S8: E7
Guests: Peter Oyen & Jessica Laufenberg, Rocket Velócafé
Role: Co-Owners, Baristas, Bike Mechanics, Janitors, Bartenders, etc.
From: Verona, WI
Online: @nplusonecafe • https://www.rocketvelocafe.com/
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The business is all Jessica’s fault. Her words, not mine!
The business was started at an unintentionally chaotic time that happened to be leading into the coronavirus pandemic.
Three years of shutdowns, alternating covid safety rules, supply chain issues, and changes in consumer behavior caught up with Peter and Jessica. They were facing an uncertain future, feeling worn down physically, mentally, and financially. All options were on the table, including selling the business.
But the timing was right for a crowdfunding campaign, not a sale. The community had been asking how they could support them. They just needed the opportunity to do so.
Peter and Jessica went into this relaunch with a new perspective. They have been leaning on the advice and skills of a select group of advisors. They took this pause in the business to simplify and strengthen the brand, listen to their customers and supporters, and even have a more comprehensive view of how the company fits into the Verona community.
n+1, and now Rocket Velócafé, exists to create a relationship with those coming through the door for a coffee, beer, and/or bikes.
n+1 refers to the number of bikes a person owns (n) and the number they want or may believe they need. It applies to coffee too.
I will 100% judge your restaurant or coffee shop by the quality of the toilet paper in the bathroom. If you care about your employees, you’ll have good TP.
SUPPORT THE CROWDFUNDING EFFORT
Visit the cafe for their upcoming Let’s Get Together Fundraiser: Thursday, July 27
6 - 9pm at Rocket Velócafé (507 Bruce St, Verona, WI 53593)There is already a silent auction up-and-running on the website: https://www.rocketvelocafe.com/
There is an active GoFundMe campaign that can be found at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/calling-on-our-community
R!WC INDUSTRY PARTNERS
A huge, on-going thank you to this show’s industry partners. Click these links!
Roastar • Zumbar Coffee & Tea • First Light Coffee Whiskey • Steady State Roasting • Mostra Coffee • Coffee Cycle • Camp Coffee Company • Ignite Coffee Company • Ascend Coffee Roasters • Marea Coffee • Cape Horn Coffee Roasters • Hacea Coffee Source • Crossings Coffee • Acento Coffee Roasters • Sivitz Roasting Machines
Coffee People: Peter Oyen & Jessica Laufenberg, Rocket Velócafé