6 Drive-Thru Coffee Lessons Every Operator Should Know
Launching a drive-thru coffee concept is about mastering speed, consistency, and connection in one of the fastest-growing segments of quick service.
According to the National Coffee Association, a record 59 percent of American consumers who purchased a cup of coffee picked it up at a drive-thru, compared to 55 percent in 2024.
Key Lessons for Operators
- Site Selection and Location: Picking the right location is the single most important factor before a shovel ever hits the ground.
For operators eyeing coffee as a growth opportunity, these lessons offer a roadmap for building efficient, community-rooted stores that keep cars moving and customers coming back.
Mastering speed, consistency, and connection is crucial in the drive-thru coffee segment.
Author's summary: Drive-thru coffee success depends on speed and consistency.