Mountain Mudd Expanding Into Connecticut
ST. PAUL, Minn. -- Mountain Mudd Espresso, the drive-thru specialty coffee brand of CHS Inc., is expanding into Connecticut through a long-term contract with PJP Coffee Enterprises Inc. The first phase of development includes opening two Mountain Mudd kiosks in Hartford and Litchfield counties in 2011, with plans to develop 38 additional franchise locations in the state by early 2016.
"I'm thrilled to represent the Mountain Mudd brand and bring world-class specialty coffee drinks to the Nutmeg State," stated Phillip J. Penn, owner of PJP Coffee Enterprises, who is already a minority owner of two non-competing beverage businesses.
Gary Braaten, president of Mountain Mudd operations for CHS, added: "We are excited to grow into the Connecticut market and move into this strategic relationship with Phil Penn. Phil's experience and entrepreneurial spirit are impressive, and his personal passion for the brand is contagious. This expansion fits our mission of becoming the dominant, premier drive-thru specialty coffee retailer worldwide. The success of our franchisees is our highest priority."
Despite the weak economic backdrop, Mountain Mudd Espresso's systemwide sales held strong in 2010 and are slated for substantial growth in 2011, according to Braaten.
"Mountain Mudd locations offer the same great experience and delectable products, whether you order your latte in Burlington, Conn., or Byblos, Lebanon," Jill Mason, Mountain Mudd national sales consultant, said in a statement. "Progressive entrepreneurs recognize the value of this brand and are capitalizing on the market for convenient, premium beverages."
Recently named to Entrepreneur's 32nd annual Franchise 500 list, Mountain Mudd is currently seeking expansion in the United States and select international markets.
CHS Inc. is a diversified energy, grains and foods company. The St. Paul, Minn.-based company operates petroleum refineries/pipelines and manufactures, markets and distributes the Cenex brand of refined fuels, lubricants, propane and renewable energy products.