Even though temperatures will soon be rising, menu’s are diversifying and hot drinks are more important than ever to garden centre catering. Hot drinks, namely tea and coffee, are staple products consumed by nearly all potential consumers. The high levels of footfall in garden centres go together perfectly with levels of café sales which grow year on year. Whether as an add-on to a meal or to just have on their own whilst shopping, hot beverages are a vital additional revenue stream for a garden centres. From large families to couples and single customers visiting garden centres regularly, hot beverage sales are almost guaranteed a return on investment for the necessary drinks equipment.
In recent years, the hot drink market has innovated to the point where there’s option for everybody. This is especially the case with coffee. Including espressos; latte’s, cappuccinos, flavoured syrups and flat whites, there are now large enough varieties of servings, tastes and strengths to satisfy varied wants and needs amongst consumers.
Although hot drinks are traditionally thought of as a warm and cosy drink option for the cold Autumn and Winter months, approaches can still be taken to promote sales in the warmer seasons. This can involve utilising the seasonally attractive aspects of certain hot drinks.
A number of garden centres have introduced wider hot drinks selections. For example, ideal seasonal teas for Spring include fruit and herbal, green teas or chamomile. Being rich in vitamins and filled with deep yet light flavours, these options satisfy consumer tastes for more refreshing hot drinks, giving reason for customers consistently consume hot drinks even during the warmer months.
Staff training must be prioritised as well. No matter your equipment and hot drink menu selection, the importance of staff training should never be underestimated. In order to ensure efficiency and smooth day-to-day running of the premises, relevant staff members should be inducted into training towards operating all drink machines, product details and preparation methods. Prioritising training to all staff serving restaurant/café members guarantees maintenance of high service levels, which will in turn result in higher sales.
For the latest and best range of drink machines, disposable beverage supplies and all other manners of high quality catering equipment, be sure to visit our online store at www.Allianceonline.co.uk.
