BIGGBY COFFEE

1851 Franchise: Tell us about the founding of BIGGBY.Bob Fish: The first store opened March 15, 1995 in East Lansing, Michigan in what was an old Arby’s. We had plans to open a second location, but we needed a manager to do that. My partner at the time suggested I interview Mike for that role.&nbsp;As is the way with Mike and I, we didn’t sit down for long for the interview. We started walking down the streets of East Lansing and through Michigan State’s campus. Three to four hours later, we came back with an idea. That idea was that we would start a company that would grow BIGGBY® COFFEE (then known as Beaner’s Gourmet Coffee).&nbsp;Mike McFall: We started the company that day from a mental/emotional perspective — we were all-in after that walk and a handshake. From there, we opened another store in the fall of 1997, made the decision to franchise in the summer of 1998 and slowly started building from there.1851: What are BIGGBY’s key differentiators that make it stand out in the industry?Fish: For the two of us, it was a discovery of an alignment of values. 25 years younger, we were more unconventional and ambitious, and we were really excited by the potential that the coffee industry offered. Today, BIGGBY is a much more purpose-driven company.McFall: The idea of the coffee shop represents this wonderful place for us to be able to employ our philosophy that centers around taking care of people. The greatest feeling in the world is having someone walk into our store in the morning and sending them out with more energy and more enthusiasm for their day because they’ve had that interaction. That’s one of the core roots that holds this tree up.&nbsp;Fish: Another standout is the strength in our partnership. Us getting together wasn’t that different than a couple dating and deciding to get married without knowing quite everything about each other — you feel like there’s this journey of discovery ahead of you, and this is the person you want to do it with. We’re big proponents of the idea of partnership and the idea that people are really the most essential component of any business transaction.1851: What are the milestones in the brand’s history that have led to its success?Mike: I would have to say one of the biggest milestones has been the transition to being a purpose-driven company, and that meant first settling on a purpose: Build a life you love. We decided this starts with workplace culture. American workplaces have employees conform to what they need versus what employees need, and that leads to stress among other negatives. If we can improve that even a little bit and make a change, the impact is big. That’s the passion behind the vision.&nbsp;1851: What is BIGGBY doing really well right now?&nbsp;McFall: I think our performance during the COVID-19 crisis has really been a demonstration of the coming together of the vision and the purpose. We’ve been able to connect with owner-operators, consumers and baristas in a way that was unique, meaningful, intentional and real. The evidence is really in our same-store sales compared to major brands like Starbucks or Dunkin’ — we’ve outperformed both of them. I do believe that our purpose-driven approach is what made that particular difference. Right now, we couldn’t possibly be in a stronger position.McFall: The other thing we’ve seen success in is the modular drive-thru. We can’t keep up with the number of franchise agreements we’re signing because of the desirable nature of this model during the pandemic. You get all the visibility of a standalone building for what it would normally cost to build an in-line strip-center location, it limits the construction time and costs and it has significantly sped up the process of getting franchisees open for business. These locations require connecting plumbing and electricity, and then they are up and running. The model has been such a huge success that we even have franchisors signing up to do it.Fish: One of our side missions is to make the word “love” as ubiquitous in business as the word “profit.” Love is not a word used often in business or in foodservice and to do it in an effective manner, it has to be more than a marketing message.&nbsp;1851: What’s the biggest lesson you learned this year that will inform the way you do business in 2021 and beyond?&nbsp;McFall: So much of what we did was natural because we were supporting people we love with what they needed to survive. Franchisees expected us to lead, and we led.&nbsp;Fish: The purpose of our brand was definitively tested. Companies have meaningless mission statements, and ours was tested during a crisis and has been proven to be strong and effective. We figured out in a hurry we were on the right path. We do believe that we are the center of every community that we’re in. When COVID-19 hit, our service — whether it be to employ people or to serve people — was an obligation to the community. People needed it.&nbsp;McFall: There’s genuine love there.

BIGGBY® COFFEE | Executive Q&A 

1851 Franchise

Co-Founders and co-CEOs Bob Fish and Mike McFall explain what makes BIGGBY’s franchise opportunity stand out from the competition.

This brand page has been paid for by BIGGBY COFFEE. Content within this page that is paid will showcase a Sponsored icon. This means the brand has engaged 1851 FRANCHISE to write the content. Content without the Sponsored Icon is aggregated media placements the brand earned. Questions can be sent to editorial@1851franchise.com

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Fresh Starts and Sweethearts: BIGGBY® COFFEE Brings Back Winter Favorites and Adds a TWIX® Twist for Valentine’s Season

BIGGBY COFFEE Welcomes Spring With Festive Irish Cream, Brown Sugar Creations and Seasonal Perks

BIGGBY COFFEE Teams Up With TWIX for Limited-Time Salted Caramel Drinks

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EAST LANSING, Mich. —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.biggbyfranchising.com/">BIGGBY® COFFEE</a>, the 460-plus-unit high-energy coffee franchise, is celebrating spring with a limited-time Cherry Sakura Red Bull® lineup, available March 26 through May 20. Created in partnership with Red Bull®, the new drinks bring a bright, seasonal flavor to BIGGBY® COFFEE’s energy menu.Inspired by Japanese cherry blossoms, also known as Cherry Sakura, the flavor combines fruity and floral notes. The pink beverages are easy to grab and designed for guests who like bold, flavor-forward energy drinks.The Cherry Sakura Red Bull® lineup includes:<ul><li>Cherry Sakura Splash Mocktail&nbsp;</li><li>Cherry Sakura Creme Freeze</li><li>Cherry Sakura Red Bull®</li></ul>Red Bull® has become a familiar favorite on BIGGBY® COFFEE’s menu, and Cherry Sakura adds a new, limited-time flavor guests can only find at BIGGBY®. The partnership will be backed by digital and delivery support, including special DoorDash promotions.Guests can find the Cherry Sakura Red Bull® lineup at participating BIGGBY® locations nationwide for a limited time.To find a BIGGBY® COFFEE location near you, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.biggby.com">www.BIGGBY.com</a>.&nbsp;About The BIGGBY® COFFEE FranchiseBIGGBY® COFFEE, headquartered in East Lansing, Michigan, is a national coffee franchise with over 460 locations across 13 states. Since opening its first store in 1995, BIGGBY® has remained 100% franchise-owned and operates under a fully franchised business model designed to help local entrepreneurs grow successful, community-minded businesses.The company is guided by a people-first philosophy and a commitment to values-aligned growth — supporting franchise owners and baristas, creating positive experiences for guests, and partnering with coffee producers who treat people well, respect the environment, and invest in their communities.In 2024, BIGGBY® introduced a refined visual identity anchored by the tagline BIGGBY® Makes it Better, reinforcing the brand’s dedication to consistent quality, human connection and uplifting everyday interactions.

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The high-energy coffee franchise is rolling out the beverages from March 26 through May 20 in partnership with Red Bull.

BIGGBY® COFFEE Launches Limited-Time Cherry Sakura Red Bull® Lineup for Spring Energy Boost

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EAST LANSING, Mich.&nbsp;—&nbsp;<a href="https://biggby.com/">BIGGBY® COFFEE</a>, the 460-plus-unit high-energy coffee franchise, is celebrating the return of its beloved Irish Cream lineup just in time for St. Patrick’s Day. The limited-time Irish Cream menu will be available through March 25.The Irish Cream lineup has long been a go-to seasonal offering for BIGGBY® fans, adding creamy, comforting flavors to everyday coffee orders. This year’s featured Latte of Joy combines Irish cream, caramel, and White Lightning (BIGGBY® COFFEE’s signature white chocolate flavor) for a smooth, well-balanced drink.Featured Irish Cream beverages available in-store and through BIGGBY® COFFEE’s digital ordering channels include:<ul><li>Lucky Charm Latte&nbsp;</li><li>Latte of Joy&nbsp;</li><li>Sweet Foam Irish Cream Cold Brew</li></ul>Additional Irish Cream beverages available exclusively through BIGGBY® COFFEE’s digital ordering channels include:<ul><li>Chocolate Covered Leprechaun Latte</li><li>Irish Cream Latte</li><li>Irish Bog Latte&nbsp;</li><li>Foggy Irishman Latte</li></ul>BIGGBY® is offering 50% off any size Irish Cream beverage on Tuesday, March 17, to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. The one-day deal gives fans a chance to enjoy their favorite Irish Cream drinks for less.Whether guests are fueling up for busy mornings, meeting friends for a seasonal treat or simply embracing a little everyday fun, BIGGBY® COFFEE’s Irish Cream beverages offer a limited-time way to sip into the season.To find a BIGGBY® COFFEE location near you, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.biggby.com">www.BIGGBY.com</a>.&nbsp;About the BIGGBY® COFFEE FranchiseBIGGBY® COFFEE, headquartered in East Lansing, Michigan, is a national coffee franchise with over 460 locations across 13 states. Since opening its first store in 1995, BIGGBY® has remained 100% franchise-owned and operates under a fully franchised business model designed to help local entrepreneurs grow successful, community-minded businesses.The company is guided by a people-first philosophy and a commitment to values-aligned growth — supporting franchise owners and baristas, creating positive experiences for guests, and partnering with coffee producers who treat people well, respect the environment and invest in their communities.In 2024, BIGGBY® introduced a refined visual identity anchored by the tagline BIGGBY® Makes it Better, reinforcing the brand’s dedication to consistent quality, human connection and uplifting everyday interactions.For more information on BIGGBY® COFFEE or franchise opportunities, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.biggby.com">www.biggby.com</a>.&nbsp;

Luck Is Brewing: BIGGBY® COFFEE Brings Back Fan-Favorite Irish Cream Lineup for St. Patrick’s Day

The limited-time Irish Cream lineup runs through March 25 and features festive seasonal flavors, including the Latte of Joy spotlighting today’s white chocolate trend.

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BIGGBY® COFFEE Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2026

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Biggby Coffee franchise, Valentine's Day, Biggby Coffee Twix collab

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EAST LANSING, Mich. —&nbsp;<a href="https://biggby.com/menu/">BIGGBY® COFFEE</a>, the 460-plus-unit high-energy coffee franchise, is turning up the fun this spring with its first-ever family film collaboration featuring “The Sheep Detectives,” an upcoming movie from Amazon MGM Studios, to create a playful, feel-good experience for guests of all ages.With “The Sheep Detectives” arriving in theaters on May 8, BIGGBY® is giving families a fun way to start the adventure early, bringing the story to life through a limited-time lineup of themed drinks, in-store surprises and social moments designed to make every visit feel a little more magical. Special drinks include: Detective Lily Lemonade, Fainting Sheep Latte, Woolly White Magic Milk and more.In this witty, new breed of mystery, George (Hugh Jackman) is a shepherd who reads detective novels to his beloved sheep every night, assuming they can’t possibly understand. But when a mysterious incident disrupts life on the farm, the sheep realize they must become the detectives. As they follow the clues and investigate human suspects, they prove that even sheep can be brilliant crime-solvers.BIGGBY® is leaning into what it does best: creating small, meaningful moments of joy. From curious kids to coffee-loving parents, this collaboration is all about giving families a reason to press pause on their day and enjoy something together.Whether it’s trying a new drink, spotting themed touches in-store or turning a quick stop into a mini adventure, BIGGBY® is making everyday moments feel a bit more memorable.The collaboration also offers a sneak peek at what’s ahead for the brand, with a refreshed Kids Menu launching this summer, giving even the youngest guests more reasons to love their BIGGBY® runs.Just in time for Mother’s Day weekend, the timing couldn’t be better. It’s the perfect excuse for families to swing by after a movie, meet up for a weekend treat or celebrate mom with something a little more fun than the usual coffee run.“At BIGGBY®, we’re always looking for ways to make someone’s day just a little brighter, and this collaboration is a perfect example of that,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritabettino05/">Rita Bettino</a>, BIGGBY COFFEE® CMO. “With the movie hitting theaters May 8, we love that families can get a little preview of the fun when they visit BIGGBY®. It’s all about creating those small, happy moments.”The Sheep Detectives opens Mother’s Day, May 8, in theaters everywhere! Rated PG.To find a BIGGBY® COFFEE location near you, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.biggby.com">www.biggby.com</a>.&nbsp;About the BIGGBY® COFFEE FranchiseBIGGBY® COFFEE, headquartered in East Lansing, Michigan, is a national coffee franchise with over 460 locations across 13 states. Since opening its first store in 1995, BIGGBY® has remained 100% franchise-owned and operates under a fully franchised business model designed to help local entrepreneurs grow successful, community-minded businesses.The company is guided by a people-first philosophy and a commitment to values-aligned growth — supporting franchise owners and baristas, creating positive experiences for guests and partnering with coffee producers who treat people well, respect the environment and invest in their communities.In 2024, BIGGBY® introduced a refined visual identity anchored by the tagline BIGGBY® Makes it Better, reinforcing the brand’s dedication to consistent quality, human connection and uplifting everyday interactions.For more information on BIGGBY® COFFEE or franchise opportunities, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.biggby.com">www.biggby.com</a>.

BIGGBY® COFFEE Teams Up with “The Sheep Detectives"

The high-energy coffee franchise teams up with the family-friendly movie to bring themed drinks and in-store moments designed for both kids and parents.

BIGGBY® COFFEE Teams Up with “The Sheep Detectives” for a Springtime Adventure Full of Fun (and Flavor)

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EAST LANSING, Mich. —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.biggbyfranchising.com/">BIGGBY® COFFEE</a>, the 460-plus-unit high-energy coffee franchise, is welcoming spring with a fresh seasonal menu featuring fan-favorite Irish Cream beverages, smooth brown sugar coffee creations, seasonal food items and limited-time promotions. The seasonal lineup runs Feb. 26 through May 20, 2026.This spring, BIGGBY® COFFEE is spotlighting two seasonal beverage categories designed to bring festive flavor and cozy-sweet indulgence to every kind of coffee run.First, Irish cream returns for a lucky start to the season, just in time for St. Patrick’s Day. The beloved flavor shines across a variety of creamy, dessert-inspired beverages that deliver rich, comforting sips with a festive twist.Featured Irish cream beverages include:<ul><li>Lucky Charm Latte&nbsp;</li><li>Sweet Foam Irish Cream Cold Brew&nbsp;</li><li>Latte of Joy&nbsp;</li><li>Chocolate Covered Leprechaun&nbsp;</li><li>Irish Cream Latte</li></ul>In addition, BIGGBY® is featuring its brown sugar lineup, a smooth, lightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with coffee and chai for a warm, comforting spring sip.Featured brown sugar beverages include:<ul><li>Brown Sugar Latte</li><li>Brown Bear Latte&nbsp;</li><li>Brown Sugar Chai</li><li>Brown Sugar Chai Charger</li></ul>Seasonal food items also return, including the fan-favorite Sausage Cheddar Biscuit with Honey, Lemon Coffee Cake Bites and Chocolate Cake Pops. Guests can also take advantage of value bundles that pair coffee and food for an easy, satisfying option.Guests can also enjoy seasonal promotions throughout the spring:<ul><li>Daylight Saving Time (March 8-13): $1 off any drink, any size</li><li>St. Patrick’s Day&nbsp;(March 17): 50% off any size Irish Cream beverage</li><li>Nurses Week (May 6-12): $1.99 any 16-ounce beverage with valid ID</li><li>Mother’s Day (May 10): BOGO free or $1 off any drink, any size</li></ul>From Irish Cream favorites to brown sugar classics and spring treats, BIGGBY® delivers a variety of offerings to help guests sip into spring and enjoy the season.To find a BIGGBY® COFFEE location near you, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.biggby.com">www.BIGGBY.com</a>.&nbsp;About The BIGGBY® COFFEE FranchiseBIGGBY® COFFEE, headquartered in East Lansing, Michigan, is a national coffee franchise with over 460 locations across 13 states. Since opening its first store in 1995, BIGGBY® has remained 100% franchise-owned and operates under a fully franchised business model designed to help local entrepreneurs grow successful, community-minded businesses.The company is guided by a people-first philosophy and a commitment to values-aligned growth — supporting franchise owners and baristas, creating positive experiences for guests, and partnering with coffee producers who treat people well, respect the environment, and invest in their communities.In 2024, BIGGBY® introduced a refined visual identity anchored by the tagline BIGGBY® Makes it Better, reinforcing the brand’s dedication to consistent quality, human connection and uplifting everyday interactions.For more information on BIGGBY® COFFEE or franchise opportunities, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.biggby.com">www.biggby.com</a>.&nbsp;

BIGGBY® COFFEE Welcomes Spring With Festive Irish Cream, Brown Sugar Creations and Seasonal Perks

The seasonal lineup runs Feb. 26 through May 20 and features festive Irish Cream beverages, Brown Sugar drinks, spring treats and limited-time promotions.

BIGGBY® COFFEE | Executive Q&A

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