Sign Up, Text, Sell: SMS Power Moves for Coffee Shops

Oct 8

Offer an app sign up reward and use SMS to keep customers coming back. A small bonus gets the install, then text messages deliver daily deals, weekly specials, and simple paths to buy subscriptions and products. With clear timing, GPS targeting, and useful content, SMS becomes a steady sales channel that feels helpful.

Start by pairing email and SMS at signup. Email handles long updates and receipts. SMS delivers quick wins that spark visits right now.

Give a sign up reward that is worth it on day one
Collect email and phone with clear consent
Use a short welcome series by email
Send the first SMS with a one tap redeem link

SMS shines when the message is short and the value is obvious. Think snack sized offers that push people to order ahead or visit the shop.

Daily pick of the day, like latte plus pastry for a set price
Weekly specialty spotlight with a photo and quick story
First month discount on a drink pass or beans subscription
Back in stock alert for a popular roast

SMS Campaign Types That Work

Mix evergreen messages with timely ones. Keep the pace steady and predictable so customers know when to expect your best deals.

New menu drop with one click add to cart
Flash happy hour during slow windows
Welcome back perk for customers who have not visited in 30 days
Birthday treat with a link that loads in the app
Order ahead reminder on weekday mornings
Gift card push before holidays or paydays

Personalization and GPS Targeting

Use purchase history and location to make every text feel relevant. Show the nearest cafe and send offers at the time each customer is most likely to act.

GPS link to the closest location with hours and map
Weather aware promos like rainy day double points
Preferences based on past orders, for example dairy free options
Daypart timing, morning for commuters, afternoon for study crews

Promote Subscriptions and Products

Texts can do more than offer a drink deal. Use them to grow recurring revenue and add retail to every visit.

One tap signup for a monthly drink pass
Beans subscription with roast choice and delivery rhythm
Limited run merch or brewing gear with in app checkout
Dropship items that ship direct from your distributor

Respect, Compliance, and Trust

Strong SMS programs protect attention. Be honest, give control, and follow the rules.

Get explicit opt in and confirm with a welcome text
Offer three frequencies: best deals, occasional, off
Set quiet hours and honor stop requests instantly
Use plain language about data use and privacy

Measure What Matters

Track results and keep improving. Small tweaks to timing, copy, and images add up fast.

Click rate, redemption rate, and revenue per send
Unsubscribe rate by campaign type
Conversions to subscription after a promo
Visits by GPS linked location

Quick Start Checklist

Add a real sign up reward in app and at the counter
Build a two week welcome plan: email plus SMS
Write six evergreen texts and schedule them
Set quiet hours and frequency controls
Turn on nearest store links and order ahead
Review results weekly and adjust

Steve Fagaly