Community Spotlight: Grinds Coffee Co
Reopened by John and Cari Stout in 2015, Grinds Coffee Co in Cabot, AR stands as a testament to entrepreneurial spirit and community dedication. This beloved coffee shop has become a cornerstone of the local community, providing not just coffee, but a place of connection and warmth.
The Leap from Corporate Life to Coffee Culture
John Stout, who spent over 30 years in operations management, decided it was time for a change. “I was always a big fan of making things better than they were,” he shared. After years of managing large teams and adhering to corporate mandates, John and his wife Cari decided to start their own business, buying the struggling coffee shop and transforming it into the thriving Grinds Coffee Co it is today.
Creating a Welcoming Haven
At Grinds Coffee Co, it’s not just about serving coffee; it’s about creating a community hub where everyone feels welcome. The menu boasts a variety of beverages and food items, with John making just about everything handmade every morning. Their breakfast menu, featuring items such as sausage egg and cheese croissants and breakfast burritos, has expanded to meet the customers’ wants.
The Stouts’ focus on customer service is evident in their efficient customer service and their willingness to make things right. “In my mind, running a business is about people,” John emphasized, underscoring their commitment to customer satisfaction. “It’s about taking care of a customer.”
Navigating Through Challenges
The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges for Grinds Coffee Co, but the local community’s support was unwavering. Customers lined up at the drive-through, and some even went out of their way to provide financial support. “Our drive-through line was insane (with) just patient people,” John recalled, grateful for the loyal customer base that helped them stay afloat.
Despite the hurdles, the Stouts remained true to their values, offering discounts to military personnel, police, and firefighters as well as their families—a reflection of their appreciation for these essential community members. “It’s just the right thing to do,” John Stout said. “These guys could get called up to go die at any time, and not just the guy going out and carrying the gun has to bear that. The whole family does.”
A Bright Future Ahead
The Stouts are optimistic about the future of Grinds Coffee Co as they continue to enhance their offerings and uphold the high standards of service that have earned them a devoted following in Cabot. Although economic pressures have forced them to scale back some charitable activities, their commitment to the community remains strong.
“We used to do a whole lot more with the schools and donations to something, but when the economy hit us so hard, we had to back off a big piece of it just because,” John Stout said. “We’ll donate gift cards, we’ll donate stuff like that… If things ever pick up again, and we hope they will, we’ll get back to where we were before.”
Grinds Coffee Co is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a symbol of resilience, dedication, and community spirit. John and Cari Stout have created a space where customers feel valued and appreciated, making it a beloved spot in Cabot. Their journey from corporate life to coffee shop owners is a powerful example of what can be achieved with passion and perseverance.
“Anybody thinking about opening up a business, it is not for the faint of heart,” John Stout said. “You have to have the drive to do it or you’re gonna sink. … Go into it knowing that your first however many years you’re gonna be working a lot. I’ve got a little cot set up in the back, and I used to sleep here, you know, to take a nap because I’d be here for 18 hours a day. That’s what it takes to get off the ground.”
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