Blank Street Coffee ☕️
“Great coffee should not come at a premium.”
As a coffee shop enthusiast and former barista, I'm always on the lookout for innovative coffee shops that offer a unique experience. Blank Street Coffee is one such coffee shop that has reimagined what a coffee shop should be for a new generation of coffee drinkers. Their brainstorming sessions led to three significant must-haves that set them apart from the rest.
If you’re wondering, how does a small company offer amazing coffee that’s affordable and accessible, without compromising on quality or barista experience? Founders Issam and Vinay (Ice and Vin), decided to answer this as coffee lovers turned entrepreneurs.
Starting Small — Blank Street Coffee's first locations were operating solely out of battery-powered carts, serving coffee out of a 5 x 10 foot space. They kept their locations much smaller, on average, half the size of the average NYC coffee shop, without skimping on culture. Over time, they added more locations to include coffee windows and underutilized spaces, bringing Blank Street Coffee closer to where customers are.
Getting Efficient — The coffee shop's investment in technology sets them apart from others. They use automated espresso machines that pull consistent coffee each time, allowing their baristas to be more interactive and build relationships with customers. Their app lets customers order in advance, streamlining their experience. They also outsource their milk and pastries to top-of-the-line vendors, enabling them to focus on their coffee.
Barista Investment — Blank Street Coffee's team is their defining factor, which is why they invest in their baristas. They work with skilled baristas and general managers that create the Blank Street culture. The coffee shop offers benefits such as mental health support, specific promotion paths, and opportunities to work in their headquarters. Nearly half of their baristas have been referred by their existing team. Their talents touch the shops, training programs, content, and establish who they are and what their values should be. The happiness of their team and customers are crucial for the Blank Street experience.
In conclusion, Blank Street Coffee has redefined the coffee shop experience for a new generation of coffee drinkers. Their focus on smaller locations, technology, and investment in their baristas has set them apart from the rest. As a customer, I appreciate the effort Blank Street Coffee puts into creating a unique and memorable coffee experience.
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