The closure of Coffee Cottage has left a significant void on campus, impacting students and staff alike. This small cafe was a beloved spot for quick meals and caffeine boosts, especially for those on the academic side of campus. Unfortunately, due to a lack of customers and financial losses exceeding $28,000 over two semesters, the decision was made to shut down. Efforts to revitalize the cafe included updating decor and adding healthier menu options, but these changes did not attract enough patrons. The closure has prompted discussions about how to best utilize the now-empty space, with hopes of turning it into a venue for student programming. Meanwhile, Fireside Café has adapted by introducing new menu items based on Coffee Cottage's previous offerings. The departure of Fireside's popular leader adds to the sense of loss felt by the community.
• Coffee Cottage closed due to low customer turnout and financial losses.
• It lost over $20,000 in the previous semester and another $8,000 this spring.
• Changes were made to attract more customers, but they were unsuccessful.
• Fireside Café is now offering smoothies and meal specials in response to the closure.
This closure highlights the challenges small campus businesses face in maintaining viability. It also raises questions about community engagement and the importance of having accessible spaces for students. The hope is that the community will come together to create a new purpose for the Coffee Cottage space, ensuring it meets the needs of students and staff moving forward.
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