News about Kapes Budleigh
I’m in the kiosk. It’s wet and windy again.
I’ve been putting off writing this for a while. Sadly I’ve taken the decision to not re-open Kapes Budleigh in the new year.
It’s been stormy weather wise. And many fear (including me) that there are more storms on the horizon. Namely with the upcoming budget and the long winter that follows.
I’m a gambler and dreamer when it comes to ideas and business. In this case, the odds are stacked against me (and all in our industry). I don’t want to risk three years of hard work and hard earned success here in Sidmouth on a bet with poor odds in Budders.
Feedback has been great, but coffee and ice cream is a volume game. Margins aren’t what they used to be, especially when using quality ingredients.
The days of coffee and cake enjoyed at a table for 20+ minutes are on their way out without big money backing, or too many loss making days.
Just look at Blank Street’s model. Or Costa’s focus on 14,000 self service robots in every corner of the country – sell lots from a small space.
Without boring with stats and data, it’s simply too expensive to stay closed and re-open with super seasonal products as the core offering. I’ve included UK hospitality’s letter to government for more of an industry take.
Fear not, Sidmouth will continue to be your meeting place. My sidekick and biggest cheerleader; Luca beside me.
A community spot for catch ups and more… Whether you’re a commuter looking for caffeine fix, recovering from a run, shivering from a swim, begging for baked goods after a break up, or flirty flat whites on first date.
We’re here and ready for whatever winter throws at us. Hatches braced to be battened and battered. Disco ball polished for beautiful brisk mornings, alongside our pumping playlist.
The Budleigh kit will be re-purposed and ready to use elsewhere. More on that once the dust has settled.
Thanks so much for all the support and custom. You’re the best.
Tom 🤙