Doubling the size of its TCU location was a risky move for Ampersand, but CEO and co-founder Toan Luong said it was worth it.

“When we were approached with the opportunity from the landlord, we were in the worst financial stage,” said Luong.

Expansion meant the coffee shop, which opened in 2017 with a location near 7th Street, would have to shutter its TCU store.

Luong said he and his team knew the expansion would benefit from their already established market of TCU coffee lovers.

“The students are a big factor,” he said. “We’re just excited to grow with the students.”

At double the original size, Ampersand’s sleek and modern look provides a welcoming environment for customers.

“When I am here, there’s been a lot of foot traffic,” Luong said. “At this moment in time, I think everyone is enjoying the space and we are really grateful for that.”

TCU students are making themselves at home

The revamped space offers various seating options, including two countertops, five cushioned booths and five stand-alone tables.

“The new space is a great place for TCU students to hang out, grab a coffee and catch up on homework,” said Ellie Adamson, a junior political science major. “It gives a cozy feel to a busy street and allows students to get an off-campus vibe while still being super close to campus.”

Ampersand serves as a popular location for students to come together to catch up with each other and on schoolwork.

Blake Webb, a junior nursing major and commuter student, stumbled on Ampersand when her sister told her “to do homework in a coffee shop.”

“I like the modern atmosphere,” Webb said, after visiting for her second time that week.

The new space is also attracting the surrounding community as well.

Bella McKay, a junior BFA musical theater major, previously worked at Ampersand’s Bledsoe location over the summer and now works at the TCU location.

“I’ve noticed some of our regulars from our Bledsoe location are also frequenting the TCU location, which is fun to see happen,” she said. “I’ve also noticed groups of students that have come in on a regular basis.”

Mia Dorsett, another Ampersand employee and senior BFA musical theater major, said that they work hard to cultivate an inclusive environment where people from all walks of life feel welcome.

“Whether it is professors, faculty, students or Fort Worth locals, it is super cool getting exposed to so many people and getting to learn a little about them in the short time it takes to serve their coffee,” Dorsett said.

Plans to continue expanding

In addition to Ampersand’s location in the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, Luong said that there will be a second airport location containing the first robotic baristas developed by him and his team.

He also said that the company is launching an Ampersand app in December, where exclusive merchandise can be purchased with rewards points.

“The plan is to spread Fort Worth into every crevice of the nation, and hopefully one day, the globe,” Luong said. “Amp is a lifestyle. It’s bigger than all of us. To me when I think of Amp, it’s not about the coffee, but rather, the community.”