Today we’d like to introduce you to Brian Kung.
Hi Brian, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’ve been a franchisee of Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea since 2021 with 3 locations. I had worked at Sweetwaters as a Barista in High School for several years before going to college at Grand Valley State University, where I graduated in 2011 with a degree in Film Production. I worked in the film industry for a few years before transitioning to commercial real estate starting in 2014, of which I am still a licensed salesperson. In 2018, I helped open and manage a sushi restaurant that we were able to keep open through COVID. In 2021 I took over my first Sweetwaters location, my 2nd location in 2022, and 3rd location in 2023.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Every job has its challenges. I chose to study Film Production because I love the process of making movies and storytelling. However, when your passion becomes your job, it loses a bit of its “magic”. Commercial Real Estate was a fun job and I learned a lot, but income was inconsistent since pay is based on commission. That’s when I decided to help a group open and manage a new sushi restaurant in Ann Arbor. We opened for 2 years before the pandemic started, and although we survived through it, the business stagnated and never saw its true potential. A new opportunity presented itself with Sweetwaters at the beginning of 2021, and I was able to transition to that in the fall of 2021.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea is a specialty cafe franchise known for globally and Asian-influenced beverages, classic café fare, and a cozy community environment. It was founded in 1993 in downtown Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Learn to trust yourself and your instincts. If you have good intentions, your gut will guide you to the right decisions. Don’t be afraid to communicate honestly and openly with your staff and your customers.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sweetwaterscafe.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swplymouthgreen, https://www.instagram.com/swcantoncenter, and https://www.instagram.com/sw777building
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SWCafePlymouthGreen, https://www.facebook.com/SWCafeCanton, and https://www.facebook.com/SWCafe777Building
