TLDR

Okay, listen up fellow coffee shop owners. You know how Starbucks has that slick app that gets people to order and pay for their overpriced lattes without even talking to a barista? Well, it's time to fight back. Even though you use Square at the counter, you can still make your own amazing app. Don't let the tech stuff scare you. With some smart choices, you can get an app up and running that will be way better than the green mermaid's. One that will let your regulars order their usual, rack up rewards, and skip the line. An app that will keep them coming back to your shop instead of wandering down the block to the chain store. So let's talk about how you can make that happen, and take a stand for independent coffee shops everywhere.

The Starbucks App Is a Game Changer for Customer Loyalty

Let's be real - the Starbucks app is next level when it comes to keeping customers engaged and loyal to the brand. With over 16 million Starbucks Rewards members earning points and redeeming freebies, it's no wonder they're dominating the coffee shop game.

• Starbucks Rewards members can rack up points with every purchase which can then be redeemed for free drinks, food, and other perks. The more you spend, the more rewards you get. It incentivizes customers to keep coming back.
• The app also offers exclusive customized offers and birthday freebies, mobile order and pay ahead, and even the ability to send Starbucks gift cards to friends.
• Starbucks' loyalty program has transformed retail by driving higher frequency visits and increased overall customer engagement. Members visit Starbucks twice as often and spend three times more than non-members.

Rather than trying to beat Starbucks at their own game, use technology to provide a unique experience that plays to your strengths as an independent shop:

• Build an app that allows online ordering for pick up or delivery, integrating with your point of sale system. Offer loyalty points or discounts for app users.
• Create a community around your brand through the app - share content and events, highlight your unique culture and baristas.
• Use data collected in the app to offer personalized promotions and suggestions based on purchase history and preferences.

The key is leveraging technology to enhance the connection between your coffee shop and customers. Provide value that Starbucks can't replicate while staying true to what makes your business one-of-a-kind. An app that complements your brand can be a game changer for earning loyalty and driving sales.

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Enable higher order value and boost recurring orders with Panera-like Unlimited Coffee Subscriptions

• Panera Bread offers an $8.99 per month unlimited coffee subscription to increase breakfast traffic and loyalty program membership. Their subscription allows members to pay $11.99 per month or $119.99 per year for unlimited hot and cold drinks.
• You could consider offering something similar to boost customer loyalty and recurring revenue. For example, offer unlimited drip coffee and iced coffee for $X per month, or unlimited lattes and cappuccinos for a higher tier at $Y per month.
• Make it easy to sign up and use the subscription through your mobile app - new customers get a free trial period to experience the benefits. Existing rewards members get a discount.
• Send tailored offers like free add-ons or surprise treats to subscribers to delight and retain them. Track their purchase data to optimize the program.
• Subscription programs increase order frequency and average transaction size. Customers visit more often to "get their money's worth". Upselling additional food items is easier.
• Consider a two-tiered subscription like Pret A Manger in London does. The lower tier covers drip coffee and cold brew, while the premium tier includes espresso drinks and fresh juices.
• Make sure your costs are covered. You may limit the number of drinks per visit or impose a maximum ounce limit per drink to avoid abuse. But overall, subscriptions lead to higher customer lifetime value.

Build a Branded App in hours for Your Local Coffee Shop with Per Diem

Mobile apps are becoming more and more essential for coffee shops and cafes. With a custom branded app, you can offer mobile ordering, loyalty programs, deals, and help build your brand. But most small coffee shops don't have the time or budget to build a custom app from scratch.

That's where Per Diem comes in. Per Diem offers an easy way for coffee shops using Square POS to launch their own white label mobile app - customized with your logo, colors, photos, and menus - in just hours.

• Design your app yourself through their easy drag-and-drop builder. No coding needed!
• Integrates with your Square POS and DoorDash for mobile ordering.
• Engage customers with loyalty programs, deals, notifications and more.
• Costs just $99/month with no hidden fees. Way more affordable than custom development.

With Per Diem, you can have a polished, feature-rich branded app up and running almost instantly. No more missing out on revenue because you don't have mobile ordering. Give your customers the convenience they expect and help them order ahead for pickup or delivery.

An app from Per Diem allows you to:

• Take charge of your brand's mobile presence
• Offer mobile ordering and pay ahead pickup
• Build customer loyalty with rewards programs
• Send promotions and updates to customers
• Track analytics on app performance

Don't let the big chains beat you just because they have more tech resources. Level the playing field and boost your local shop's competitiveness with a custom branded app from Per Diem. You'll be surprised how quick and easy it is.

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Integrate Square Loyalty Features Into Your Coffee Shop App

• The Square Loyalty API allows you to build a custom coffee shop app that integrates loyalty features like your existing Square Loyalty program. This creates a more personalized branded experience for customers.
• Some features your coffee shop app could include:
• Allow customers to view point balances, redeem rewards, and track purchase history
• Send exclusive mobile offers and personalized promotions based on purchase data
• Integrate a digital loyalty card for easy access and scanning at checkout
• Provide special "challenges" or bonuses to encourage visits on slower days
• Your branded app offers advantages over the default Square Loyalty program:
• More opportunities to engage users with push notifications
• Tailored loyalty program rules and point structures
• Integrated social media and review prompts
• Menu updates, event promotions, and coffee shop news
• Make sure to follow Square Loyalty API guidelines for proper integration. Test thoroughly before launch.
• Encourage app downloads by promoting it in-store with signs, table tents, and staff mentioning it. Offer an incentive for first-time users.
• A custom-built app provides a more seamless experience for your loyal customers compared to a third-party solution. It enables you to extend your brand into people's pockets.

FAQs: How Can a Small Coffee Shop Compete With the Starbucks App?

As a small, independent coffee shop, you may feel like you're at a disadvantage compared to Starbucks and their popular mobile app. But don't be intimidated! Here are some tips to help your shop compete:

• Offer an app or loyalty program of your own. Many point-of-sale systems like Square have tools to create your own loyalty program and app. Offer rewards like free drinks to bring customers back frequently.
• Focus on quality, not quantity. Perfect your signature drinks and brewing methods. Train staff to provide excellent customer service. Starbucks may be big, but you can be better.
• Get to know your regulars by name and their usual orders. Make people feel special and like your shop is an extension of their home.
• Support local causes and partners. Highlight your connections to local farms, bakeries etc. Let people feel good about supporting a local business.
• Offer unique seasonal specials and limited-edition drinks. Get creative with recipes and ingredients!
• Invest in your cafe's ambiance and design. Make your shop an Instagram-worthy destination.

At the end of the day, you don't need to copy Starbucks. Play to your strengths as a small business to connect with customers in your community.

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Final Thoughts

You can see how having your own mobile app keeps customers loyal and coming back. It's more convenient for them and helps you build a relationship. Even a small coffee shop can compete with the big chains by using technology to connect with customers. So don't let the fear of developing an app hold you back. There are easy and affordable ways to create one that works for your business. Getting started is the hardest part. But once you take that first step, you'll be on your way to offering an experience that goes beyond great coffee and food. Your customers will appreciate your innovation. And you'll reap the rewards of higher sales and a stronger bond with your community.