Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Monday, December 6, 2010

New coffee shop brews up friendly atmosphere

Daily Press & Argus reporter Frank Konkel at (517) 552-2835 or at fkonkel@gannett.com




East Lansing-based Biggby Coffee opened a new store in Hartland Township last month, and the owners want everyone to know it's a place "where everybody knows your name."

Like the acclaimed television show "Cheers," husband-and-wife team Mike and Denise Bogues aim to provide more than just coffee connoisseur-worthy drinks at Hartland's Biggby Coffee — now the company's third store in Livingston County.
The store is east of U.S. 23 at 11325 W. M-59.

"We found a lot of the kids in the neighborhood don't have a place to go, they don't know where to hang out, and they're so dependent on texting that the art of conversation is dying," said Mike Bogues, a former software designer.
Together with his wife — who teaches math at Hartland High School — they have two teenage children.

"They don't know what to do with themselves, and we thought we'd take care of that little problem," Mike Bogues said. "We wanted to have a place where everyone knows your name."

So far, he said, the feedback has been "unbelievable," with many customers already forming a first-name relationship with staff. With both children in college, he will handle managing the store, in addition to working toward a master's degree at Cleary University. Denise Bogues will continue to teach and pitch in at the store after the school day ends.

The store features free wireless Internet access and numerous hot and cold drink options, including hits like the Teddy Bear and Caramel Marvel. It also serves several variants of bagels, muffins and the like, as well as tasty desserts such as brownies and cookies.

As recently as last winter, Mike Bogues said he'd formed a business plan and was ready to open an independent business. But in examining dozens of franchises, Mike Bogues said Biggby Coffee stood out.

"It was uncanny how our goals aligned with each other," he said. "I knew I had to go with these guys."

Hartland Township's Biggby Coffee is open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays.

Contact Daily Press & Argus reporter Frank Konkel at (517) 552-2835 or at fkonkel@gannett.com

Monday, November 29, 2010

Crain's 2010 Salute to Entrepreneurs - Crain's Events - Crain's Detroit Business - Detroit News and Information

Crain's 2010 Salute to Entrepreneurs - Crain's Events - Crain's Detroit Business - Detroit News and Information

Crain's 7th annual Salute to Entrepreneurs, in partnership with Walsh College, honors winning companies that have demonstrated growth and innovation. Winners are featured in the November 15 issue of Crain's Detroit Business and honored at the Salute to Entrepreneurs event on Tuesday, Nov. 30. This years Keynote Speaker is Bob Fish, CEO/Co-founder of Biggby Coffee in Lansing, Michigan. Nearly 200 executives and business owners are expected to attend this event.

Monday, November 22, 2010

Area Couple Aim to Brew Friendliness With New Biggby Coffee




When you walk into Mike and Denise Bogues' new Biggby Coffee shop — which opens 6 a.m. Monday at 11325 Highland Road — they hope you'll feel right at home.

To create that comfortable atmosphere, the couple plan a week-long series of special events. Patrons will receive free fresh-brewed coffee as well as free samples of specialty drinks at the store. Local Michigan band Overdrive Orchestra will perform a 7 p.m. concert Wednesday. Members include the Bogues' 19-year-old son, Adam, as well as two other Hartland High School 2009 graduates, Chris Cranick and Cody Powers. Students from Milford Music in Highland also will perform on the weekend.

"We knew that we wanted to provide a place in the community to gather," said Denise, a 49-year-old math teacher at Hartland High School. "We just really felt we had a heart to provide a meeting place for the community."

The Brighton Township couple, who live within Hartland School District boundaries, decided to start their own business after years of hearing their children — and others — say such a place was needed in the area. The store will be the Hartland area's third specialty coffee locale.

At first, she and Mike, 48, thought they would open an independent coffee shop, but they decided to check out a meeting about franchising with East Lansing-based Biggby. It turned out to be a great fit with their personal philosophy. Denise said that the idea of a coffee shop similar to the celebrated bar in the hit sitcom, Cheers, "where everyone knows your name" was in her head. When she heard something similar in the franchise presentation, she felt it was the right fit.

"Our ideals lined up with each other," Mike agreed, adding the personal touch is important to them. "We want to know how your kids are doing in baseball. I want this to be the place where people come and get to know each other."

The store features free Wi-Fi connections and a menu including numerous hot and cold drink options as well as breakfast treats, such as bagels, muffins and doughnuts and scones. Brunch sandwiches called Bragel Sandwiches and afternoon treats like 7-Layer Bars, brownies and cookies round out the food selections.

The location will be the third Biggby in Livingston County. Hours are from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sundays. 

Aside from running the store, Denise will continue to teach while Mike, who formerly had a successful career in information technology with AutoDesk in Novi, is working toward a business administration master's degree at Cleary University.

"He will be the full-time manager for now," Denise said. "I'll help out before school and after school."

Extensive training and support was part of the franchise package. Mike and Denise's training, which started in the summer, included training 40 (all volunteer) hours a week at various stores throughout the month of August to learn the Biggby system.

That preparation also included running two practice shifts on Friday to get ready for Monday's opening. Four Biggby employees from the home office assisted throughout the process.

During the afternoon shift that day, five workers took free practice orders from people who walked in intending to buy coffee. Periodically, they switched positions, in order to become familiar with all parts of the job — from taking customer orders to making and serving drinks.

"It's about the community getting a chance to come in, not just from a menu perspective, but from an attitude and energy perspective," said 31-year-old Jeremy DeRuiter Director of Training and Development for Biggby's home office as he worked on the store's music playlist.

When there weren't any people coming through the door, Kelsey Ames, 20, home office PERColator, who, Mike explained, handles all aspects of barista training, called off practice drinks. After they were made, the drinks were taken to area businesses.

"As first-time business owners, we couldn't ask for a better group of people to work with than the team at Biggby Coffee," said Mike. "This decision for us is all about doing what we love, following our dreams and making a small difference in the lives of our customers. We're looking forward to having a place where everyone feels welcome and friendships are formed each day."


Go to original HartlandPatch article

Friday, November 19, 2010

THANK YOU soooooooo very much for the wonderful donations for our Troops!

They will enjoy the Tumblers so much and the Cards are just the best! They do not have the availability to purchase in their many areas of deployment and love to have them in their MOMS Writing packs to send home for any occasion! We had numerous requests for more of the tumblers as a paper cup or canteen cup is more often than you would think what they have available to them. The Journals we will send to our Female Service Members as they frequently request and will be greatly appreciated! The colors and designs of all the product are so up beat and sure to bring smiles!!!

The continued outreach, caring and support of our Military Men and Women by BIGGBY is so very, very appreciated! You have made a difference in the lives of thousands over these past years and it is one which is never forgotten! I have attached a few emails from our Troops which thank those who contribute in our cause for each...THANK YOU for your generosity of time, heart and product for those we at MOMS serve...our Sailors, Soldiers, Airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen!

With much appreciation,



Debbie Trippiedi
Operation MOMS
Cookies Inc., NFP

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

LCC AMA Speakers Series Welcomes Bob Fish of Biggby Coffee

November 17, 2010
5:00pm - 6:00pm
LCC Gannon Building, Room 115


LCC AMA invites you to attend the November Speaker Series and hear how Lansing based, Bob Fish has created a successful coffee franchise. Fish paid for college by working at a local restaurant, and developed his love for the food service industry. Fish, who often goes by Biggby Bob now, started the first cafe in 1995, at 270 W. Grand River Ave in East Lansing, Michigan. Fish will share some of the innovative marketing strategies he has implemented for Biggby including his widely successful SPOT BOB campaign. This is a not to be missed inspiring and engaging event.

Entrepreneurial Law Society -- Presents :)

Biggby founder shares his successful brew Nov. 30 - Crain's Detroit Business - Detroit News and Information

Biggby founder shares his successful brew Nov. 30 - Crain's Detroit Business - Detroit News and Information

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Guest Blog -- Is BIGGBY BOB a Tooth Fairy?




My daughter who is now five years old is a big Biggby fan. It started when I took her to her first "Spot Bob" and Bob gave her a card for a free drink that said "I spotted Biggby Bob". Since then she always asks to go back. A little while back she had a loose tooth - her first one. It was a Sunday, and I told her that if she lost her tooth on a Sunday, that the Biggby fairy would come and leave a gift card under her pillow... In reality, I just wanted to pull the tooth out so she would not continue to freak out about it. Well, the short story is she would not let me pull it out, it fell out later that week... and the Biggby fairy did not come. HOWEVER, just by chance... she has now had a steady pattern of losing teeth on Sundays, and yes, she never forgets, the Biggby fairy comes on Sundays. See you next week at the Spot Bob, until then I will be hanging at the Novi Biggby with all the regulars.

Jack

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Speaking -- Come see me in a suit :)








Entrepreneurship is the focus of Summit 2010 in South Haven


SOUTH HAVEN — Economic development on Michigan’s southwest shoreline is looking to make a shift.

“There is still an old paradigm of economic development,” said Rachel Vochaska, executive director of the 400-member South Haven Area Chamber of Commerce.

It centered on hunting down and attracting companies from elsewhere.

“While that should still be a component (of the effort),” she said, “we need to start looking at how we grow our talent, retain our current companies, and looking at cultivating more businesses in the community.”

She said to think of it as “economic gardening.”

Inspiring that effort will be the focus of the fifth annual summit of the South Haven Area Chamber of Commerce.

Bob Fish, chief executive officer and co-founder of the rapidly-growing, East Lansing-based Biggby Coffee shops, and Charles Ballard, a Michigan State University economist and author, will key on that during the Nov. 4 gathering, from 8:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Nov. 4 at Lake Michigan College’s South Haven campus.

“What we want to do is shift the thinking ... that entrepreneurship is an integral component of the economic engine in the state of Michigan,” Vochaska said.

She said Fish is going to talk about what got him going in business, “what supercharged him to the next level, what the potential is for Michigan, from an entrepreneurial standpoint, and what the constraints are.”

The 15-year-old Biggby has grown from one location in East Lansing to about 120 stores open or under contract to open in six states (Illinois, Ohio, South Carolina, Texas, Wisconsin and Michigan).

Ballard is expected to identify and explore the connection between entrepreneurship and a prosperous Michigan. The event will also include a panel discussion by entrepreneurial support organizations.

The cost to attend the summit is $69 per person. It is $59 per person for Chamber members or for two people from the same organization. It is $49 per person for three people or more from the same organization. Registration may be made by contacting the Chamber via www.southhavenmi.com or at 269-637-5171. More information is available at www.cofc@southhavenmi.com.

Contact Al Jones at ajones@kalamazoogazette.com or 269-388-8556.



Tuesday, November 2, 2010

52 Cups of Coffee -- BIGGBY was #13


one girl's year-long experiment with caffeine and conversation



Cup 13


Person: Dave Isbell

Drink: Medium Americano from the Coolidge Biggby

In cup 13, I learned about sacrifice.

I wasn’t planning on it. I didn’t really want to. But it happened.

That happens a lot with sacrifice. It’s not planned. It’s not wanted. But it happens.

Or so I thought before I spent an hour drinking coffee with Dave Isbell. He gave me the harrowing news that sacrifice would be an unavoidable part of my life—not exactly news I wanted to hear. Luckily his next piece of advice was more optimistic:

While I can’t avoid sacrifice, I can be proactive and take control over the sacrifices I make.
more ,,,,Go to the BLOG

Monday, October 18, 2010

Best story I heard all year...Thank You !!

Wow! This story warmed my heart and welled up my eyes with tears of happiness.

My three year old son who spoke very little, until he recently underwent ear surgery this past summer is increasing his vocabulary by leaps and bounds…the other day while leaving Biggby in South Lyon, MI, me with my pumpkin latte and he with his little bag containing a bagel asked me, “is this an “A”?” while pointing to his bag. I told him, “no, silly that is a B, a B for bagels” and he said “B for Biggby,” and I said, “Exactly!” A very proud moment:)

Thanks for making such wonderful coffee (and memories :) )

ML from South Lyon, MI

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Monday, October 11, 2010

Bob-A-Claus ....Starting to think about the Holidays :)












B-Happy
Have Fun
Make Friends
Love People

...drink great coffee

Opening Day at Rivertown Crossings Mall -- Go Grand Rapids!

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Luv the look of this new BIGGBY !! Go Plymouth!

Plymouth Super Center located at 400 Ann Arbor Road


Wahooo! BIGGBY COFFEE OPENS IN RIVERTOWN CROSSINGS MALL

GRANDVILLE, Mich., BIGGBY® COFFEE will open a new location inside of RiverTown Crossings Mall in Grandville on Thursday, Sept. 30. To celebrate, the new store will reward shoppers with a free brewed coffee pick-me-up through Oct. 3.

Tim Barker operates four Grand Rapids-area BIGGBY COFFEE stores, and he looks forward to operating the franchise’s first mall kiosk.

“Rivertown Crossings represents the perfect opportunity to bring gourmet coffee to those who may need it most,” said Barker. “We’ll have the full menu of snacks and specialty drinks available, so it’ll be super easy to grab a fresh Pumpkin Spice Latte or Caramel Marvel to turn an already great day of shopping into an awesome one.”

The RiverTown Crossing’s BIGGBY COFFEE will be open during mall hours from
10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays.

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

St. Joe Michigan ...here we come !

Wahooo! BIGGBY COFFEE TO OPEN IN PLYMOUTH SUPER CENTER

PLYMOUTH, Mich., – BIGGBY® COFFEE will open its first location in Plymouth, Mich. when the new store is unveiled within the Plymouth Super Center located at 400 Ann Arbor Road on Tuesday, Sept. 28. To celebrate, BIGGBY COFFEE of Plymouth will offer all visitors that day a free cup of the finest brewed coffee in the land. In addition, the full lineup of specialty beverages, including seasonal favorites such as the Caramel Apple Cider and Pumpkin Spice Latte, will be sold with an instant $1.00 discount all day long.

The Plymouth Super Center features automotive detailing, dry cleaning, truck rental, instant oil change and even self-serve dog washing services, in addition to traditional gas station and convenience store facilities. Plymouth residents Drew and Colleen Wolford own and operate the Center with members of their family. The couple is responsible for bringing BIGGBY COFFEE to the area.

“My daughter works for us, and she’d show up every morning with a BIGGBY COFFEE in hand,” said Colleen Wolford. “So when space became available, we thought adding the area’s most beloved coffee retailer to our Super Center would make a lot of sense. Everyone loves BIGGBY COFFEE, so we expect it’ll pair nicely with the existing stores within the Center.”

BIGGBY COFFEE of Plymouth is open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sundays. The store features free Wi-Fi connections, patio seating and a big screen TV.

All brewed coffee sold at the Super Center—even that which is offered within the gas station—will be replaced with gourmet coffee from BIGGBY COFFEE.

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

"Be Bold, Feel Beautiful": We need your VOTES!!


Please vote on a charity that I have donated to...it costs you nothing, except time

"Be Bold, Feel Beautiful": We need your VOTES!!: "The Oldham Project is one of the nominated charities to receive a portion of an upcoming concert proceeds as well as other monies and prom..."

Monday, September 20, 2010

Wayne State grad named top BIGGBY barista


By TOMMY HOWE | The South End



Alana Cole (right) receiving the Todd Miles Award from Biggby Coffee co-founder, Bob Fish.





Go to Original Article

Alana Cole, a WSU alumnus and Biggby Coffee employee, was voted by both customers and staff as “Barista of the Year”.


On rainy, chilly days there is nothing better than the warmth of coffee or latte as it flows down your throat – unless it is served by a barista like Alana Cole who genuinely wants to know how you are doing.

Cole, who graduated from Wayne State with a degree in psychology and is now a Biggby Coffee barista, was given the Todd Miles Award, the Michigan-based coffee-chain’s award for top barista.

Cole, who had developed a fan base at the Biggby Coffee located at 4501 Woodward Ave., said that her “customer service comes natural” simply because she “loves people.”

“Seven customers wrote in describing their unique and personal experiences with Alana – including med student residents, police officers and students,” Biggby spokeswoman Leslie Peterson said in an email.

Cole grew up in Bloomfield Hills and attended Groves High School before graduating from Wayne State with a bachelor’s in psychology. Cole said she volunteered at a summer camp that teaches Detroit children math while subsequently allotting them time to play games and have fun.

She said she dedicated a lot of hard work to learning everything about the coffee business.

It was this sort of dedication that won the attention of a large group of patrons who voted for Cole to be named the best barista.

The award is a local, regional, and national competition between 1,400 baristas in 109 Biggby locations.




Go to Original Article

Saturday, September 18, 2010

Art Prize - BIGGBY COFFEE - Grand Rapids

ArtPrize 2010 Biggby

Friday, September 17, 2010

Dogs Love BIGGBY Coffee too !!

These pictures of Abbey (a B-gle) were sent to me by a Facebook freind. I strung them together to make a 13 second video....check it out.

I love dogs and they love BIGGBY !!

Monday, September 6, 2010

Fall = Fun at BIGGBY COFFEE

Biggby’s Sensational Seasonal Signature Drinks
September 5, 2010 in Detroit Food News
Click here to do to original blog

It’s the first Sunday in September, and there’s a nip in the air this morning! As I often do on Sunday mornings, I’m off to pick up a little treat from my favorite Michigan-based coffee chain, Biggby.

More than the bright-clear sky and wear-your-hoody weather, a sign of approaching fall is the return of the Pumpkin Spice Latte! Nothing says “You’d better buy some Halloween candy” like picking up a Pumpkin Spice Latte before your weekend errands.

Oh, and don’t forget their limited edition Hot Caramel Cider – particularly if you’re not interested in a wallop of caffeine. The Hot Caramel Cider is a treat worthy of calorie expenditure. Kids love it, too!

So I urge you to drive on by the ubiquitous multi-national corporates and buy Michigan, not just because it’s the right thing to do for your state and neighbors, but also because Biggbly just flat out offers a better beverage! (AND because these seasonal sippables will be gone before you know it!)

Sunday, September 5, 2010

Guest Blog #10 -- B = Fall Fun -- Pumpkin Spice Latte

Husnah, Having lived overseas while growing up for 12 years myself, I understand the yearning for things from back home...Thank you for sharing :)

I am currently in England and have been here since wrapping up a study-abroad summer program at Oxford University. I have been checking the Biggby website to find out if the Pumpkin Spice Latte has been released and was so relieved/excited to find out that it has! I love walking into my favorite Biggby store (located in Ann Arbor, MI) during the fall and ordering my favorite fall drink. The whipped cream melts into the steaming latte and the spice combines with the espresso to make a wonderful combination of taste and texture. I am looking forward to returning to MI after my travels and studies abroad and am going to drop by the Ann Arbor Biggby the day after I return to kick-off fall with a seasonal tradition. Some cravings will never go away!

Friday, August 27, 2010

Monday, August 23, 2010

BIGGBY Rap 2.0

Saturday, August 21, 2010

Only the Best !! "The Sweet Spot" @ BIGGBY :)

At BIGGBY COFFEE we are always looking for the best.

It requires a lot of commitment and a lot of hard work, but when all is 'said and done' we know we have done the right job.

Watch this video and you'll see what I mean...

Thursday, August 19, 2010

Guest Blog #9 -- The BIGGBY Way :) & CHEERS :)

I Love "guest bloggers" they say it better than I could, ya'know? Referencing CHEERS (the TV show) happens frequently ...It always puts a warm smile on my face :)

It's morning; I walk down a hallway at the McKay Tower in Grand Rapids toward some necessary chocolate, caffeinated goodness.

One head, two heads, look up and around: "Kimmie!" "How are you?" "Hey girl!"

"Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name .... and they're always glad you came ... "
That's Riley and JoAnn, my baristas from the Monroe Center Biggby. They are ALWAYS glad, ALWAYS smiling, cracking jokes, and have, in the past months, years, become that constant "up" in my daily grind that keeps me from physically harming most people.

Just kidding. Kinda. Sorta. I've never been a big "all people are good deep down" person; I tend to think digging deep enough in some people in order to find that good would require a sharp drill and comfort level with blood that I do not possess. But I digress.

JoAnn has red hair and a wit and instinct about people that at times will broadcast itself in a lopsided grin in my direction that relays, "You caught that, too, right?" Riley is a dark-haired sprite, always ready with a smile and a chocolate sauce design on my lattecino that eerily mirrors my mood on a particular day. And Riley has been there ever since I first traipsed into Biggby clueless as to what kind of coffee drink I wanted ... or the path of uber-Biggby addiction on which I tread. These are my people. And the best days at the Monroe Center Biggby are when I walk in and spy both of them behind the counter.

"Making your way in the world today takes everything you've got; taking a break from all your worries, sure would help a lot."

Even better are some of the lyrics that never made it on air during the show (same tune remember): "Roll out of bed, Mr. Coffee's dead; the morning's looking bright; And your shrink ran off to Europe, and didn't even write; And your husband wants to be a girl ..." (wow, it's as if I WROTE that song) ... "Be glad there's one place in the world where everybody knows your name ... "

My Biggby baristas, Riley and JoAnn, offer me that break, that place, without the job endangering addition of alcohol that accompanied Cheers. They are truly a team, both spectacular, each unique yet complimenting the other, and that is why they should be recognized as a team by Biggby as my favorite baristas.

I'll just let them decide which is Sam and which is Woody.

Kimmie aka "NORM!"


~Kimberly

Justacogitatiing Blog

Guest Blog #8 -- The BIGGBY Way :)

I find it to be a nice thing being around friends. Whether its around a table playing cards, talking online or on the phone or around a campfire. I found a new place that is like walking into a group of friends and thats at my local Biggby. I used to go to one in Kalamazoo when I was in town there and got to know some of the employees and enjoyed the help and service as well as the general kindness they offered. Not just beverage servers by any means.

Then, Biggby opened up down the street from me and I entered right at 6 am to be the first in. I do not count the woman who slipped inside minutes before me because officially, they were to open at 6 am. Therefore in my mind, I was finally #1 at something.

I had met the Manager, Brooke, at the Plainwell Biggby and I found a new friend. She always remembers my name and she is always happy, and helpfull. Her staff is made up of the best employees anyone could ask for. Never pushy, always understanding and in good cheer. They all work together great as I can see and I always feel like I am amongst friends there.

To descibe the feeling, look at the tv show "Cheers" and Sammy would be Brooke and I would be Norm. Only the beverage is different and I have not seen a Carla on staff as of yet.
I would like to thank Brooke and the crew for always making me feel at home there.

Thanks gang.

Trent McGuffey

Thursday, August 5, 2010

Friday, July 30, 2010

5 Reasons Biggby Coffee is Way Better Than.....

Go To Original Post

If you're tired of Starbucks being the master of all coffee shops in your area, Biggby Coffee is your cure. I can't lie, I do go to Starbucks often, but, sometimes, it's just hard not to find a Starbucks. They've become the Walmart of coffee. And while they do serve good coffee, they don't serve the best coffee.

Formerly known as Beaner's Coffee, Biggby Coffee started in East Lansing, Michigan in 1995. The first store had its humble beginnings near Michigan State University in an old Arby's. They are now a successful franchise with locations in 9 different states.

So, why is it so much better than Starbucks. Here are five reasons...

Taste

I'll start with the most controversial reason, because it's the most subjective. Everyone has different tastes in coffee, but every time I hear someone compare it to Starbucks, they mention the taste. They say the coffee is fresher and tastes much crisper.

Environment

Anyone can go to a Starbucks, right? True, anyone can, but can anyone feel welcome. You can walk into an Abercrombie & Fitch, but if you wearing sweatpants and don't look like a model, you won't feel comfortable. Biggby Coffee provides a very welcoming, chill environment where anyone can enjoy a good cup of coffee.

Price

Do we need to say more. Starbucks' prices are a little ridiculous. It's not like Biggby Coffee is half the price or anything, but saving money is saving money.

Transparency

This one may sound odd to you, but it's true. Starbucks will try to make you think your drinking or eating healthy in their shop. Biggby has the courage to let you know how unhealthy your coffee habit is. And, in this case, honesty is the best policy.

Punch Cards

Who doesn't love punch cards at a restaurant? You just look forward getting that last hole before your next free item. You won't see these at Starbucks.

Of course, when it comes down to it, we all love coffee and we're going to go wherever is most convenient for us at any one particular time. If you haven't tried Biggby Coffee, stop by and try them out sometime.

Would you like to learn how to make your own specialty coffee like they make at Biggby Coffee and Starbucks? You can save loads of money making your own coffee. Visit us to receive 89 FREE coffee recipes to get you started...

Find out more here → Best Coffee Beans

Author-- Kenny_J_King,_III

Friday, July 23, 2010

This cracks me up!

Sometimes we are just not that good -- BIGGBY COFFEE

This (not so flattering) note is written tongue and cheek. It is a little painful to read out loud and acknowledge, but it's true and therefor can't be ignored. We at BIGGBY can always improve, and one of the ways we can do that is to stand up and recognize when we make mistakes. This is one of those times!

Bob


Thought you might like to have a customer's response to the fact that when one opens this email and views the July 21 thru 25th special offer, it simply does not state that this is a COUPON offer and needs to be PRINTED. In other words, it is of absolutely no value. Thanks ever so much. As a new biggby cusotmer, I've really appreciated this - I've also appreciated that my rewards card has been inaccurate and I've had to spend time on the line with your customer service department straightening that out. In addition, I really appreciated that I was a customer several times a week for 3 weeks at 3 different locations before anyone even informed me that you HAD a loyalty card. And someone might want to know that your 33 percent off mug clearance? Isn't 33 percent at all locally - rather it's buy one, get the second one half off. As a new customer, I simply cannot express how wonderful I'm finding my biggby experience.
Thanks so much,
Kate

Friday, July 16, 2010

The BIGGBY way...Strikes again :)

From my Facebook (find me at BIGGBYbob):

Good afternoon: Yesterday a group of 4-year olds from the East Lansing Childcare program were visiting MSU on a walking field trip and stumbled into a ground bees nest. The bees swarmed and feverishly stung the children. Many were stung at least once and several received over 10 stings. The Childcare Staff staff ran to the nearest location for help - the BiggBy's in the MSU Union. The BiggBy staff, without hesitation, assisted in caring for the children: providing a safe location, ice, and support to calm the children until they all could be transported back to the Childcare Center. The staff at the Union BiggBy's were amazing during this challenging event and the children all recovered completely due in large part to the quick assistance they were able to receive. Please extend our sincere gratitude to any of the staff you may see during your next visit there. I have had the pleasure of hearing you speak on several occasions and am sure that your company's philosophy of customer service contributed to their willingness to help without hesitation. With warm regard and gratitude, Wendy,Parks and Recreation, City of East Lansing

Thursday, July 1, 2010

Way to Go Mary....Go Muskegon!


I joined Debbie Smith and her baristas at the BIGGBY store in Muskegon on Sunday evening to award them their trophy for winning the BIGGBY cookie selling contest. They also received shirts and gift certificates. I had a great time celebrating with her crew and sharing some pizza. What a great crew. They were already thinking about winning the next contest and as customers came in the staff would tell them about the contest and ask them to buy cookies so they could win the award again. Great job.

Mary

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

BIGGBY COFFEE Opens in Downtown Arlington Heights



Tim Mickelson really missed Biggby Coffee shop when it closed more than a year ago in downtown Arlington Heights. His craving for the brew prompted him to purchase a franchise.

The Arlington Heights resident recently reopened Biggby Coffee at 21 S. Dunton Ave.

"Like many others, I was upset it closed. I saw it as a great business opportunity," he said.

Customers lined up outside the shop when it opened Tuesday. Mickelson said he heard great comments about the shop's return.

"One woman said, 'I've waited over a year for this cup of coffee,'" Mickelson said.

He said he wasn't sure of the details around why the shop suddenly closed more than 12 months ago.

The store offers pastry, cookies and scones in addition to tea and hot and cold coffee drinks. A cup of coffee starts at $1.59.

In addition to the coffee, Mickelson added that customer service sets the business apart from competitors.

He added that his wife and 11-year-old son assist in operating the community-focused coffee shop.

Before starting the business, Mickelson, 41, was in commodity trading. He even traded coffee futures, but was never involved in the retail operation of the beverage.

He spent several years working in the San Francisco Bay area.

"Business took us out there and family brought us back here," said Mickelson, adding that his wife grew up in Arlington Heights.

When the Michigan-based coffee shop first opened in Arlington Heights and around the country several years ago, the stores were known as Beaner's Gourmet Coffee. The company started changing the name of the company stores in 2007 when it received complaints from customers who found the original franchise name offensive.

The switch, not provoked by lawsuits or complaints, was simply a move to avoid offending anyone, the company has said. The change didn't stunt the growth of the company as Biggby has doubled its store numbers every two years since the company began franchising in 1999.

Mickelson says it's not easy launching a new business in a down economy. However, he says that if you believe in the product, it makes the process a whole lot easier. He added that it's tough seeing other stores close down around you.

"It weighs on you," he said. "If I had not been a customer before, I wouldn't be able to do this."

The shop is open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. during the week and 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday and Sundays.

GO TO Daily Herald article

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

BIGGBY COFFEE East Lansing -- where it all started (and continues to grow)

You know, coffee is the real thing, or, should I say, Biggby's is the real thing. With the plethora of drinks now available, by setting the menu free and allowing a profound number of items available, Biggby's, in my mind, has surpassed the competition and is forging new ground as to the meaning of "coffee shop".

If I don't buy as much from Biggby's as I maybe once did, I plead my case to the ruler of the economy, whomever that may be--I simply love to stop in but I just have to save my money at times.

In fact, Biggby's customer service is over the top and rivals Zingerman's of Ann Arbor at what you guys and gals do. Keep up the good work--and to think that it all started in East Lansing :-)

--Mark

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

This just in...You fixed the BIGGBY song! Yay!

I'm currently at the Biggby in Grand Rapids... I hear the Biggby song again and I was dreading having to suffer through the tone-deaf whistling part at the end of the song, when, the song suddenly stopped right before it became awful.

I'm so happy you switched the song.

Yay.

Now I don't have to cry silent tears of frustration over the crappy part of that song, I'll just cry tears of joy, or tears of deliciousness, or tears of bemusement. OK, I'm not going to cry at all, which is a good thing.

Thanks for fixing the song.

-rob

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Now Hiring! Now what?

Do you feel a sense of loss when you reach the bottom of your BIGGBY cup? Perhaps a loss of direction? You need to take the BIGGBY Aptitude Quiz to give your life in coffee a sense of purpose.

For each question below, select the answer that best fits your personality, and then total your score at the bottom to see where you would best fit in the BIGGBY world!

1) When the alarm clock goes off:



2) My closet is:



3) When I’m at a party:



4) My favorite class in school was:



5) If I was one of the Seven Dwarfs, I would be:




6) You’re on the freeway, 45 minutes into your trip. You are:



7) Pick the game you most liked to play as a kid:



8) You have to give a toast, you:



9) When eating out at my favorite restaurant, I am:



10) Pick the statement you identify most closely with:


Score your responses as follows:
1) A:1, B:3, C:5, D:1   2) A:10, B:5, C:1, D:10   3) A:5, B:10, C:1, D:3      
4) A:5, B:3, C:3, D:10, E:5  5) A:5, B:1, C:3, D:10, E:1  6) A:10, B:3, C:1, D:5       
7) A:10, B:10, C:1, D:5, E:5    8) A:10, B:3, C:10, D:5, E:3    9) A:5, B:1, C:3, D:10    
10) A:10, B:3, C:5, D:5, E:1


Now, tally your score and see where you fit in!

10-20 points: Hoist a cup! You’re born to be a BIGGBY fanatic! Your next step: Sign up for E-wards to get some BIGGBY Love!

21-40 points: You must look good in an apron! You’d be an incredible BIGGBY Barista! Your next step: Send your application to a store!

41-60 points: You are equal parts purpose and fun—Hello Franchise Support Team (and we’re hiring RIGHT NOW!) Your next step: Check out our job posting with the BIGGBY COFFEE Operations Department!

61+ points: Your “i”s are dotted and your sock drawer is organized. You will rock as a Franchise Operations Specialist (and we’re hiring for this position too!). Your next step: You also need to check out our job posting with the BIGGBY COFFEE Training Department!

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Another 'BIGGBY WAY' Story -- Feathers in Cap!

Ali and Theo were great, real teamwork and very hospitable, with connection issues, inventing a drink for me (skinny skinny Vanilla Chamomile latte--stressed out today!) and a toasted cookie (great idea, new to me) I even threw mixed currency and lotsa change at them and they were so nice all the while. I feel very valued. Feather their caps, please!!

Video Pandering can B-effective Go BIGGBY, Go Tommy and Brook ... STAR 105.7 in GR :)

Thursday, June 10, 2010

The BIGGBY way .... Again !! :) Grandville, MI

I wanted to tell you that I stopped in the Grandville Biggby today at 3:00. I have never been treated by two more friendly baristas and left feeling like I finally had found someone who knew how to treat a customer. Kudos to them and their manager
.

Thanks for dropping us a line Crystal

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

TEDxLansing - Bob Fish - Random Thoughts of an Entrepreneurial

Lydia and Zac -- BIGGBY COFFEE is My Happy Place

My favorite line "...and now seven minutes of Whistling!"

Monday, May 24, 2010

Frozen ?!

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

WXYZ Twitter & Facebook: The Way to Do Business ...Go BIGGBY!



Twitter & Facebook: The Way to Do Business

Posted using ShareThis

NOVI, Mich. (WXYZ) - Long before the first Biggby bean is ground, before the first drip drops, before Risa adds the first swirl of whipped cream, Bob Fish is patrolling his far-flung coffee empire like some virtual barista from the keyboard of his computer.

Fish is founder and CEO of Biggby Coffee, a Michigan-based chain with 115 stores nationwide, but on Twitter and Facebook he’s better known as “Biggby Bob” (@biggbybob). He is a constant presence on the social networking sites. If there is a single comment, criticism or complaint Bob will most likely respond within minutes.

“We’ll also take care of things that weren’t really our fault,” Fish tells us. “We had a woman for example had a rough day went and got her caramel marvel went home got in her garage put her cup on top of her car and it fell off. It’s nothing we did wrong but we got a hold of her right away and said we’re going to send you another drink.”

It goes back to when Bob opened his first shop fifteen years ago and actually worked behind the counter handing customers their drinks, talking to them about what they liked and didn’t like.

“What social media has done for me is allowed me to lean over that counter and continue that conversation, but with 115 stores,” says Fish.

Judging by the comments on Twitter Biggby Bob’s one-on-one touch, even from a distance, has created a loyal customer base.

“They love it!” Bob says. “They love the fact that somebody like a CEO called “Biggby Bob”, is very approachable and willing to engage with a customer.”

Biggby Bob shared Biggby Coffee’s recipe for success, use of social media

Go to the original PRSA Blog post

By Dan Artman, APR

During the session Wake Up and Smell the Coffee, Bob Fish, co-founder and CEO of Biggby Coffee, shared the story of the East Lansing-based company’s success, as well as its use of social media to engage current Biggby customers as well as potential customers and franchise owners.

Known to his fans and admirers as Biggby Bob, Fish said Biggby Coffee started in March 1995 in East Lansing. At the time, there were 35 coffee shops in the greater Lansing area, where Biggby sold its first franchise in 1999. In 2009, there were 111 Biggby units in Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, South Carolina and Alabama. “Success is knowing who you are and where you are going,” Fish said. The ability to communicate both internally and externally, as well as focusing on what is important, is also key.

As far as social media goes, Fish said social media is a media like any other – broadcast, outdoor, print and direct mail – and should be treated as such: impressions. He told the audience he gave up his corporate office about two years ago to spend more time in the stores, sometimes incognito. He tells the story of his travels on his blog.He said he uses social media because it is a way to tell your story to your biggest fans, and everyone else. Fish said those using several social media venues need to make sure they link to one another, not in isolation. He said “Different people use different venues and with different frequencies. They learn differently about you at each one and they have different degrees of content.”

Fish said he shares anything that supports the operating philosophy, core values, vision, mission and cultural values of the company and personal information that is relevant to the business. He said social media has two vulnerabilities: it must feel and be earnest, real and truthful; and it is always on.

Biggby’s in-store operating philosophy includes recognizing each customer as an individual and consistently producing a high-quality beverage.

He also shares his adventures on Facebook, YouTube, Flickr and Twitter and the Biggby website. The B-Happy Lounge’s Flickr photostream features Biggby fans, including toddlers and dogs, from Peru to Walt Disney World in Florida, with their Biggby cups and sweatshirts.

Go to the original PRSA Blog post

Love Inspired Authors and BIGGBY COFFEE :)

Go to the original Blog Post

Dana Corbit here. What is it about writers and coffee shops? Comedians poke fun at them in their monologues. Coffee-shop owners count on them to keep their books in the black. These laptop-toting artistic types share table space with college students, traveling salespeople and crowds of chatting moms as they sip double espressos and type furiously on their versions of the great American novel. I know a lot about these people because I happen to be one of them.

Several days a week I can be found in my favorite coffee shop, the Biggby Coffee franchise in Novi, Michigan, tapping away on my work-in-progress, making revisions or doing line edits. My double-tall skim vanilla bean latte is always within reach. In fact, I've hung around so often that the owner, Mike Waltersdorf, stocks my books now alongside his insulated coffee cups and greeting cards. I even plan a "Girls' Night Out Book Signing" at the shop each fall to hang out and share books with my friends. Are you asking if I'm there this very minute? Er...no comment.

What makes coffee shops such great places to breed creativity for so many people? For some it might be the smell of coffee, but I doubt that's what it is for me. I never even drank coffee until the last few years - until I discovered lattes. Some might get inspiration from the TV entertainment, but Mike is attached to ESPN, so I don't even pay attention to that.

Now the white noise, that's my thing. It's great having music playing and a bunch of people around me talking, especially when no one is talking to me. I love that noise. I know there are people out there who have to have total silence to work. I just can't relate to them. As a kid, I wrote all of my research papers in front of the TV. (Shhh, don't tell my daughters that.) And quiet libraries...I have about as much luck staying awake in those as I did in my college personal finance class.

The coffee shop has other pluses for me. Telemarketers can't call and try to sell me vinyl siding. The dryer buzzer can't go off to tell me that the light load is finished. My pit of a house can't announce that its annual cleaning is long overdue. All that and the place has coffee, too. They're lucky I don't just move in.

Well, I had better get back to work. The noise level is good, the music's just right, and the latte is kicking in. Ahhh! Let the creativity begin.


Go to the original Blog Post

Monday, May 10, 2010

Thursday, May 6, 2010

Happy Place Song

You can grab the "BIGGBY COFFEE is MY HAPPY PLACE" song here...Many have asked for their ringtones, Have fun :) http://www.mediafire.com/?z0imlnzygga

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

Guest Blog #7 from twitter handle @Justacogitating

Why, Yes, I am the Mayor.

Not something I ever envisioned myself saying. President? Of course, but Mayor? Yet recently I found myself sitting in "my" Biggby and overheard a woman behind me say, "Kimberly M. is Mayor." When I looked, she was staring into her phone, an action that today seems as likely or more as glancing at a watch (if you still wear one).

Well this is just too good!

"That's ME!"

Apparently, the need for privacy hasn't hit me yet if this squealed exclamation, blog posts, my personal blog ... Twitter and Facebook ... and, of course, FourSquare (hence my Mayor status) are any indication.

The woman looked up and a short, awkward, game of "Strangers Say Hey" ensued.

And thus, my Biggby once again enticed me into everyday contact with a stranger despite my self-proclaimed 'loving-people-challenged' status. My Biggby ... the diabolical people pusher, gatherer of crowds, writers, students, frazzled office workers, and even more frazzled moms. My general reaction would be akin to Gossamer from that Bugs Bunny cartoon suddenly staring into the audience and shrieking, "PEEEEEEOPLE!!!!"

It's okay though. Why?

Coffee. Chocolate. The occasional hot man in a suit.

And ... why, yes, I am the Mayor.


~Kimberly

justacogitating.blogspot.com

PS a good find by David -- Regarding the reference to BUGS BUNNY
...."from that Bugs Bunny cartoon suddenly staring into the audience and shrieking, "PEEEEEEOPLE!!!!" "
suggest advancing to 6 minutes and 20 if you don't want to watch the whole thing :)

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

Alumnae expands Biggby franchise in Ann Arbor


Alumnae expands Biggby franchise in Ann Arbor By Josh Coudret | THE EASTERN ECHO
Added May 3, 2010 at 5:57 pm
When Eastern Michigan University graduate and Biggby Coffee franchise owner Jeannine Mickeleit first traveled to the United States from Germany, she never planned to stay longer than her planned trip.

But before long, she was living in Howell, Michigan, and enrolled at Lansing Community College. When she finished her associate’s degree, she continued her education at EMU.


Josh Coudret / THE EASTERN ECHO

EMU alum Mickeleit recently opened her second Biggby coffee shop in the area in less than a year.“I just liked the area,” Mickeleit said. “It was really similar to the area I was from. A lot of times we think it’s different, but where I’m from is actually very much the same and I felt comfortable.”

Mickeleit was born and raised in Hamburg, Germany, the country’s second-largest city with almost 2 million people. After receiving a bachelor’s degree from EMU in German Studies and a master’s from Michigan State, she is now opening her second Biggby Coffee store at 2550 W. Stadium Blvd.

The first store, which she opened last fall at 1741 Plymouth Rd. in Ann Arbor, has been a success, and her new location opens today.

“I think I am the first Biggby franchisee who opens a second store in less than a year – I think it’s been like seven months for me now,” Mickeleit said. “So [the first] store is still fairly new. I like my first location, but I always knew when I started it that one would not be the end of it for me as part of the Biggby family. So I started looking at different locations even before my first one was finished.”

Mickeleit said she doesn’t have any definite plans for expanding right now, but would like to stay in the Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti areas. She has considered opening a store near EMU.

“The site is always really important,” she said. “I think if I go to Ypsilanti I would love to have a drive through. I think that would be my wish. Right now of course, I have to focus on [the new store] a little bit.”

Mickeleit’s new Biggby location formerly housed Portofino Coffee.

“The benefit for us was that this used to be a coffee shop before,” she said. “When you walked into it, it actually looked very close to a Biggby. And so it just felt like home already at that point.”

The new store offers free wireless internet, music and plenty of room to relax and complete homework.

“As a student I was at Biggby quite a bit studying myself,” Mickeleit said. “And I always liked the product, but I also liked the philosophy. And for me, personally, I think it’s a great fit.”

Becoming a teacher was definitely on her mind while earning her first degree in German studies.

“I started teaching later on,” she said. “I took some teaching classes, but I never graduated with a teaching degree from Eastern. After I graduated from Eastern I went to Michigan State. I was offered teaching assistantship, and I also started teaching at Okemos High School. And at that point I realized I really enjoyed teaching. And that’s when I went back and got a teaching degree as well.”

Mickeleit was teaching part-time at Okemos High School for a year and working on a master’s in German at Michigan State. After more teaching and schoolwork for other degrees, she decided she wanted to enter into business.

“I used to be a financial advisor before I started with all this schooling, and I really enjoyed that,” Mickeleit said. “I really enjoyed teaching but there was also this business aspect in me that was not quite fulfilled. So teaching doesn’t have much to do with business at all. You’re basically doing what you’re told.

“And that’s when I got involved with Biggby. After I finished my MBA I was looking around at what I could do to be self-employed.”

In addition to running two Biggby coffee shops, Mickeleit is also the sponsorship chair and chair of logistics for Relay for Life of Ann Arbor and involved with the Red Cross. Her Biggby locations are selling coffee mugs to benefit the two organizations.

“We actually have a Biggby Relay for Life team, and as part of the fundraiser we are selling those mugs,” she said. “All the proceeds are going to be donated to the Relay for Life, and the same with Red Cross.

“I think Red Cross is another organization that should be important to all of us,” Mickeleit said. “We never know, it could be rather soon that we’re in need of blood, and so I decided what better way of donating to a cause like that?”

Her stores are also working with the American Cancer Society to promote Michigan’s new smoke-free law. Between May 4 and May 10 people can exchange their last pack of cigarettes for a free tall beverage.

EMU students, with a valid ID, can also go to either of her Biggby stores and receive one free grande-size beverage during the opening week.

Friday, April 30, 2010

Biggby Coffee (South Lyon) ready to celebrate one-year anniversary

April 29, 2010
By Kary Feick
Go to the original Article

Five-star beverages, fast and friendly service, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere are just a few of the qualities that make South Lyon Biggby customers leave the store in a better mood.


On May 5, the South Lyon Biggby Coffee will celebrate one year of hard work, successful sales,and faithful customers. “South Lyon has had a great first year and continues to grow and prosper,” said Bob Fish, CEO and co-founder of the company.

In honor of the anniversary, Biggby, located at
22729 Pontiac Trail, plans to celebrate the day by
giving away free brewed coffee, and employees will
be decorating the store.

“We hope to gain new customers, and show the
community our appreciation for their business,”
said Nishant Khetarpal, owner of the South Lyon
location.

Khetarpal feels the store has come a long way since
the grand opening last May.

“Before we moved in, two other coffee shops already
closed, and people did not seem to think Biggby w
as different, but I am proud that our store made it.
Over the last year, we have increased our daily cup
sales by 100 cups, and in the last month, we have
seen a 35 percent increase in sales. I believe we are
still improving, becoming busier, and meeting a lot
of nice people in the area,” added Khetarpal. “I value
my customers and believe that it does make a
difference having the owner in the store on a
regular basis. I am here over 60 hours a week.
Spending time in the store creates a connection. I
am able to learn people's names, drinks, and
stories.”

Some customers agreed that without Khetarpal, the
business would not be successful.

“I feel that it makes a difference for Nishant to be in
the store because he helps make Biggby a friendlier
place, and everyone loves him,” said regular
customer Sharon Morabito.

Customers feel the staff at Biggby continues to
brighten the day and deliver tasty beverages.

“My favorite thing about the South Lyon Biggby is
the baristas, they are extremely outgoing. The
atmosphere is welcoming and the location is easy to
get to. It is like my second home and office,” said
Pam Sinagra, a daily customer at Biggby. “I enjoy the
fresh bagels, they are a wonderful addition to my
favorite cup of Biggby Best every morning,” said
Frank Morabito, a true Biggby fanatic.


According to Khetarpal, it is a Biggby tradition to
remember a customer's favorite drink, and in South
Lyon many love Biggby's brewed coffee or anything
with caramel.

“Our customers love the caramel marvel, mocha
caramel, caramel apple cider, and the butter bear.
We are currently promoting the butter bear, which is
a caramel and butterscotch latte. The blended
Advertisement version is one of my personal favorites; the taste is
mouth-watering and delicious,” joked Khetarpal.

In the future, Khetarpal plans on opening five more
Biggby Coffee shops. Before the end of this year,
consumers can expect to see another Biggby
opening in Alma. Khetarpal also plans to extend the
success and build an additional business on the
land he owns next door to Biggby.

Khetarpal believes his team at South Lyon is strong,
experienced, and willing to improve.

“Most of our employees have been here since the
store opened and we have added new employees
that play an important part on our team. Both the
team and store have grown, and I enjoy the idea of
becoming the biggest thing in South Lyon in the
future. I want our Biggby to become a cornerstone
in South Lyon. I want it to be where everybody
comes to get coffee. We already enjoy donating
coffee and helping the community out in whatever
they need,” said Khetarpal.

“It feels good to see that my hard work has paid off.
South Lyon is my new home and I love the people
here.”

Kary Feick is a journalism student at Madonna
University and an employee at Biggby. She can be
reached at kfeick@my.madonna.edu.


Go to the original Article

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Lima Ohio, Peggy Rector -- Finalist, Emerging Business of the Year!

It just keeps happening!

BIGGBY COFFEE franchisees winning business awards...ya'gotta love it! :)

The BIGGBY way .... Again !! :) Toledo, OH

I have not found a coffee shop coffee that I just love, in the past I have found others to be either extremely strong, or poor in flavor. Leaving for a road trip with family my sister insisted we stop at Biggby or she would make the ride unpleasent, so we stopped! I went in with her and witnessed the best customer service I have seen in a long time. Greeted by name, and loved the coffee! I love your Teddy Bear!!!

Biggby Coffee Birmingham #mbachat from Hajj Flemings on Vimeo.



I have an MBA and I own a Biggby Coffee am I wasting my degree?



I have an MBA which field should I go into? Have you ever thought about owning a coffee shop after completing your degree?

Let’s look at Joseph Glendinning co-owner of Biggby Coffee locations in Birmingham and Bloomfield Township in Michigan. In 2008 Joseph opened his first Biggby Coffee with his sister Rose Glendinning.

Joseph Glendinning Profile

Joseph Glendinning was an associate attorney in business, real estate and tax law in Chicago for Amari and Locallo law firm and River North Law Group. He has a Bachelors from Albion College, a law degree from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland and an MBA from DePaul University in Chicago.

Joe said that while practicing as an attorney he helped others achieve their goals, but he desired to achieve his own. “I wasn’t super excited to go to work every day,” he said. “I enjoyed my work, but I never felt satisfied with my career choice.”

“I invested a lot of time, money and effort into my career as a lawyer,” Joseph said. “It wasn’t easy to leave it behind for something that was not guaranteed to be a success.”

Work Life Balance

When getting an MBA what is most important? Is it having the bragging rights of working for a prestigious firm/corporation? Or is it more important to do something that you love? The average person spends over 50% of their waking life working, so why not do something that you love?

So is the right thing to do to own a Coffee shop after completing your MBA? What is the right decision post MBA in-terms of jobs and career placement? That is a question that you have to personally answer for yourself nobody can tell you what is right for you. Food for thought some traditional choices are more risky today so non-traditional MBA career path should be considered.

Joseph was able to apply the skills acquired from obtaining his MBA to the day-to-day operations of running his own business. His MBA also expanded his perspective on business, work life, and career path. MBAs have value for traditional corporate positions and entrepreneurial career options.

Advice for others: “I think the best advice is something that my father told me as a boy,” Joseph Glendinning said. “He always told me to find a job that isn’t a job, but a passion - something that I could wake up to every morning and couldn’t wait to start doing.”

Next MBA Chat: April 26th 7:30pm-8:30pm EST. Follow the hashtag: #mbachat



Posted by Hajj Flemings who is the Tech MBA Online Program Ambassador. You can follow him on twitter @hajjflemings
Go To Michigan Tech Blog

Sunday, April 25, 2010

Bill Spencer and BIGGBY COFFEE :)

Check out today's trivia question at the Brighton Biggby Store.

The Answer: WXYZ Detroit Channel 7 (and Brighton local) Award Winning Reporter, Bill Spencer!!!!

Louise

P.S. Bill and his wife, Veronica, got quite a kick out of today's trivia ...