This month, the PJ’s Coffee team headed to San Antonio, Texas for one of our favorite traditions—the Annual PJ’s Coffee Franchisee Conference. Franchisees from across the country came together for several days of collaboration, connection, and celebration. Our franchise conference is more than an event; it’s a testament to what makes PJ’s special: our people.
A Community Fueled by Coffee and Collaboration
From the moment attendees arrived, the energy was palpable. Franchise owners had the opportunity to engage directly with the leadership team, share wins and challenges, and hear firsthand about the innovations and opportunities ahead for our rapidly growing brand.
The conference kicked off with a welcome reception that brought familiar faces back together and introduced new ones to the family. Franchisees shared stories, ideas, and laughs, reconnecting with their fellow operators from across the country who share a passion for great coffee and growing the PJ’s Coffee brand in their local communities.
Unlocking Growth: Franchising Insights from PJ’s Coffee Leadership Team
That energy carried to the next day with a State of the Company presentation from PJ’s Coffee President, David Mesa. During this insightful session, David offered a transparent look at system-wide performance, giving franchisees a deeper understanding of current sales trends and new areas of opportunity. He introduced key data showing how the PJ’s loyalty app continues to amplify same-store-sales performance. For example, loyalty guests are spending 46.4% more than non-loyalty guests, and recent app enhancements have led to a significant increase in average ticket sales.
Beyond the numbers, the conference also gave our franchise owners a closer look at the future of the coffee industry itself. PJ’s Roastmaster Felton Jones led multiple sessions that dissected emerging trends in sourcing, roasting, and consumer preferences. His depth of knowledge and passion for the craft left attendees inspired and better equipped to elevate the guest experience in their own coffee shops.
Celebrating Wins and Recognizing Excellence in Coffee Franchising
While our franchisee conference is a time to strategize together about what’s ahead, it’s also an important celebration of the people who make our brand what it is today. This year’s systemwide awards ceremony was a highlight of our time together, honoring individuals and teams who exemplify excellence, leadership, and the true spirit of our coffee shop community.
Each award reflects the unique strengths of our franchise owners and operators, from operational excellence to community impact. Their stories are what drive the PJ’s Coffee brand forward and inspire future entrepreneurs looking to open a coffee shop of their own. Join us in celebrating some of our amazing winners:
Franchisees of the Year: Smanvi Gudar & Raj Poloju (Alexandria, LA)
This duo earned top honors for consistently exceeding performance standards and setting an example for the entire franchise network.
Rookie Franchisee of the Year: Joe Shojamanesh (Linthicum Heights, MD)
Joe quickly established himself as a strong franchise owner after opening in 2024, embracing PJ’s values and building a strong foundation for long-term success.
Phyllis Jordan Award: Hollie Mueller (Elmwood, LA)
This award honors the PJ’s Coffee founder, Phyllis Jordan, and celebrates female leadership in franchising. Hollie’s impact inside and outside of her store continues to push boundaries and uplift other in the PJ’s community
Manager of the Year: Kyle Golla (Camp Bullis, San Antonio, TX)
Kyle’s leadership has consistently inspired team success and delivered unforgettable guest experiences.
Legacy Award:
Honoring over 20 years of dedication to the PJ’s Coffee brand, these individuals have helped shape PJ’s into the franchise it is today.
- Paul & Torry Ballard
- Steve & Lori Ballard
- Scott & Kristi Ballard
- Charlie & Terry Sampey
- Donna & Robbie Miller
- Tom & Robin Lewis
- Anthony Satterlee
- Hung Nguyen
What’s Next for PJ’s Coffee Franchising
As we reflect on our treasured memories from this year’s conference, what resonated most was the sense of purpose among our franchise owners. Whether celebrating new store openings or learning how to grow their average ticket, franchisees weren’t just absorbing information; they were exchanging ideas, offering encouragement, and building a stronger PJ’s Coffee system together.
The future of coffee franchising is here, and it tastes like PJ’s. With strategic growth initiatives in place, exciting innovations on the horizon, and a foundation of strong, resonant values, we’re ready to take on what’s next.
Are you looking for a coffee franchising opportunity where your success is celebrated? Fill out our inquiry form today!
