WILX: BIGGBY® COFFEE’s Co-CEO and Co-Founder Mike McFall Shares the Brand’s Secret Ingredients for Success

Mike McFall , Co-CEO and Co-Founder of the Michigan-based coffeehouse franchise BIGGBY ® COFFEE , started the brand in 1995. According to a recent WILX article , McFall was working as a barista at the brand’s first location in East Lansing, Michigan when he developed a close relationship with Bob Fish , BIGGBY’s second Co-CEO and Co-Founder. 20-plus years later, the brand is rapidly moving into the Wisconsin, Idaho, Florida and Ohio markets. Recently ranked in Franchise Times’ Top 200+ list , it’s no secret as to why BIGGBY is known as one of the top-leading franchises in the country.

To reach this level of success, McFall stresses the importance of positivity, having a great attitude and fostering an enjoyable company culture. He mentioned it’s things like staff socials and sabbaticals that are helpful in keeping employees happy and comfortable settling in with the company.

While many restaurants and food service brands took a hit during COVID-19, BIGGBY was one of the few that was spared. Because of the staff’s hustle, McFall recalls seeing many new customers coming to BIGGBY despite the circumstances.

“Our response to COVID was extraordinary,” McFall told WILX. “We worked hard to take care of staff in stores and to stay open. And then, people were able to spin through the drive-thru and have a sense of normalcy.”