Meet First Gear Grinds, a coffee-on-wheels bike business, presented with a riddle: What has three wheels, an umbrella, and weighs close to 300 pounds? The answer is this unique coffee venture run by siblings Parker and Payton Sproule. Parker, 18, is set to study business at McMaster University, while 21-year-old Payton is heading into her senior year of Psychology at the University of Central Arkansas on a Beach Volleyball scholarship.
The inspiration for First Gear Grinds came three summers ago when Parker heard about the old Dickie-Dee bikes selling ice cream treats. He saw an opportunity to tap into a different market and cater to a growing audience. Instead of ice cream, they decided to offer coffee on wheels, bringing a fresh twist to the concept.
Operating the coffee-heavy trike around town poses its challenges, with the weight becoming a concern, especially on inclines, as Parker mentioned. However, the siblings received support from a provincial funding program, which helped them kick-start their business. Parker expressed that while they faced some personal challenges along the way, they grew not only as entrepreneurs but also as individuals.
The Sproule duo works together on Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Farmer's Market, splitting their shifts. Parker handles Tuesdays and Thursdays independently, while Payton fills in on Mondays and Fridays. To add uniqueness to their iced coffee, they utilize Twigg's cold brew and have a special touch – a nitro infuser from California installed in their bike. This infusion cuts the bitterness and creates a smoother, creamier coffee, which has become a hit with their customers.
Payton emphasized the importance of teamwork in making their dream business a reality. They bike together, supporting each other through varying weather conditions. Working side by side has brought the siblings even closer than before, strengthening their bond.
Their friendship is the cornerstone of their partnership, as Parker describes. They share everything and do everything together, making their business venture an incredible journey.
First Gear Grinds has received fantastic feedback, especially from visitors from southern Ontario. Those returning from Toronto are particularly excited about the cold brew, as it offers a unique experience not found in the city. The business has managed to capture the hearts of customers, creating a memorable experience that brings people back for more.
Video Summary:
Parker and Peyton Spruill, a brother-sister duo from North Bay, started their coffee-on-wheels business called First Gear Grinds three years ago. The idea was inspired by the old Dickie-Dee bikes that sold ice cream treats. Parker, who is only 18 years old, was intrigued by the concept and decided to put a unique twist on it by offering coffee instead. His supportive parents helped him get started, and his sister, Peyton, also joined him in the venture. They serve local coffee from a company called Twigg's, which uses a Nitro infusion to create a special and popular cold brew.
The provincial funding programs played a crucial role in getting Parker's business off the ground and ensuring cash flow to support the initial setup. Parker's father, who previously worked on the bike patrol with the North Bay Police, helped him explore and develop the business idea.
Despite starting the venture during the challenges of the COVID year, they have overcome obstacles and successfully built a popular coffee-on-wheels business, with plans to further expand the business in the future. Parker's pursuit of this unique coffee venture will also serve as a case study while he attends business school, potentially leading to more growth and opportunities for First Gear Grinds.
