News

Rock Hill, SC - May 18, 2026 – Knowledge Perk Coffee Company has officially launched its new seasonal summer drink & food menu, now available at cafés across the Carolinas. Designed to meet the shift toward lighter, colder, and more refreshing options during the summer months, the updated menu features an expanded lineup of Lotus Energy drinks, new breakfast sandwiches, and a fresh selection of seasonal beverages.

A major highlight of the launch is the café’s expanded Lotus Energy menu, which introduces several new drinks built around the plant-based Lotus Energy concentrate. The natural energy lineup offers customers a vibrant, refreshing alternative to traditional canned energy drinks, with customizable flavor combinations and energy sourced from natural ingredients.

“This menu is all about recognizing how customer habits change in the summer and creating offerings that meet those new routines,” said Jacob Weis, Creative Marketing Manager for Knowledge Perk Coffee Company. “We’ve put a huge focus on expanding our Lotus drink lineup because it gives us an opportunity to offer something energetic, refreshing, and still aligned with the specialty café experience. Alongside that, our new breakfast sandwiches give guests even more reasons to make Knowledge Perk part of their summer routine.”

The seasonal drink menu also includes a variety of new iced coffee creations, refreshers, and summer-inspired specialty beverages designed to complement the warmer weather while maintaining the quality and creativity customers expect from Knowledge Perk. On the food side, the summer menu introduces several new breakfast sandwich options, expanding the café’s growing lineup of elevated breakfast offerings.

The Summer Menu is available for a limited time at all Knowledge Perk café locations. Food offerings may vary at licensed store locations. Customers can explore the full menu by visiting knowledgeperk.com or stopping by their nearest Knowledge Perk café.

Rock Hill, SC - May 1, 2026 - Knowledge Perk Coffee Company is proud to announce the launch of its first-ever ready-to-drink canned latte line, marking a major milestone in the company’s continued growth and innovation.

The new canned lattes will officially launch in Knowledge Perk cafés on May 4, 2026, with the debut flavor, Brown Sugar Vanilla. The beverages are shelf-stable, dairy free, and designed to deliver the quality and flavor customers expect from Knowledge Perk in a convenient grab-and-go format.

In addition to the retail launch, Knowledge Perk is also introducing a special licensed edition in partnership with Coastal Carolina University. These co-branded cans are designed to celebrate Chanticleer pride while offering students, alumni, parents, and fans a new way to enjoy premium coffee wherever they are.

“This is an exciting step forward for our company,” said Jacob Weis, Creative Marketing Manager for Knowledge Perk Coffee Company. “We’ve built our brand around creating memorable coffee experiences in our cafés, and now we’re thrilled to bring that same energy into a new ready-to-drink category.”

The canned latte launch represents the latest chapter in Knowledge Perk’s expansion as a growing regional coffee brand known for its cafés, roasting operations, university licensing partnerships, and community-focused approach to hospitality.

Launch week promotions for in-store customers will run from May 4 through May 8, encouraging guests to try the new product and celebrate its debut.

This week, we had the privilege of co-hosting the College Disc Golf Champions Dinner for the second year in a row, welcoming back last year’s champions and kicking off an incredible week here in Rock Hill, SC.
This event is part of a partnership we’re especially proud of, supporting the College Disc Golf National Championship as it brings 700+ of the top collegiate players from across the country to our community.
The evening featured an unforgettable multi-course meal from Chef Phillip Spencer of BearWalrus, alongside (of course) plenty of Knowledge Perk cold brew. It was a chance to celebrate excellence, reflect on the growth of the sport, and connect with the people who make this community so special.
We also had the opportunity to fuel players, staff, and volunteers with free coffee out at the Winthrop courses on the first day of competition, just a small way to support the energy behind an event of this scale.
Events like this are only possible because of the people who pour so much into them. We’re especially grateful for Chad Sullivan, Jonathan Poole, and Jeff Panis, along with the entire Innova team. Their passion for the sport and dedication to the player experience is what makes this community so special.
Disc golf is growing rapidly, but what stands out most is the culture: a strong sense of community, sportsmanship, and passion for the game. We’re grateful to partner with an organization and a sport that aligns so closely with our values of creating elevated experiences that bring people together.
Investing in these student-athletes means investing in the future of the sport, and we’re excited to be a small part of that journey.

York, SC - March 31, 2026 - Knowledge Perk Coffee Company is excited to announce plans for a new café and drive-thru location coming to York, South Carolina. It will be located at 1530 Alexander Love Highway, York, SC 29745, and is currently under construction, with an anticipated opening in Q4 of 2026.

This location will be the first Knowledge Perk café to feature both indoor seating and a drive-thru, along with a large outdoor patio for guests to enjoy. The expansion follows Knowledge Perk’s first drive-thru-only location in Little River, SC, which celebrated its grand opening earlier this year. This new concept is designed to serve both customers looking for a quick, convenient drive-thru experience and those wanting to relax, meet, or work in a comfortable café environment.

“I’ve waited years for the right opportunity to bring Knowledge Perk to York; not just to expand, but to create something the community can truly connect with,” said Ryan Sanderson, CEO and Co-Owner of Knowledge Perk, who grew up in York. “Fans have been asking us to open here for years, and I'm happy we finally get to deliver an elevated coffee experience that the community of York deserves.”

Knowledge Perk will join White Rose Dentistry in a brand-new, multi-tenant building developed by Parth Patel. This modern facility on Alexander Love Highway will house both businesses, plus two future tenants, creating a new hub for the York community.

White Rose Dentistry is relocating to a brand-new, modern facility on Alexander Love Highway,” said Dr. Radha Patel of White Rose Dentistry. “We’re excited to serve the York community in this upgraded space, and we could not ask for better neighbors than Knowledge Perk.”

“We are excited to bring complementary tenants to this new Class A retail project that will serve York residents and the surrounding community,” said Ferris Edwards and Kevin Judd of MPV Properties.

Construction on the new development is currently underway, and more updates, including grand opening details, will be announced as the project progresses.

Rock Hill, SC - March 11, 2026 - Rock Hill-based Knowledge Perk Coffee Company is proud to announce a new branded coffee collaboration with Coastal Carolina University. Introducing Teal Coast Coffee, a premium coffee line created for Chanticleers.

The collection includes two unique coffees. Coastal Blend is a medium roast that was crafted by the Coastal team, with notes of citrus, cocoa, and caramel. Atheneum Bold is a dark roast coffee inspired by the bold Coastal spirit, with tasting notes of peanut butter, dark chocolate, and raisins.

"We have loved creating this partnership with Coastal Carolina University,” said Ashley Abbott, Strategic Accounts and Partnerships Manager at Knowledge Perk. “Their community and internal team have such strong pride and energy, and it’s been a natural connection from the start. These coffees reflect that spirit, and we hope that students, alumni, and fans feel that connection every time they brew a cup."

Through partnerships like this, Knowledge Perk continues to collaborate with universities to create custom, elevated coffees that celebrate school spirit.

Teal Coast Coffee is available now for pre-order on Knowledge Perk’s website, with its official release date set for March 17. In addition to online retail, Teal Coast Coffee will be available for purchase in select Knowledge Perk cafés and in Teal Nation stores. To pre-order and learn more about the partnership, visit www.knowledgeperk.com.

Rock Hill, SC - March 2, 2026 - Rock Hill based Knowledge Perk Coffee Company is excited to announce a new addition to their staple single-origin coffee portfolio.

The new Colombian offering is a medium/dark roast, washed process coffee that features tasting notes of stout, mocha, and raspberry. It was produced by Finca el Calapo in the San Gil, Santander region of the country.

"High quality, Colombian coffees never fail to excite us,” said Connor Moore, head of production at Knowledge Perk. “It has a mouthfeel reminiscent of a nice dark porter and a hint of mocha sweetness. But as it cools, the brightness of fresh raspberries shines forth. In other words, this coffee is a perfect daily driver for morning joe, and equally delightful for all other brewing methods. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do!"

This new coffee is now available for purchase online at knowledgeperk.com and will be rolling out to cafés over the next week.

Rock Hill, SC - February 23, 2026 - Rock Hill based Knowledge Perk Coffee Company is proud to announce a new branded coffee partnership with Wofford College, introducing Bold & Gold, a signature medium roast crafted exclusively for the Terrier community.

Bold & Gold is a smooth, balanced roast featuring dark chocolate and nutty notes. Crafted in collaboration with Wofford leadership to offer an experience shaped by learning, community and sustainability, the blend delivers a delicious cup whether brewed hot or enjoyed over ice.

Beginning February 23, Bold & Gold will be available for pre-order on Knowledge Perk’s website, with its official release date set for March 2. In addition to the whole bean coffee, Wofford College will serve Bold & Gold as the featured cold brew coffee in its campus dining hall.

"From day one, Wofford felt like a natural fit. The college represents excellence, community, and connection: values that matter deeply to us,” said Ashley Abbott, Strategic Accounts and Partnerships Manager at Knowledge Perk. “This partnership is more than a collaboration; it’s an invitation to slow down and celebrate the everyday moments of conversation and connection that happen on campus, in our cafés, and beyond. We hope students, alumni, and fans feel a sense of pride every time they take a sip."

This partnership continues Knowledge Perk’s commitment to building meaningful collaborations with universities and creating custom, elevated coffees that celebrate school pride.

Bold & Gold will be available online, in select Knowledge Perk cafés, and in the Wofford College Bookstore. To pre-order starting February 23 and learn more about the partnership, visit www.knowledgeperk.com.

Rock Hill, SC - February 13th, 2026 - Rock Hill based Knowledge Perk Coffee Company has announced the launch of its seasonal Spring Drink & Food Menu, available in cafés beginning February 13.

The updated menu includes the return of past seasonal beverages such as the Tiramisu Latte and the Blueberry Muffin Macchiato, alongside new additions like the Lavender Fog. The drink offers a variation on the classic London Fog, combining Earl Grey tea and vanilla, topped with a lavender cold foam.

“Our fans are incredibly passionate about their favorite seasonal drinks, so we wanted to honor that by bringing back some of those offerings,” said Jacob Weis, Creative Marketing Manager for Knowledge Perk. “At the same time, we wanted to reflect the ideas of spring with fresh new flavors as well.”

The spring rollout also includes additions to the food menu. The Caprese Chicken Salad Sandwich returns as a seasonal option, and a new Spring Turkey sandwich features turkey, cream cheese, cucumber, tomato, and balsamic glaze. The pastry selection expands with the introduction of a Cherry Greek Yogurt Danish.

The seasonal beverages will be available for a limited time at all Knowledge Perk café locations. Food offerings may vary at licensed store locations.

LITTLE RIVER, SC - January 16th, 2026 - Rock Hill based Knowledge Perk Coffee Company is excited to announce the grand opening of its first drive-thru location in Little River, SC on Friday, January 19, 2026. The drive-thru will be open from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM, welcoming the community to celebrate with special offers, samples, and giveaways throughout the day.

To mark the opening, Knowledge Perk Coffee Company will be handing out samples of its hot brewed coffee and pastries, giving guests a taste of the brand’s high-quality coffee and baked goods. Guests will also be able to purchase discounted retail bags of Knowledge Perk Coffee Company at the event.

As a thank-you to the Little River community, several opening-day promotions will be available:

• First 50 cars will receive a coupon for a free drink on a return visit
• 50% off retail coffee bags on opening day (01/19)
• 20% off all drinks and food on opening day (01/19)

“We’re thrilled to open our doors in Little River and introduce our coffee to the community,” said Ryan Sanderson, CEO of Knowledge Perk Coffee Company. “This location allows us to serve premium coffee and food, quickly and conveniently, while still delivering the warm, welcoming experience our brand is known for.”

The Little River drive-thru location expands Knowledge Perk’s growing footprint and reinforces the company’s commitment to serving specialty coffee, handcrafted drinks, and quality food with consistency and care.

Grand Opening Details
Date: January 19
Time: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location:
Knowledge Perk Coffee Company – Little River
123 Pavilion Drive, Little River, SC 29566

About Knowledge Perk
Founded in 2017, Knowledge Perk Coffee Company is a small-batch coffee roastery with a mission to transform the way you experience coffee and the global community that brings it to you. With a dedication to excellence, education and innovation, Knowledge Perk is continually working to foster growth and expand the boundaries of the coffee industry with its push into both sports and universities. For more information, visit KnowledgePerk.com.

Deep in the Andes Mountains of southwestern Colombia live the Nasa Wes’x indigenous people. Victims of violence and displacement throughout decades of conflict, the Nasa community reached an agreement with FARC (Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia) in the late 1990s that allowed them to farm coffee in peace. With a vision of nurturing the land and living with dignity, the Nasa formed a coffee-growing initiative that today includes 96 members—known as the Young Coffee Growers Program. Affectionately, it's also called the Yuppie Program, with “Yuppie” standing for Young Professional People.

Knowledge Perk’s new “Yuppie Decaf” is a product of this inspiring program. It’s a washed-process coffee grown by young coffee professionals, then decaffeinated at the world’s only facility using the Ethyl Acetate sugarcane process. Though “Ethyl Acetate” might sound intimidating, it’s a natural and environmentally friendly compound derived from sugarcane.

The sugarcane decaffeination process begins by steaming the green coffee beans to make them more permeable. The beans are then soaked in an Ethyl Acetate solution, which draws out the caffeine. A charcoal filter removes the caffeine from the solution. Once decaffeinated—typically to about 97%—the beans are dried in vacuum dryers, then gently cooled with ventilation to preserve moisture. When the coffee reaches the ideal moisture level and temperature, it’s packed and shipped to Knowledge Perk’s roastery for the final steps.

Even more than traditional water-based decaffeination, this method helps preserve the origin integrity of the coffee, resulting in a vibrant and flavorful cup. Knowledge Perk is proud to showcase this coffee in our portfolio—we believe it more than holds its own against any of our caffeinated offerings.

Jan, 2023

The average age of a coffee producer in Colombia is 63. This number is especially alarming when you consider the fact that in 2019, the average age was 55. This trend is due to the fact that very few young coffee producers are joining the industry in Colombia, something that needs to change in order for coffee to thrive in that area. That’s where two of Knowledge Perk’s industry partners come in: Unblended and Ventola.

UVI, now called the Young Producers Program, has a goal to make coffee an exciting career path for young people, and to equip them with the knowledge and tools they need to create exciting and fulfilling careers in agriculture. They express a purpose to “guide each coffee producer member of the program in the creation of their own coffee project – positioning their brand internationally and helping them improve their company’s profitability through the creation of differentiated products.” Their members go through different modules focused on the US market, branding and products, international experience, investing in production, and marketing and sales. One of the recent projects undertaken by UVI is the Cochadas farm, where they are developing a unique new coffee processing method.

The UVI Cochadas farm is a community lot in the Antioquia region created through the UVI program with 6 coffee farmers: Jose Vasquez, Yamile Arboleda, Daniel Rendon, Ramon Marulanda, Monica Andrea Castaño, and Juan Camilo Salazar. The benefit of a community lot is that producers with lower production capabilities can meet a certain demand through carefully monitored production and processing of the same coffees on their individual farms, which are later combined into one unified product.

With the Cochadas processing method, coffee cherries are harvested in batches and hand-sorted. As the coffee is sorted, it is placed in barrels for the fermentation process to begin. As the harvesting and sorting continues, the new coffee cherries are added to the fermentation barrels on top of the old cherries. This creates distinct layers in the coffee, with some having fermented for longer than others, resulting in a depth to the acidity. After a set period of five days, the fermentation process is complete, and the coffee goes on to be washed to remove all of the pulp and mucilage from the green coffee. The coffee is then brought together at a dry mill in Medellin, where it is dried for 3-4 weeks.

Knowledge Perk prides itself in working through direct trade with coffee producers when possible. This allows for the greatest level of transparency, as well as allows us to better tell the story of our coffee and its producers. Direct trade is also how we try to maintain sustainability in coffee production, seeking to end the cycle of increasing and decreasing prices by offering a consistent, sustainable price to producers. Through our relationship with UVI and Unblended, we have taken the Cochadas coffee and developed it into a beautiful light roast. This full-bodied coffee features tasting notes of mountain apple, floral tea, and honey. It’s a sweet, unique cup that is sure to satisfy.

You can learn more about UVI, Unblended, and Ventola by visiting www.ventola.coffee or www.unblended.coffee. You can also purchase a bag of Knowledge Perk’s UVI Cochadas coffee online at knowledgeperk.com.

Sept, 2022

In the mountains of Honduras, coffee, right behind bananas, is the top economic driver for a developing nation whose citizens face many economic and social challenges. More than 100,000 Honduran families are involved in coffee production, 95% are small scale farmers and many rely on family labor to make the business work. Knowledge Perk has a strong relationship with Honduras, our customers too. KP’s popular cold brew has its origins at Finca Mira Flores farm with fourth generation coffee farmer Joel Banegas. Finca Mira Flores is located in Los Planes, Comayagua region of south-central Honduras.

Knowledge Perk’s Honduras connection is now even stronger through a partnership with Educate2Envision International, which provides support to coffee farming communities in rural Honduras. The children of coffee producers in Honduras face many challenges when it comes to furthering their education after primary school. Dangerous or impassable roads, long distances, lack of transportation, and financial barriers make it very difficult for these children to get the education they need to be able to help their families and communities grow. E2E is an incredible organization that makes it possible for many of these children to get the advanced education they need.

Through our partnership with E2E we are funding projects in the Los Planes region. These projects are selected by students in the school who identify opportunities to improve their own community. The most recent project was the completion of a concrete floor for an elderly coffee farmer living in poor conditions. More projects are planned that will help strengthen the community and impact these rural communities.

Flourishing Community and Better World are two of the foundational tenets of Knowledge Perk. It is a unique honor to, in part, fulfill that mission by making a direct impact on coffee growing communities in regions where we source coffee beans. If you would like to join us in supporting this vision, you can make a donation on E2E's website and come by your local Knowledge Perk café to enjoy a cold brew!