Barnie's Coffee & Tea Co. is taking its gourmet franchise concept to new markets across Europe through Master Franchisees or Area Developers with multi-unit ambitions. Based on 25 years establishing Barnie's as America's largest privately owned gourmet coffee and tea purveyor, the company is now tackling international markets and has further developed the concept for both mall and non-mall locations. Barnie's has secured a loyal and passionate customer base and a proven track record offering hand-selected gourmet coffee beans. "Our extensive selection of gourmet coffee blends is flavoured and decaffeinated in light, medium and dark roasts to satisfy every discriminating taste," comments CEO Neil Leach. "We have developed a winning concept over 25 years, yet the concept is as fresh, dynamic and exciting as if it were brand new. We've recently decided to add our existing base of franchisees, some of whom have been in operation for nearly 20 years, and we are now offering opportunities for franchises worldwide."

Barnie's is searching for individuals or groups to facilitate brand development in Europe by establishing a multi-store network within their territory, which can be achieved via sub-franchising and by supplying Barnie's coffees and other branded products to supermarkets, restaurants, offices, national airlines, mail order, etc. "There are numerous opportunities to 'be' Barnie's within a region, and not just with the retail concept," Leach clarifies. "Our expansion programme is a multi-pronged development strategy so that the brand can be properly and fully exploited."

As well as the use of the brand name, trademarks, recipes, access to marketing materials, operational systems and methods, and dÉcor, Barnie's Coffee commits to providing franchisees with site selection and lease negotiation assistance; facility planning for site location and architectural design; and corporate training for assistant store managers. "By following our store opening timeline and utilising the experience of our franchise coordinators, we can facilitate the opening of a Barnie's Coffee store within three to five months of signing a franchise agreement," Leach reveals. "Franchisee and staff training takes place at our Orlando headquarters and training stores for approximately two weeks, including in-store and classroom instruction.

"To ensure our franchisees are fully prepared for their opening we place no limit on the number of employees that can be brought to this training. Prior to opening, a franchise coordinator assists in setting up final inspections, last minute training for new hires and the grand opening."

While market experience would be beneficial for this opportunity, it is not essential. More important is passion for the product and customer service. Leach reassures: "Our extensive support infrastructure will position our franchisees to develop a world-leading gourmet coffee and tea brand with a host of additional market opportunities to explore."