ABOUT THE SPARK
OUR STORY
BUILT FOR BELONGING.The story of Spark Coffee began with a simple idea: connection. While serving as a pastor, Jeff Shields discovered that meaningful conversations happened more naturally over a cup of coffee than they did in a formal office. This realization sparked his dream of owning a coffee shop—a place designed specifically for building community.
The dream took root between 2019 and 2020. Jeff and his wife, Krista, were leading a small group of young married couples. When Jeff asked the group about their personal ambitions, one woman shared her long-held dream of starting a coffee shop. Recognizing a shared vision and a need for an independent coffee shop in Speedway, they decided to become business partners. Coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic, their motivation was even stronger: people were hungry for community and a place to reconnect. The company was officially incorporated as The Spark Coffee, LLC in December 2020. After a few setbacks, they secured the perfect location on Main Street in Speedway, Indiana. Following extensive remodeling, The Spark Coffee first opened its doors in July 2021. Initially, the shop served Bee Coffee along with a menu of breakfast items, deli sandwiches, and baked goods. As the brand grew, they expanded into event catering. |
|
|
BREWED FOR CONNECTION.The business continued to evolve, and in September 2023, Spark Mobile was launched in partnership with Milkhouse Brew. This new coffee trailer allowed them to bring their unique experience to a wider community, from weddings and staff appreciation events to major national gatherings like the NBA All-Star Game and the Indianapolis 500.
A change in ownership occurred in October 2023 when Jeff’s original partner sold her share of the business to Kraig and Suni Johnson. The following year, in May 2024, The Spark acquired a new mobile trailer to further expand its catering services. The business accelerated its growth in 2025. In January, The Spark Coffee acquired its long-time coffee supplier, Bee Coffee Roasters. This was followed by the opening of The Spark on Bridge in Mooresville, Indiana in April, a new location that also offers co-working spaces. In May, The Spark began managing the Indianapolis Motor Speedway's café, improving the fan experience during major racing events. Most recently, in August, The Spark Coffee opened its Westfield, Indiana location. Looking ahead, Bee Coffee Roasters is set to move to a new space in Fall 2025 that will include a new coffee shop. |
