PJ’s Coffee of New Orleans is planning a rapid expansion of its franchise into Alabama.
The brand plans three locations in Mobile and Baldwin counties, with the first to open in Mobile early next year. It will be the first PJ’s location in Alabama.
In addition, the company plans 45 locations for Alabama over the next five to seven years, with 10 in Mobile, Birmingham and Montgomery, nine in Huntsville and five in Tuscaloosa.
PJ’s Coffee has more than 100 locations open and operating nationally and internationally. Earlier this month, New Orleans-based Dat Dog announced plans to expand into Alabama.
The multi-unit deal was signed by the Dodich family – a father and two sons living in Alabama. Harry Dodich, who is also a Planet Fitness multi-unit owner, said the brand has name recognition due to its association with New Orleans and its diverse coffee menu.
PJ’s Coffee serves iced, frozen, hot, cold brew, and nitro-infused coffees, organic tea and breakfast pastries.
Ryan Stansbury, vice president of franchise development, said the Southeast has long been a targeted growth market for the company.
“Alabama is right smack in the middle of this targeted area," he said. "Its proximity to New Orleans, the economic growth opportunity, and the fact that local residents are already familiar with the PJ’s Coffee name have made it a very attractive market to focus our efforts. We have full trust in our franchisees to be tremendously successful throughout the state.”
According to the company, prospective franchisees can expect a total investment range between $188,000 to $360,000 for non-traditional franchise units, and $350,000 to $578,000 for traditional units. The operating model and menu are adaptable, with different options from kiosks to free-standing locations with a drive-thru, ranging from a few hundred square feet up to 1,850 square feet.
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