Hey, we're coming to Ishpeming!
5/21/21:
Velodrome Coffee Company of Marquette, MI has begun work on an additional cafe and coffee roasting production space in historic downtown Ishpeming. The new 5500 sq ft space will act as the company’s headquarters and main coffee roasting production space. Customers will soon be able to enjoy a cup of coffee while observing the entire coffee roasting process. Guests will be further engaged in this open concept space by being able to watch the apparel screen printing process, coffee equipment repair, and customization workshop. The goal is to create several new jobs over the course of this expansion and work to build a space that can add value to the Ishpeming Community.
The company’s downtown Marquette cafe location will continue to operate as the grab-and-go quick solution it has become for NMU Students, downtown residents and workers, and tourists, whereas the new Ishpeming cafe will offer more of an oasis from the fast passed bustle. “We hope customers can use the extra space and seating, the open air features, and the roasting on display to take a moment to slow down with their coffee and enjoy the downtown Ishpeming vibes and community,” Founder and Co-Owner Brice Sturmer mentions. Co-owner Paul Vafa is looking forward to bringing the company’s innovative approach to service and cutting edge coffee equipment to, “... add something a little different but very much on brand…” to the Ishpeming cafe location. The bike aspect of the brand will continue with VeloServ Bike Co bike repair continuing to only operate out of the Marquette cafe location as bike shop West End Ski and Trail will be relocating next door to the new Ishpeming space. Bikes and coffee will be coupled again in downtown Ishpeming through a shared passage between the collaborating businesses; the pair plan to host community events and group rides together.
The welcoming community, access to mountain biking trails, existing vibrant business community, availability of public parking, and the building square footage to accommodate growth have all been factors in selecting this community for the location of this expansion. The DDA of Ishpeming has also awarded a facade grant to assist in the remodel of this project.
Those interested in following this expansion can be directed towards the company’s social media pages and website. Velodrome Coffee Company has also launched a Patronicity Campaign to allow supporters to pledge their support in exchange for exclusive perks. Much like Kickstarter, this crowdfunding platform is a way for businesses to raise funds from their supporters. All fundraising efforts will help with providing a small portion of the capital to execute this project. Patronicity.com/velodrome-ishpeming
While the Ishpeming buildout is underway, Velodrome Coffee can still be found at the Marquette cafe (519 W. Washington St), or at a number of local retailers including: The MQT Food Co-op, Meijer, 231 West Patisserie, Econo, Cruisin Coffee, and Lodge Coffee.