As the owner of an ice cream shop, you’re already a purveyor of sweet delights and a destination for those seeking a refreshing treat. However, expanding your menu to include slush, frozen mocktails, and (if you are legally able) frozen cocktails can elevate your business to new heights. Here’s why adding these icy beverages to your offerings can be a game-changer.
1. Appealing to a Broader Audience
While ice cream is beloved by many, adding slush-based offerings can help you attract a wider demographic. These drinks are particularly popular among adults looking for a refreshing and fun beverage option - whether it be a mocktail or an actual cocktail. By offering non-alcoholic slushies, you can also cater to families with children, creating an inclusive environment where everyone can find something they enjoy.
Example: Imagine a family visiting your shop on a hot summer day. While the kids enjoy their ice cream cones, the parents can sip on a refreshing slush cocktail, making the outing enjoyable for the entire family. Even if you have to hold the alcohol, parents can still pretend they kicking back as they enjoy the sweet refreshing treat without the hangover.
2. Seasonal Appeal
Ice cream is a year-round favorite, but it’s particularly popular during the warmer months. Slush, mocktails, and frozen cocktails also shine during the summer, making them a perfect complement to your existing menu. These icy beverages are not only refreshing but also help customers cool down, making them an ideal addition to your lineup. The hotter it gets the more ice and water-based products sell. If you want to create a profit center that beats the heat, there’s nothing better than slush.
Example: On a scorching summer afternoon, a customer might be drawn to your shop not just for ice cream, but also for a chance to try a cool and tangy margarita slush. This added variety can increase foot traffic and sales during peak seasons.
3. Increased Profit Margins
Beverages, especially cocktails, often have higher profit margins compared to other menu items. The cost of ingredients for slush, mocktails, and frozen cocktails is relatively low, while the selling price can be significantly higher. This can contribute positively to your bottom line, providing a new revenue stream with substantial profit potential. Slush itself comes in around a penny or two per ounce. That means even a 32-ounce offering comes in at less than a dollar cost to you. Margin heaven! You can even spice up the price with mocktails and the margins become supercharged if you have an option to add alcohol in your business.
Example: The ingredients for a classic mojito slush are inexpensive, but you can charge a premium price for the novelty and refreshing experience, thus boosting your profit margins.
4. Enhancing Customer Experience
Offering a diverse menu can enhance the overall customer experience. When customers see that you offer more than just ice cream, they’re likely to perceive your shop as a versatile destination for various treats. This can lead to higher customer satisfaction and increased loyalty.
Example: A group of friends may choose your shop as a meeting spot because it offers both delicious ice cream, refreshing slush drinks, and trendy frozen cocktails. Making you a versatile venue for different preferences.
5. Differentiation from Competitors
In a competitive market, it’s crucial to stand out. By adding slush, mocktails, and frozen cocktails, you differentiate your shop from other ice cream parlors that may not offer these unique beverages. This differentiation can give you a competitive edge and attract customers looking for something new and exciting.
Example: A customer choosing between several ice cream shops may opt for yours because of the unique offering of a slushie bar, providing a novel experience they can’t find elsewhere.
6. Opportunities for Creative Marketing
Introducing new products opens up opportunities for creative marketing campaigns. You can promote your slush, mocktails, and frozen cocktails through social media, special events, and seasonal promotions. Eye-catching photos and videos of these vibrant drinks can capture attention and draw in new customers. These products are full of color and flavor. They marry well with fruits and layer perfectly with dairy based options. My mind goes into overdrive when I think about all the marketing opportunities and menu options you can create with these products.
Example: Hosting a “Frozen Fridays” event with discounted slush and/or cocktails and live music can become a weekly highlight, driving regular traffic and creating buzz around your shop.
7. Complementing Your Ice Cream Menu
Slush and frozen cocktails pair well with ice cream, allowing you to create unique combos and specials. Imagine offering a scoop of your signature ice cream flavor topped with a complementary slush drink. These combinations can intrigue customers and encourage them to try more of your offerings. You can utilize your low-cost/high-margin item to move your more branded products. Ever wonder why all fast food chains upsize the fries and soda - they are low cost to them and helps to move the burgers and chicken.
Example: A tropical-themed combo featuring a coconut ice cream scoop with a pineapple slush can transport customers to a beachside paradise, enhancing their overall experience. Or how about pineapple dole whip with coconut slush to create a pink colada-like special.
Conclusion
Incorporating slush, mocktails, and frozen cocktails into your ice cream shop’s menu is a strategic move that can attract a broader audience, enhance customer experience, and boost your profitability. By offering these icy delights, you not only differentiate yourself from competitors but also provide an exciting and refreshing option that complements your existing offerings. Embrace the opportunity to innovate and watch your business flourish as customers flock to your shop for both classic ice cream treats and modern frozen beverages.