Crimson Cup Celebrates the Resilience of Independent Coffee Shops Nationwide
HOSPITALITY
Crimson Cup marks anniversaries for 13 Independent coffee shops across the U.S.
In a competitive market where local businesses face constant pressure, reaching a major anniversary is a testament to unwavering commitment. Crimson Cup Coffee & Tea is celebrating the resilience and success of 13 independent coffee shops across nine states, all of which are marking business anniversaries of one to 18 years this November.
Every one of these locally owned shops was started and scaled through the award-winning roaster's 7 Steps to Success program, a hands-on consulting model designed to ensure that entrepreneurs can turn their coffee dreams into thriving, long-term community fixtures.
"These anniversaries speak to the creativity, resilience and dedication of independent coffee shop owners," said Crimson Cup founder and president Greg Ubert. "We're proud to support these entrepreneurs through every stage of their journey."
The Roadmap to Coffee Shop Success
Since its inception, the 7 Steps to Success program has helped launch over 300 independent coffee shops in 37 states. The program provides owners with a comprehensive roadmap—from writing a business plan and training baristas to managing operations and crafting a standout menu. It also ensures every partner has access to award-winning coffee, top-tier equipment, and essential ingredients.
Among the shops celebrating major milestones this month are two Ohio originals that hit the impressive 18-year mark:
Stoked Coffee (Marietta, Ohio): Founders Duane and Valerie Huck and their partners were inspired by the drive-thru coffee trend out west. Using the 7 Steps program, they brought their vision to life, quickly becoming a Mid-Ohio Valley favorite known for its speed, quality, and over 50 flavor options. Stoked’s continued success led to the opening of a second shop in Parkersburg, West Virginia, in 2024.
Holtfield Coffee Station (Hillsboro, Ohio): Located unconventionally inside a gas station, Holtfield proves that great coffee can thrive anywhere. The station also offers a deli, pizza, and subs, operating with the motto, "Local people serving local needs," and consistently giving back a portion of pooled tips to local causes.
Other shops celebrating anniversaries this month include Lazy Labrador Coffee House in Kennesaw, Georgia (4 years), The Myrge of Portville in New York (5 years), and SheBrews Coffee Trailer in Columbus, Kansas (1 year).
Support at Every Step
For many owners, the support provided by the Crimson Cup team goes beyond initial setup. Andrea Holt, co-owner of Holtfield Coffee Station, noted that the partnership continues to evolve: "The Crimson Cup team is very helpful in training and answering questions... They've retrained our employees in-store and also offered sessions at the Innovation Lab in Columbus."
By celebrating these November milestones, Crimson Cup reaffirms its mission: to help entrepreneurs bring exceptional coffee and essential community connection to local neighborhoods across the country.