2020 continues to be a tough year for the Australian small business community. Here at BizCover, we saw our customers struggling to keep their doors open and so did what we could to help defer their insurance payments and continue to keep their livelihoods protected during the pandemic.
We are also using this time to feature some of our customers in the hopes we can get the word out about the awesome work they do and turn some heads their way.
We spoke to Max, the owner of the mobile coffee van, Lord of the Beans, about his passion for the one thing Australians hold in high regard – coffee.
To get started can you please give a brief description of your business?
Lord of the Beans (LOTB) Mobile Coffee Van, Coffee Cart and Food Trailer is based in Sydney and provides coffee and food to customers. Established in December 2011, LOTB provides a mobile coffee van service in Sydney for local sports clubs, school events as well as private and public functions.
What inspired you to start your business?
I believe my qualifications (a Diploma of Hospitality Management and Certificate III in Micro Business Operations), a desire to manage my own business and be independent were what drove and inspired me to start my own business. My knowledge of the history of coffee, how to make it, and passion for customer service were also huge factors.
What is your favourite thing about your job?
Being in a mobile van. Being able to go all over Sydney providing coffee and food to customers whilst getting to visit new places and interact with people from different cultures. Lord of the Beans also has a great name and has earned the reputation for providing amazing coffee. My business allows me to discover new and interesting areas all over New South Wales. Always being on the move also allows me to do something I love which is interacting and dealing with people from different backgrounds. Being fluent in four languages – Arabic, French, Italian and English – make this more enjoyable.
What’s your secret to keeping your customers coming back for more?
Lord of the Beans has a good reputation and I pride the business on its effective and efficient customer service. I believe in putting the customer first and aim to respond immediately to requests via email or phone. A positive attitude, great smile and top-notch customer service are what I attribute my success to.
Has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your business in any way? If so, how, and what did you do to keep your business running amidst the crisis?
Like most businesses, we were impacted by COVID-19 and the restrictions that were imposed in late March. I’ve seen a decrease in demand for takeaway coffee due to the restrictions put in place. The business was doing quite well until then. However, I’m continuing to provide my service for the love of coffee!
Lastly, what advice would you give to someone looking to start their own business?
My advice to people in my field is to first complete a course in hospitality and to build an excellent knowledge of the product and service you are offering. Finally, be sure to create an efficient business plan.
Watch the Lord of Beans in action
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Make a booking on their Website
