Coffee Shop Success Story: Lock No. 4 Coffee Celebrates Anniversary

As Lock No. 4 Coffee in Beverly, Ohio, prepares to celebrate its first anniversary on April 30, Owners Destiny and Matthew Schaad reflected on their independent coffee shop’s growth over the past year, its role in the small town of Beverly, Ohio, and how our coffee shop startup consulting team has helped it grow.

“We are a little tiny town, and the success and support we have experienced in the last 12 months have been huge,” said Destiny Schaad. “I can’t thank our customers enough!”

Although the shop is only a year old, its history stretches back to 1841, when a spot along the Muskingum River in Beverly, Ohio welcomed Lock No. 4, an important link in the Ohio canal system that brought commerce and opportunity to the Mid-Ohio Valley.

For the past year, the spot has housed Lock No. 4 Coffee, created by the Schaads as an important link in the community of Beverly, Ohio.

Looking back on Lock No. 4’s first year, Destiny said she’s glad she took the risk of opening a coffee shop in such a tiny community. “It still sets Matthew and me back to watch customers flood the drive-thru day after day, and we continue to grow each month!”

Learning to Open and Run a Coffee Shop

The Schaads learned how to open a coffee shop in Ohio through our 7 Steps to Success coffee shop startup program.

“Congratulations to Destiny and Matthew for completing their first year in business!” said Founder and President Greg Ubert.

“We look forward to working with them to grow Lock No. 4 Coffee over the months and years to come.”

Following the 7 Steps to Coffee Shop Success

Through our 7 Steps to Success program, Crimson Cup has helped over 300 entrepreneurs in 30 states start unique coffee shops in their local communities. Some have run successful coffee shops for close to two decades.

Based on Greg’s book, Seven Steps to Success: A Common-Sense Guide to Succeed in Specialty Coffee, the program covers everything entrepreneurs need to run profitable coffee shops.

From choosing the right location and writing a sound coffee shop business plan to training baristas and attracting customers, our 7 Steps coffee shop startup consultants guide new owners from initial concept through opening day and beyond.

“I stumbled on Crimson Cup when I was searching for the foundation and knowledge I needed to open a successful coffeehouse,” Destiny recalled.

“I wanted more than just coffee, something that our community could benefit from while offering the incredible taste of coffee drinks in so many varieties. Crimson Cup delivered!”

Advice for Entrepreneurs Thinking About Opening a Coffee Shop

Destiny said she recommends Crimson Cup to anyone who is thinking about opening a coffee shop. “It’s a must!” she said. “You won’t find any other system that flows the way the 7 step program flows.”

“Holy moly does this business have it together!” she added. “I am so overjoyed with the way each person I have dealt with has almost as much energy for my shop as I do myself. Crimson Cup is such a huge part of my success!”

Asked for advice to others who are considering opening a coffee shop, Destiny said she believes owning a successful coffee shop requires the owners’ direct involvement.

“You can’t open a coffee shop and think you’ll hire people to run it while you sit back and watch,” she said. “I am a firm believer that nobody will run your business like you, even though you do need a good support team.”

Visit Lock No. 4 Coffee in Beverly, Ohio

As they approach their first anniversary, Destiny and Matthew Schaad invite everyone in Southeast Ohio to stop and visit Lock No. 4 Coffee. The shop is open seven days a week at 123 3rd Street in Beverly.

“Our coffeehouse has a very cozy atmosphere, with a huge outdoor covered patio,” Destiny said. “On colder days, come inside to grab a warm drink and a treat beside the fireplace.”

The coffee, roasted by Crimson Cup, has won a strong following among local coffee lovers, “The flavor is unlike anything around,” she said. “It is addicting and so enjoyable. It sets us apart from other coffee shops, including the big chains.

The signature Lock No. 4 Mocha, which melds fresh espresso with white chocolate and a caramel drizzle, is a fan favorite.

One Facebook reviewer praised the shop’s coffee and great atmosphere for working on her laptop. “I’ve tried multiple drinks now from hot to frozen and even the refreshers and haven’t found one I didn’t like yet,” she wrote. “This was just what Beverly needed and the owners are amazing as well. So pleased and highly recommend!”

To keep up with events and announcements, including new menu items and events, follow the store’s Facebook Page.