With low temperatures in the upcoming weeks, local businesses prepare their stores for the cold months ahead, preparing new specials and making overall preparations.
Longfellows is a coffee shop that many locals frequent. They are a small business that is a drive-through. Throughout the summer, there are long lines, but their service is fast and reliable.
At Longfellows, barista Jaden Barrow explains the change from season to season. “We definitely have more business in the summer. That’s when we roll out new fun specials, do more advertising, and start setting up for the holidays.” Summer is a busy season with lots of traffic for their business. During the winter months, there is a decline in the number of cars that go through their line. However, Longfellow’s has holiday decor around their miniature coffee shop, as well as implementing different drinks and food relating to the festivities.
Being a small business does not come easy, no matter the season, so being prepared is crucial. Many businesses use new specials to invite people to use their products or try their food. Longfellows changes its menu every couple of months, which gives customers more options than only depending on the same drink all year round.
The winter months are tough on local businesses. Many expressed slightly less traffic from their customers. Staff are reduced on certain shifts when this occurs.
Comfort Kitchen is a small business here in Kinnelon. They serve a variety of dishes and drinks. There is a cozy atmosphere with many familiar faces.
Comfort Kitchen employee Amelia Olsen explains the difference between seasons. “In the summer, it’s more crowded during the day. In colder months, we focus on offering fast, great customer service and making sure people get everything they need quickly. We also add new desserts and fun drinks to the menu to match the season.”
Taste of Reality is a sandwich place in Fason Lakes located near Lake Reality. Residents of Kinnelon visit this establishment throughout the year. People can order food in person at their counter or online.
Taste has the advantage of students ordering food from the high school. This brings in a steady string of business in these winter months. Throughout the summer, the number of their customers changes drastically. Employee Melissa shared, “In the winter, we stay busy with school lunch orders, and in the summer, we get a lot of people coming from Lake Reality.”
This business also uses other methods to ensure revenue, such as advertising discounts and an order app for delivery, as well as using a plowing company to keep their lot safe. “We have a plow guy for the parking lot and people who help salt the walkways to keep everyone safe.” The use of both methods ensures customer satisfaction and traffic even in the winter months.
Each business may handle the season differently, but each will adapt and ensure customer satisfaction. Their adaptations could be new menu options, advertising, or good service. All three businesses found a way to keep afloat through all the challenges.
