In an age where entrepreneurship is celebrated and creative endeavors are often met with encouragement, it’s inspiring to witness stories of individuals who take the leap of faith to pursue their passions. One such story is that of Avery Amstutz, a 28-year-old entrepreneur from Memphis, Tennessee. Avery, whose background encompasses a successful career in photography and multiple business ventures, embarked on an audacious journey to create Byway Coffee Company—a mobile coffee shop that is defined not just by its drinks, but by the unique experiences it delivers to its customers.
Avery’s venture began with a simple yet compelling vision: to craft experiences that resonate with people. Much like finding a hidden gem at a coffee trailer, she wanted to replicate that sense of joy and discovery for others. The journey commenced with the purchase of a vintage Airstream trailer for $6,000, which would soon be transformed into a bustling coffee operation. Remarkably, Avery and her team managed to generate over $500,000 in revenue within the first year of operation, a feat that showcases not only her entrepreneurial spirit but also the demand for quality coffee experiences.
The Essence of Byway Coffee
Byway Coffee Company prides itself on being “coffee worth chasing around town.” Unlike conventional coffee shops, Avery’s business model operates from a mobile trailer, allowing them to park at various locations across Memphis—be it in parks, schools, or local neighborhoods. This flexibility has enabled Byway to reach a diverse clientele every day of the week. Each month, the menu features new flavors, ensuring that the experience remains fresh and inviting. Among their standout offerings is the Ube Vanilla Cold Foam Latte, a drink that has captured the hearts of many and provides a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart from the traditional coffee fare.
One of the intriguing aspects of Byway Coffee is its operational profitability from day one. Avery reports a profit margin ranging between 20% and 26%. While coffee can be expensive—especially when sourcing high-quality beans—Avery mitigates costs effectively. Operating expenses remain low since the mobile model does not involve overhead costs like rent or electricity. For instance, daily expenses amount to about $25 for gas and a mere $15 to $20 for ice, allowing for a healthy margin on each beverage sold. At its peak, the business has seen revenue spikes between $30,000 and $50,000 in a single month, far surpassing Avery’s initial projections.
The Day-to-Day Realities of Running a Mobile Coffee Shop
Operating a coffee trailer is not without its challenges. Avery sets realistic expectations for those joining her team, emphasizing the physical labor involved in running Byway Coffee. The typical workday begins early, with the trailer staff arriving before 7:00 a.m. to prepare for a day of serving eager customers. This includes stocking ingredients, preparing the cold foam and matcha, and ensuring that the coffee machines are dialed in to perfection.
The logistics of a mobile coffee shop also pose unique challenges. The trailer must be leveled properly to ensure equipment functions correctly, and safety measures are paramount—especially when transporting the trailer. Furthermore, building a consistent clientele requires marketing savvy; social media has played a significant role in Byway’s success. Each Sunday, customers eagerly anticipate the week’s schedule posted on social media, highlighting where they can find the Byway Coffee trailer. This approach not only drives traffic but cultivates a loyal customer base.
Community, Support, and Engagement
Avery’s entrepreneurial spirit is also deeply rooted in her community. Collaborations with local businesses, such as Comeback Coffee for sourcing beans, enrich her offerings and enhance the community aspect of Byway. This synergy between local businesses is essential to building a strong coffee culture in Memphis. The Airstream coffee trailer represents more than a business; it stands as a testament to the power of community support and collaboration in driving success.
However, the path to success has been paved with learning experiences. Avery recounts the early struggles in managing supplies, often running out of milk and other essentials due to unexpected customer turnout. These instances underscored the importance of flexibility and adaptability in business. Embracing these lessons, she has strategically increased staff capacity, training her team to handle various responsibilities, including driving the trailer and restocking supplies. Her uncle’s support as a business partner not only offered financial backing but also a mentorship role, guiding her through the complexities of entrepreneurship.
The Emotional Connection to Coffee and Business
For Avery, Byway Coffee is not just a means of livelihood; it embodies years of ambition, hard work, and creativity intertwined with a love for coffee culture. With multiple businesses under her belt—including a photography venture and a mobile cocktail trailer—Avery has honed her skills and developed a keen understanding of the dynamics of customer service and business growth. Every experience, each endeavor has led her to this point, and she acknowledges the journey has contributed to her current success.
As Byway Coffee continues to flourish, Avery remains excited about future possibilities. She envisions herself continually evolving her offerings and expanding her influence within the community. This evolving landscape of entrepreneurship, fueled by creativity and a commitment to delivering exceptional experiences, paints a vivid picture of what it means to chase your dreams and build a business that resonates with others. Byway Coffee is more than just a mobile coffee shop; it is a manifestation of passion, community, and the relentless pursuit of an extraordinary experience, cup by cup, pour by pour.
“Throughout my life, I have a lot of different dreams and goals and visions for the future. I know that eventually they’re going to happen.”
Avery’s story serves as an inspiring reminder that with creativity, tenacity, and a heartfelt commitment to community, aspiring entrepreneurs can turn a personal vision into a beloved reality. The path may be challenging, but the rewards for those willing to chase their dreams can far exceed their expectations.
