December 18, 2025 (Published: December 16, 2025)
What do a second-generation family business in Ohio, a Texas shop named after a soldier, and a Delaware bakery-coffee combo have in common?
They’re all part of the Crimson Cup community — and this month, they and 12 other independent coffee shops are celebrating significant milestones.
From young businesses hitting year three to a legacy shop reaching its 23rd anniversary, December marks a moment of reflection and celebration for 15 independent coffee shops across the country.
“These anniversaries mark years of hard work and dedication by coffee shop owners who have become part of the Crimson Cup community,” said Founder and President Greg Ubert. “We’re proud to support them as they grow their businesses and serve their local communities.”
23 Years of Community, Coffee and Creativity in Findlay, Ohio
Leading the list is Coffee Amici, which first opened in downtown Findlay in 2002.
What started as a cozy café with live music is now a multigenerational family business. Founders Lynne and John Calvelage passed the torch to their son, Patrick, and the shop remains a creative hub where locals gather, listen to music, and connect over coffee.
18-Year, Multi-Location Success Stories
Court Street Coffee in Athens, Ohio, now has three locations serving Ohio University students and the local community.
Cpl. Ray’s Coffee in Andrews, Texas, founded by Jerry Bevel and named in honor of his son, a fallen soldier, now spans two more locations in Midland and Odessa, Texas.
Newer Shops Making Their Mark
Bing’s Bake & Brew in Newark, Delaware, opened six years ago and now has a second location serving fresh pastries and specialty drinks.
Loose Goose Coffee Co. in Terre Haute, Indiana, is four years strong and growing under owner Rachel Targett.
Spire Coffee House in Toms River, New Jersey — formerly Opi Coffee Haus — just hit its third anniversary, alongside:
- Kushala Sip Coffee House in Chelsea, Massachusetts
- Doscher’s Candies Café in Cincinnati, Ohio
- Cool City Brewing in Two Rivers, Wisconsin
Long-Standing Shops, Steady Success
The Coffee Peddlar in Harrison, Ohio — 15 years- Cuppa Austin in Austin, Texas — 13 years
- Gathering Grounds in Huron, Ohio — 11 years
- Open Doors Coffeehouse in Johnson City, Tenn. — 9 years
- Hebrewz Coffee House in Jonesboro, Illinois — 9 years
- Hug In A Mug in Valdosta, Georgia — 8 years
The Coffee Peddlar in Harrison, Ohio — 15 yearsWhat’s Behind Their Success? A System That Works
Each of these coffee shops launched and grew with support from our 7 Steps to Success program — a comprehensive roadmap for starting and running an independent coffee shop.
From choosing the right equipment to building your drink menu and training your baristas, the 7 Steps help new owners open strong and stay competitive.
“Our support doesn’t end when a shop opens its doors,” Greg said. “We walk alongside owners through every stage of growth, with a focus on long-term success and meaningful community impact.”
Crimson Cup has helped launch over 300 independent coffee businesses in 37 states and counting. Let’s raise a cup to every shop celebrating this month, and to all the communities they serve.
Thinking About Opening Your Own Coffee Shop?
We’d love to help. Whether you’re dreaming about opening your first shop or celebrating your 10th year in business, the 7 Steps team is here for you. Connect with Scott Fullerton at sfullerton@crimsoncup.com or call 1-888-800-9224, and let’s talk about what’s possible.