Latest News

Sat, Aug 13, 2005
Expresso service hits the road

Mrs Buckland is taking gourmet coffee to the workplace. Picture: SIMON GROVES

CONVENIENCE is the basis of Gary and Bronwyn Bucklands small business venture.

Mr and Mrs Buckland have purchased an Espresso Mobile Cafe franchise, the second on the Border.

Mrs Buckland, who operates the business, said they had identified a need for another franchise on the Border.

Tallangatta resident Kristy Cox bought the first franchise earlier this year.

“We are not in competition,” Mrs Buckland said.

“We are working together to build our customer base.”

Mrs Buckland said her business was effectively a cafe on wheels.

The business was based on a Mercedes Benz van which had been painted and fitted out by the Sydney-based franchisor.

Mrs Buckland said she had been busy doorknocking and delivering flyers to potential clients.

“Already I have customers at schools, doctor surgeries, construction and business sites,” she said.

“Ideally, I need at least five customers at each site to make a stop worthwhile.”

Mrs Buckland said she could provide gourmet coffee, hot chocolate and pre-package snacks such as muffins.

“We use Danes gourmet coffee and I went to Sydney to do a coffee course,” she said.

“I am still learning more about coffee each day there is more to making a good cup of coffee than you realise.”

The van has its own power supply unit and running water.

“I am servicing Albury-Wodonga at the moment but we will travel outside the area for special events,” she said.

“I start about 8am and finish whenever the demand stops.

“Coffee has become a networking thing. People do coffee and do business at the same time.

“This business is all about convenience.

“It means people can get a cup of good coffee without having to leave the office or work site.”

Mrs Buckland said her mobile coffee business was a great alternative for sporting and community groups because it removed the need for urns of boiling water where people and children were moving around.

It also meant the club or organisation did not have to worry about supplies, such as disposable cups.

“It is all about convenience,” Mrs Buckland said.

Business name: Espresso Mobile Cafe.

Contact: 0418 361 431.