By Karen Fernau
GCU News Bureau
Nearly four months after opening its flagship coffee shop in Grand Canyon University's Student Union, Grand Canyon Beverage Company (GCBC) opened a second location Monday in Roadrunner Apartments.
The new branch of the student-operated coffee house is set to open at 6 a.m. Monday.
Roadrunner, just east of Prescott Field, was selected because of its central location. The new shop faces the field.
“It’s in a high traffic area and is in the center of campus,” said Parker Shipe, a GCBC manager.
GCBC at Roadrunner is the closest place to grab a bite to eat or drink near University classrooms.
Roadrunner offers the same beverages and baked goods as the shop on the second floor of the Student Union, but in a smaller setting. Inside Roadrunner is standing room only, and there will be seating outside for about 40 people.
Both shops specialize in foods and drinks from local businesses, including Fractured Prune Doughnuts, Strictly From Scratch and White Lion Traditional Tea Company.
The java is from Press Coffee, a Scottsdale-based company owned by Steve Kraus and his wife, Tram Mai, an anchor for Channel 12 in Phoenix.
The two University shops employ 51 students.
The expansion is part of GCBC’s long-term growth plan, which includes eventually opening shops off campus.
“Our immediate goal is to bring students good coffee in a friendly setting,” said Lauren Lentini, another GCBC manager. “Roadrunner helps us accomplish our goal.”
Contact Karen Fernau at (602) 639-8344 or [email protected].
