Brewing Success: How Community and Storytelling Revived Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii
October 2, 2024, 11:34 pm
Location: United States, Colorado, Centennial
Employees: 11-50
Founded date: 1989
In the world of coffee, where the aroma can evoke memories and the taste can spark joy, Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii was struggling to find its footing. Enter Kristen Haseotes and Scott Snyder, two visionaries who turned a fading brand into a thriving community hub. Their journey is a masterclass in understanding the power of community and storytelling.
Kristen Haseotes was not your typical coffee shop owner. She had no prior experience in the coffee business. Instead, her background was rooted in community service and development. She once ran a home for ex-offenders and worked in community development at a bank. Yet, she found herself drawn to a local Bad Ass Coffee in Naples, Florida. It was more than just a place to grab a cup of joe; it was a gathering spot for locals. Electricians, landscapers, and even millionaires mingled over coffee, creating a tapestry of community.
When Haseotes learned that the shop was struggling, with annual revenue barely scraping $430,000, she saw an opportunity. She bought the franchise, not just to sell coffee, but to nurture a community. Her vision was clear: it was about more than just caffeine; it was about connection.
Haseotes quickly made changes. She hired new staff but also took the time to understand her existing team. One barista, Daniel Guimond, stood out. She recognized his potential and promoted him to manager. This decision proved pivotal. Empowering the right people can transform a business.
Next, Haseotes faced a choice. The space next door was available, but it came with double the rent and zoning issues that limited menu expansion. Many would have balked at the idea. But for Haseotes, it was a chance to enhance the community experience. The new space could host music, lectures, and events. It was a gamble, but she understood that a coffee shop could be a cultural hub.
During renovations, she didn’t just close the doors and wait. Instead, she offered free coffee to loyal customers outside. After a hurricane, she took coffee to first responders. These acts of kindness kept the community engaged. It was about routine and connection. Haseotes paid her staff during the closure and encouraged them to donate tips to charity. This created a culture of giving, and the community responded generously.
Scott Snyder, the CEO of Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii, shared a similar vision. He was brought in to help the brand regain its footing. His journey began with a focus on operations but quickly evolved into a broader mission. Snyder understood that a brand is more than just a name; it’s a story. The history of Bad Ass Coffee is intertwined with the donkeys that once carried coffee beans down Hawaii’s volcanic slopes. This unique narrative became a cornerstone of the brand’s identity.
Snyder's approach was strategic. He launched a rebranding effort in March 2020, just as the world was grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic. Timing was ironic, but the passion behind the rebranding was unwavering. He aimed to create an experiential atmosphere that resonated with customers. It wasn’t just about selling coffee; it was about telling a story that connected people to Hawaii’s rich coffee heritage.
Under Snyder’s leadership, Bad Ass Coffee expanded its offerings. While many coffee shops might offer a single Kona blend, Snyder ensured that each location showcased a diverse range of Hawaiian blends. This not only appealed to coffee enthusiasts but also educated newcomers about the unique flavors of Hawaiian coffee.
Snyder’s background in digital marketing played a crucial role in the brand’s resurgence. He tailored messaging to different audience segments, ensuring that the brand reached a broader demographic. The goal was clear: to build a loyal customer base that extended beyond the cult following.
The combination of Haseotes’ community focus and Snyder’s storytelling prowess created a powerful synergy. Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii transformed from a struggling franchise into a thriving brand. By 2024, Haseotes’ location was on track to generate $1.8 million in revenue, a staggering increase from its previous performance.
The success of Bad Ass Coffee serves as a reminder that businesses thrive on connection. Community is the lifeblood of any local establishment. Haseotes and Snyder understood this fundamental truth. They didn’t just sell coffee; they created a space where people felt valued and connected.
In a world where many businesses prioritize profit over people, Bad Ass Coffee stands out. It’s a testament to the idea that when you invest in community and tell a compelling story, success follows. The journey of Haseotes and Snyder is a blueprint for aspiring entrepreneurs. It shows that with vision, dedication, and a focus on connection, even the most struggling businesses can rise to new heights.
As the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air, it’s clear that Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii is more than just a coffee shop. It’s a community hub, a storyteller, and a symbol of resilience. In the end, it’s not just about the coffee; it’s about the connections made over each cup.
Kristen Haseotes was not your typical coffee shop owner. She had no prior experience in the coffee business. Instead, her background was rooted in community service and development. She once ran a home for ex-offenders and worked in community development at a bank. Yet, she found herself drawn to a local Bad Ass Coffee in Naples, Florida. It was more than just a place to grab a cup of joe; it was a gathering spot for locals. Electricians, landscapers, and even millionaires mingled over coffee, creating a tapestry of community.
When Haseotes learned that the shop was struggling, with annual revenue barely scraping $430,000, she saw an opportunity. She bought the franchise, not just to sell coffee, but to nurture a community. Her vision was clear: it was about more than just caffeine; it was about connection.
Haseotes quickly made changes. She hired new staff but also took the time to understand her existing team. One barista, Daniel Guimond, stood out. She recognized his potential and promoted him to manager. This decision proved pivotal. Empowering the right people can transform a business.
Next, Haseotes faced a choice. The space next door was available, but it came with double the rent and zoning issues that limited menu expansion. Many would have balked at the idea. But for Haseotes, it was a chance to enhance the community experience. The new space could host music, lectures, and events. It was a gamble, but she understood that a coffee shop could be a cultural hub.
During renovations, she didn’t just close the doors and wait. Instead, she offered free coffee to loyal customers outside. After a hurricane, she took coffee to first responders. These acts of kindness kept the community engaged. It was about routine and connection. Haseotes paid her staff during the closure and encouraged them to donate tips to charity. This created a culture of giving, and the community responded generously.
Scott Snyder, the CEO of Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii, shared a similar vision. He was brought in to help the brand regain its footing. His journey began with a focus on operations but quickly evolved into a broader mission. Snyder understood that a brand is more than just a name; it’s a story. The history of Bad Ass Coffee is intertwined with the donkeys that once carried coffee beans down Hawaii’s volcanic slopes. This unique narrative became a cornerstone of the brand’s identity.
Snyder's approach was strategic. He launched a rebranding effort in March 2020, just as the world was grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic. Timing was ironic, but the passion behind the rebranding was unwavering. He aimed to create an experiential atmosphere that resonated with customers. It wasn’t just about selling coffee; it was about telling a story that connected people to Hawaii’s rich coffee heritage.
Under Snyder’s leadership, Bad Ass Coffee expanded its offerings. While many coffee shops might offer a single Kona blend, Snyder ensured that each location showcased a diverse range of Hawaiian blends. This not only appealed to coffee enthusiasts but also educated newcomers about the unique flavors of Hawaiian coffee.
Snyder’s background in digital marketing played a crucial role in the brand’s resurgence. He tailored messaging to different audience segments, ensuring that the brand reached a broader demographic. The goal was clear: to build a loyal customer base that extended beyond the cult following.
The combination of Haseotes’ community focus and Snyder’s storytelling prowess created a powerful synergy. Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii transformed from a struggling franchise into a thriving brand. By 2024, Haseotes’ location was on track to generate $1.8 million in revenue, a staggering increase from its previous performance.
The success of Bad Ass Coffee serves as a reminder that businesses thrive on connection. Community is the lifeblood of any local establishment. Haseotes and Snyder understood this fundamental truth. They didn’t just sell coffee; they created a space where people felt valued and connected.
In a world where many businesses prioritize profit over people, Bad Ass Coffee stands out. It’s a testament to the idea that when you invest in community and tell a compelling story, success follows. The journey of Haseotes and Snyder is a blueprint for aspiring entrepreneurs. It shows that with vision, dedication, and a focus on connection, even the most struggling businesses can rise to new heights.
As the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air, it’s clear that Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii is more than just a coffee shop. It’s a community hub, a storyteller, and a symbol of resilience. In the end, it’s not just about the coffee; it’s about the connections made over each cup.