Five years in business: Café Q Warkworth

Peter Quinn and his wife Trisha opened Café Q in Riverside Arcade on March 30 2010 after three weeks of renovating. They currently employ four people but there can be up to six when needed. Peter works around 65 hours a week, then does the paper work when he gets home.

How has business been?
Business has been steadily increasing each year, with a customer base continually growing. We have been really lucky to see the growth in the business each year. It’s great to see customers appreciate all the effort and time you put in.

Would you have done anything differently?
No, we are really happy with how things have run from day one! The size of the business has stayed the same, the premises are too small to expand. In terms of future expansion, there may be something in the pipeline.

What keeps you motivated?
Happy returning customers, as it often isn’t easy getting up at 4.15am every day! A love of cooking also helps, as well as working in a small staff team. Being a chef, you are always striving to send out the perfect meal, whether it be perfect poached eggs or a steak sandwich, you just want it to be the best. In 10 years time I would like to think the business will still be going strong under new ownership!

What have been the biggest challenges?
Each business is different but I have found trying to attract skilled staff has been a challenge. I have been lucky that I often can keep good staff in the job once they start working for me. There have been times when I have been advertising and no-one has applied for the role. That can be both challenging and stressful!

What advice would you give to someone starting a business?
If you are looking at starting up or buying into a café, you should do your homework and research first so you can see what you can add to the market. I also think business owners need to be prepared to change and adapt when necessary.

It’s great being part of a small business community. We have been extremely lucky to have such loyal supportive customers, family and friends.

Riverside Arcade, Warkworth  |    425 7034