The Seasoned Executive Brings Nearly Three Decades of Leadership Experience to the Role
Beans & Brews Coffeehouse has named Chad Gretzema chief executive officer (CEO). This announcement comes as the coffee franchisor expands nationwide. He brings nearly three decades of multi-unit food and beverage leadership experience to the position.
“I’m thrilled to spearhead the nationwide growth strategy of Beans & Brews Coffeehouse. The chain has a devoted following across Utah and neighboring states, and I look forward to watching the demand for our high-altitude roasted coffee grow as we ramp up expansion,” Gretzema said. He added that the coffee franchisor’s “Brew Good” program and inclusive ambiance are contributors to its success.
Gretzema’s passion for serving others paired with the dynamic nature of the food service industry has defined his career throughout the last three decades. He was one of the first 25 employees at the Einstein Bros. franchise support center and also spearheaded operations and training for the fast-casual brand Del Taco before becoming its president. These experiences helped him gain insights into fostering a sense of community to cultivate a dedicated customer base.
Jeff Laramie, former CEO and co-founder of Beans & Brews, is excited to pass the torch to Gretzema. “The journey with Beans & Brews has been the greatest of our lives. Over the years, we have seen our company evolve, innovate, and grow — achieving milestones that we could have only dreamed of when we first embarked on this adventure. We believe that with Chad at the helm, the company is poised to achieve even greater heights. His passion for building brands and supporting franchisees along with his proven track record of success make him the perfect fit for our brand,” he said.
Restaurant Franchising
Gretzema believes that entrepreneurship and small businesses are the center of local communities, and he admires the entrepreneurial spirit of franchisees. “Franchising is all about relationships and the powerful partnership of a proven brand and a local business owner.”
He has seen firsthand how franchising enables entrepreneurs to debut a business with a proven brand and ongoing support. Gretzema advises franchisee candidates to invest in a brand with great systems, opportunities for growth and a proven business model.
About Beans & Brews Coffeehouse
Beans & Brews Coffeehouse was founded in 1993 and began franchising in 2004. Since its founding, the Salt Lake City, Utah based coffee franchisor became known as the Home of High-Altitude Roasting. Beans & Brews recently signed development deals in San Antonio and Austin with commitments to open 40 stores. Twenty-nine other franchise agreements have been awarded in Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah, with additional agreements in the works for Colorado, Idaho, and Wyoming, according to a press release.