The Gloria Jeans Coffee (GJC) Master Franchise for New Zealand has been taken over by an operator promising, “a new culture for the New Zealand franchised coffee market”.
Entrepreneur Eric Chase, the managing director of GJC in New Zealand, began his working career as a baker in Brisbane almost 40 years ago, going on to own and run franchises in Australia, the United States and New Zealand.
Eric has put together a team of top professionals who are out to bring something fresh and new to the New Zealand food and beverage franchise industry.
Gloria Jean’s Coffees was established in Chicago in 1978, having grown to become one of the world’s best known barista-made coffee brands.
In 2003 it began introducing New Zealanders to its premium coffee products.
Eric points out that New Zealand has one of the most advanced and sophisticated coffee markets in world.
“The flat white was created in Wellington and we (as a people) probably do more business now around a coffee than in front of our computers.
“For a global franchise to succeed in New Zealand, it must have a personality that encapsulates the local culture and lifestyle,” Eric adds.
GJC brand experience manager, Holly Chase, says Gloria Jeans NZ has pioneered a fresh and innovative look and feel in this country.
“Several GJC stores in this country have become have the envy and inspiration point for many international Gloria Jeans franchise operators,” says Holley, who is Eric’s daughter.
“This leadership is something we take great pride in and intend to continue to maintain the highest of standards.
“We strongly believe that creating a unique offering across the stores that has individual personalities and speaks to both the location and franchisee operators will create stronger guest engagement offering a total brand experience that differs and surprises from store to store, ultimately setting us apart in the food and beverage franchise marketplace,” says Holley.
This year the company will also begin a two-year roll out of new beverage products and food offerings.
GJC will embark upon an aggressive expansion programme that will see the brand extend outside the major cities and towns, and introduce a variety of food and beverage delivery platforms Eric describes as, “previously unseen here”.
