In Rhode Island, two entrepreneurs named Audrey Finocchiaro and Sam Lancaster found success with their unique coffee company, The Nitro Cart.
The Nitro Cart started as a small coffee cart, but after shifting its location to Brown University, the endeavor quickly turned into a hit with the local community.
Troubles with finance marked the early days of the business, but its relocation and resultant popularity led to a rapid expansion into a brick-and-mortar shop alongside the original mobile cart.
Now a mainstay of the Rhode Island coffee scene, The Nitro Cart stands as a testament to innovation and resilience in the face of adversity.
The Nitro Cart’s unique journey began in 2016 in the basement of Finocchiaro’s parents’ house.
Despite its innovative design and attention-grabbing nitrogen-infused cold brew coffee, the business initially struggled.
Rhode Island coffee startup’s successful journey
But through smart financial strategy and focus on customer service, the tide finally turned.
These improvements brought financial stability and earned the business recognition for not just its unique design and quality coffee, but its inspiring journey from basement start-up to successful enterprise.
A day of great success at Brown University marked a turning point.
After selling out in half an hour, the cart became a staple in its environment, and created several fruitful partnerships with local businesses. This boosted business and helped to further popularize the brand.
In its current state, the business, now called The Nitro Bar, boasts impressive numbers: 50 employees, three coffee shops, a mobile trailer, and a widespread distribution across Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
Last year alone, the business grossed $4.5 million, adding even more to its remarkable story.
A substantial investment from venture capitalists helped to fuel this growth.
It allowed Audrey and Sam to purchase necessary equipment, move to a larger facility, and hire a small dedicated team – extending the reach of their business and putting their product in the hands of more coffee-lovers.
From its humble beginnings in a basement, The Nitro Bar has become a landmark in its home state.
Through a combination of determination, innovation, and community focus, The Nitro Bar shows that a small project can grow into a massive success.
As a beloved part of the local scene, the business continues to foster a culture of warmth and accessibility, just as it has from the start.
