Frisco is the fastest growing city in the US. With everyone needing their morning cup of ‘Joe, coffee shops are a necessity. Most recently joining the market is Black Rock Coffee.

There’s more to this place than its delicious drinks. Here lies a story. Black Rock Coffee Bar began as a small, family owned business, but in the past 16 years, the coffee shop has expanded to 143 stores.

The new location is only ten minutes away from Wakeland. This cafe is not only a new source of caffeine, but also a nearby example of a successful start-up business for those interested in starting a business of their own.

The cafe owners have advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. “Lots and lots of hard work. This year we invested into the growth of new stores, hiring the very best of people, making sure the customers get the same,” said Jeff Hernandez.”We just have to make sure that we are offering great quality products, really great, and have great service.”

Co-founder Daniel Brand knows a great product offering and service needs a knowledge of the coffee industry to thrive. “Knowing the industry and then making sure that your goal is so that you can succeed,” said Brand. “Not only for yourself but for everyone that you employ.”

But a business is nothing without its employees. Isaac Luis-Ruiz is the cafe’s regional manager, moving up from within.”I’ve been with the company since April of 2021,” said Luis-Ruiz. “I started out as a barista and then just slowly climbed up into management.”

Luis-Ruiz attributes the company’s success to the positivity and family origins of the company. “My experience with Black Rock specifically has been positive,” said Ruiz. So I definitely think this one has not required the most responsibility, but Black rock growing from a family, small family owned business to a huge corporate, company, now.

“We make connections. We pay attention to each customer that comes in, and we try and give them the best service that we can, giving them a cup of coffee that’s Velvet Gold.”

Black Rock is a great example of the entrepreneurial spirit within the community. Wakeland’s Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) club looks to local and small businesses as guide for their students.

“Personally, I find it very engaging. A lot of the work we get to do seems meaningful, especially if you want to go into entrepreneurship as a career like this is your business,” said Jake Lawson, a DECA member. “For example, something we work on, or we get to founder on business and go really in-depth about how it’s organized, etc. they’re able to offer more targeted services, as, as big chains aren’t really able to get on that micro-level and supply individual preferences as much as maybe the small, family owned businesses who can adapt to changing consumer needs in small areas.”

One thing is certain, Black Rock is a shining example of a successful franchise and a beacon of caffeinated hope for all entrepreneurs alike.