COFFEE ISLAND FRANCHISE: 25 YEARS OF CONSISTENT INVESTMENT IN SUSTAINABLE GROWTH AND CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

INTERVIEWS Interviews

Το franchise.gr συζητάει με τον κο Ευθύμη Μπόκια, Senior Greek Development Supervisor των COFFEE ISLAND, στο πλαίσιο της βράβευσής τους ως BEST FRANCHISE WORKPLACE, στα ΒΡΑΒΕΙΑ FRANCHISE 2025, μας αναλύει το τρέχον επιχειρηματικό περιβάλλον και μας αποκαλύπτει τα ανταγωνιστικά πλεονεκτήματα και την στρατηγική ανάπτυξης της εταιρείας του.

How do you face the challenges of the current economic environment and the new realities in consumer behavior?

The economic environment changes, and with it consumer behavior also changes. At Coffee Island, we view challenges as opportunities for evolution. We stand by our franchisees with tools and support, and by consumers with products and experiences that respond to the needs of the era.

Speaking of our partners, continuous guidance and support in operational matters, using modern digital tools, adaptability to each neighborhood’s conditions through the Brand filter, as well as investments in successful applied practices, constitute some of our answers to today’s challenges.

Regarding our consumers, maintaining value‑for‑money products and continuously improving the consumer experience, both in physical stores and our digital interaction via the Coffee Island mobile app, are elements we reinforce in the demanding economic environment that has been created.

In closing, this year we presented the first sustainability report (ESG REPORT), highlighting our commitment to contribute positively in every facet of our value chain—from the partner to the final consumer. We remain focused on our strategic pillars: People, Environment, and Product.

For 25 years we have been investing steadily in sustainable development and continuous improvement—for a coffee with responsibility and quality.

What are franchisees looking for today?

In the days we are going through, franchisees are looking for business models that combine sustainability, flexibility, and efficiency.

At Coffee Island, we know that our partners seek stability through a proven business model that reduces risk. They are looking for a strong brand with resilience and recognition to attract customers and stand out in the market. At the same time, support and training—both operational and strategic—are decisive factors for the optimal management of their business.

How do you meet the requirements of the franchisees?

At Coffee Island, we offer a strong and recognized brand name with ongoing training and comprehensive support, ensuring the success of our partners. Investments in equipment and infrastructure, investment in the development of our human resources, and the application of innovative digital tools are some of the privileges with which we enhance the operation of each store, offering consistent quality and competitive advantages to our franchise partners. Our goal is a supportive and efficient business environment where each franchisee can grow and succeed, adapting to the specific needs of their own geography.

What are your competitive advantages?

Coffee Island has established itself as the number 1 coffee chain in Greece and one of the top in the industry internationally, thanks to a set of competitive advantages that differentiate us from the competition.

Undoubtedly, the balance between competitive pricing and our high-quality products, combined with consistency in service, constitute a recognition factor in the eyes of consumers. At the same time, our network’s presence throughout the Greek territory is not only a functional advantage but also an element of emotional connection with our consumers, strengthening their trust and loyalty to the Brand.

What is your strategy and development plan for 2025?

2025 is for us a year of strategic development and dynamic evolution, with the goal of consolidating our leadership in the Greek market as well as strengthening our international expansion through strategic partnerships.

Regarding the domestic market, improving the operation of existing stores, streamlining the existing network, and creating new products are some of our strategic priorities.

International expansion is high on our strategy for next year, as we strive to strengthen our position in existing markets and penetrate new markets by creating new touchpoints with consumers seeking superior quality coffee experiences.

How do you evaluate the dynamics and development prospects of franchising?

The franchise market continues to grow dynamically and constitutes one of the most profitable ways of business development with ever-increasing prospects. Implementing an established and successful business model is an attractive choice for potential investors, reducing business risk. The recognizability of a chain, combined with substantial support, provides enhancement of business stability and expansion prospects to potential investors in the sector—something that undoubtedly will continue to be a strong motivator for choosing franchise as a business option in coming years.

What do you have to say regarding your distinction at the FRANCHISE AWARDS 2025 in relation to the company’s performance in 2024?

Coffee Island’s distinction at the FRANCHISE AWARDS 2025 is yet another confirmation of the dynamism and continuous evolution of our company. For us, this recognition reflects the collective effort of our entire network—our partners, our employees, and of course our franchisees who trust our brand and contribute to its success.

This distinction is not only an honor for us but also a motivation to continue innovating, evolving, and offering even more opportunities for success to our partners. At Coffee Island, we view the future with optimism, and our commitment is to continue setting new standards in the franchise and coffee sectors.