Velvet Robot Coffee Lab is shutting down its Roscoe location after just over a year of service. The coffee shop, situated at 10514 Main St., will close its doors on September 7. Despite having a thriving Rockford shop, the Roscoe site struggled with foot traffic and slow infrastructure improvements. Owner Justin Carner expressed disappointment but emphasized the need to focus on their successful Rockford branch.
• Velvet Robot opened in Roscoe in May 2024 but faced challenges from the start.
• The Roscoe location had high vehicle traffic but lacked pedestrian visitors.
• The Rockford shop will host more events, including craft fairs and trivia nights.
• Velvet Robot previously operated at Rockford City Market before moving to Roscoe.
This closure highlights the difficulties small businesses face in maintaining a presence in less trafficked areas. The focus now shifts to strengthening community ties in Rockford while reflecting on the lessons learned from Roscoe.
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