In 1994, upon returning to Ghana from the UK, Franka Maria Andoh noticed a gap in the café culture – a lack of spaces where individuals could comfortably dine alone without intrusion. Drawing from her own experiences of feeling unsettled by constant questioning while dining solo, Franka envisioned Cuppa Cappuccino as a haven where both solitary guests and groups would feel equally welcomed.
Established in 1997 in a predominantly residential area, Cuppa Cappuccino has witnessed the evolution of its surroundings into a bustling commercial district, marked by the influx of banks and offices.
Reflecting on the early challenges of launching a café, Franka candidly discusses the difficulties in attracting the right clientele and sourcing motivated staff. Contrary to her initial expectation of catering primarily to the expatriate community, she discovered that the local populace formed the backbone of her customer base. The perpetual struggle of finding staff who shared her vision for creativity and motivation was another hurdle she faced.
Despite moments of doubt and financial strain, including days with minimal sales and the temptation to return to the UK, Franka’s determination to sustain Cuppa Cappuccino remained steadfast. Balancing her entrepreneurial venture with a part-time job at an advertising agency initially helped cover expenses, but she ultimately realized that focusing solely on the café was essential to maintain her vision.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Franka adapted her business strategy, emphasizing delivery services and implementing rotating shifts for staff to mitigate the risk of transmission. This pivot proved successful, ensuring the café’s survival during challenging times.
Cuppa Cappuccino has garnered acclaim for its breakfast, lunch, and dinner offerings, particularly its sandwiches, earning positive reviews from satisfied patrons.
Looking ahead, Franka envisions expanding beyond Accra, with plans to open a branch in Cape Coast. While she harbors aspirations for other projects, her commitment to nurturing Cuppa Cappuccino remains unwavering, rooted in a desire to continue providing a welcoming space for all.
