13 Independent Coffee Shops Celebrate Big Milestones

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What does it take to keep a coffee shop running strong for more than two decades? Ask the owners of Coffee Expressions in Ohio or Edelweiss Coffee in Michigan. Both are celebrating 21 years in business in August 2025 with the help of our 7 Steps to Success consulting program. And both are now second-generation family businesses!

They’re not alone. Thirteen coffee shops across 11 states are marking anniversaries in August, from year one to year 21. That’s a lot of lattes — and even more loyal customers.

Crimson Cup works with entrepreneurs to plan, open and grow independent coffee shops. The 7 Steps program offers support through every stage, from writing your first business plan to training baristas and building your menu. Owners also get access to award-winning coffee, top-of-the-line equipment and the same syrups and ingredients used in top shops across the country.

If you’re dreaming about opening a shop or wondering how to keep growing, these coffee shop stories might inspire you.

From One Year to 21: Celebrating Coffee Shops Across the U.S.

Here’s who’s celebrating this month:

• Coffee Expressions, Springfield, Ohio – 21 years

• Edelweiss Coffee, Iron Mountain, Michigan – 21 years

• Ryders Cup of Western New York, Lakewood, New York – 18 years

• Metropolitan Coffee, Hutchinson, Kansas – 17 years

• Cuppa Sunshine Coffee and Tea, Dickson, Tennessee – 12 years

• Love-A-Latte, Eldora, Iowa – 11 years

• Buckin’ Brew, Casper, Wyoming – 8 years

• The Green Bean Coffee House, Altoona, Pennsylvania – 8 years

• Metropolitan Coffee: Metro To Go, Hutchinson, Kansas – 7 years

• Community United Methodist Church, Irwin, Pennsylvania – 6 years

• Winston’s Coffee Bar, Columbus, Ohio – 5 years

• Beansweet Coffee, Goldsboro, North Carolina – 3 years

• 2Bs Coffee Company, Madill, Oklahoma – 1 year

A Family Legacy in Springfield

Coffee Expressions is more than a coffee shop. It’s a second home for many in Springfield, Ohio.

Founded by Ken and Judy Steele in 2004, the shop is now run by their son Kenny Steele and his wife, Jessica.

The team shared this heartfelt message with their community:

“We are so grateful for our amazing community here in Springfield and Clark County! Crazy to think we opened in this location back in 2004 and have been brewing memories ever since. Over the years, so many of you have supported us through every season — whether it was stopping in for your daily latte, bringing friends to try something new, or just sharing kind words that kept us going. Your loyalty, encouragement and love have helped us reach milestones we never imagined, and we truly wouldn’t be here without you. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making Coffee Expressions feel like home for the past 21 years.”

That sense of community, paired with a huge menu and consistent service, keeps people coming back. With over 700 five-star Google reviews, customers clearly taste the difference.

That sense of community, paired with a huge menu and consistent service, keeps people coming back. With over 700 five-star Google reviews, customers clearly taste the difference.

Ken credited Crimson Cup for helping them start strong. “Take the leap of faith with Crimson Cup,” he said. “This is the way to go for independent shop owners who want high-quality products and real support to grow.”

Drive-Thru, Done Right in Michigan

Up in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Edelweiss Coffee has been fueling mornings since 2004. Known for its fast, drive-thru-only service and loyal following, the shop recently passed to a new generation. Founders Jenni and Tom Wender handed the reins to their son and daughter-in-law, Gary and Christie Lofholm, in January 2024.

Named after Tom’s grandfather’s dairy farm, Edelweiss moved into a custom-built location in 2016 to keep up with growing demand.

Jenni said the Crimson Cup team helped them build a business based on consistency and quality. “Our customers may stop by for just a moment, but we make sure it’s the best moment of their day,” she said.

Tom shared a tip for new owners: “Treat your shop like a franchise. Make every drink the same way, every time. That’s how you keep people coming back.”

Thinking About Starting a Coffee Shop?

Crimson Cup has helped more than 300 independent coffee shops across 37 states get off the ground and thrive. Our 7 Steps to Success program is built for people with little or no experience — just a passion for coffee and community.

You’ll learn how to:

• Pick the right location

• Budget your startup costs

• Train your team

• Create a smart menu

• Serve consistently excellent drinks

• Grow your business, your way

Founder and President Greg Ubert even wrote the book on it. Seven Steps to Success: A Common-sense Guide to Succeed in Specialty Coffee is the foundation of the program and a favorite among shop owners.

Ready to get started? Check out our 7 Steps Coffee Shop Startup Kit.

Want to learn more? Reach out to Scott Fullerton, sales leader for our 7 Steps program, at sfullerton@crimsoncup.com or 888-800-9224.