After nearly five decades in business, Herman’s Boy is entering a new chapter.

Founded in 1979, the Rockford coffee shop and specialty store began as a small local operation and steadily grew into one of West Michigan’s most recognizable community staples. Over the years, Herman’s Boy became known for its in-house roasted coffee, fresh baked goods, bagels, sandwiches, and a welcoming atmosphere that turned everyday visits into long-standing traditions for families across the region.

Now, after almost 50 years under the guidance of the founding generation, ownership is officially transitioning to the third generation of the family.

A Legacy Built Over Decades

What started as a modest specialty shop evolved into something much bigger. Herman’s Boy became a place where mornings started, conversations happened, and routines were built. For many in Rockford and surrounding communities, it was not just a coffee shop but a familiar constant.

The longevity of the business was rooted in consistency and care. Coffee roasted on-site, food made fresh, and an emphasis on quality over trends helped the shop remain relevant while staying true to its roots.

Keeping It in the Family

While business transitions often bring uncertainty, this one comes with reassurance. Herman’s Boy is not being sold to a corporate group, nor is it leaving the community that helped build it. Ownership is staying within the family, passing into the hands of people who grew up around the business and understand its role in Rockford.

The goal of the transition is not reinvention. Instead, the focus is on preservation. The incoming generation aims to protect what made Herman’s Boy special while thoughtfully guiding it forward.

Looking Ahead Without Losing What Matters

Change is inevitable for any business that lasts this long, but the intention here is measured and respectful. The next chapter is about honoring nearly 50 years of history while ensuring the shop remains a place where future generations can create their own traditions.

For customers, this moment represents continuity more than change. The same care, quality, and community focus that defined Herman’s Boy for decades will remain at the center of its future.

This isn’t a goodbye. It’s a thank you to the generations who built something lasting, and a welcome to those stepping in to carry it forward. Grand Rapids good news like this is worth holding on to.