Another coffee chain with roots in the Pacific Northwest is expanding to Colorado Springs.
Black Rock Coffee Bar, founded in Portland, Ore., and with headquarters in Vancouver, Wash., and Scottsdale, Ariz., says it’s targeting a mid-February opening at 13590 Roller Coaster Road in the new King Soopers-anchored Marketplace at Flying Horse shopping center, in the Flying Horse development on the Springs’ far north side.
The location would be the first Black Rock Coffee Bar in the Pikes Peak region, though more are on the way.
Black Rock also has submitted a proposal to city government officials that shows it plans to open at 5560 Barnes Road on Colorado Springs’ northeast side. The chain says it’s aiming for a third-quarter opening for that location, though its debut would depend on the pace of construction and the receipt of city regulatory approvals.
Though the chain says it only has leases in place at the Roller Coaster and Barnes roads locations, a preliminary proposal submitted to city planners shows a third potential Black Rock outlet at 2933 Sage St., west of Interstate 25 and Fillmore Street in northwest Colorado Springs.
“We see significant growth potential in the area and are actively exploring opportunities for additional locations,” Bobby Kaufman, Black Rock Coffee Bar’s chief development officer, said via email. “Long-term, we believe there’s room for 10 or more locations across Colorado Springs, spanning from the far south to the north side of the city.
“The Springs is a vibrant and growing community, and its energy aligns perfectly with our mission to connect with and serve local neighborhoods,” Kaufman said. “This expansion is a natural step for us as we continue to build on our presence in Colorado, moving organically from Castle Rock and working our way south.”
In addition to Castle Rock, Black Rock has locations in Denver, Parker and two in Littleton, the chain’s website shows.
“Colorado as a whole is an exciting market for Black Rock Coffee Bar, and we see it as a key part of our long-term growth strategy,” Kaufman said.
Launched in 2008, Black Rock now has about 150 locations in Colorado, Arizona, California, Idaho, Oregon, Texas and Washington, according to its website. All locations are corporate owned, the company said.
Black Rock Coffee Bar began as a family-run business in Portland, and those families remain involved in the company today, Kaufman’s email said.
The chain started with drive-thru-only locations, but since has added larger brick-and-mortar spaces with indoor seating to go with drive-thru service. New Black Rock locations typically have seating for 20 to 30 people, which provide “a comfortable and inviting space for those who want to relax, work, or connect with others,” Kaufman said.
Black Rock’s menu includes coffees, mochas, lattes, teas, hot chocolate, smoothies and juices, and all locations also serve locally made pastry and breakfast items, according to the chain’s website.
In Colorado Springs, Black Rock joins familiar Pacific Northwest brands Starbucks and Dutch Bros Coffee, which were launched in Seattle and Grants Pass, Ore., respectively.
Other regional and national chains in the Springs, some of which operate drive-thru-only kiosks and others that also have sit-down locations, include Bad Ass Coffee, Scooter’s, the Human Bean and 7 Brew Drive Thru Coffee. Dunkin’, McDonald’s and other restaurants also have enhanced their coffee offerings over the years.
Familiar local shops include Loyal Coffee, STIR Coffee & Cocktails, Story Coffee.
With so many choices for coffee drinkers, is there room in the market for another? Not surprisingly, Kaufman said yes.
While he said he respects other local, regional and national coffee operators, Black Rock’s “unwavering focus on creating a truly exceptional guest experience,” along with “convenience and an inviting atmosphere,” will help set it apart.”
“We believe these elements, combined with our innovative menu offerings and commitment to the community, will allow us to carve out our own niche and thrive in Colorado Springs,” Kaufman said.
