ONTARIO — The vacant building at 2005 August Drive is now demolished in preparation for a new Starbucks next year.
A former Steak ’n Shake in front of Home Depot, the building has been vacant for at least a decade. It was first purchased by Steak ’n Shake in 2000 and sold to an LLC in October 2023, according to the Richland County Auditor’s office.
A Starbucks spokesperson told Richland Source the company aims to open the new location next fall.
“Starbucks is always looking for great locations to better meet the needs of our customers, and we are happy to confirm that we will be opening a new location at 2005 August Drive, Ontario, Ohio in the fall of 2025,” the spokesperson said.
Mayor Kris Knapp said Starbucks has secured the necessary permits for demolition and building.
“They’re clearing the soil now, and everything’s good to go,” he said.
“Any time that the city can bring in a new business and amplify our growth, that only enhances our community.”
Knapp said the project also involves moving the parking lot and utilities.
Starbucks’ other local drive-thru is located at 2172 Walker Lake Road in the same plaza as Crumbl Cookies and Meijer. There is also a location inside the Lexington-Springmill Road Barnes & Noble.
Raising Cane’s will also bring a new restaurant to town at 720 N. Lexington-Springmill Road, which is located at the former Denny’s. Knapp said he hopes to review a demolition permit next week for that project.
Cane’s public relations team previously told Richland Source the company is aiming for a summer 2025 opening.