Franchisee Spotlight

Meet Rachna from Strathpine

Rachna took over Shingle Inn Strathpine in June 2023 and hasn’t looked back. With a love for creativity and connecting with people, she’s transformed her store into a warm and welcoming escape for her local community.

Whether she’s handing out Shingle Inn-branded biscuits at Christmas craft workshops, decorating the store for Easter, or introducing customers to the fun of Patty Cake Days, Rachna always finds ways to go the extra mile. She’s passionate about being part of the Strathpine community, regularly supporting local schools and mum’s groups, organising fun giveaways for school holidays and Halloween Trick or Treat events, making the most of shopping centre signage foot traffic and digital marketing, including Facebook advertising.

What really shines through is her passion for creating wonderful experiences. She’s made Shingle Inn Strathpine her own while still enjoying the backing of a supportive franchise network. Let’s get to know her a little better:

What made you decide to become a Shingle Inn franchisee?+

I’ve always appreciated a good coffee, so that was the first thing I noticed when I visited a Shingle Inn. The coffee was smooth and the café had a warm, welcoming feel. That visit really stuck with me and it felt like the right fit.

Why did you choose the Strathpine location?+

I live close by, so am very familiar with the shopping centre, as well as it’s family events and the steady flow of shoppers between Big W and Woolworths.

What was the biggest surprise in your first few months?+

I was genuinely touched by how welcoming everyone was. Centre management dropped in with flowers, other businesses introduced themselves right away and customers were quick to pop in for a coffee and a chat.

How do you like to get involved in the community?+

I partner with centre management on big retail events, sponsor school holiday workshops, display kids’ colouring art in-store and back local clubs with prizes. In fact, we’re just about to host our first Patty Cake Decorating Party/High Tea!

What parts of the brand do your customers love most?+

Early on, we met a customer who told us he was born in 1936, the very same year Shingle Inn began. And he’s been visiting our cafes for decades! Stories like that remind us just how special the brand is to people. It’s all tied to happy memories that keep bringing customers back.

What would you say to someone thinking about buying a Shingle Inn café?+

If you love great coffee, have a strong work ethic and enjoy connecting with people, it’s a rewarding opportunity.

What’s been the most rewarding part of running your own store?+

Seeing my team grow in confidence and also having customers return time after time.