Starbucks vs. the Indie Coffee Shop – Let’s see how one such shop compares – Farmhouse Coffee of Northeastern Georgia . Here are some interesting results.
FARMHOUSE COFFEE – The Local Indie Coffee Shop
Address: 3 Courthouse Square, Cleveland, GA 30528
Local Indie Coffee Shops Are ON THE RISE
Starbucks’ recent forecast is not favorable with its shares sinking 12%, a surprising decline in same-store sales, and falling traffic. Conversely, Indie Coffee Shops are on the rise all over America, in small towns, as well as, big cities.
One such indie Coffee Shop is Farmhouse Coffee. As Starbucks is experiencing an overall slowdown in sales and growth, Farmhouse continues to grow and expand. Farmhouse started as a small corner store on the Town Square of Cleveland, Georgia. Some would call it a ‘box’ location and it truly has little more space than a box. Yet, on any given day, you will see a line forming for their local brew.
Advantages of the Local Indie Coffee Shop
Inside this adorable ‘box’ that is Farmhouse Coffee you will find an incredibly delicious and satisfying ‘Cup of Joe’ that is locally roasted, and now distributed to two additional Farmhouse Coffee locations, and a Coffee Trailer that can be rented for special events.
Another area that Farmhouse wins hands-down over Starbucks is its local vibe, atmosphere and approach. Being a rural area, the Farmhouse name is easily identified and appreciated by the local culture. The atmosphere they have created takes its vibe from the local surroundings. Tell me, what kind of vibe does Starbucks have in their local Grocery store locations? How can you even call it a vibe?!
The Local Indie Coffee Shop Vibe
Atmosphere used to be associated with the Starbucks experience. First, it was their coffee. But, it was the experience and atmosphere of their stores that made you want to come back for more. It was the Starbucks magic formula that made you a regular. Well… we contend that Starbucks has lost its footing. They have certainly fallen short on creating the experience. Hence, people are not coming back.
One might even say that customers have found the real thing. Coffee that is of the same quality, or even better. Better, but how can that be? Well my dear coffee lover, because it is quality from farm to cup. All under the control and care of a local owner who also cares about the community and culture… because they live in it. It is their home.
Entrepreneurial Heart Wins
Independent businesses are the entrepreneurial beating heart of small town America. While Starbucks has chosen to open locations in local grocery stores, the thriving Indie Coffee Shop Movement is opening ever more interesting local shops that pick up on the vibe of the area, its people, and locations that attract customers.
How Do They Do It?
- Baristas that know what they’re doing & care
- Lines because the locals love it
- Adorable farmhouse vibe that reflects the area
- Brand is tied into the state / region / culture of the area it’s located in
- Exceptionally clean, locals keep an eye on every aspect
- Owner is local, cares, and is fully involved in the day to day operation of the shop
- Local baked goods products are sold through partnership of owners working together for the good of both
- There is a pride of being locally owned and operated
- The Baristas take ownership of their craft under a ‘family’ business approach
Check out Farmhouse Coffee 2 New Locations – Bigger than a ‘Box’
Gainesville, Georgia
Address: 118 Jesse Jewell Pkwy SE Ste 100, Gainesville, GA 30501 (Historic Downtown Gainesville, Georgia)
Demorest, Georgia
Address: 551 Georgia St, Demorest, GA 30535 (On Campus in Piedmont University)
Farmhouse Coffee Trailer – Rent anytime, by any one, anywhere. Inquire with owners, Stephen and Marilyn Martin on details of rental. Check dates on this link to their calendar: https://bit.ly/fhctrailerevent
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