Former Medical Salesman Launches Scooter’s Coffee in Downers Grove

Tom Diamantopoulos has transitioned from a career in medical device sales to entrepreneurship by opening a new franchise of Scooter’s Coffee in Downers Grove, Illinois. Located at 2125 Ogden Ave., this coffee shop officially opened its doors on December 5, 2023, following a soft launch on November 14. With a dedicated drive-through lane and indoor seating, the establishment aims to serve a diverse clientele seeking quality coffee and a welcoming atmosphere.

The 37-year-old Hinsdale resident, alongside his wife, Abbie, recognized the potential of the Scooter’s brand during his travels across five Midwestern states. “I started seeing Scooter’s Coffee and thought, ‘This is fantastic,’” Diamantopoulos remarked. His background in food service, stemming from his family’s restaurant history, further fueled his desire to establish a business focused on community and customer experience.

Sales have been steadily growing since the soft opening, with Diamantopoulos noting that the location has benefited from heavy traffic on Ogden Avenue. The couple initially explored several locations in the Chicago area before opting for the current site. “The community supports business very well, and we’ve seen great support so far,” he stated, highlighting the positive reception from local customers.

The business operates from 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends. This schedule caters to early commuters and late-night customers, offering a menu that includes not only coffee but also bagels, cinnamon rolls, burritos, smoothies, and iced drinks. Coffee beans are sourced directly from Costa Rica, aligning with the company’s commitment to quality and ethical sourcing.

While the franchise faces competition from established brands like Starbucks and Seven Brew, Diamantopoulos believes that being a locally owned franchise sets them apart. “We just offer a really great product. We care about our customers,” he emphasized. He recognizes visibility as a challenge but is optimistic about building brand recognition in the local market.

The shop features a cozy café environment, distinct from the typical drive-through models. A comfortable couch invites patrons to relax, and the entrance for drive-through customers is conveniently located off Belmont Road. Many customers have started visiting the café after stopping for fuel at the gas station next door.

Employees, such as 24-year-old barista Catherine Galvez, express enthusiasm about working at Scooter’s. “I really enjoy the environment of working at Scooter’s. It’s very uplifting,” she shared. Customers like Louie Kontzias, who visited for a black drip coffee, have praised the extensive menu and the shop’s welcoming atmosphere, calling it “a great alternative to what else is out there.”

Founded in 1998 by Don and Linda Eckles in Bellevue, Nebraska, Scooter’s Coffee has expanded significantly, now boasting over 850 locations across 30 states. The brand has gained recognition, partly through events like the upcoming Scooter’s Coffee Frisco Bowl, scheduled for December 23, 2023, in Frisco, Texas.

Diamantopoulos and Abbie are also parents to three daughters—Demi, 5, Adriana, 3, and Georgia, 1. He enjoys the dynamic of managing a family alongside running the coffee shop. “This is the kind of job you want to come to work. It’s fun and positive,” he reflected. By providing a welcoming environment and quality products, Diamantopoulos aims to enhance the daily routines of his customers, turning their coffee breaks into moments of joy.