GREENVILLE, Wis. (WFRV) – Travelers passing through Appleton International Airport can expect new amenities as the airport continues a series of upgrades, including a locally owned coffee shop and expanded retail options.
Airport officials announced Tuesday that ATW will partner with Copper Rock Coffee Company to open Grain & Grind Coffee & Deli inside the terminal. The new coffee shop will replace the current restaurant in the existing concourse and will be operated by SSP America.
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Founded in 2003, Copper Rock Coffee Company began with a single location on College Avenue in Appleton and has since expanded to Ballard Road and Copper State Brewery in Green Bay. Owners Bill and Emily Heiges specialize in roasting and blending a variety of coffees distributed throughout northeast Wisconsin.
The airport location will feature Copper Rock’s full line of specialty coffees, including espresso, lattes, cappuccinos and smoothies, along with breakfast items, sandwiches, salads and cocktails.
“We are committed to partnering with regional businesses to give visitors a better taste of the Fox Valley,” said Airport Director Abe Weber. “Bringing a high-quality, family-owned brand like Copper Rock to the airport enhances a unique travel experience for our passengers.”
Copper Rock owners said expanding into the airport is an exciting opportunity to showcase their brand to travelers.
“We love creating a quality product that encourages our customers to slow down and relax over a great cup of coffee,” said Bill Heiges. “Introducing the Copper Rock brand to travelers will be an exciting opportunity.”
Outagamie County Executive Tom Nelson said the expansion reflects a focus on partnerships and highlighting local businesses.
Airport officials also announced plans to expand retail offerings inside the terminal. Two express marts operated by SSP America will open, with North River Express located before security and North River Trading Co. located after security in the new concourse.
The retail shops will offer travel necessities and Wisconsin-themed gifts, including cases of Spotted Cow beer, which is sold exclusively in Wisconsin.
Construction on the connector between the existing concourse and the new concourse remains ongoing and will be completed in phases. The new retail spaces and Grain & Grind Coffee & Deli are scheduled to open in summer 2026. The connector area is expected to feature an atrium with an indoor patio near the restaurant space.
“We are intentional about designing open areas with natural light,” Weber said. “By opening up the terminal and allowing sunlight to define the space, we’re creating a more pleasant experience while also reducing energy consumption.”
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Future construction phases will expand ticketing and baggage claim areas and refresh existing concourse spaces, with an emphasis on sustainability.
The airport’s 47,000-square-foot concourse expansion opened in spring 2025 and was funded through a combination of state, federal and regional grants, along with budgeted dollars.
