Strategic Additions Signal Intentional Scaling (Image Credits: Pexels)
Longmont, Colorado – Ziggi’s Coffee strengthened its leadership team this week by hiring two quick-service restaurant industry experts amid plans for sustained national growth. The moves come as the brand marks 10 years of franchising in 2026, building on more than two decades of operations since its founding in 2004.[1][2] Headquartered in the state where it began, the company now operates over 120 locations across 23 states, with more than 200 additional sites in development.[1]
Strategic Additions Signal Intentional Scaling
Co-founders Brandon and Camrin Knudsen launched Ziggi’s Coffee with a focus on personalized beverages and customer choice. The brand earned spots on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 and the Inc. 5000 list through consistent expansion.[1] Recent hires reflect a deliberate push to refine operations and support franchisees.
Brandon Knudsen, co-founder and CEO, emphasized the long-term vision. “As we mark 10 years of franchising, it’s important to recognize that Ziggi’s has been building this brand for more than 20 years,” he stated. “That foundation has given us a clear understanding of what works – and where we need to grow.”[2] The new team members will collaborate on systems, training, and infrastructure.
Darren Spicer’s Drive-Thru Coffee Pedigree
Darren Spicer arrived with direct experience in the competitive coffee sector. He founded Clutch Coffee Bar and served as its CEO, expanding from one outlet to over a dozen before Dutch Bros acquired the chain.[1] Today, he advises growth-stage brands through 110 Ventures.
In his consultant role at Ziggi’s, Spicer targets store performance, training programs, local marketing, new developments, and market expansion. “This is an exciting time to join Ziggi’s,” Spicer said. “The brand has built a strong foundation and clear identity, and there’s a lot of opportunity ahead.”[2]
Betsy Hamm Brings Franchise Scaling Know-How
Betsy Hamm rose through the ranks at Duck Donuts, starting in marketing in 2016 before becoming COO and then CEO. Under her leadership, the chain grew from about 20 locations to nearly 200, spanning domestic and international markets.[1]
As fractional chief operating officer, Hamm will align operations, boost franchisee outcomes, and fortify scaling frameworks. “I was drawn to Ziggi’s because it’s a founder-led brand with significant growth potential,” she noted.[2] Her expertise complements Spicer’s focus on emerging concepts.
Key Strengths of the New Hires
Spicer and Hamm offer balanced perspectives on rapid growth and system maturity. Their combined track records position Ziggi’s for disciplined progress.
- Spicer scaled a modern drive-thru coffee model in a crowded market.
- Hamm oversaw franchise multiplication across borders.
- Both emphasize training, operations, and franchise support.
- They join during a milestone year with robust development pipeline.
- Focus areas include marketing, performance metrics, and infrastructure.
| Hire | Prior Role | Key Achievement | Ziggi’s Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Darren Spicer | CEO, Clutch Coffee Bar | Grew to 12+ locations; acquired by Dutch Bros | Store ops, training, marketing |
| Betsy Hamm | CEO, Duck Donuts | Expanded to ~200 locations | Ops alignment, franchise success |
Sustainable Growth in a Competitive Landscape
Ziggi’s Coffee prioritizes quality drinks and customization amid rising competition. The hires underscore investments in people and processes for enduring success.
Franchisees benefit from enhanced tools as the brand eyes further reach. This approach ensures cultural and operational evolution matches physical expansion.
Key Takeaways
- Ziggi’s operates 120+ stores in 23 states, with 200+ in pipeline.
- 10 years franchising; 20+ years total history.
- Spicer and Hamm provide coffee-specific and broad QSR insights.
Ziggi’s Coffee positions itself for the long haul by blending proven foundations with fresh expertise. These hires promise refined strategies that empower franchisees and delight customers nationwide. What do you think of these leadership moves? Tell us in the comments.
