Running Your Business Archives

4 Ways to Make Your Coffeeshop Unique

February 16, 2024

Caffeine is found in coffee, espresso, and tea. It is a popular substance consumed by millions of people as it is a natural stimulant. Millions of people drink coffee and tea as it can improve alertness, reduce fatigue, and improve concentration. Above all of the benefits, millions of people stop by coffeeshops daily to get their daily dose. However, coffeeshops are more than just stops to grab some coffee or tea. They are often a ritual in the morning for many people, making getting up early for a busy day a fun little treat. Below, you will find the top 4 ways to make your coffeeshop unique.

4 Ways to Make Your Coffeeshop Unique

With so many coffeeshop chains, it’s advantageous to set your coffeeshop apart from the rest. Consider the following ways to make your coffeeshop unique and a staple in your community.

Start With Your Products:

Offer a menu that fits the needs of your community. Having staple drinks in addition to your own unique offerings can bring in a wide range of customers. Start small and get a grasp on creating a consistent product. This will inevitably keep people coming back as they can count on your drinks. Slowly grow your menu based on the customer demand. Seasonal drinks can also be a great addition, as they can keep people wanting more every time they come out. To ensure you can meet the demands of your consumers, invest in quality commercial coffee equipment. This can help with consistency and providing the very best product.

Prioritize Customer Service:

In many areas, customer service is a major issue. Polite baristas who cater to the needs of customers are critical for business. In fact, poor customer service can often impact customer retention even if you offer a great product. Treating every customer with respect is critical no matter how much they are spending. This is because each customer adds up, especially because coffeeshop patrons often return multiple times each week. Taking care of your customers is critical to ensuring your coffeeshop stays in business and stands apart from the rest.

Create A Connection:

It is critical to understand the community you are in. There is a huge difference between a coffeeshop in the finance district and one in the arts district. Even more different is a coffeeshop in a small town. Consider your customers and the area you are in. Create an emotional connection based on their needs. If you have a lot of families coming in, make sure your coffeeshop is family-friendly and ensures there is something for kids on the menu. However, if your coffeeshop is in the financial district of a large city, create a space that is workable for those with laptops. Add greenery, comfortable chairs, and extra outlets. Offering food can also be helpful as many people may stay for a while to get work done in the space. Create a connection to keep your customers coming back over and over again.

Offer Unique Evening Events:

Most of the time, coffeeshops are busy in morning and early afternoon. Caffeine is necessary right away when people wake up, and once they hit that afternoon slump. To ensure your coffeeshop can keep the doors open all day, offer unique evening events. Live music, unique drinks, and a good vibe can do wonders for your coffee shop. Work with local community leaders and artists to curate a great schedule. This can be weekly or monthly, depending on the demand and needs of the community. Work with a beverage equipment supplier to ensure you have your bases covered when it comes to drinks during the event. Use this as an opportunity to provide something to the community and to capture new customers.

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Is It Time to Replace Your Ice Maker Machine?

December 22, 2023

There is nothing quite like a cold beverage filled with refreshing ice. Whether it’s a Coke or even water, nothing quite compares to fresh ice. Ice machines are a necessary part of every commercial kitchen. They can enhance the beverages you offer but they do require regular maintenance. A quality ice machine can last over a decade or more if taken care of. Is it time to replace your ice maker machine? Below, you will find helpful tips to determine the quality of your current ice machine.

Is It Time to Replace Your Ice Maker Machine?

There are a number of signs that indicate it’s time to get a new ice machine. Serving quality ice is important as it can dramatically improve a drink. If you notice any of the following, consider purchasing a new ice machine in the near future.

Poor Ice Quality:

A working ice machine should produce consistent and quality ice. This includes the shape, appearance, and taste. If you notice changes in the quality of ice the machine produces, it can be a sign of internal problems. Ice maker machines require regular maintenance, so examine the issue as soon as it arises.

Reduced Production:

Changes in the amount of ice produced indicate potential issues. If you regularly maintain and clean your ice machine, the production issue could be due to natural wear and tear. Before you replace the machine, clean the machine properly. If the issue persists, contact a beverage equipment supplier for a new ice machine.

Slime Buildup:

It’s necessary to clean your ice machine regularly. If you don’t clean the machine, it can easily impact the quality of ice. Slime buildup can produce cloudy ice that has a yellow or green tint. This is not only unsightly, but it can also be a health hazard. People with weakened immune systems can get really sick from contaminated ice. If this buildup has occurred for too long, it’s time to replace your ice machine to reduce the risk of illness in patrons.

Mineral Deposits:

Local water companies are responsible for removing contaminants from the water. However, they only remove the ones that are harmful to human health. Other minerals left over can impact the quality of your ice. Most often, mineral deposits lead to ice that looks cloudy and has a smelly taste. Excess mineral deposits can impact the quality of your ice and your business. Consider purchasing a new ice machine and regularly cleaning and managing it for optimal ice production.

Old Machine:

Older machines may malfunction and require new parts. This can be difficult to address as older machines may have obsolete parts. If you are struggling with an older ice machine, despite regular maintenance and cleaning, it may be time to replace it. Starting fresh can be beneficial for your business. New ice machines require less maintenance than older machines. They are also less likely to break down due to wear and tear.

The Importance of Quality Ice

Americans are known for their obsession with ice. Quality ice that is refreshing and satisfying is something people desire and prioritize when choosing a place to eat. Quality ice significantly improves soft drinks, cocktails, and even water. They also maintain the temperature of the drink so it stays cold for your entire meal. Due to the importance of ice to patrons, it’s important to ensure you serve quality ice. Serving quality ice starts with an ice machine that delivers. Getting a new ice machine can be a great investment in your business. Continue to clean and maintain your ice machine regularly for the best results.

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How Often to Service Ice Makers

June 20, 2023

If you run any kind of food and beverage service company, you know how important it is to make people’s drinks right. The most important ingredient that you absolutely can’t forget when someone is looking for a cool beverage on a hot day? The ice! Your ice maker is also your money maker, as it is the key to total customer satisfaction. So, let’s see how often to service ice makers.

How Often to Service Ice Makers

Today, your Southern California beverage company professionals have written up a quick guide to show you how often to service ice makers, what industry tips to use to make your ice machines last longer, and a few other tips.

Diagnosing and Cleaning Your Machines

Even if everything seems to be working properly, there could still be a chance that your ice machine is getting a little worse for wear. There are a few sure-fire symptoms that make it clear it’s time for some maintenance. Is your ice machine is getting slow to harvest ice? Or does not regularly enter harvesting mode like it’s supposed to? Then you need to troubleshoot your device right away. Similarly, noticing a low capacity for ice or incomplete ice cubes being produced can also indicate that it’s time to get into some repairs.

Ice Machine Cleaning Tips

Depending on the type of damage or problem your ice machine is facing, different repair solutions are available. Here are some tips that can help you get into the habit of performing regular maintenance and noticing issues early before more arise:

Always follow the instructions attached to your ice maker manual.
You should clean your ice machines at least every 6 months, if not more frequently.
Any ice that is made while cleaning the device should be thrown out so it doesn’t risk the spread of chemicals.
Make sure to wear safety gear when you clean your ice machine to prevent contamination.
Make sure all parts of the machine are turned off and unplugged before you start your repairs!

Have you noticed a major problem with your ice machine? Perhaps such as a reduction in water quality or even a leak? Then you might want to get in touch with a professional repairman. Industrial beverage pros can help you further diagnose and fix issues with your ice machine before you need a total replacement.

Cleaning Regulations and Requirements

It’s not just a good idea to clean your ice makers regularly; it’s also the law. Ice is categorized as a food according to the FDA, so the same sanitation laws must apply to it. You must be careful when handling ice, just as you would be careful when handling food. This is why it is so important to maintain a regular cleaning schedule for your ice machines; otherwise, being unsanitary will be the least of your problems.

The longer you wait to repair your ice machine, the more likely it is that it will develop problems. These can include dangerous mold, slime, or sludge that can come out when ice is harvested. This creates extremely dangerous conditions for anyone using the ice machine in any capacity. If your machine is not working properly, you should reach out to a professional right away – don’t wait.

Get the Best Ice Maker Management with SC Bev

It can be difficult to find reliable and professional ice maker management on your own, but your Southern California Beverage Company experts are here to help. If you need some assistance handling your ice machines. Or you need to diagnose and repair some issues with your ice system. So, don’t hesitate to reach out to us ASAP. We can save you tons of time, health, and legal issues by properly restoring your machines before they are broken beyond repair.

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How to Save Energy on Ice Makers

December 27, 2022

Commercial ice machines are one of the most draining expenses that come from any commercial restaurant or bar company. In order to learn how to save energy on ice makers, retailers typically need to invest in expensive and next-generation tech. But, thankfully, our SC Beverage Company experts can show you how to save energy on ice makers in an affordable and accessible way. Depending on the type of ice maker you are invested in, you can easily reduce energy usage and increase your efficiency in the best ways. Below, find out how to keep your ice maker as productive as the rest of your business without skipping a beat.

How to Save Energy on Ice Makers

Learn About Electrical Usage

When first installing your ice machine, you have to meet a series of requirements in order to successfully implement your device. There needs to be ample space for the machine as well as a proper method of drainage, all while ensuring that it can stay connected to your water line. Ice machines can be difficult to set up on their own, especially when so many elements of installation can determine their energy efficiency.

Setting it up the wrong way is bound to incur some extra costs that can bleed your company without you even knowing about it. If the machine is set up the wrong way, it could cause you to be using up a lot more energy than is necessary. You can get in touch with an ice machine technician to help you properly install the machine and avoid excess energy usage.

Maintain Ice Machine Efficiency

There are a few things you can do on an active basis to ensure that your ice machine is energy-efficient. For instance, you can clean the ice machine filters every two weeks to ensure they aren’t getting clogged up. Always close the lid of the ice storage box when you aren’t using it. This will ensure that cold does not escape – which could cause excess use of energy. Maybe you still have trouble managing all of these maintenance needs on your own. Then you can get in touch with a professional cleaner to have your machine regularly maintained. This can help you avoid constant machine breakdowns and costly repairs that can put you out of business quicker than you’d know it.

Learn the Energy Star Program

The EPA has set up an Energy Star program to measure the efficiency of different electrical machines. This program alone has saved business owners over $430 billion in energy prices, pushing the importance of efficient machines. It remains important to invest in an ice machine that has won an EPA award. Also ensure it remains enrolled in the Energy Star Program. The best ice machine models will show at least 15% more energy efficiency and water efficiency. Compared to other ice machine models. These are small ways to reduce water and electricity usage that can save you hundreds. If not thousands of dollars on your energy bill every month.

Learn More About Ice Maker Equipment with SC Beverage

The right ice maker can help your restaurant business run incredibly efficiently. It frees up your time to spend on other business operations. Do you want a top-notch ice maker equipment to sustain your bustling bar business? You can get in touch with our professional ice machine techs at any time to invest in more machinery. We offer top-of-the-line Los Angeles ice machines and bar equipment that you can depend on for years to come. Partner with one of our agents today and get set up with a regular installation and maintenance schedule. Together, these can help your company thrive.

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Can Ice Machines Get Mold?

June 16, 2022

The environment created by your ice machine may seem formidable to you, but it’s an absolute paradise for mold. In order to keep mold in check, it is important to completely clean out your commercial ice maker at least once every six months. So can ice machines get mold?

Can Ice Machines Get Mold?

If you prepare any food within 10-15 feet of your ice machine, then you should step up cleanings to once every three months to be safe.

How Do You Clean a Commercial Ice Machine?

Cleaning your commercial ice makers in Los Angeles is a bit of a hassle. Unless you have somewhere to store enough extra ice to last for the entire day, you should only clean your ice machine after closing. When your ice maker is due for a cleaning, plan on having one employee spend about an hour cleaning.

Step 1: Empty the Ice

The first step is to completely empty your ice machine of ice. You will likely have to dispose of this ice down the sink unless you have another ice machine that can hold it. If there is any mold in your ice machine, then you should dispose of the ice regardless.

Step 2: Address Problem Areas

If you do see mold, then you will want to address those areas first. You can either create a 20/80 chlorine and water mixture, or you can buy one premixed. For safety reasons, it is often better to buy the premixed solution.

Spray the areas where you see mold and let it sit for a few moments. Wipe the surface down with a clean towel. Rinse the towel thoroughly and wipe down the surface again to help remove residual chlorine.

Step 3: Deep Cleaning

Once you’ve removed mold, slime, and other problem spots, it’s time for the deep clean. In a clean spray bottle, you can combine a mixture of mild dish soap and water. Spray down the interior of the basket, scoop, exterior, and any other parts that you can safely clean.

Once the solution has been sprayed over the area where you are working, wipe down the area with a clean, damp towel. Rinsing the towel and wiping a second time may be necessary if there is still residue present.

Step 4: Allow Your Ice Machine to Resume Making Ice

Cleaning your ice maker after closing gives the machine ample time to refill overnight. While you may choose to clean the machine before opening or during a slow day, you should know that it will be several hours before you have enough ice to keep up even if traffic is slow.

How Do You Prevent Mold Growth?

Obviously, mold can grow pretty fast, and you don’t want to be constantly cleaning your ice maker. Other than maintaining a regular cleaning schedule, there are three other steps you can take to reduce the risk of mold growth.

Replace Air Filters Clean:

Mold needs moisture and food to thrive. Clean air filters are far less likely to let through particles that mold can feed on. To learn more about your air filters and their maintenance, contact your beverage company and ask about your particular model.

Use an Ozone Generator:

While it isn’t necessary, an ozone generator can help to keep your ice maker more sterile in between cleanings. It’s an option that may be worthwhile if you’re struggling to keep mold at bay.

Maintain Your Machine Regularly:

Cleaning is important, but so is regular maintenance. Peruse your user manual to learn more about the model’s maintenance schedule and potential problem areas. If you no longer have your manual, contact the manufacturer.

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