Choco Latte

In the small town of Brookings, South Dakota, there are eleven coffee shops. With so many coffee shops to choose from, how do Brookings residents make their choice? Is the availability of fresh pastries and desserts a must? How about an online presence? A theme song? A drive-thru? All these features make Choco Latte a top choice for coffee drinkers in the Brookings community.

How does a coffee shop in Brookings stand out among the rest? This fairly new establishment opened its doors to the community last June and has since then taken a liking to Facebook to reach its consumers. "I know everybody in the world uses Facebook. It is a form of communication," said co-owner and manager Donna Behrend. Through Facebook, Behrend has seen a positive impact on Choco Latte and as another way to get Choco Latte's name out to the community. "I know that it is important for a business to stay up and up," said Behrend.

Choco Latte's Facebook page provides visitors with information on available products, store hours, reviews, promotions, photos and most importantly, a look at the store's "unofficial" theme song. "I sing the Choco Latte song on a daily basis; my 3-year-old and I just break out in the Choco Latte song and dance," said Behrend. The song by Soul Control, popular in the Caribbean Islands, was used by one of Behrend's employees who teaches Zumba in her spare time. Who knew a Caribbean song could fit so well with a Midwestern coffee shop?

"I think that social media is part of the future, and as much as some companies may not want to take on social media, I think that it would be a terrible idea for a company not to use social media," said Behrend. "I think companies and local businesses need to always strive to keep up." Behrend and her group of Choco Latte employees are doing just that. Behrend recognizes the need for local businesses to use social media in order to stand out from its competitors.

So, as the weather in Brookings stays cool, take a drive down Brookings' only drive thru coffee shop, or stop in for a scone, homemade fudge and a variety of coffee drinks. Whichever way you choose, Choco Latte is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and always greet you with a friendly smile.

"Like" them on Facebook or visit their website http://chocolattecoffeeshop.com/default.aspx for more information!