Contributor: Jamie Richardson
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8 Union Street South, Concord, NC 28025
In the heart of Downtown Concord, you’ll find Press & Porter, a coffee shop that’s more than just a place to grab your morning brew. Founded by Anna and Emily, sisters and lifelong Concord residents, this cozy spot has become a cornerstone of the community. What began as a dream on a summer walk in 2019 has blossomed into a thriving business.
Photo credits: Press & Porter
A Vision Rooted in Connection
The idea for Press & Porter was born during a casual walk with their kids through Downtown Concord. Instead of finding the perfect coffee shop, Anna and Emily stumbled upon a “Going Out of Business” sign on a storefront on Union Street. That sign sparked an idea: why not create the coffee shop they were searching for—a place that could serve as a gathering space for the community?
From the beginning, Anna and Emily envisioned Press & Porter as more than just a place to get coffee. They wanted to create a space where everyone—from families and business professionals to couples on first dates—could feel at home. Their vision was rooted in the belief that a coffee shop can be a place where connections are made, and relationships are nurtured.
Building a Business Against the Odds
Although they had no prior business experience, the sisters dedicated countless hours to research, fueled by an impressive amount of caffeine, and took on DIY projects to transform the space. Remarkably, within just three months, Press & Porter opened its doors in July 2019.
Opening a business is never easy, and Anna and Emily faced significant challenges, particularly when the COVID-19 pandemic hit just six months after they opened.
- The sisters had to quickly adapt, finding ways to keep the business afloat while continuing to serve their community.
Concord’s downtown area was also undergoing significant changes but Press & Porter has managed to thrive thanks to the support of local residents and a commitment to personalized customer service.
Supporting Local, Serving with Care
From the beginning, Anna and Emily prioritized supporting other small businesses. From the dark and bold “OG Roaster” coffee by Red Rooster to the mouthwatering pastries from local baker V3, everything at Press & Porter is chosen with care.
Their popular breakfast sandwiches have become a favorite among regulars, and their monthly special menus keep things fresh and exciting, highlighting seasonal and holiday-themed items that customers love.
As Downtown Concord continues to evolve, so does Press & Porter. With the opening of the streetscape, the sisters are excited to expand their seating capacity and cater to an evening crowd, offering even more opportunities for the community to gather and connect.
Celebrating Five Years: The Re•Union Event
This July marked Press & Porter’s five-year anniversary, a significant milestone for Anna and Emily as they reflect on their journey from stay-at-home moms to successful business owners. To commemorate this achievement, the sisters are hosting a special “Re•Union” patio party on Saturday, September 7, 2024, following the downtown Concord Art Walk.
The Re•Union event will kick off at 6:30pm with live music from local musicians, setting the perfect atmosphere for an evening of celebration. For those who love to shop local, new fall merchandise will be available, including limited-edition Re•Union shirts, cozy crew neck pullovers, and stylish hats.
One of the event’s highlights will be the debut of a special five-year anniversary coffee blend. Customers will have the chance to purchase this unlimited edition blend, and the first 30 customers to order beer will receive a souvenir “Re•Union” cup, a keepsake to remember the evening by.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter Begins
The Re•Union event is more than just a party—it’s a symbolic moment for Press & Porter. After years of navigating the challenges of the pandemic and the physical barriers of downtown construction, this celebration marks a new chapter. With the streetscape now open, the sisters are excited to finally connect fully with their community, bringing neighbors together in a way that hasn’t been possible since the coffee shop first opened.
Anna and Emily’s story is one of perseverance, creativity, and community spirit. They didn’t just open a coffee shop; they created a place where people come together, connect, and feel like they belong. Press & Porter is as much about the people as it is about the coffee, and that’s what makes it truly special.
Next time you’re in downtown Concord, be sure to stop by—Anna and Emily can’t wait to meet you.
Planning to visit? Tell ’em Cabarrus Weekly sent ya!
