Toledo native creates espresso enterprise whereas battling COVID-19

TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – Aiden O’Rourke runs his own business: Roastr Coffee Brewery.

“It’s one of the freshest cups of coffee you’ll get here,” said O’Rourke.

“Roastr” has been the focus of O’Rourke since last year. The native of Toledo roasts Colombian coffee bean blends. O’Roarke, the only employee in the company, is responsible for the marketing, sales and development of its products.

“It’s all science and I love chemistry,” said O’Rourke. “After doing a little research, practicing a lot and making a lot of mistakes, and only learning from my mistakes, I think it turned out pretty well.”

Aiden O’Rourke officially launched Roastr in October 2020 and aims to grow the company in 2021.(Jack Bassett)

Aiden, a former University of Toledo Rocket student, has dropped out of senior year. Instead, he decided to go all-in on his new caffeinated career path.

“The only things that get done are what you do with your own hands,” said O’Rourke. “The more time I’ve invested, the more will come out.”

For O’Roarke, the months leading up to Roastr’s launch were fraught with growing obstacles, including Aiden testing with COVID-19.

“It was pretty bad,” said O’Rourke. “I know that there are people who have had a lot worse than me. I was only a little alive, but it’s the worst condition I’ve ever had in my life. “

Aiden believes his experience with the virus served as a wake-up call to pursue his dream. The young businessman says he now sees the coffee cup half full, not half empty.

“Growing up I was always taught what you got or what you have and how to make it work for your current situation,” said O’Rourke. “No matter how many times I try and fail, I’ll keep going.”

To support and order from Roastr, you can do so by visiting the store on Instagram and Facebook.

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