Marketing Your Cuppy’s Coffee Mobile Unit

Marketing Strategies

Here are some helpful guidelines for making your Cuppy’s Coffee mobile unit more profitable.

• Make your mobile unit visible!
  • Wind Socks on top of your unit provide height and movement.
  • Don’t forget to place A-Frame signs in front of your unit. Purchase A-Frame attachments from specialtycoffeecoop.com. Pictures sell drinks and encourage impulse purchases.
  • Determine and negotiate a prime location at the event (near entrance, etc.)

• Opt for events that have low or no fees for participation.
  • Event fees vary but a good rule of thumb is to try to keep your entry fees below $300.
  • Watch out for large deposits.
  • Don’t forget to pay attention to percentages of gross sales fees that some events charge.
  • Ask your local high schools if you can work their events in exchange for donating 10% – 15% of your gross sales to the school’s athletic program.

• Attend more local events.
  • Events that are within driving distance allow you to cut costs by not paying for accommodations and traveling.

• Offer other concession items.
  • Examples: Bottled Water, Chips, Muffins, Cookies, Candy, etc.
    • Make sure items won’t melt or expire when exposed to sun.
  • Hanging baskets are good storage options because it displays product and minimizes space.

• Pass out half off smoothie coupons with smoothie samples during slow times.
  • Other big sellers you can use for samples are:
    • Mochaccinos
    • Frozen Hot Chocolates

Helpful Hints from the Frontline

• Work efficiently by having one person work your register while another person makes your customers drinks.
  • Your mobile unit increases profits because you deliver quality products quickly.
• You should try to pace yourself to produce at least 4 espresso shots per minute.
• Don’t forget to prepare mixes for frozen drinks.
• Buy an ice machine that filters water and keep it at your house to save costs.
• Security tip: Don’t forget to inventory.
  • Count cups before and after events.
  • Keep a waste sheet for materials that are thrown away.