Establishing a business, no matter what type it may be, involves efficient planning and strategy. You have to make several key decisions before you can even begin to build your customer base, while staying within your budget. In terms of a shaved ice business this includes choosing an appropriate location, crafting a creative business name, acquiring a sufficient amount of quality supplies and most importantly, choosing what exactly you are going to sell. Obviously, it’s a given that shaved ice is on your menu, but there are so many flavors out there, how do you choose which ones are right for you?

Here are just a few useful hints to help you solve that problem, and start selling smarter!

LOCATION INSPIRATION
As a new business owner you may quickly discover that your location has an effect on the type of customers whom you are attracting. Develop an understanding of the area’s demographics, like average age range, income level, ethnic backgrounds, and even the type of lifestyle that is characteristic to that region. Knowing this you can capture your target audience by creating the ideal customer experience. There may also be some flavors that are synonymous with a particular region, which will always be popular. For example, if your shaved ice shop is situated in a tropical location, customers may be attracted to syrup flavors like Ocean Mist, Strawberry-Kiwi and Blue Coconut.

THE CUSTOMER KNOWS BEST
You may have heard this many times before but it really rings true in the shaved ice business. If you want to grow your business, then you need a way to attract qualified customers. Once you start selling you’ll probably start to notice trends in the flavors customers are looking for and in turn, new opportunities to add some variety to your menu. Perhaps customers are looking for some new and exciting flavors, or maybe more of the traditional ones or they might be looking for some healthy options. Take this into consideration and you'll be able to consistently ensure customer satisfaction.

SEASONAL SELLING
Besides customers’ purchase trends you can even adjust your menu in sync with the changing seasons. For example, you may have certain signature flavors in the summertime like Lemonade and Watermelon, and then change it up in the fall with favorites like Green Apple and Pumpkin Pie. Customers appreciate variety and by periodically sprucing up your menu it’s easy to connect with the right customers at the right time.

Put these tips to the test in with your very own shaved ice business and you’ll surely find the perfect shaved ice syrup flavors to please potential customers, pique their interest and keep them coming back for more. If you need guidance setting up the shaved ice or snow cone business of your dreams, then visit our sister site 1-800-Shaved-Ice.com. Here you will find recommendations, tips and more on how to get started OR simply call 1-800-742-8334, and we would be happy to help.