Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food & beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with TJ Fairchild, owner of Commonplace Coffee, a multi-site retail coffee company with several locations in Pittsburgh & Indiana, PA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a multi-site retail coffee company that also supports other people's coffee projects through consultation, training, wholesale roasted coffee, and equipment.
Tell us about yourself
Coffee has always been a significant part of my life. My wife and I fell in love with coffeehouse culture in college, and that has never waned. What wakes me up every morning is knowing that we are helping to encourage human connection in the coffeehouse environment.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Our 17-year-old son is a barista and is starting to become acquainted with our wholesale business. One of my biggest accomplishments has been to see his growth and connection to the coffeehouse culture.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The most difficult part of the business has been struggling with my inability to manage people well. I have learned a lot about myself in the process. My goal is to become an effective manager and continue to equip our staff to do their jobs well.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
I would encourage anyone getting into business to fully immerse themselves in their product. Additionally, I would recommend evaluating what your strengths are and hiring for your weaknesses. And finally, I would encourage any business owner to find ways to give trust to your employees to effectively lead in their specific roles.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Find a way to care for someone else's needs today.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://commonplacecoffee.com/
Instagram: @commonplacecoffee
Twitter: @thecommonplace
Facebook: @commonplacecoffee
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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