News Summary
Knowledge Perk Coffee Company, based in Rock Hill, South Carolina, is set to expand significantly by opening new drive-thru and café locations state-wide. The company plans to launch its first drive-thru in Little River by fall and a café in Columbia by July 2025. Since its founding in 2017, Knowledge Perk has grown from five to ten locations, driven by strong demand for its small-batch coffee. This expansion aligns with its goal of becoming a national brand while maintaining strong community ties.
Rock Hill, South Carolina
Knowledge Perk Coffee Company, a rapidly growing coffee roaster based in Rock Hill, South Carolina, has announced plans for significant expansion, opening new drive-thru and café locations across the state. This growth strategy includes the much-anticipated launch of its first drive-thru location in Little River, projected to open in the fall of 2025. Additionally, a new café is set to debut in Columbia by the end of July 2025 in the lobby of the Gateway 737 student housing development, marking the company’s increasing footprint in the region.
Since its founding in 2017, Knowledge Perk has developed a reputation for small-batch coffee roasting and has swiftly increased its presence in South Carolina, with current locations in Rock Hill, Fort Mill, Charlotte, Spartanburg, Columbia, and Myrtle Beach. The company has doubled its locations from five to ten within a span of just 18 months, indicating strong demand and operational success. The expansion strategy incorporates both corporate-owned and licensed cafés, allowing for an agile yet effective business model.
The establishment of the Little River drive-thru is part of Knowledge Perk’s strategic plan to foster scalable and efficient growth. As emphasized by CEO Ryan Sanderson, this initiative aims to enhance customer accessibility to premium coffee while solidifying the company’s mission to create a recognizable lifestyle brand that remains deeply rooted in community engagement and performance.
In addition to the new drive-thru, Knowledge Perk is preparing to introduce another café in Columbia, which will be its second in the city. Furthermore, the company has plans for a licensed location in Spartanburg at The Mill at Fountain Inn. This approach highlights the versatility of their business model, which has managed to achieve significant growth while maintaining a local touch.
Knowledge Perk is not only focused on expanding its physical locations but is also making strides towards becoming a national brand. Future plans include transitioning from a licensing model to a franchising model, which is expected to accelerate its growth trajectory even further.
Partnerships with significant local establishments, including Coastal Carolina University, the University of South Carolina, and involvement in the United States Disc Golf Championship, have been integral to increasing the brand’s visibility and driving sales. By collaborating with recognized organizations, Knowledge Perk aims to reach a broader audience and foster stronger community ties.
The company has established a clear objective to address customers’ needs across various spaces, serving not only coffee enthusiasts but also individuals in academic environments and event venues. Its approach combines intentional growth with a commitment to authenticity, demonstrating that it is possible to expand quickly while still being true to its core values.
In addition to its business endeavors, Knowledge Perk actively supports local communities and contributes to international initiatives focused on coffee education. Through partnerships with coffee farms, the company emphasizes an educational approach that builds connections as it expands its network.
In summary, Knowledge Perk Coffee Company’s expansion plans signify a new chapter in its evolution as it works to broaden its market presence while maintaining a strong focus on community ties and quality service. As the company continues to develop its brand and operational structure, customers can look forward to more convenient locations offering high-quality, small-batch coffee throughout South Carolina and beyond.
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Additional Resources
- Herald Online
- Wikipedia: Coffee
- Post and Courier
- Google Search: Knowledge Perk Coffee Company
- The State
- Google Scholar: coffee business growth
- Charlotte Football Club
- Encyclopedia Britannica: coffee roasting
- Charlotte Observer
- Google News: Rock Hill South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
