Cooper and Anna Kupp, a couple known for their shared passion for coffee, have witnessed a remarkable journey since launching Dodo Coffee Co. in 2024. Their family business, inspired by their Pacific Northwest roots and a deep appreciation for coffee culture, has not only thrived but also evolved following unforeseen challenges.
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The Kupps, who are well-known for Cooper’s achievements as a two-time Super Bowl champion, are no strangers to hard work, whether on the football field or in their entrepreneurial ventures. In an episode of PEOPLE’s “WAG World” series, Anna shared the ambitious beginnings of Dodo Coffee Co., which stemmed from the couple’s desire to create something uniquely their own.
Having grown up in the Pacific Northwest, the Kupps were surrounded by a vibrant coffee culture that became integral to their lives. “Cooper and I always knew we wanted to do something creative and have our own business,” Anna, 32, explained during the interview. “Growing up in a place with such unique coffee offerings, we were inspired to enter that market.”
The couple’s family history in the coffee industry played a key role in the development of their business idea. Anna’s sister, Sarah, a former barista with a background in professional baking, took on the role of master roaster and expert barista within the company. Furthermore, Sarah’s husband, Isaiah, lends his scientific expertise to recipe development, while Anna’s parents also contribute to the operation, creating a collaborative family effort.
Originating from a playful exclamation, the name “Dodo” was inspired by their eldest son, June, and their nephew, Byron, who would exuberantly shout the phrase during their playtime. With this light-hearted beginning, the Kupps eagerly embraced the dodo bird as their brand’s logo, showcasing the fun family spirit that permeates their business.
Initially, the couple had modest expectations for their coffee venture. “We didn’t set out with enormous ambitions, but we were excited to build something meaningful,” Anna said, reflecting on their journey. However, they were pleasantly surprised by the rapid growth and success of Dodo Coffee Co., which confirmed their commitment to the craft.
The Kupps faced a significant obstacle early in their journey when their brick-and-mortar location was taken from them due to eminent domain. “We had a quaint little drive-through shop on a busy street, but then the city decided to widen the road and, sadly, we lost our building,” Anna recounted. Despite the disappointment, the couple was determined not to lose the momentum they had built in the community.
“We had this incredible demand, and a burgeoning community that loved our coffee,” Anna explained. Faced with adversity, they pivoted and transformed their business model into a mobile coffee trailer operation. Their partnership with Arrow Build, a company based in Tennessee that creates mobile food and drink trailers, allowed them to maintain their presence and adapt to the demands of their loyal customers.
This new direction turned out to be a blessing in disguise. As they began to attend local events and sports games, the Kupps found themselves integrating into the vibrant culture of Northwest Arkansas. “We’ve been part of the excitement at the University of Arkansas and the Razorbacks,” Anna shared. “Being mobile gave us an amazing opportunity to connect with our community in new, dynamic ways, including weddings and other events.”
In late August this year, Dodo Coffee Co. marked a new chapter by opening a second brick-and-mortar location in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The new outlet boasts a seasonal fall menu, featuring an array of themed beverages, including a pumpkin spice latte, a graham cracker latte, and a banana bread latte. Their best-seller, the vanilla latte, remains a staple, crafted with locally sourced syrups and high-quality beans.
“I can’t wait for people to experience our new offerings,” Anna said enthusiastically, highlighting the hard work and dedication that has gone into building Dodo Coffee Co. “There’s so much love behind every cup of coffee we serve, and we’re thrilled to welcome everyone.”
With their family-oriented business continuing to grow, the Kupps remain optimistic about what the future holds. Anna reflects on their journey positively, noting that though challenges may arise, they often lead to unexpected opportunities and growth. As Cooper continues to excel in the NFL, the couple’s passion for coffee remains a steadfast part of their life together, uniting both their family and community in a shared love of quality coffee.