Don’t Just Brew, Improve: 5 Ways to Audit Your C-Store Coffee

Here are 5 key areas for convenience store owner/operators to examine their coffee programs:

Taste Test and Quality Check:
- Conduct regular taste tests of all coffee offerings, including drip coffee, specialty beverages, and any seasonal or promotional items.
- Evaluate the freshness and quality of beans, milk, and other ingredients.
- Make sure brewing equipment is clean and functioning correctly.
Variety and Customization Audit:
- Review the range of coffee options offered.
- Assess the availability of flavor modifications, milk alternatives, and other add-ons.
- Analyze customer feedback and sales data to identify popular and unpopular items.
Speed and Efficiency Evaluation:
- Time the average customer wait time during peak hours.
- Evaluate the efficiency of brewing equipment and self-serve options.
- Assess the layout and flow of the coffee station.
Cleanliness and Presentation Inspection:
- Inspect the cleanliness of the coffee station, including brewing equipment, condiment areas, and surrounding surfaces.
- Evaluate the organization and attractiveness of the presentation, including signage and displays.
- Ensure adequate supplies of cups, lids, and other necessities.
Customer Feedback and Loyalty Program Analysis:
- Collect and analyze customer feedback from surveys, online reviews, and social media.
- Track participation and redemption rates in loyalty programs.
- Assess the effectiveness of promotions and special offers.

The coffee landscape is ever-evolving, so continuous evaluation is key. Use these five factors as a starting point. You’ll be well on the way to building a thriving and successful convenience store coffee program.