By Team Subkit from Go Solo Subkit
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Benjamin Lyles, co-founder of Bikini Beans Coffee, located in Phoenix, AZ.
What’s your business, and who are your customers?
We are a drive-thru coffee company. But we are not your ordinary drive-thru. If our name doesn’t give it away, we put a spin on doing business with our baristas in bikinis! Our mantra is, “We don’t give EEFFOC, coffee spelled backward. This mantra means to not care about the opinions or judgments; the only opinion that matters is your own. In a world today with so much pressure of needing to fit in, we want to empower self-confidence by being ourselves. Love what you do and do what you love!
Our customer base varies across the board. Although some would assume the majority of our customers are men, we have an even ratio between men and women. This is because of the empowerment behind our employees and the joy you see when you visit our locations, they are truly happy with what they do, and we strive to put a smile on everyone’s face. We focus on creating a personable experience through engaging authentically by being ourselves. Our passion is people, and our mission is “To provide exceptional customer service by creating a personable experience – We believe in doing what you love and loving what you do.” Bikini Beans is family-owned and operated. Not only are we recognized by our unique business model that separates us but also our quality drinks and genuine caring service.
Tell us about yourself
I’ve always had a passion for entrepreneurship, building a company from scratch. My passion is leadership. Everyone is different and unique in their own abilities. What motivates me is being able to tap into each individual and find out what that gift is and encourage them to run towards it. Everyone has a gift; it just takes someone to see the gift and believe in it.
What’s your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I would say my biggest accomplishment as a business owner would be just taking an idea from scratch and turning it into a multimillion-dollar company. There are so many other goals I have so I don’t want to ever feel too accomplished as there is still a lot of work to be done.
What’s one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Every part of being a business owner is hard and has its challenges; never give up.
What are the top tips you’d give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Do your research before you start. How you do anything is how you do everything, so when you commit to taking the leap, make sure you’re all in. There’s no such thing as plan B. Continue to be a student every step of the way and learn as you go.
Article originally posted to Go Solo Subkit
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