At Intermix Beverage and at countless coffee shops across the country, particular attention is paid to the quality and flavor of the coffee that goes into our lattes, cappuccinos and other espresso drinks. But the milk in espresso based drinks is an equally vital component.

Even in challenging economic times, there can be positive outcomes and opportunities. All of us in business for ourselves can use some housecleaning once in a while, and this is a good time to look over inventory, sales numbers and cost structure. For coffee shop owners, this means looking over the menu, making sure you are actually selling the items on it, and maximizing every menu item.

As the weather warms, we see a huge increase in the number of cold beverages that cafes are selling. One of these beverages, iced tea, is often overlooked.

Iced tea is both easy to make and extremely profitable.

When the weather's warm, everyone's in search of new ideas for cold drinks. Luckily, you can expand your menu just by being creative with ingredients you already have in your shop. Add some of these suggestions to your summer menu or try them as a weekly special.

Flavored Iced Tea
Combine fruit syrups with iced tea for a refreshing twist. Popular flavors are raspberry, peach, and strawberry. Add 3/4oz (6 pumps) 1883 syrup to a 16 oz. glass of ice, fill with iced tea and mix.

Fruit Smoothies: Be Creative
To kick up your smoothie menu, add a few pieces of fresh fruit to a standard smoothie or blend two flavors together. Try these drink ideas from Dr. Smoothie:

Strawberry Porcupine

• 4 oz. Dr. Smoothie Strawberry
• 2 oz. water
• 12 oz. cup of ice

1. Blend
2. Add 2/3 oz. pineapple chunks
3. Pulse for 3 to 5 seconds