Broad Spectrum Espresso Pot (Pty-Ltd)
| Business Location: | Township |
| Province | |
| Branch: | Nelson Mandela Bay |
| Business Start Date: | |
| Busniess Type: |
Business Dynamics and Challenges
Business Activities:
Broad Spectrum Espresso Pot was founded in 2019 by Lorenzo Bustin, with its initial operations based in a business park in Greenbushes, Gqeberha. The business quickly gained momentum, establishing a strong presence in the local market. However, like many enterprises, it encountered significant challenges when the Covid-19 pandemic emerged in March 2020. Demonstrating resilience and adaptability, the company responded to the crisis by relocating its operations to the owner's residence, fully utilising its existing equipment and expertise to continue serving its customers.
A critical gap in the provision of refreshments within public hospitals in Gqeberha was recognised while strategizing potential new markets. The business aimed to offer a simple yet effective takeaway service, designed to cater to the needs of both hospital staff and the general public. The core offerings would include freshly brewed coffee and sandwiches, with the intention to expand the menu in response to evolving customer demands.
This initiative was inspired by the long waiting periods often experienced by patients in public hospitals and hospital staff, who endure long working hours that also suffer from the lack of readily available food and drink options. A decision was made to engage with the hospital Management at Dora Nginza Hospital to propose and formalise this initiative earlier this year but to date no agreement materialised.
Despite this setback, the company remains proactive. It currently supplies goods to individuals and is in discussions with staff residing in hospital hostels to potentially provide them with ready-made home-cooked meals. Additionally, Broad Spectrum Espresso Pot has reached out to local schools, offering to supply staff with coffee and refreshments on designated days. This initiative has been warmly received by principals and staff, who appreciate the opportunity to support local small businesses. Moreover, it serves as a valuable example of entrepreneurship for business studies learners, highlighting the importance of innovation and adaptability when faced with challenges.
Challenges/Needs:
Operating from home and offering mobile coffee services present several challenges for Broad Spectrum Espresso Pot in accessing new markets. Without a physical storefront, the business struggles with limited visibility and brand recognition, making it difficult to attract new customers. Additionally, building and retaining a loyal customer base in new markets is challenging, given the transient nature of mobile operations and the competition from more established brands. External factors such as access to reliable transport and the cost of markets and pop-up markets at shopping centres in Gqeberha limits growth opportunities for this business.
Intervention Insights and Results
Intervention Details:
The client was given the opportunity to participate in our February pop-up market at Greenacres Shopping Centre and received regular consultation sessions where alternative market access strategies were discussed.
Outcome Details:
As a result of Seda's invaluable support, the business successfully increased its sales from R6,606 to R10,880, reflecting a 39% growth.
Client Feedback
Client Comments:
I deeply appreciate Seda's unwavering support in helping me navigate the challenges of accessing new markets for my business. Your guidance on costing & pricing and finding alternative ways to access new markets in my area is truly invaluable. Thank you, Abigail.
