David Henchel Part II - He reflects on challenges, mistakes and opportunities, with some advice for new operators

David Henchel, President and CEO of Corporate Coffee Systems, has some advice for new operators entering the industry. “Don’t do it! Or better yet, do it, but do it in another city,” said a laughing Henchel. Beyond the humor, he offered more practical advice for new operators in the interview as well. 

Today’s episode is Part II of the David Henchel interview. According to the host of Automatic Merchandiser’s Vending & OCS Nation podcast, Bob Tullio, “There was just too much quality content in the interview to get it done in one episode. I feel a little selfish here, but I always enjoy doing feature stories and discussing the journey of an industry legend like Henchel, the President and CEO of Corporate Coffee Systems, and I hope you feel the same. There is plenty to learn from his experience, perspective and insights.”

For Tullio, one of the most interesting and honest moments in this interview is when Henchel talks about his two early challenges. Number one of course, is a lack of working capital. “I hear that from everyone and believe me, my partners and I can relate, and I know that all of those new operators out there understand the challenge right now as they try to find their way,” he said.

Challenge number two, and not too many people admit this – is the challenge of learning how to structure a business. As Henchel pointed out – he did not go to college, did not work for a major coffee service company where he could emulate some systems that were already in place – he had to learn by trial and error.  Of course, that leads to mistakes, which he calls – a great learning opportunity.