In this episode of Emerging Franchise Brands, Frank Fiume and guest co-host Barry Falcon talk with Donny Bradley, founder of Lola Beans, a coffee franchise that’s redefining drive-thru service with culture, connection, and community impact.
Donny shares how a six-month family stay in Alaska opened his eyes to the power of personal connection—through an unforgettable interaction at a small coffee shack called True Blue. That moment sparked the vision for Lola Beans, a drive-thru-only coffee concept built on speed, consistency, and above all, relationships.
Back in Chattanooga, Donny launched the first Lola Beans in 2020, without a background in coffee or restaurants. But with mentorship, operational grit, and a clear focus on team culture, he quickly turned a small shack into a local favorite. Today, the brand has two open locations, a third breaking ground, and a 15-unit franchise deal signed with a seasoned group.
With compact footprints (510–625 sq ft), double drive-thru lanes, and investments ranging from $770K–$1.2M (excluding land), Lola Beans is designed for speed and scalability. The focus? Face-to-face interaction, rapid throughput, and a Bean Team culture that empowers young employees to grow both professionally and personally.
Ideal franchisees are servant leaders, community-minded, and ready to build something meaningful. As Donny puts it, “Great coaches don’t just win games—they build people.” With plans to grow carefully, support franchisees deeply, and prioritize culture over hype, Lola Beans is brewing something much bigger than coffee.
November 27, 2025
