Characteristics of an Exceptional Franchisee

PJ’s Coffee of New Orleans is actively pursuing motivated, passionate entrepreneurs who are enthusiastic about fresh, hand-crafted beverages. We seek individuals who embrace the structured business model that aligns with their financial and lifestyle aspirations and are committed to actively participating in their local community.

Our Ideal Candidate

Certain qualities stand out above the rest when scouting new franchise owners. Starting a PJ’s Coffee shop requires hands-on operating owners willing to invest the time and effort needed to get their business off the ground — these are the people who roll up their sleeves and lead by example instead of simply taking the backseat and overseeing their store from a distance. The ideal franchisee displays a commitment to stepping up to the leadership role and is willing to go the extra mile to ensure the success of their coffee franchise.

A franchisee’s passion for the product is paramount in pursuing a coffee shop business opportunity. At PJ’s, we value those who possess a genuine love for what they sell instead of settling for a run-of-the-mill roast. Being able to recognize high-quality, freshly roasted coffee and take pride in serving superior goods to their local community are the kinds of qualities we want our franchisees to embody. While PJ’s provides comprehensive training on the coffee-roasting process and product knowledge, enthusiasm for the topic is a big plus.

While possessing an entrepreneurial mindset is essential for owning a PJ’s Coffee, it is not the sole factor that defines a firm business owner. Franchisees must understand and be willing to work within the framework of PJ’s proven franchise system to succeed and thrive. While PJ’s franchisees enjoy the flexibility to customize and tailor their stores to meet their community’s needs and desires, they also understand the importance of adhering to a structured framework that has stood the test of time.

“Having an involved and engaged franchisee is crucial to the success of the business in our eyes, as that’s what makes PJ’s unique,” said PJ’s Director of Franchise Development Tori Bermond. “We operate locally but draw on 45 years of proven success in serving great coffee and even greater experiences. As a PJ’s franchisee, you are equipped with the tools to be in business for yourself, but not by yourself.”

PJ’s Coffee Stand-Out Franchisees

PJ’s franchisees Harry and Dalton Dodich have certainly fulfilled their mission of making all guests feel welcome at their three PJ’s Coffee shops. The father-son duo has put their expertise in business operations to good use in order to create memorable experiences for their community, eventually earning themselves the 2023 IFA Franchise of the Year Award. They were also recognized by PJ’s Coffee with their Franchisee of the Year award in 2022 for their success, ingenuity and strength as partners.

Meanwhile, Andrew Jones and his partner Teddy Amar took a leap of faith by leaving their corporate financial consulting jobs to pursue their dreams and open their first franchise. Starting their entrepreneurial careers by franchising with Georgia-based Zaxby’s, the duo pursued a franchise with strong Louisiana roots and opened their PJ’s store in New Orleans. The partners were drawn to PJ’s for its strong brand culture and the “feel-good factor” it provides guests. Additionally, PJ’s knew Andrew and Teddy would be exceptional franchisees because of their eagerness to get involved with the community in combination with their knowledge and practice of business leadership skills.

Franchise owners Smanvi and her husband Raj leveraged their background in the medical field to excel in the franchising industry. While they entered the business with some existing knowledge of the franchising industry, they also embraced learning whatever it would take to ensure the success of their coffee shop. Their relentless work ethic and commitment have paved the way for them to thrive and prepare to open a second franchise location this year.

How These Traits Transfer Into Successful Store Ownership

Hard-charging franchisees who take the time to work on and in their store tend to have a flourishing business by actively participating in local events and fostering strong relationships with their customer base. Without the loyalty of guests, no company can succeed. Therefore, being present, getting involved and following the lead of successful franchisees like Harry and Dalton, Andrew and Teddy, and Smanvi and Raj make it possible for a PJ’s Coffee franchise to survive and thrive.