In the wake of America's economic downturn, one restaurant has bucked the current trend of slumping sales by employing a creative business model - name your own price.
For Sam Lippert, owner of the Java Street Cafe in Kettering, Ohio, business shot through the roof after giving customers the ability to decide what they should pay for their meal.
According to an interview with CNN, Lippert said that the practice of naming your own price is common in Europe - something that he gives credit to his Bulgarian girlfriend for suggesting.
Since customers are required to present payment to Lippert rather than simply leave money on the table, the restaurant has seen greater profitability rather than creeping deeper into the red.
"Well, you know, they have to look me in the eye and say that that's what they think is fair," said Lippert.
The Editorial Board thinks Lippert's innovative idea should be modeled by more restaurants around the country - especially considering the current uncertainty many individuals face with their finances.
What makes the system work is how customers can get away with paying less on days when funds are tight, but spend a bit more after receiving their paychecks.
Restaurants in Gainesville currently struggling to make ends meet should take a page from Lippert's book and employ a similar practice with hopes of satisfying the needs of both customer and proprietor alike.
