Brewing goodwill: How coffee helped us keep the community onside

When one of our clients needed to install essential infrastructure along an inner-city street of Newcastle, we knew it would be a challenge. The project was going to close roads, block access to people’s driveways for up to four weeks at a time, and worst of all, there was a substantial amount of night work on the cards.

By the middle of the project, the community was understandably frustrated, and the constant disruption to their lives was taking their toll. We realised we needed to do something to lift their spirits and help them endure the second half of the project.

Enter Bean Boss, a beloved local coffee company, who came to the street with their coffee trailer and expertly poured free coffee to all the residents. This good-will gesture had an immediate and positive impact. Community members emerged from their homes to enjoy a cup of joe, chat with the project managers and construction crew, and share their concerns and feedback.

This impromptu coffee break not only boosted morale but also served as an excellent opportunity for us to reinforce that we were just a phone call away if they had any issues.

As the project neared completion and exhaustion set in once more, we brought Bean Boss back for a second round of free coffee. This small act of kindness helped the community to endure the final leg before crossing the finish line.

Through this experience, we learned a valuable lesson: while you can't buy community approval or even acceptance of a project, you can earn goodwill with a little creativity and a modest budget.

We know that a cup of coffee (or even several!) doesn’t make up for all the grievances caused by such a disruptive project. But sometimes, a small gesture can make a big difference – and it’s a great way to say thanks a latte.

Coffee (and tea for that matter) is often an important tool for engagement when it comes to community relations and project development. In celebration of International Coffee Day, cheers to everyone who enjoys a cuppa!