Australia’s Fastest-Growing Companies to Watch In 2023.pdf
1. All About Flavor
Gloria Jean's
Coffees' Growth
Transformation
Talking all things Flavor, Growth & People with Krystal Taylor
The Coffee Ritual
Morning Routines and
Coffee's Role in Daily Life
Perpetual Freshness
The Environmental
Impact of Coffee Production
and Sustainability Efforts
2. Theartofcreating
the perfect cup of co ee,
from espresso to latte is
an art that blends science
andcreativity
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the perfect cup of co ee,
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5. HenryThompson
n the world of coffee, where each sip offers a unique
Ijourney of flavor and aroma, few brands have left an
indelible mark on the industry, like Gloria Jean's
Coffees. This American-Australian retail coffeehouse brand,
headquartered in Castle Hill, Sydney, has long been
celebrated for its dedication to delivering exceptional coffee
experiences to customers worldwide. And now, we are
thrilled to share with you the remarkable growth
transformation of Gloria Jean's Coffees in the latest edition
of Insights Success.
From its humble beginnings in 1979 as a small coffee and
gift store in Chicago, Gloria Jean's Coffees has come a long
way. With its unwavering commitment to quality and
innovation, the brand has expanded its footprint globally,
offering coffee enthusiasts a diverse and enticing range of
flavors and brewing methods. Through this growth
transformation, Gloria Jean's Coffees has not only become a
household name but has also set a new benchmark for
coffeehouse excellence.
In this special feature, we delve deep into the brand's
journey, exploring the roots of its success and how it has
managed to maintain its reputation for delivering premium
coffee products. We'll take you through the tantalizing menu
options that have made Gloria Jean's Coffees a go-to
destination for coffee lovers, as well as the behind-the-
scenes insights into their sustainable practices and
commitment to the communities they serve.
Additionally, we'll introduce you to the innovative minds
behind the brand's evolution and hear from the leadership
team at Gloria Jean's Coffees on their vision for the future.
Their dedication to maintaining the highest quality in every
cup and their willingness to adapt and embrace change are
what sets this brand apart in a rapidly evolving industry.
As coffee continues to be an integral part of our daily lives,
Gloria Jean's Coffees remains dedicated to providing us
with a captivating array of flavors and an unmatched
coffeehouse experience. In this feature, we celebrate not
only their rich history but also their exciting future as they
continue to grow, transform, and inspire a new generation
of coffee enthusiasts.
Join us on this flavorful journey through Gloria Jean's
Coffees' growth transformation. We hope you enjoy this
insightful exploration of a brand that has become
synonymous with quality, innovation, and the art of
brewing the perfect cup of coffee.
7. 16
20
The Coffee Ritual
Morning Routines and Coffee's Role in Daily Life
Perpetual Freshness
The Environmental Impact of Coffee Production
and Sustainability Efforts
Articles
10. Retail Food Group USA, Inc.,
known under the trade name
Gloria Jean's Coffees, has recently
undergone a comprehensive
refinement of its global brand
iden ty and market presence."
Talking all things Flavor, Growth & People with Krystal Taylor
12. Retail Food Group (RFG) is a prominent global
food and beverage company based in Queensland,
Australia. With its headquarters in Queensland,
RFG is the largest multi-brand retail food and beverage
franchise owner in Australia, boasting a strong presence in
the coffee roasting and supply sector. RFG's extensive
global network comprises approximately 1,300 trading
outlets, making it a significant player in the food and
beverage industry worldwide.
Within Australia, RFG manages and operates an impressive
portfolio of 10 distinct brands, catering to a wide range of
culinary preferences. These brands collectively handle more
than 40 million customer transactions annually. It has
nearly 700 outlets that are effectively serviced by a
dedicated community of franchise partners and
approximately 6,800 company employees, ensuring
efficient and high-quality service.
"We understand the retail dynamics of our brands and are
focused on providing Franchise Partners a clear picture of
success supported by the systems, processes and tools
necessary to maximize their businesses. We are excited to
now focus on unlocking growth opportunities." -Matthew
Marshall, CEO.
Peter George, the Executive Chairman of the Board at RFG,
emphasizes the company's commitment to its franchisees
and the support of a capable management team. This
approach positions them to realize their growth ambitions
for FY24 and beyond. He also mentions the establishment
of the first of three new Gloria Jean's drive-thru outlets in
Texas, USA, which has prompted a closer examination of
the American market.
RFG is the direct franchisor for the USA and this scrutiny
has led to the initiation of a strategic initiative aimed at
expanding the network in the USA. Their goal is to
establish more than 100 outlets within a two to three-year
timeframe and the implementation steps for this strategy are
currently in progress.
About Gloria Jean's Coffees
Gloria Jean's Coffees journey began with a curiosity about
how people worldwide enjoy coffee. This exploration
involved experimenting with various coffee beans, roasting
methods and innovative flavor infusions. However, it was
not just the flavor of the coffee that guided the brand—it
was the essence and character brought to the business by
Gloria herself.
Inspired by Gloria's vision, the brand has opened its doors
to the world and offered a diverse range of delicious
coffees, Chillers, refreshing over-ice beverages, and well-
paired food options. The concept of "flavor" extends
beyond taste; it embodies character, personality and
individuality. Gloria Jean's understands that by celebrating
diverse flavors, it creates something more significant than
just coffee.
Gloria Jean Kvetko's philosophy, that the "right way to
enjoy coffee is your way," is the brand's guiding principle.
The brand takes immense pride in providing exceptional
customer service and personalized experiences during each
visit, fostering moments where every guest can truly be
themselves.
The Inception Story
Gloria Jean's Coffees, a brand known for its dedication to
crafting exquisite coffee experiences, has a rich history
dating back to its founding in 1979 by Gloria Jean Kvetko,
a visionary entrepreneur from Chicago. Under her
leadership, the brand rapidly gained recognition and
expanded its presence across the United States. Gloria
Jean's innovative approach brought a delightful array of
flavors to the world of coffee, setting the stage for a legacy
that now spans fourty-four years.
The right way to
enjoy coffee is your
way! - Gloria Jean
Kvetko
All About Flavor Gloria Jean's Coffees' Growth Transformation
13. For all the images
included in the PDF -
Picture Courtesy - Emily Davis
14. With over four decades of expertise, Gloria Jean's Coffees
has meticulously handcrafted indulgent beverages and
perfected the art of flavoring coffee beans. Today, the brand
operates in more than 600 stores, reaching coffee
enthusiasts in 32 countries worldwide. It's important to note
that Gloria Jean's Coffees is not a newcomer vying for a
place in the market; rather, it boasts the longevity and
credibility that come from being a venerable purveyor of
gourmet coffee in the industry.
In 2014, Gloria Jean's Coffees became part of Retail Food
Group (RFG), a move that significantly bolstered the
brand's growth prospects and global recognition. At RFG,
every brand within the network benefits from an extensive
reservoir of industry knowledge, with each brand boasting
at least a decade's worth of experience. Leveraging this
collective knowledge and experience is a fundamental
aspect of RFG's identity. The organization continually
reinvests in its brands and its people, creating an
environment where franchisees have a voice and are a top
priority.
One of RFG's guiding principles is "franchisee first," a
commitment that is demonstrated by actions like the recent
appointment of Michael (Mick) Bulley, a long-standing
multi-site operator, to the parent company's board as a Non-
Executive Director. This appointment underscores RFG's
dedication to supporting its franchisees and driving the
expansion of brands like Gloria Jean's Coffees in the USA.
Leading Growth
Krystal Taylor, as the President of the USA Division for
Gloria Jean's, brings with her a decade of experience in the
food and beverage franchising industry. Her journey began
as a team member in a franchised store and she has since
acquired a strong background in finance, including a
master's degree in accounting.
In the past two years, Krystal has played a pivotal role in
RFG Ltd.'s major turnaround program. She held various
positions within the company, including Commercial
Manager for Company Stores, where she led a significant
restructuring effort. Following that, she became the Group
Strategy Manager, responsible for managing mergers and
acquisitions, as well as exploring organic growth
opportunities.
In her capacity as President of Retail Food Group's U.S.
operations (Gloria Jean's USA Inc.), Krystal is entrusted
with overseeing and implementing the growth strategy for
Gloria Jean's Coffees in the United States. She is a vital
member of the company's Executive Leadership Team and
reports directly to the Executive Chairman of the Board.
Krystal's diverse experience and financial acumen position
her to lead the brand into a new phase of business growth.
Staying Ahead of Industry Trends
During her tenure at RFG, Krystal has been a witness to the
company's remarkable evolution across various dimensions.
The commitment to excellence has driven improvements in
multiple facets, ranging from internal governance practices
that uphold the highest standards to the adoption of
innovative processes and systems.
One of the most significant transformations Krystal has
observed is the paradigm shift in the field of franchising.
RFG has transitioned from traditional brick-and-mortar
establishments to providing each customer with a tailored
and immersive digital experience. This evolution is
powered by cutting-edge technology, which includes the
deployment of online brand platforms, the integration of a
sophisticated point-of-sale system and the introduction of a
loyalty application, among other innovations.
The RFG brands share a common aspiration—to offer
customers a distinctive and up-to-date experience by
staying attuned to industry trends and fostering a culture of
Krystal emphasizes that
regardless of the industry or
gender, all young and aspiring
leaders should have a clear
understanding of their values
and vision for their future
careers.
15.
16. ongoing innovation. Every pivotal aspect of the business
has undergone substantial changes driven by the integration
of new technologies. These technological enhancements
serve to streamline operations and enhance the overall
return on investment for all stakeholders involved. Krystal's
insights highlight RFG's unwavering commitment to
progress and its dedication to delivering exceptional
experiences to its customers.
Expanding the Legacy
Retail Food Group USA, Inc., known under the trade name
Gloria Jean's Coffees, has recently undergone a
comprehensive refinement of its global brand identity and
market presence. Within the United States, the brand has
devised a robust strategy aimed at expanding its footprint,
particularly in strategically identified regions that align with
its brand.
To achieve this expansion, Gloria Jean's Coffees will
continue its efforts to cultivate and strengthen partnerships
with multiple site operators. Additionally, the brand is
actively seeking new entrepreneurial partners—individuals
who aspire to own and manage their businesses while
becoming part of a revitalized, globally recognized brand
with deep roots in Chicago. With a legacy spanning forty-
four years, Gloria Jean's Coffees remains dedicated to
delivering premium roasted coffee.
Collaboration with essential service providers will be
instrumental in delivering a tailored approach to design,
construction and back-of-house support for all franchise
partners. This approach ensures that partners receive the
necessary resources and assistance to drive success.
A cornerstone of the brand's enduring success has been its
unwavering commitment to training and operational
support. Gloria Jean's Coffees boasts a team of seasoned
experts equipped with the precise skills required to offer a
personalized, streamlined support system for its network.
These industry leaders have demonstrated their dedication
to the brand over many years, further solidifying Gloria
Jean's Coffees' position as a leader in the field.
Leading with Passion and Purpose
Krystal emphasizes that regardless of the industry or
gender, all young and aspiring leaders should have a clear
understanding of their values and vision for their future
careers. This clarity enables them to identify suitable
opportunities for personal and professional growth. In the
17. journey of one's career, it's essential not only to seize as
many growth opportunities as possible but also to set
specific goals and recognize the milestones achieved along
the way.
Her advice extends to aspiring leaders aiming to become
the kind of leader they wished for when they were in more
junior positions. This involves incorporating the qualities
and characteristics they admire into their leadership style.
Modern leadership is about setting up teams for success
through careful recruitment, thorough training and
empowerment.
The era of autocratic leadership by an all-knowing
individual is over, especially in dynamic industries like
hospitality, which frequently undergo change. In Krystal's
role, which involves driving change across the business,
empowering the team to take on leadership roles and
embrace change is a crucial aspect of leadership.
To end, Krystal strongly recommends finding a mentor who
not only provides opportunities but also challenges one to
view the business from a different perspective. Mentors
offer valuable avenues for skill development, insights into
overcoming challenges, access to growth resources, lessons
drawn from their own career journeys and the support of a
reliable network.
Commitment to Employee Training
Krystal highlights that Gloria Jean's Coffees places a strong
emphasis on training and provides a comprehensive range
of face-to-face and online platforms to support its
employees in achieving growth and success. With a global
presence, the brand recognizes the importance of utilizing
different technologies in various regions to stay at the
forefront of ongoing innovation, considering the rapid pace
of technological changes.
The brand offers specific training modules tailored to
address challenges relevant to the workplace in the coffee
industry. An example of this innovation is the upcoming
launch of a CI (Continuous Improvement) app, designed to
provide real-time answers to questions for the field team
and network. This technology aims to instill confidence in
the field by providing instant access to information,
reducing the time required to obtain information and
enhancing overall efficiency while upskilling the workforce.
Beyond technology, Gloria Jean's ensures that its employees
have access to development plans and resources that
empower them to advance in their careers. One of the
brand's core values is a focus on its people, presenting new
opportunities to expand skill sets and foster new interests
and relationships within the organization. Recognizing the
importance of employee well-being and mental health in all
industries, Gloria Jean's Coffees believes that these
opportunities will contribute to a more flexible approach to
longevity and retention within the brand.
Innovation for Coffee Excellence
As a division, Gloria Jean's has recently undertaken the
implementation of new platforms aimed at enhancing the
overall experience for both customers and franchise
partners. These initiatives include the introduction of digital
menus, online ordering, in-app ordering, and the integration
of tills and third-party arrangements. These efforts are
geared towards providing faster, turnkey experiences for
customers and generating additional sources of revenue.
The company places a strong emphasis on regularly
reviewing the effectiveness of data results to ensure that
data-driven decisions, both current and future, maintain the
highest quality.
Gloria Jean's is committed to cultivating a culture within its
workforce that fosters an understanding of the reasons
behind the ongoing changes within the business and the
pursuit of growth. The organization is focused on achieving
success while embracing technological advancements to
improve overall business operations.
The overarching objectives include enhancing
organizational operations and practices, fostering unity
within the broader RFG business by eliminating siloed
work environments and successfully expanding the network
to encompass over 150 stores.
The strategic vision of Gloria Jean's Coffees is centered on
bringing flavor to the world of coffee while staying true to
the brand's personality. The commitment is to be
unapologetically original and accessible to both loyal and
new customers, with the goal of helping people discover
their unique flavor every day through a diverse menu, a
dedicated team, and ongoing innovation. This is achieved
through a strong focus on customer-centricity, service,
loyalty, and choice.
18. he first rays of dawn break through the curtains,
Tand you groggily reach the kitchen. The comforting
aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air,
heralding the start of your day. For many people, this
cherished morning ritual not only jumpstarts their day but
also plays a significant role in their daily lives.
In this article, we'll delve deeper into the importance of
morning routines and the pivotal role that coffee plays in
shaping our mornings, setting the tone for the day ahead,
and providing a comforting sense of routine and ritual.
The Significance of Morning Routines
Morning routines are the foundation upon which our day is
built. They help us transition from the peaceful realm of
sleep to the hustle and bustle of daily life. These routines
can vary widely from person to person, but they often
include activities like stretching, meditation, exercise,
showering, and of course, savouring a cup of coffee.
The first moments of the morning are crucial in setting the
tone for the rest of the day. A well-planned morning routine
can promote positivity, mindfulness, and a sense of
accomplishment. Engaging in a routine can also help reduce
stress and anxiety, as it offers a structured start to the day.
The Coffee Ritual
October 2023 | 16 | www.insightssuccess.com
20. The Role of Coffee in Morning Routines
Coffee has long been a staple in morning routines around
the world. The simple act of brewing and enjoying a cup of
coffee can be a meditative and soothing experience. Let's
delve into the multifaceted roles coffee plays in our daily
lives.
A Wake-Up Call
For many, coffee serves as a gentle wake-up call. The
caffeine content in coffee provides a natural energy boost,
helping us combat morning grogginess and fatigue. This
makes it an indispensable part of our morning routines, as it
kickstarts our day and prepares us for the challenges ahead.
A Moment of Comfort
Sipping on a warm cup of coffee can offer a sense of
comfort and familiarity, especially in the quiet moments of
the morning. The familiar aroma and taste can provide a
soothing experience, almost like a warm embrace, which
can be particularly valuable during stressful times.
A Catalyst for Productivity
Coffee is known for its ability to enhance focus and
concentration. When incorporated into a morning routine, it
can help improve productivity and set a positive tone for the
day's tasks. With a clear mind and increased alertness,
you're better equipped to tackle your to-do list.
A Social Experience
The morning coffee ritual can also be a social experience,
whether you're enjoying it alone or with others. For many,
sharing a cup of coffee with a loved one or colleagues is a
cherished moment to connect, converse, and bond. It fosters
a sense of togetherness and camaraderie.
An Opportunity for Mindfulness
The act of brewing coffee and savoring each sip can be a
mindful experience. It encourages us to slow down, take a
moment for ourselves, and appreciate the small pleasures in
life. This simple act of mindfulness can set a positive tone
for the entire day.
A Personalized Touch
One of the wonderful aspects of including coffee in your
morning routine is that it's highly customizable. You can
choose your favorite beans, brewing method, and add-ins,
allowing you to create a personalized experience that suits
your taste and preferences.
Morning routines are an essential part of our daily lives,
providing structure and setting the tone for the day ahead.
Coffee, with its unique blend of energy-boosting
properties and comforting familiarity, plays a central
role in these routines. Whether you enjoy your coffee
alone in solitude or in the company of others, it
offers a precious moment of warmth and
connection.
As you embark on your daily journey, remember
that the morning routine, coupled with a well-
brewed cup of coffee, is your ticket to a positive
start. Embrace the ritual, savor each sip, and let the
aroma and flavor of your coffee help you seize the
day with enthusiasm and focus.
October 2023 | 18 | www.insightssuccess.com
23. Perpetual Freshness
offee, the beloved morning ritual for millions
Cworldwide, is not only a source of daily energy but
also a powerful contributor to positive
environmental impact. The coffee industry has made
significant strides in recent years to promote sustainability
and environmental responsibility. In this article, we will
explore the ways in which coffee production benefits the
environment and highlight the sustainability efforts that are
helping to preserve our planet.
Shade-Grown Coffee
One of the most important sustainability practices in coffee
production is the cultivation of shade-grown coffee. Unlike
conventional coffee farms that clear-cut large areas of
forests for sun exposure, shade-grown coffee is cultivated
under a canopy of trees. This practice not only preserves
valuable forest ecosystems but also provides a habitat for
numerous bird species and other wildlife.
Shade-grown coffee farms promote biodiversity, reduce the
need for chemical inputs, and help to mitigate deforestation.
By preserving the natural environment, coffee producers
make a positive impact on the Earth's ecosystems and
contribute to climate change mitigation.
Soil Health and Carbon Sequestration
Healthy soils are essential for sustainable coffee production.
Coffee plants thrive in rich, fertile soils, and coffee farms
often employ sustainable farming practices that enhance
soil health. Practices like cover cropping, composting, and
organic matter incorporation improve soil structure and
nutrient content, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers.
October 2023 | 21 | www.insightssuccess.com
24. Additionally, coffee plants contribute to carbon
sequestration. The coffee shrub absorbs carbon dioxide
from the atmosphere, and the organic matter from pruned
coffee trees can be added back to the soil, further enhancing
carbon storage. In this way, coffee farms play a role in
combating climate change.
Water Conservation
Water is a precious resource, and coffee production relies
heavily on it. Sustainable coffee farming incorporates
water-saving techniques like drip irrigation and rainwater
harvesting, reducing the strain on local water sources. By
managing water resources responsibly, coffee producers
help protect the environment and ensure the availability of
clean water for surrounding communities.
Furthermore, sustainable coffee farms often implement wet
mills that treat and recycle the water used in coffee
processing. This minimizes pollution and conserves water,
making the coffee industry a key player in water
conservation efforts.
Fair Trade and Social Sustainability
Environmental sustainability is closely linked to social
sustainability in coffee production. Many coffee producers
follow fair trade practices, which ensure that farmers
receive fair compensation for their work. This financial
security enables farmers to invest in sustainable agricultural
practices, environmental conservation, and community
development projects.
Fair trade also emphasizes ethical labor practices,
improving the quality of life for coffee farm workers and
their families. When workers are treated fairly, they are
more motivated to participate in sustainability initiatives
and environmental protection efforts, leading to positive
outcomes for both people and the planet.
Agroforestry and Ecosystem Restoration
Agroforestry is another method that contributes to the
positive environmental impact of coffee production. It
involves integrating coffee cultivation with other plant
species like fruit trees and vegetables. This approach
promotes biodiversity, restores ecosystems, and provides
additional sources of income for farmers.
By diversifying their crops, coffee producers reduce the risk
of crop diseases and pests, decreasing the need for
pesticides. Agroforestry systems also help in soil
conservation and offer valuable habitats for wildlife.
Certification Programs
Several certification programs, such as Rainforest Alliance,
UTZ, and Organic, are helping coffee consumers make
sustainable choices. These certifications guarantee that
coffee is produced in an environmentally responsible
manner and often involve strict environmental and social
standards. When you purchase certified coffee, you are
supporting sustainability efforts and promoting responsible
production.
The environmental impact of coffee production and
sustainability efforts is magnificent. From shade-grown
coffee to carbon sequestration and water conservation, the
coffee industry has made substantial progress in promoting
eco-friendly practices. Sustainable coffee farming not only
protects valuable ecosystems but also contributes to climate
change mitigation, soil health, and water conservation.
The social and economic aspects of sustainability, including
fair trade practices, benefit coffee farm workers and their
communities. Certification programs provide consumers
with a way to support these initiatives by choosing
environmentally and socially responsible coffee.
As coffee lovers, we can enjoy our daily brew with the
knowledge that the cup we hold in our hands is a symbol of
positive change and environmental stewardship.
By supporting sustainable coffee production, we contribute
to a greener and more sustainable planet for future
generations.
October 2023 | 22 | www.insightssuccess.com
25.
26. Coffee offers a wide range of flavors
and preparation methods, which can be an
experience for
enjoyable and educational
coffee enthusiasts.