Changes Coming to the Village Cup Coffee Shop

What is happening? We are excited to share that something new is in the works for the Village Cup Coffee Shop. With the approval of the Elder Trustees, The Cup will close on May 25 so that we can begin transitioning the space into a free, self-service beverage station and refreshed community gathering space.

Why is this happening? The business model for the Cup is not financially sustainable. The Trustees decided that it would be wise to take a new route with the Cup while still providing a welcoming community space (and free coffee!). In surveys and anecdotal conversations, the suggestion that we move toward free, self-serve beverages—rather than the current coffee-shop model—has been pervasive, and we are excited that we can make it a reality soon.

How will we do this? Self-serve drip coffee, hot tea, and an automatic espresso-style coffee and hot chocolate machine will be available free of charge. Much of the existing cabinetry will remain in the area, including storage, and we will make use of portable pieces for events like memorial services, book signings, etc., so that the change is as cost effective as possible while still offering flexibility. We will sell much of the existing equipment and furniture to help offset other costs.

When will this happen? The Village Cup will close for weekday service on Friday, May 15. The Cup will remain open on Sundays only until May 24, after which it will be closed permanently in its present form. Changes to the area will take place over the summer months. A task force began meeting in early May to discuss, plan, and execute the upcoming improvements. While there will be no coffee available in the Welcome Center during renovations, folks are welcome to visit the free coffee station in Friendship Hall anytime.

We’re grateful for the memories we’ve made in the Cup over the years and excited to see what opportunities await in a new, reimagined space in the Welcome Center!