Flash Flavours

Most cafe owners know they are dealers in a low priced legal drug, and that there is a constant stream of customers who have made their cafe a part of their daily grind. I say this with the deep respect that is due to such an important relationship, with many very close relationships being built and re-enforced one cup at a time over years. This is the essential dynamic of cafe service. I wanted to introduce a really effective way of expanding on ‘the usual’ experience, and one that both cafe owners, staff and patrons can enjoy and benefit from.

The Flash Flavour!

A special beverage designed to be featured for a short period of time, with features that are appealing, with a call to try.

This is an introduced disruption to normal service that from a cafes point of view shows virtuosity, attention to new trends, commercial opportunity and variety.

“The call out of a small blackboard between customer and register is hard to miss and starts discussions as well as getting orders. .”

There are many examples of flash flavour types of drink. My personal favourite right now is the turmeric latte, as we are getting into warmer weather or an iced turmeric latte, as they are on trend, visually spectacular, are easier to make than coffee, sell for more than coffee and are good for you! But it can be anything from a lavender matcha latte to a cinnamon cold brew. Which ever flash flavour you choose, the key is to feature it.

The call out of a small blackboard between customer and register is hard to miss and starts discussions as well as getting orders. Table talkers and images showing the drink also makes a big difference, and by way of example putting a bottle of the Turmeric elixir on the front counter generates high interest and orders. When all staff are involved, they talk up the features of the drink and also the inspiration of where it came from. You must also post the Flash Flavour images on Instagram and Facebook and watch them come through the door….

exceed the customers expectations. People are always looking for new experiences (that’s just how it is these days), if they don’t get new from you, they will find it elsewhere, and they might just make that their new usual. Being curious about new drink (and food) trends gets your mind out of your café and into the global market, even if you only go there on your laptop at night (pinterest new drink options for cafes as a starter). You can also ask suppliers what they recommend. I know here at Alchemy HQ we get lots of enquiry about ways to offer our beverage bases.

Many café owners say they are quite isolated in their outlet and things are changing rapidly out there. Your curiosity will lead you to the future trends and your customers will come along with you. It is very energising to have a creative project, and even better to bring your research into your café and customers. Flash flavours can be seasonal, or available a different times of the day, depending on your demographic, so having an easy to deploy sign ensures that the till starts ringing with extra revenue as soon as you flash out your flavour.