BRC or Backroads Coffee, has been a 35-year staple in Hayward’s thriving retail and food industry. Teresa and Rodney Peters, owners and entrepreneurs, bought and built up a locally owned coffee shop back in 1997, to a nationally known brand and product commonly seen in stores, online and at events. Located at 10546 Dakota Avenue, Backroads occupies a quaint old brick building that used to be the original blacksmith shop, built over 100 years ago, then transitioned into an automobile repair shop. You wouldn’t know that now, as you’ll walk in and immediately be engulfed with the aroma of coffee beans and bakery then perhaps be drawn to a comfy couch to relax with your purchase.
Employing 21+ people is no easy task when you have a variety of irons in the fire. Teresa and Rod have continued to grow the business over the years, all the while adding different product lines such as Vibes Bakery and soon to arrive From Scratch Bakery. online bakery, catering services, and cooking/baking classes. In the spring of 2022 Backroads breaks ground to accommodate “Vibes Bakery '' with the addition of our online store, catering services, and cooking/baking classes, etc. With a true Hayward hometown spirit, they are heavily involved in local fundraisers and are supporters of many local events. Teresa’s passion for the coffee industry is evident everywhere. Her motto is to empower people to be their best, and that is evident by her ability to retain some long-term employees who share her enthusiasm for hard work and service.
When asked why she bought the business many years ago, the answer made complete sense… “My passion for great coffee coupled with a dream of owning my own business”. The pair have expanded the initial shop by adding a drive-through coffee shop on Hwy. B, in Hayward, along with a kiosk at OO in Seeley. Though the drive thru is a seasonal service, it shares the fund-raising goals and dedication to quality service as the main shop. Where else would you expect to get a cold brew coffee in a can when you’re truly on the go?
Living in the Northwoods, Rod and Teresa enjoy all four seasons and spend their precious free time snowmobiling, motorcycling, and enjoying friends and family. Like many entrepreneurs, they have family involved in the business; their son, Josh, Director of Operations, is in charge of all R&D, marketing, visual communications, social media development and growth strategies. Check out their merchandise section or join one of their coffee delivery subscriptions for year-round goodness.
Now be sure to stop and stay a while with a great brew and some friends or do a quick drive-by to grab a cup-on-the-go. Backroads Coffee is here to stay and will serve all your bulk coffee supplies, flavored teas, bakery treats, specialty sandwiches, soups or fresh salads. Of course, gift boxes and gift cards are always available.
Find them online at: backroadscoffee.com and vibesbakery.com or call 715.544.8189 to cater your next event.
