Stefanie Danklefsen and Nichola Roberts, sisters from Green Bay, have taken over Soda Bar in Appleton, Wisconsin, specializing in the trending beverage known as dirty sodas. This unique drink combines soda with cream and flavored syrups. The sisters aim to create a welcoming space for families while expanding their menu and establishing strong ties with the community, even activating local youth as part-time employees. They acknowledged their business learning curve but remain optimistic about the venture’s future after seeing a positive community response.
Sisters Stefanie Danklefsen and Nichola Roberts have returned to Wisconsin to manage their newly acquired beverage business that specializes in the trending concept of “dirty sodas.” This trend originated in Utah in the mid-2010s but gained widespread popularity across the United States in 2022, largely fueled by virality on social media platforms like TikTok. “Dirty sodas” are typically composed of fountain sodas blended with flavored syrups and cream, resulting in unique, customizable drinks. As this trend proliferates in the Midwest, both specialty chains and independent ventures are establishing themselves in various locations. Stefanie and Nichola took over the Soda Bar, previously established by Brittney Anderson and her associates in Appleton, Wisconsin. The sale came at an opportune moment when one of the partners was relocating to Chicago. Nichola expressed interest in purchasing the business after being encouraged by her sister Alyssa. Following initial discussions with the current owners, negotiations commenced, leading to a swift closing of the deal in August after starting the dialogue in late June. The sisters, originally from Green Bay, Wisconsin, had previously encountered dirty sodas while attending Brigham Young University in Utah. This venture allowed them to bring a piece of that experience back to their home state. The sisters, now focused on their two locations at 134 E. Northland Ave. and 734 N. Casaloma Drive, aim to cultivate a welcoming atmosphere for young families. In addition to dirty sodas, they offer an assortment of snacks such as cookies and cake pops, and are in the process of expanding their menu to include flavored waters and healthy alternatives, ensuring there is something for everyone. Despite their previous lack of business ownership experience, they have immersed themselves in learning the ropes of operating a retail establishment. “I can just get in there and do what needs to be done,” said Stefanie, underscoring her determination to succeed in this new role. The sisters are committed to creating a community-centric business that builds strong relationships with their clientele and enhances the surrounding area. As part of their operations, they engage actively with a roster of approximately 20 part-time employees, many of whom are students, prioritizing a balance that allows them to fulfill their education commitments while enjoying a fun work environment. The sisters acknowledge the steeper learning curve they face as new owners but believe that the established customer base and the positive reception their offerings have received will contribute to their future success. With creative flavors such as caramel apple and pumpkin spice emerging as seasonal favorites, both sisters see a promising future for their business as it continues to grow in the community. Stefanie advises potential business buyers to conduct thorough research and to understand the fundamentals of business operations, emphasizing that while the endeavor is challenging, it is ultimately rewarding.
The phenomenon of dirty sodas originated in Utah in the mid-2010s and has expanded in popularity primarily through social media exposure since 2022. These beverages combine various fountain sodas with cream and flavored syrups to create unique drinks. This growing interest has prompted both independent and chain establishments to enter the market, particularly in Midwestern areas that previously lacked similar options. The concept has caught the attention of large brands, which have started to incorporate related products into their offerings, demonstrating the trend’s significant reach and appeal.
Stefanie Danklefsen and Nichola Roberts embody the entrepreneurial spirit as they revitalize the concept of dirty sodas in Wisconsin. Their transition into business ownership, driven by passion and a commitment to community engagement, exemplifies how individual initiative can lead to regional trends taking root. Their focus on customer satisfaction, exploration of diverse offerings, and dedication to a family-friendly environment position them for continued success in this burgeoning market.
Original Source: www.postcrescent.com
Leave a Reply