What's Brewing in Kansas City?
Here we are with another move in the coffee game—Mokas Coffee & Eatery is spreading its wings across Kansas City like a caffeine-fueled bird of prey. This isn't some ordinary expansion; it's a nine-unit franchise deal signed with Cornerstone Hospitality that's got folks talking. We're not talking small potatoes either—six of these units are set for Clay and Jackson Counties over in Missouri's slice of KC. Plus, another trio will pop up in Derby, Garden City, and Manhattan, Kansas, with a 2027 target. They're not just slinging beans; they're carving out community nooks.
Meet the Minds Behind the Move
Let's put a spotlight on the duo driving this: Brice Turner and Jeff Bennett. These aren't rookies. Turner's a veteran turned business magnate, and Bennett's got construction and franchise chops under his belt. They both saw something special in Mokas, more than just a coffee shop. Turner even chimed in, "Our family enjoys Mokas, and it's great for connecting with others," showing there's more to this than just business. It's about the brand's soul, a place that thrives on social gatherings and quality eats.
"It's a natural fit for what we look for with Cornerstone Hospitality: offering guests a welcoming setting for everything from casual social outings to family meals and business meetings." - Brice Turner
Why Mokas? The Draw of Personal Touch
Bennett found himself drawn to Mokas for its consistent quality and community vibe. With the world bouncing back post-COVID, people are craving those spaces where they can meet up over a cup of joe and a pastry or two. They're banking on a model that’s not just about what's on the menu, but about the atmosphere that makes anyone feel at home.
Mokas: More Than Just Coffee
The numbers tell part of the tale. Mokas' offerings are a smorgasbord of coffee-centric and food-fanatic delights. From in-house roasted brews to smoothies and energy drinks, all paired with breakfast and lunch options that are as varied as they are inviting. They're ahead of the curve, crafting an all-day menu that caters from dawn till dusk.
- Signature handcrafted coffee
- Breakfast and lunch wraps
- Freshly baked pastries
- Energy drinks and smoothies
Community and Culture in One Cup
It's not just about expansion for the sake of it. Turner and Bennett aim to foster a sense of community. These new Mokas locations will be more than coffee stops; they're places of first jobs, local partnerships, and charity ties. Mokas isn't just about making waves in the market but laying down roots in new communities.
Jason Ingermanson, CEO of JRI Hospitality and Mokas' President, couldn't be more supportive: "They understand what it takes to build something meaningful in a community, and that's exactly the spirit Mokas was built on." A blend of business savvy and community focus means this expansion is about shared growth—not just profit margins.
"We're thrilled to support Cornerstone Hospitality as they bring Mokas to new guests throughout the Kansas City metro." - Jason Ingermanson
The Bigger Picture
Mokas is under the umbrella of JRI Hospitality, a group that's got its hands in quite a few pots—over 145 units across 18 states, to be precise. They're putting their muscle behind Mokas, using their experience in expanding Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers, to see this idea bloom. This isn't their first rodeo, and this expansion is a strategic stepping stone for JRI's growth blueprint.
In Kansan terms, they're putting their bet on the table, and the cards look promising. This might just be the next chapter in turning a beloved local name into a regional staple. For those looking to dive into the Mokas family, it's a tale of opportunity crafted with an aim for long-term impact.
