In June 1994, Java Express opened the windows of its first drive-through coffee hut in Hollister to provide customers with their favorite caffeinated beverages. Now it’s steaming toward 25 years in business.
Started by Roger McDonald and Brent Sabbatini, the store was created from an idea of McDonald had. He now owns the business with his wife Cindy.
“When my father was living in Idaho they had friends who owned a drive-through coffee hut similar to what we have now,” said manager Brooke Taylor, the McDonalds’ daughter. “He thought the hardworking people of Hollister would like a cup of coffee like this.”
With locations at 1515 Cushman Street and 371 San Felipe Road, Java Express marks 25 years in business on Oct. 25 with a theme surrounding the number 25.
“Customers are only going to pay 25% and we’re giving out 25 American Apparel ‘Drink Local’ 25th anniversary shirts,” Taylor said.
Taylor, 27, attributed the company’s success to fostering positive relationships among staff and customers.
“If you care for your employees, they care for the customers, and if you care for the customers then your customers keep coming back,” she said.
Whether customers drive through or walk up to the window, all have direct facetime with staff.
“We don’t have an intercom and the whole interaction is in-person, which helps us build rapport with the customers,” Taylor said.
Bill Leighty, 70 of Hollister, is one customer that cites the coffee shop’s interactive service and hometown feel as a draw to frequenting the business.
“It’s not just about the coffee, it’s about the people too,” Leighty said.
Leighty explained how employees greet him by name when he stops by to get a dark mocha-flavored coffee roughly four times during the work week.
“They get to know the customers,” he said. “They know what people drink and will have it ready to go.”
According to Taylor, some of the most popular drinks purchased by customers are snickers white mochas, granitas, and cold brew coffee with sweet cream. During the upcoming holiday season, peppermint bark white mochas are also popular.
Passionate about Hollister and the surrounding community, Taylor spoke of Java Express’ efforts to give back to the community.
“We donate coffee to local nonprofits such as Small Steps,” Taylor said. “We will also put stickers on lids for nonprofits.”
Leighty also noted Java Express’ involvement in the local community through events such as the San Benito County Fair and the San Benito High School football team’s Baler Card fundraiser.
“It shows they are locally involved,” Leighty said. “It’s more of a hometown atmosphere with them.”
Asked if the Java Express might add stores in the future, Taylor said they’re happy with their two locations.
“We all just love Hollister and want to be here,” she said.
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