How To Turn Cafe Customers Into Regulars – Top Tips

Everyone knows that in business it’s regular work that keeps the money coming in and pays the bills and it’s the same for cafes. But how do you not only get visitors through your door but also turn cafe customers into regulars?

In essence, there are 4 main types of customers and we’re going to discuss a few ploys to help turn them into regulars. So, let’s jump in and take a closer look at each type of customer and hoe to turn them into regular visitors.

# 1 Rush hour visitors

Have you noticed that most people adopt a set routine when making their way to the office? You probably pass by the same people yourself. Part of this routine may also include calling into the same cafe each day for a coffee. So how do you make sure yours is the chosen cafe?

For this group of cafe customers to turn into regulars, the main criteria are a good cup of coffee, pleasant surroundings and speedy service.

First impressions count so make sure it’s a good one by greeting them with a friendly smile and a “good morning”. Be attentive and make sure their coffee is served to their liking and that they’re not kept waiting for long and chances are they’ll return next morning.

Over time, you’ll get to find out if they prefer to take away their coffee or whether they like to take a seat and enjoy their caffeine injection while they catch up on the daily news. Either way make sure you always greet them with a friendly smile, remember how they like their coffee, and deliver it promptly.

#2 Freelancers

These are the people who choose to work for themselves at hours that suit and who also like to think of their local cafe as their office. Be sure you have at least one communal dining table with plenty of outlets for plugging in laptops and charging up phones, plus a fast internet connection. As well as providing healthy food and beverage options, why not consider a loyalty card for those that frequently stay for several hours at a time. Be sure, too, that your chairs are comfortable and offer support for the back and that there is sufficient space on the tables for their equipment.

#3 Families

Women on maternity leave and young mums or dads with toddlers often find enjoyment in escaping the house to meet up with other people in similar positions. By providing all they need to keep them entertained, this is an easy group of cafe customers to turn into regulars. 

We’re thinking of squishy sofas and tub chairs, highchairs for infants and a kid’s area equipped with Lego, play dough and colouring books and crayons. You could also provide a microwave where a baby’s bottle could be warmed up and where possible, baby changing facilities. Make families feel welcome and they’ll come back for more.

#4 Passers-by

Naturally, if a person is in the area for just one day they may call into a cafe for a one time only visit. Nevertheless, it makes sense to ensure that your cafe stands out for all the right reasons so that even if it’s only the once, it’s your cafe that a passer-by chooses.

To attract passers-by make sure that:

• Your signage is attractive and noticeable
• Your windows are clean so that customers can see inside
• Any outdoor furniture is in tip-top condition
• Your menu is clearly displayed as are any specials you may be offering

Another ploy to turn cafe customers into regulars is to have a good online presence as often people research before visiting an area so they know where to go to find a pleasant welcoming cafe. Make sure your website and social media sites are regularly updated and represent your brand.

So, there you have it. Ways to turn cafe customers into regulars.

Just keep in mind who your customers are and make sure they have a good experience when they visit you. In case you need some new cafe furniture then look no further. At Cafe Furniture Melbourne we stock an extensive range of quality indoor and outdoor furniture at affordable prices. As well as an online store we also have a Melbourne showroom where you can try before buying.