Small coffee shops in Ramona are facing increasing competition from major chains like Starbucks, but local businesses are finding ways to stand out. One of the latest additions to the area is Gathering Grounds, a new coffee hut that opened on March 8. Owner Danica Strand is focused on creating a unique identity for the hut, which has been home to several previous coffee businesses, including Java Hut, That Good Stuff, and the Hummingbird Coffee Hut.
“Our biggest challenge now is to build our own brand and not be compared to Hummingbird,” Strand explained. “We hope people will come to love us as Gathering Grounds. So far, so good.”
Rumors are circulating about a new Starbucks opening at the former Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen location at 1801 Main St., and a Starbucks spokesperson confirmed plans for the new store later this year. However, Strand isn’t overly worried. She primarily serves customers from the nearby San Diego Country Estates, which gives her a loyal customer base.
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