For Kahwa Coffee Roasting Company co-founder Raphael Perrier, franchising is a promising aspect of the company’s future.
A new Palm Harbor location, at 32700 U.S.Hwy 19 N., opened its doors last month. Franchisees Chris and Pita Deneault were the first to sign an agreement with Kahwa Coffee back in October 2022.
Chris Deneault has years of experience in customer service. Previously, he worked with Chick-fil-A.
Launching the store was a long process. Finding an attractive location was key, Deneault explained. Growing up in Palm Harbor, he wanted to open an establishment in the area.
Deneault would eventually sign a lease for the site in June 2024. Months later, Hurricanes Helene and Milton delayed preparation efforts.
There were plenty of challenges along the way. The Deneault family even had to complete an extensive bathroom remodeling project after an inspection. They had planned to open the shop in April.
For Deneault, it was all worth it.
“We went to several of the shops around the area,” he said. “We just liked the vibe and how it worked. It was something that I could see myself doing for the rest of my life.”
Perrier launched the St. Petersburg-based company with his wife Sarah in 2006. It has become one of the largest independent coffee roasters in Florida.
There are more than 15 locations around the country. Kahwa Coffee also works with a variety of wholesale partners, including hotels, grocery stores and restaurants.
Prior to starting the business, Perrier worked as a barista for La Colombe Coffee Roasters. This allowed him to learn about the industry in depth.
A franchising option was introduced in September 2022. Five locations have opened so far, Perrier said.
“Franchising is different,” he explained. “I think it’s doing good. Selling them is pretty simple and easy. Opening them and making them right is the challenge.”
Finding real estate for the franchisees has been a hurdle, Perrier said. Additionally, there is a variety of competition in the region.
As part of the vetting process, the Perrier family meets with candidates to discuss their goals. This helps the business owners determine whether the opportunity is the “right fit.”
“For us, it’s all about the passion for the brand,” he explained, “and then the willingness to understand what it takes to do a franchise.”
At first, Perrier was reluctant about the franchise model. However, after seeing friends succeed, it made him reconsider.
“The attraction is to be able to open more stores faster,” Perrier said. “We can also grow the brand outside of the areas that we have on the corporate side.”
Currently, about 15 more franchises are in the works. He added that a St. Pete Beach location will hopefully open later this year.
Franchising is just one aspect of Kahwa Coffee Roasting Company’s growth strategy.
Perrier explained that the organization will continue focusing on the wholesale business while expanding its retail shops. Additionally, the team is exploring opportunities with potential capital investment partners.
This content provided in partnership with stpetecatalyst.com.