Nearly 1-out-of-4 U.S. small businesses don't make it to their first birthday, according to the Small Business Administration. But a business started by a veteran of both the military and law enforcement has had nothing but success as it celebrates its first year.
One year ago, Tallahassee's Chris Smith opened a combination coffee shop and bakery called Ground Ops at the junction of Thomasville Road and North Monroe Street. One year later, he said business is good and getting better.
"We've expanded. We've moved some parts upstairs, coffee service has expanded, offerings as far as food has expanded, and catering."
One metric of success, he said, is the growing number of regular customers. Customers like Yada Elling.
"I like their coffee. It tastes good and I especially like the iced coffee here. But just the environment and the vibe."
Jonathan Andrews is another regular who often brings his whole family.
"I just love the place! Chris is a great guy, he's got great coffee and you've got to love the bakery because I'm a fat kid at heart."
Smith, meanwhile, said having the business is a dream come true. He also said he's never worked so hard in his life.
