Should We Change Coffee Bean Supplier?

[usahw1011]

Hello,
I own a coffee shop, and I have several questions. This cafe has been selling Intelligentsia coffee for a good 2 years now since it opened. I'm considering whether I should switch to another supplier, namely Lamill. First off, would you recommend that supplier? Second, would the change alienate some of customers? In other words, is there a significant amount of brand following in coffee?

I hope you can help me out.

Thank you very much

 

[topher]

First things first..why do you want to change..unhappy with quality or is the price too high? You do run a risk of complaints if you change brands...not only brand recognition but taste. People grow accustomed to their daily coffee even if the change is for the better. Good luck

 

[ceegee]

If you do decide to change suppliers, it may be worth trialing the new brand at first, ie, asking your regular customers if they like or prefer the new coffee. Just a thought.

 

[usahw1011]

Even though I do own a cafe, I'm not very familiar with coffee. To my taste, both the coffee by Lamill and by Intelligentsia is good. In other words, I wouldn't say one is superior from the other. My reasons for the change: Intelligentsia has bad customer service. Intelligentsia training is not free and quite expensive while being unhelpful. Intelligentsia coffee beans are about 10% more expensive than Lamill's.

How badly do you think it would affect me? Enough so that people would not come solely due to the fact that the coffee has changed?

 

[kifucoffeeroaster]

Are there any local roasters in your area? Nothing beats the freshness of a local roaster. Local roasters can also create proprietary blends and work with you on a more personalized level. Plus it's always good to support local business! Good luck.

KCR