
Romania’s largest coffee chain, 5 to go, has unveiled a new strategy to drive franchise growth by introducing a mobile cart concept across the country. The company aims to expand its reach to 1,000 sites in its home market by offering a low-cost and quick-to-set-up model to attract new franchisees.

The Bucharest-based coffee chain, with around 600 stores, introduced the 5 to go Espresso model to enhance accessibility for potential franchisees. This innovative concept allows the company to operate in spaces with limited commercial availability and cater to events on short notice, offering a concise menu of hot and cold coffee options.
5 to go’s co-founder, Lucian Bădilă, expressed optimism about the mobile cart concept, highlighting its potential to tap into new markets, engage a broader consumer base, and empower entrepreneurs. The company anticipates significant growth with projections to sell a substantial number of commercial trailers in the coming years, aiming for strategic expansion and market dominance.

Established in 2015, 5 to go has positioned itself as a value-driven player in the coffee sector, not only in Romania but also in neighboring countries like Hungary, Bulgaria, and Moldova. The recent majority stake acquisition by private equity firms has reshaped the company’s ownership structure, with co-founders adjusting their stakes to facilitate further growth and investment opportunities.
Amidst this strategic evolution, Romania’s Turabo also made headlines with the inauguration of a state-of-the-art €1 million coffee production facility in Bucharest, underscoring the industry’s commitment to innovation and expansion. The coffee market continues to witness dynamic developments, with players like Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii and Kopi Kenangan making strategic moves to enter new markets and expand their presence.
Furthermore, South Africa’s Vida e Caffè’s partnership with SPAR convenience stores signifies a growing trend of diversification and collaboration within the coffee industry, as brands seek to enhance their accessibility and cater to evolving consumer preferences.
These developments underscore the dynamic nature of the global coffee and hospitality industry, where companies are constantly innovating and adapting to meet the changing needs of consumers. The shift towards mobile concepts, strategic partnerships, and expansion initiatives reflects a broader trend of agility and resilience within the sector, as players navigate a competitive landscape and strive for sustainable growth.
As the industry continues to evolve, stakeholders are closely monitoring market trends, consumer behavior, and technological advancements to stay ahead of the curve and capitalize on emerging opportunities. The coffee sector’s ability to embrace innovation, foster strategic collaborations, and adapt to shifting market dynamics will be crucial in shaping its future trajectory and ensuring long-term success in a rapidly changing business environment.
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