How Veteran Entrepreneurs Are Redefining Wichita Falls’ Commercial Real Estate
Local businesses, especially those owned by veteran small business owners, are playing a pivotal role in shaping the Wichita Falls commercial real estate market. As these businesses grow, so does the demand for quality commercial spaces that support their vision and contribute to the city’s economic development.
In the latest episode of The Falls Home Front, I had the pleasure of speaking with Chad Cooper, a veteran small-business owner and co-owner of The Duck Coffee Co. in Wichita Falls. His story is a great example of how entrepreneurial efforts are influencing the local commercial real estate scene and helping to build a stronger, more vibrant community.
From Military Life to Entrepreneurial Success
Chad Cooper’s transition from a Master Sergeant in the U.S. Air Force to business owner was not just about starting a coffee shop—it was about creating something that would contribute to the Wichita Falls community. Alongside his wife, Krista, Chad stepped into entrepreneurship with The Duck Coffee Co. in 2019 after learning the ropes of coffee roasting through their partnership with Teddy and Andrea at Odd Duck Coffee. They’re a prime example of how veteran small business owners bring resilience and leadership to the table, traits that are invaluable when launching and running a successful business.
For Chad, the decision to start a coffee shop wasn’t just about passion for coffee—it was about providing the community with high-quality, fresh, and organic coffee that can be enjoyed in a welcoming space. Their journey into entrepreneurship is a powerful reminder that veteran-owned businesses not only offer quality products and services but also contribute to the vibrancy and growth of local markets, such as Wichita Falls commercial real estate.
Building a Community-Focused Coffee Shop
What makes The Duck Coffee Co. stand out isn’t just their dedication to serving great coffee—it’s the community they’ve built. Chad spoke about how local businesses have supported each other, from sharing supplies to helping out in tough times.
This collaboration is a hallmark of the Wichita Falls business community, and it plays a key role in fostering local growth.
The Duck Coffee Co. has become a hub for connection, hosting groups like the Gideon International on Saturday mornings and serving as a meeting place for military spouses. This type of business not only sells a product but also builds relationships, creating a stronger sense of community.
As local businesses in Wichita Falls continue to grow, the need for more commercial real estate in Wichita Falls, TX, increases, making these businesses key players in shaping the future of the city’s commercial landscape.
The Role of Local Businesses in Commercial Real Estate
Chad’s experience with The Duck Coffee Co. perfectly illustrates how small businesses contribute to the growth of commercial real estate in Wichita Falls, TX.
As businesses like Chad’s thrive, demand for commercial spaces—whether for retail, office spaces, or even specialized facilities—grows.
Chad’s plans to expand the reach of The Duck Coffee Co. into grocery stores around Dallas show how local businesses scale, driving further interest in commercial properties that can accommodate their growth.
The connection between veteran small business owners and commercial real estate in Wichita Falls, Texas, is clear. As these entrepreneurs push forward with their vision, the market adapts to meet their needs. More properties will be needed to house businesses, which will, in turn, create opportunities for local businesses in Wichita Falls to continue their expansion.
On a personal note, I’ve also found that working with a professional podcast network has been a great asset in helping me streamline podcast production.
With the network’s support, I’ve been able to connect with the right resources and ensure that each episode of The Falls Home Front reaches its full potential.
Crafting Exceptional Coffee
So, what makes The Duck Coffee Co.’s coffee so unique? For Chad and Krista, it all comes down to small-batch roasting. Each cup of coffee is made with the freshest beans, roasted just days before it’s brewed. They specialize in single-origin coffee, offering beans from Peru, Ethiopia, and Guatemala, ensuring that customers can experience the unique flavors that come from each region.
Chad also highlighted the importance of coffee profiles—the flavors that come through in each roast. Whether it’s the nutty notes in the Peruvian coffee or the bold richness of the Ethiopian blend, The Duck Coffee Co. takes pride in giving its customers an authentic coffee experience. It’s a commitment to quality that’s evident in every cup.
Supporting the Growth of Wichita Falls
As The Duck Coffee Co. continues to grow, Chad and Krista are committed to supporting their community. Chad shared how they stay involved with local events like the Heart Walk, and how they’re always looking for ways to help other small businesses succeed.
Whether it’s offering a space for community groups to meet or partnering with other local businesses, The Duck Coffee Co. remains focused on the long-term success of the Wichita Falls area.
Chad also mentioned how The Duck Coffee Co. plans to expand into wholesale markets, possibly selling their products in grocery stores in the Dallas area. This expansion is another example of how local businesses can drive demand for commercial real estate in Wichita Falls, contributing to the broader economic growth of the area.
Building a Thriving Wichita Falls Together
Chad Cooper’s journey from military service to veteran small business owner is not only a testament to resilience but also to the power of local businesses in Wichita Falls. As entrepreneurs like Chad invest in Wichita Falls, the commercial real estate market will grow and adapt to business needs. Chad’s success with The Duck Coffee Co. showcases the growth potential in Wichita Falls commercial real estate, making it an exciting market.
If you’re interested in exploring the opportunities in Wichita Falls commercial real estate, or if you’re looking to buy or sell property in the area, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help you navigate this growing market and connect you with the right opportunities.
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About Tim Lockhart
Tim Lockhart, REALTOR®, is a RamseyTrusted real estate agent and retired U.S. Air Force Major serving Wichita Falls, Iowa Park, and Burkburnett, TX. Since becoming licensed in 2012, Tim has closed over 300 transactions, specializing in military relocation, listings, farm & ranch, and investment properties. He leads the Lockhart Real Estate Team at Keller Williams Realty and ranks among the top 10% of Keller Williams Lonestar DFW agents. Tim holds the MRP designation and has 45+ 5-star reviews across Zillow, FastExpert, and Google.- Photo Booth Rental Wichita Falls, TX for Meaningful Events - February 18, 2026
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