Choose the right location – The importance of location for your café
Imagine this: You've created the perfect café concept. But the location is out of place, and you risk your café becoming like a hidden treasure – never to be found. The location is your café's calling card, and this is where the customer flow starts.
What should you look for?
First and foremost: Who are your customers and where are they? This is where your target audience analysis comes into play. If your café caters to students, consider areas close to universities, libraries or dormitories. If you are targeting tourists, you can look for locations near attractions or traffic hubs.
The perfect spot
The perfect spot isn’t just about what looks good on paper. It’s also about the vibe of the area. Is there a lot of foot traffic? Does the area have the right vibe for your concept? For example, a petanque café with outdoor seating would love a location near a park, while a book café would thrive in quiet areas with intellectual vibes.
Also consider your competitors. It can be tempting to avoid areas with lots of cafes, but remember: Competition can create a “cafe cluster effect,” where customers know they can always find something to suit everyone’s tastes.
Visibility and accessibility
It doesn't help that your café is located in the most beautiful surroundings if customers can't find it. Make it easy for people to see your café. A wide facade with large windows can act as a 24-hour advertising pillar, and signage on busy streets can entice passersby in.
A café in Copenhagen strategically positioned itself on a corner lot and took advantage of the many passing cyclists to advertise their fresh morning coffee. The result? A steady stream of regular customers.
Rent – your best friend or enemy
Rent is often the biggest fixed expense, and it needs to make sense in relation to the café's potential. An expensive address can be worth it if the customer flow is large enough. But be realistic: If rent eats up all your earnings, things can quickly turn sour.
Also consider renovation and interior design costs. If a venue already has an approved kitchen or outdoor dining options, you can save a lot of money in the start-up phase.
Think about the future
When choosing your location, you should also consider how the area will develop. Are there plans for new construction that could increase traffic? Or do you risk the area losing its appeal?
One last tip: Walk around the area at different times of the day and week. Observe who is there. Where do they go? And how will your café fit into their lives?
Ready to find the perfect place?
The location may seem like a jungle, but with the right considerations you can find a place that matches your dream. If you need advice or inspiration, contact Cosina on 42613995 or info@cosina.dk . We will help you find cafe equipment and furniture that fits perfectly into your new place.
