by Ryan Karp

Reporter

The recent opening of Arabica and Stricklands at the Cascades of Brimfield shopping plaza is the first time the two franchises have joined together anywhere in the country, according to Rine.

It's also a first for owner Mark Rine, who has owned Rine Insurance in Tallmadge for 25 years. Rine said he and his wife, Andrea, have always dreamed of opening a coffee shop because they love coffee.

"We actually opened the doors Aug. 9," said Rine. "It was a soft opening. We just unlocked the doors and that was it. We weren't real busy, which was good. After a few weekends, things are running smooth."

Rine said business has picked up since the opening.

Rine said he chose to open the coffee shop and ice cream parlor under the same roof because of the advantage ice cream sales will bring in the summer.

"We think the concept is really unique," said Rine. "We're a cafe. You can come in and buy a newspaper and watch the news or sports. It has a neighborhood feel to it."

The business also has a drive-thru which opens at 7 a.m. to accommodate people who want a cup of coffee on their to work in the morning. The cafe opens at 9.

Rine said he chose to go with the Arabica-brand of coffee because it is well-known throughout Northeast Ohio. Being a part of a franchise, he said, also gives his employees more training. The store has 15 employees who are cross-trained to serve coffee and ice cream.

Arabica offers high-quality coffee, including their popular drip coffees and mochas, tea, unique drinks, soups and sandwiches. Stricklands homemade ice cream and frozen custard was established in Akron in 1936. Stricklands has made a name for itself throughout the area with the Arctic Twister, a Flavor of the Day and milkshakes.

Rine's sons, Shane, 25, and Shawn, 22, also work at the business.

Rine owns two commercial office buildings in Tallmadge, noting that learning the ins and outs of a coffee shop is a new experience He is also learning to make the products himself because he believes presentation is important.

Rine said he chose to open the business near the Wal-Mart Plaza because the area is growing in terms of businesses and retail.

E-mail: rkarp@recordpub.com

Phone: 330-686-3911