How to add an afternoon tea service to your business in 10 steps

Sharing food is a great connector and nothing is as powerful as sharing across the tea table, Tina Jesson shared her top ten steps

With the external stresses of life today, be if from fears of cost of living increases, adapting to changes in working environments, working from home or back in the office. Our businesses, clients & teams are feeling uncertainty, stress and struggle.

Learning how to build rapport & connection is more important today than it ever was.

People don't remember what you say, but they DO remember how you made them feel!

How can something so simple be SO powerful?

Sharing food is a great connector and nothing is as powerful as sharing across the tea table or in the bake kitchen.

Eye contact, conversation, great communication, social confidence, appreciation...and you have corporate engagement right there.

That equals staff retention & motivation, team building, improved customer service and organizations that simply work together better.

Adding an afternoon tea service to your business can be a delightful way to attract more customers and enhance your offerings. Here are ten steps to successfully integrate this service:

1. Market Research

Assess Demand: Survey your existing customers and analyze local competitors to gauge interest in an afternoon tea service.
Identify Trends: Look into popular tea varieties, dietary preferences, and trending tea accompaniments in your area.

2. Menu Development

Curate a Tea Selection: Offer a variety of teas including black, green, herbal, and specialty blends.
Create a Food Menu: Include traditional items like scones, finger sandwiches, pastries, and cakes. Consider dietary restrictions by offering gluten-free, vegan, or low-sugar options.

3. Supplier Partnerships

Source Quality Ingredients: Partner with reputable tea suppliers and local bakeries to ensure high-quality products.
Negotiate Terms: Discuss bulk pricing and delivery schedules to keep your costs manageable.

4. Staff Training

Tea Knowledge: Train your staff on the different types of tea, proper brewing techniques, and flavor profiles.
Service Etiquette: Ensure staff are skilled in the formalities of afternoon tea service, such as proper serving order and table setting.

5. Equipment and Supplies

Invest in Teaware: Purchase teapots, tea strainers, tiered cake stands, fine china, and appropriate cutlery.
Kitchen Tools: Ensure your kitchen is equipped with the necessary tools for baking and preparing the tea accompaniments.

6. Set Up the Space

Ambiance: Create a relaxing and elegant atmosphere with comfortable seating, appropriate lighting, and tasteful decor.
Table Settings: Use tablecloths, napkins, and tableware that match the theme of your afternoon tea service.

7. Pricing Strategy

Cost Analysis: Calculate the cost of goods sold (COGS) to set a profitable price point.
Package Deals: Offer different pricing tiers or packages that might include a basic tea service or a more luxurious option with additional treats, such as champagne.

8. Marketing and Promotion

Launch Campaign: Promote the new service through social media, email newsletters, and in-store signage.
Special Events: Host an opening event or themed afternoon teas to attract attention and generate buzz.

9. Reservations and Scheduling

Booking System: Implement an online reservation system to manage bookings efficiently.
Peak Hours: Identify peak times for afternoon tea and adjust staff schedules accordingly to ensure smooth service. It’s a great way to fill the afternoon slower periods.

10. Customer Feedback and Adaptation

Gather Feedback: Regularly solicit customer feedback to understand what is working and what can be improved.
Refine Offerings: Use this feedback to tweak your menu, service, and overall experience to better meet customer expectations.

By following these steps, you can seamlessly add an afternoon tea service to your business, providing a unique and appealing experience for your customers.

Need more help then engage Tina Jesson, as your business consultant or as curator & creator of your next Tea(m) Experience.

Through engaging presentations and hands-on demonstrations, teams and/or guests learn:

•The fascinating history behind afternoon tea

•Essential table etiquette, ideal for teams who host VIP's & overseas clients

•The secrets to baking the perfect scone and enjoying it properly

•Learn how to bake and build team working & clear communication

Events can be hosted in a private room at a hotel or tea room, ensuring an intimate and memorable experience.

For those outside the UK or unable to attend in person, Tina offers virtual events, bringing her magic to any location. Don't miss this unique opportunity to indulge in the timeless tradition of afternoon tea time experiences with a knowledgeable guide by your side.

Tina is also available to travel outside the UK where travel costs can be covered in her fee.

Categories: : Business Growth, Tea Businesses