A Rock Hill-based coffee company with roots throughout the Carolinas is heading to York — and this time, with something new.
A first-of-its-kind concept
Knowledge Perk Coffee Company announced plans late last month for a new café and drive-thru location at 1530 Alexander Love Highway in York, marking what the company says will be its first location to combine indoor seating, a drive-thru lane, and a large outdoor patio under one roof. The location is currently under construction with an anticipated opening in the fourth quarter of 2026.
The concept builds on the company’s drive-thru-only location in Little River, SC, which opened earlier this year, but adds the café environment that has defined most of Knowledge Perk’s other locations. The York spot is designed to serve both customers in a hurry and those looking for a place to linger, meet, or work.
A homecoming for the CEO
For Knowledge Perk CEO and co-owner Ryan Sanderson, the expansion carries personal significance. Sanderson grew up in York and said the company has fielded requests from fans for years to bring a location to the area.
“I’ve waited years for the right opportunity to bring Knowledge Perk to York; not just to expand, but to create something the community can truly connect with,” Sanderson said in the announcement. “I’m happy we finally get to deliver an elevated coffee experience that the community of York deserves.”
Part of a larger development
Knowledge Perk will occupy space in a new multi-tenant commercial building developed by Parth Patel on Alexander Love Highway. White Rose Dentistry, which is relocating to the new facility, will share the building alongside two additional tenants yet to be announced.
“We could not ask for better neighbors than Knowledge Perk,” said Dr. Radha Patel of White Rose Dentistry. MPV Properties brokers Ferris Edwards and Kevin Judd, who are representing the development, described it as a Class A retail project intended to serve York and surrounding communities.
A growing footprint
The York location will join a growing list of Knowledge Perk cafés across South Carolina and North Carolina, including locations in Rock Hill, Fort Mill, Columbia, Spartanburg, Myrtle Beach, Little River, and Charlotte’s Latta Arcade.
Additional details, including a grand opening date, are expected to be announced as construction progresses.
Source: Knowledge Perk Coffee Company press release, March 31, 2026
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