Simplicity, focus, community, and legacy. These are some words that I feel apply to the steady and excellent service of Hyperion Espresso these last 30 years of operation. When you can measure your business in decades and look back with pride and a full heart, you now you have crafted something lasting and valuable. Today we are going to explore the story of Hyperion Espresso in Fredricksburg, VA w/ co-founder Ana Brugos

Born in Madrid, Spain Ana got a degree in Advertising at Universidad Complutense. Moved to Seattle, WA to study art in 1992. She met Dan Peterson and, with his friend Steve Sollien, decided to move to Fredericksburg, VA to open a coffee shop, Hyperion Espresso, in 1994.

Dan and Ana married that fall. After 5 years, Steve moved west while Dan and Ana continued and grew with the business.

Over the years they expanded the seating and serving area, tried a satellite location that didn’t work, increased revenue as the area developed. In the last 20 years they were able to detach somewhat from the business thanks to GM, Amanda Jones. In 2024, after successfully overcoming set backs like lack of employees and economic downturns, particularly COVID 19, they sold Hyperion Espresso to Jack Scholl owner of Roadmap Coffee.

I am thrilled to get to look back in time with Ana and Amanda and learn what great things can be accomplished when you have clear focus and a simple goal to serve you community well!

We discuss:

• How Hyperion was born
• Cultural Influences on Coffee
• Community Building and Customer Engagement
• Transitioning Roles and Responsibilities
• Core Values and Business Ethos
• Navigating Industry Trends and Changes
• Creating a Unique Customer Experience
• Focusing on Core Offerings
• Building a Strong Team Culture
• Navigating Employee Dynamics
• Sustaining Passion and Community Engagement

Links:

www.hyperionespresso.com

Related episodes:

• 380 : Founder Friday! w/ Cary and Cindy Arsaga of Arsaga’s Coffee Roasters
• 320 Founder Friday! w/ Francesco Sanapo of Ditta Artigianale, Florence, Italy
• 081 : Founder Friday w/ David Schomer of Espresso Vivace
• 205 : Inside Caffe Florian, the World’s Oldest Coffee Shop ! | Venice, Italy

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