Laying The Groundwork For Digital-First Coffee Shops In California – CoffeeTalk

An expert in international consulting and cross-cultural communications, Nodari Andguladze is set to launch a digital-first coffee shop concept in the U.S., with the first location opening in California in early 2026. As the former General Manager of Awatera Dubai and a partner at Basera Properties, Andguladze leverages his extensive experience to introduce a business model that integrates digital technologies for enhanced customer experience and operational efficiency, aiming for rapid break-even and broader expansion.

The ambitious plan, developed with co-founders, envisions at least four locations by 2026, with aspirations to scale to over 1,000 coffee shops. Andguladze’s journey from project manager to leading Awatera’s expansion into the Middle East has seen him build universal frameworks for entering new markets, focusing on market entry support through legal structuring, marketing, and financial planning. His methodology emphasizes adaptability and operational viability tailored to local realities.

His recognition includes the “Expert of the Year” award in 2023 for International Business Expansion and a “Business Breakthrough” award in 2024, alongside the UAE’s Golden Visa honor in 2022. Relocating to the United States to pursue an MBA, Andguladze shifted his focus to the coffee shop project, which he believes has significant growth potential.

Under the Drinkit brand, part of Dodo Brands, Andguladze emphasizes a digital-first approach where orders are processed via an app or kiosk, enabling fully customizable drinks and efficient service. The digital integration is seen as a cornerstone of the business model, distinguishing it from other U.S. coffee chains that may only offer digital elements as supplementary features.

Andguladze highlights the importance of maintaining product quality while offering a superior customer experience. The coffee shop concept has proven successful internationally, showcasing its adaptability in diverse cultural contexts. Initial groundwork includes competitive analysis and market studies, with plans to test hypotheses on product offerings, operational processes, and unit economics.

The first location will act as a testing ground to refine the business model before broader rollout, ensuring that the digital coffee shop resonates with American consumers and aligns seamlessly with local market expectations. Andguladze asserts that his extensive cross-cultural experience equips him to navigate the varying expectations and operational demands inherent in launching a business in new environments.

Read More @ CEO World