Name: Leonardo Wilson Occupation: Small business owner (cafe owner) Country: Canada
Name: Leonardo Wilson
Occupation: Small business owner (cafe owner)
Country: Canada
City: Toronto
Problem:
I run a small cafe in Toronto, but business has been going downhill in recent years. Large chain cafes are taking customers away from small businesses like ours. Since COVID-19, people’s shopping habits have changed, with many people turning to online delivery, which has led to a drop in our sales. How can I save my business and bring people back to my cafe?
Askly Help's advice:
Effective strategies to sustain a small cafe business
It has become really difficult for small businesses to survive in the current competitive market, especially with the dominance of big chain cafes. But it is not impossible! With the right strategy, you can not only survive your cafe, but also make it more popular. Let's see how it is possible.
1. Turn your cafe into a distinct brand
Instead of trying to compete with the big brands, offer something that will set you apart. For example:
✅ Promoting local or organic coffee
✅ Handmade or special customized coffees and desserts
✅ A comfortable and warm environment where people can sit, work or chat
Promote your cafe as not just a "coffee shop," but as a place to create an experience.
2. Create a "Community Hub"
Make your shop a community spot to attract people to the cafe. How to do it?
📌 Host exhibitions or music nights for local artists
📌 Start a book club for book lovers
📌 Host open mic nights, poetry readings, or small workshops
Those who come to these events will become regular customers of your cafe.
3. Be active on social media and use digital marketing
Many cafes don’t prioritize online marketing, but it can be very effective. Some key strategies:
📷 Post attractive photos on Instagram and Facebook (of the coffee, the food, and the cafe atmosphere)
🎥 Share short videos of making coffee on TikTok or YouTube
📢 Announce special discounts or offers for followers
4. Launch special offers for customers
✅ Loyalty Program : Buy 5 coffees and get the 6th coffee free
✅ Discounts for students or working professionals
✅ "Bring a Friend" Offer : Get a discount when you bring a new customer
5. Launch online delivery
Since many people are now accustomed to ordering online, consider Uber Eats, DoorDash, or your own delivery service. Add cakes, snacks, or light meals to make people want to order more, not just coffee.
6. Improve the atmosphere inside the cafe
People now come to cafes not just for the coffee, but also for the cozy and warm atmosphere. Make sure of a few things:
☕ Quiet and comfortable seating
💡 Good lighting and artistic decoration
🎶 Light and pleasant background music
7. Build local collaboration
Collaborate with other small businesses in your area. For example—
🥖 Sell products from a local bakery
🎨 Give local artists an opportunity to exhibit their art
📢 Partner with a local office or co-working space (so they can use your cafe for meetings or work)
8. Improve customer service
Making a customer feel special is one of the biggest tricks to getting them back to your business. Make sure to—
💬 Remember your customers' names
😊 Greet them with a warm and friendly smile
🎁 Give small gifts or discounts on special days (birthdays or anniversaries)
Last words
It's tough for small businesses to survive in today's market, but it's possible to succeed if you take the right steps. Turn your cafe into a special experience, not just a coffee shop. Stay connected to your community, take advantage of digital marketing, and provide the best customer service—that's how you can get your business back on track.
Good luck with your endeavors! ☕🌟