Man & Dolly opened their Good Earth franchise in November 2009 in the Wyckham House food court, University of Mount Royal (formally Mount Royal College), Calgary, Alberta. With their excellent customer service skills and strong work ethic, they embody the characteristics of a successful Good Earth franchise partner. Both Man and Dolly breezed through the intensive six week training program and were eager to open up their own location.
How did you learn of Good Earth Coffeehouse & Bakery?
I visited various cafes throughout Calgary as a customer and enjoyed the experience. We came upon a Good Earth booth at a franchise show where we made our first contact with the company and became interested in the business.
Why did you choose to purchase a Good Earth over other franchise opportunities?
It is a local business early in its franchise growth and Good Earth purchases their coffee based on sound environmental practices and social impact. This sets it apart from other coffee businesses, while still keeping a traditional style of coffee offerings.
What did you do before joining the Good Earth team?
I have an Earth Science background in Geophysics and worked in mining exploration and later in the oil and gas industry doing seismic data processing. Dolly was employed with a research firm at the Calgary Airport. When the Good Earth Café opportunity at Mount Royal University (MRU) presented itself we decided to make the change. I grew up and “moonlighted” in the food/beverage industry and always liked the activity.
What do you find rewarding about being a Good Earth franchise partner?
We have exceeded financial expectations, and it is a real pleasure working with great customers and staff in a fun and friendly environment.
Good Earth believes that local store marketing and community involvement are an integral part of being successful. What types of local store initiatives to you partake in within the University environment?
We partake in numerous local marketing initiatives to keep ourselves well connected with students and staff at the University. Some of our activities include:
- Contributing $1,000 annually to the Students Association Scholarship Fund
- Distributing Good Earth free coffee loyalty cards to regular customers
- Donating free coffee to various events at MRU such as international education week,
- Participated in the University’s 100th anniversary open houses,
- Providing gift baskets and gift cards for fund raising and door prizes etc.
- Fund raising and collecting coffee grounds for campus community garden
What key areas do you focus on to ensure the success of your Good Earth? (i.e. Customer service, Environmental Responsibility, Community Involvement)
Providing excellent customer service and good consistent products
are the main focus of the café and these areas are the key to keep
our customers coming back.
How do you feel about the support of the Good Earth Corporate Team?
Good Earth Corporate has provided excellent support and we had no reservations about going ahead with the franchise partnership. They have made us feel like a partner and not a company that just enforces policy. The training and setup of the store was excellent. There were some construction delays but we were able to hit the ground running once the store was opened.
Anything else you would like to share about your Good Earth experience?
This is a very dynamic company/business. It is continually changing and upgrading its product lines including food, bakery, and coffee. It is not a business that runs on autopilot and being hands on operators has been a huge benefit.
