Case Study Java Express-White Rock

Sharon – Former Owner, Java Express White Rock
October 2024

This past year was a pivotal one for Java Express White Rock. After joining the South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce in January 2024, we experienced a 25% increase in overall sales, with certain periods, like our Happy Hour, seeing spikes of up to 300%.

With help in building out our digital presence—including Google, Yelp, and regular social media posts on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok—we were able to reach more customers and grow our community engagement.

The marketing support we received laid the groundwork for the café’s continued success, which allowed me to confidently transition ownership as I had planned.

Business Summary:
Java Express - White Rock is a local café offering specialty coffees, baked goods, and catering services. Known for its cozy atmosphere and community involvement, the café has established itself as a go-to spot in White Rock.

Marketing Challenges & Solutions
Java Express required a full-scale brand refresh and community engagement strategy to expand its visibility and attract more customers.

Marketing Strategy:

1. Brand Development:

• Visual Identity: Establish a strong and recognizable visual identity through logo design, business cards, and in-store menus. Extend the branding to include eye-catching bus advertisements and custom-designed beach menus, ensuring a consistent and cohesive look across all platforms.
• Printed Materials: Develop high-quality printed materials, including in-store posters, flyers, and table tents that reinforce the café's brand and promote special offers or events.

2. Digital and Social Media Presence:

• Website Creation: Build and launch a website that not only showcases the café’s offerings but also highlights upcoming events, special promotions, and community involvement.
• Social Media Management: Expand and optimize social media profiles, creating a consistent posting schedule with content that aligns with the café’s community-centric vibe. Utilize engaging visuals, customer testimonials, and behind-the-scenes content to build a loyal online following.
• Online Advertising: Run targeted digital ad campaigns on social media platforms and local websites to drive traffic to the website and increase foot traffic to the café.

3. Event Sponsorship and Community Involvement:

• Sponsorships: Leverage sponsorship opportunities to build local visibility and enhance brand recognition. Support events such as the 25th Annual BEA and the Peace Arch Hospice Mixer, gaining exposure through these community-centric activities.
• Community Events: Host and participate in local events to foster connections with the community. Offer catering services for local gatherings, with customized beach menus and in-store promotions tied to these events.

Tactics:

• Design & Print: Created the logo, business cards, bus ad, menus, and in-store printed materials (posters, flyers, table tents).
• Website: Built and launched a website that serves as a hub for all offerings, events, and community involvement. www.JavaExpressWhiteRock.com
• Social Media: Managed social media accounts, maintaining a consistent posting schedule that reflects the café’s brand identity and community focus.
• Event Support: Played a key role in sponsorships at the 25th Annual BEA and the Peace Arch Hospice Mixer, boosting brand exposure through active participation and promotional materials at these events.
• Advertising: Developed and deployed bus ads and in-store advertisements to capture the attention of local residents and passersby.

Bus Bench Advertisment

North Bluff Road & Martin Street, White Rock