Arslan Jumayev, the owner of Arvaci Coffee shops, shared his journey from being an immigrant from Turkmenistan to becoming a successful business owner in the United States.
How did you come to open your first coffee shop in the US?
– I immigrated to the US back in 2016 and, like all immigrants, went through many challenges of adapting to a new environment. It was there that the idea for the business was born. In 2021, despite the pandemic, I decided to try myself in retail. That’s how the Arvaci Coffee brand came to life in New York.
What challenges did you face when opening your first coffee shop?
– The beginning was very difficult, as once bustling Manhattan was empty, and there was hardly any tourist traffic. Additionally, in a city like New York, the rent and wages are very high, so I had to take on debts. But I didn’t give up and started studying materials on small business development in the US. I managed to find business development formulas even in the midst of a pandemic.
When did you decide to expand your business?
– Thanks to my perseverance, the business gradually started picking up. Arvaci Coffee began operating at full capacity, leaving behind the previous difficulties. This allowed me to pay off all the debts. I started training new employees and made the decision to expand the business. In February 2023, I opened a second Arvaci location, applying innovative skills I gained throughout these years of work. I’m currently creating new job opportunities in the US, and I can say that the business is operating quite successfully.
Tell us about your consulting activities for immigrants.
– Due to high demand for consultations, I started engaging in non-profit consulting, providing free assistance to immigrants from former Soviet republics. I already have quite a bit of experience in building businesses in the US, so I understand how difficult it is to adapt to a new country and start a business. Upon arrival, immigrants don’t even have a simple credit history that regular Americans establish from childhood. I take pride in the fact that many of my students, applying the skills I’ve taught them, have opened their own businesses.
Do you have any hobbies?
– Of course! My main hobby is my blog. I create content on YouTube and Instagram, where I already have a considerable audience. I also love sports, so in my free time, I practice judo, taekwondo, and baseball.
And what are your plans for the future?
– I intend to continue expanding my business and opening new Arvaci Coffee locations. I also plan to develop my consulting activities and help an even larger number of immigrants fulfill their entrepreneurial dreams.
