Two Yellowknife coffee companies will merge, preserving a downtown coffee shop that was otherwise set to permanently close this month.
Last month, Birchwood Coffee Kǫ̀ owners Jawah Scott and Patrick Scott said there were “many factors” leading them to close their 49 Street store after eight years in operation.
Now, Barren Ground Coffee’s Eric Binion says his company will buy Birchwood and keep it running under the Birchwood name.
“Barren Ground Coffee is committed to preserving the charm and character that has made Birchwood Coffee Kǫ̀ a staple in the community,” the two companies said in a news release.
“The café will continue to operate as Birchwood and will carry similar high-quality products and services to ensure a seamless transition for customers.”
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There was no suggestion that Barren Ground will close its own store, a couple of blocks away. The companies said Birchwood is expected to reopen by the last week of June.
“As Birchwood changes hands, we want to express our gratitude to all the folks who have supported us during those eight years and for all the kindness expressed in the last few weeks,” Patrick Scott was quoted as saying.
“We welcome the transition to Barren Ground so that our special space can continue serving the people of Yellowknife.”
“We are thrilled to keep Birchwood open,” said Binion, Barren Ground Coffee’s boss, who lightheartedly also referred to himself as the company’s “vice-president of mergers and acquisitions.”
“We hope that customers will continue to support both Barren Ground Coffee and Birchwood as we maintain vital spaces for our community,” Binion added.
