GRAND CANYON BEVERAGE COMPANY
COFFEE & COMMUNITY
In the fast-paced environment of Grand Canyon University, there are few things that allow us to sit, take a breath, and just be on campus.
Whether it's to meet up with friends, grab a coffee, or do homework, Grand Canyon Beverage Company has become a true staple to GCU and students' everyday lives.
But what makes GCBC unique? Why is it a crucial part of the GCU experience? More than just a coffee shop, GCBC's community surrounding its employees and its customers shapes the company and the impact it has on everyone.
Lauren Anaya
meeting the manager
As the general manager of GCBC Lauren sat down with me to share the story of GCBC and its creation.
I was able to speak to Lauren candidly about the creation of the company, the hardships, the impact, and the unique nature of GCBC as it affects not only customers but also the baristas that she employs. Her story provided a special perspective on GCBC and what many students might not know about the coffee shop they visit daily.
Baristas
behind the scenes
A core part of the culture and community at GCBC is the baristas.
With over 200 student workers, GCBC provides a unique opportunity for building friendships and connections for baristas. Unlike any other company on campus, GCBC only employs students which creates an environment that constantly sees new students moving through.
This aspect of community with other students is reflected through the lasting friendships that many baristas talk about as one of their favorite parts about working at GCBC. The bond and camaraderie of the baristas is a staple of the GCBC environment.
Customer Perspective
At its core GCBC is a place for GCU students to gather and enjoy the products the shops have to offer.
Customers make up a crucial part of business and the success that businesses experience. And, with four locations and over 200 employees, GCBC has seen immense success.
I sat down with a few customers to hear their opinions about GCBC and why they frequented the shops.
I spoke with one student, a senior at GCU, who told me that GCBC has been her main place to study over the past four years. She emphasized the importance of having a place to go any day of the week at any time to work on homework and study for her tests.
"It's a nice environment that doesn't feel too quiet or intense like the library. I can focus on my work while not feeling the pressure of everyone else working in silence around me."
Other customers also talked about the actual product of GCBC and how the need for caffeine will always be important for college students. One student highlighted her love for GCBC's signature energy drink the stampede and the ability to order it even if it's late in the evening.
"Sometimes I need caffeine at 10 pm to grind out my homework and I know that GCBC is always going to be an option."
Overall students emphasized their love for GCBC's environment and their products telling me they will continue to go to GCBC during their time here at GCU.
One on One
a conversation between shift leads
As shift leads, Jude Rabadi and I discussed the unique perspective we have on GCBC's community and culture.
In honest conversation, Jude and I shared our experiences as shift leads and the impact that working at GCBC has had on our friendships and everyday lives.
Overall, GCBC has become a staple of the GCU campus providing a place for students to work on homework, meet up with friends, relax, and have a coffee. The company has had a profound impact not only on the students who are customers but the students who work there.
Through hard work and dedication, Lauren built a company that not only provides GCU students and staff with excellent drinks but also a workplace for students to build friendships and lifelong connections.
By Reya Custis
Built with Shorthand