Ep 25: Mike McFall, Co-Founder, and Co-CEO of Biggby Coffee
Yes, today’s show is about coffee and so much more. We sit with Mike McFall, co-founder, and CEO of Biggby Coffee and author of Grind. In this rich and tasteful episode, we splash into Mike’s journey with Biggby Coffee and how he’s achieved his success. We kick off the show by hearing Mike’s story and take a look at some of the characteristics that set his coffee chain apart from all the others. We then shift scope toward the present day to find out what’s in store for Biggby’s future. Mike tells us how, by embracing versatility, Biggby has laid down the foundations for a strong 2021. Mike then introduces us to his latest book, Grind, and talks about the book’s premise, why generating revenue is your number one goal, as well as his fail-proof business model. Toward the end of the episode, we come full circle, back to Biggby Coffee, with Mike leaving listeners with some stirring parting notes. He closes by talking about the power of purpose and why the customer’s experience should be central to the way you operate your business. To get more nuggets of business wisdom, be sure to join us today
Key Points From This Episode:
Introducing today’s guest, Mike McFall.
We ask Mike about some of the things he doesn’t normally share in interviews.
Mike tells us about the story behind Biggby Coffee.
Hear about Biggby’s footprint today, versus 26 years ago.
Find out why Biggby’s is doing so well in spite of the global pandemic.
Biggby’s place in Michigan and the relationship the state has with coffee.
How Mike positions Biggby in the coffee industry.
Ways Biggby’s is using software to help its sales.
Mike tells us about his book, Grind.
What it takes to become a good salesperson.
Hear about Mike’s weekly guerilla ideas sessions which he writes about in his book.
Mike’s passion for the customer experience.
Why customer feedback isn’t everything.
How Biggby franchisees operate.
Tweetables:
“Our Nielsen rating is stronger in Michigan than Starbucks, and that’s a fact that most people are surprised by. Our brand recognition here has been very, very powerful.” — Mike McFall [0:04:05]
“A lot of our success has to do with the fact that we have developed a modular drive-through that is just mind-blowingly cool.” — Mike McFall [0:06:17]
“Because Starbucks has dominated the major media markets, everybody thinks they dominate the entire country that way. But only 20% of the population live in the major media markets. So there is still 80% of the population that isn’t served by Starbucks.” — Mike McFall [0:10:29]
“People have ideas and you should be listening constantly to them. When you implement things they bring to the table, they really care.” — Mike McFall [0:29:50]