expensive for a starting business, the inclusion can be more straightforward, such as board games for the customers to enjoy or a take one/leave one bookshelf to encourage reading. The small extension can work wonders in business because the customers are more likely to share their unique experiences on their social media or tell their friends about the place, which will boost the company’s success.
To conclude, there are various ways to make one’s business uncommon, even when the competition is overwhelming. It would be wiser to become more distinct from the rest of the coffee shops and create exclusive blends of coffee, new tasty additions to the drinks. It is equally fundamental to add a creative, aesthetical décor with a little extra to the coffee shop to attract newcomers and make loyal customers happy. For the people who desire to open a coffee shop, coffee is something that evokes their passion, which is why it is crucial to pour one’s soul into their shop and make it unique. This would create a distinctive aftertaste of one’s coffee shop that would attract more customers each day.
Reference
Kim, S.-H., & Lee, S. (2017). Promoting customers’ involvement with service brands: Evidence from coffee shop customers.Journal of Services Marketing, 31(7), 733–744. Web.