Chad Gretzema, CEO, Beans & Brews Coffeehouse

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Utah-based Beans & Brews Coffeehouse has appointed Chad Gretzema as its new CEO as it seeks to turn rising franchisee demand into outlet growth. 

Gretzema joins Beans & Brews from California-based restaurant chain Del Taco where he held various leadership positions over a 12-year period, including Brand President, SVP of Strategic Planning and Chief Operating Officer. 

Beans & Brews co-founders Jeff and Kevin Laramie said Gretzema was ideally placed to lead the coffee chain in its next chapter of growth, which includes a goal of reaching 100 outlets by 2025. Beans & Brews currently has 69 stores across Utah, Idaho, Nevada, Arizona and Texas. 

As well as recently signing new development deals to open 40 stores in San Antonio and Austin, Texas, Beans & Brews also has franchise agreements in place to bring the brand to New Mexico, Colorado and Wyoming. 

“I couldn't be more excited to join Beans & Brews Coffeehouse as we accelerate growth. The brand has not only built a devoted following in its existing footprint but is also witnessing strong success as it expands to new states. With our proprietary high-altitude roasted coffee beverages, signature energy drinks and really attractive unit level economics it is not surprising that the franchisee development demand is at an all-time high,” Gretzema said. 

Founded in 1993, Beans & Brews roasts all its coffee in the Salt Lake Mountain valley. The coffee chain began franchising in 2004. 



World Coffee Portal research shows the total branded US coffee shop market grew by 1,552 outlets in the last 12 months to reach more than 40,000 outlets. 

Further outlet growth is forecast, with the market expected to surpass 41,300 outlets next year and exceed 45,200 outlets in 2028.