HOLLAND – Three years after closing two locations in Grand Rapids and consolidating its store in Holland, Ferris Coffee will close on Eighth Street.
The company made the announcement. on social networks Wednesday, February 28.
“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the upcoming closure of our beloved Dutch cafe on March 23,” the post read. “While this decision was difficult, we are very proud of the community we have built over the years in the historic downtown district.
“The pleasure of participating in Tulip Time, hosting special events and being part of your daily coffee routine has been one of our greatest joys. It may be the end of an era for us at this location, but we are very excited for a new business to move into and make a positive impact on the community!”
Ferris Coffee CEO Mark VanTongeren told The Sentinel that the company's lease expires this year. With a renewed emphasis on the roasting side of the business, he said, it made sense to close.
“There was a time when our strategy involved having coffee shops to support the growth of our brand,” VanTongeren said. “As we move toward new growth opportunities… it's time to shift gears.”
VanTongeren expressed gratitude to employees and the Dutch community, who he said supported the location from the beginning.
“Our team in Holland has been phenomenal and they have really executed our mission of creating moments of joy for people to connect,” he said. “They have a lot to be proud of.”
The company's headquarters in Grand Rapids will remain open, including a cafe.
“We continue to plan to be a positive force in West Michigan.”
The store at 55 E. Eighth St. was once JP's. Ferris purchased the business in 2015, it underwent a partial remodel in 2016 and then closed in 2017 for a complete remodel.
After completing renovations in April 2018, the east side of the store reopened, but the west side was not unveiled until several months later, after Ferris announced a partnership with Michigan Awesome for the holiday season. The space was later used to display local artwork and was later put up for rent in 2021.
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Big Fish Outlet opened indoors that same year.
According to property records, the building at 55 E. Eighth St. is still owned by 2 OUT OF 3 LLC, owned by Jack Groot, founder of JP's.
— Contact Cassandra Lybrink and Austin Metz at newsroom@hollandsentinel.com.