Aroma Joe's Israel Support: Boycott Or Not?

Aroma Joe's is a local franchise that offers coffee lovers unique, handcrafted coffee and espresso drinks, flavour infusions, and signature energy drinks. The company has headquarters in Maine and its shops stretch all the way down to Florida. Aroma Joe's sources its coffee from the world's best coffee beans. The company has recently been under fire for allegedly supporting the Israeli military and settlements, with some calling for boycotts of the brand.

Aroma Joe's franchise opportunities

Aroma Joe's is a coffee franchise founded on positivity and passion, with a laser focus on the customer experience and the communities it serves. The company was established in 2000 by four cousins from Maine who shared a love for coffee and a commitment to spreading positive energy. Today, there are over 100 shops in the northeast, and that number is rapidly growing.

The Aroma Joe's Difference

Aroma Joe's stands out in the highly competitive coffee market through its unique offering of handcrafted coffee, espresso, and proprietary AJ's Rush Energy drinks. The company's commitment to using ethically sourced and sustainably grown coffee beans, as well as its multiple revenue sources from an expanding menu, sets it apart from other coffee franchises.

Aroma Joe's offers a cost-effective franchise opportunity with an expected initial investment of at least $500,588, including a $25,000 franchise fee. This low-cost franchise opportunity provides multiple revenue streams, a convenient drive-thru service, and varying build-out options.

Who is the Ideal Aroma Joe's Franchisee?

The ideal Aroma Joe's franchisee is passionate about coffee, energy drinks, and handcrafted beverages. They are committed to investing their time and effort in running the business and understand the demands of a fast-paced service business. The ideal candidate is also hands-on, community-oriented, and committed to supporting the development of their staff.

Steps to Becoming an Aroma Joe's Franchisee

• Complete the online form to receive the most up-to-date information about the franchise opportunity.
• Complete an application and schedule an introduction call with an Aroma Joe's team representative.
• Review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and schedule a call with a Development Agent to discuss any questions.
• Visit existing Aroma Joe's locations in your area to experience the brand and culture.
• Upon mutual agreement, sign the Franchise Agreement.
• Begin the site selection, training, and onboarding process as a new Aroma Joe's franchisee.

Franchise Fees and Financial Criteria

In addition to the franchise fee, Aroma Joe's requires a minimum of $200,000 in liquid assets and a net worth of $350,000 to become a franchisee. Military members and honorably discharged veterans are eligible for a discounted franchise fee of $12,500.

Available Franchise Locations

Aroma Joe's is currently offering franchise opportunities in the following states:

• Maine
• New Hampshire
• Vermont
• Massachusetts
• Rhode Island
• Connecticut
• New Jersey
• Pennsylvania
• West Virginia
• North Carolina
• South Carolina
• Georgia
• Florida

If you are interested in a state that is not listed, you can fill out a form on the Aroma Joe's website to explore potential opportunities.

Aroma Joe's franchise costs

The total investment required to open an Aroma Joe's franchise varies depending on the source. Figures range from a minimum of $586,599 to a maximum of $1,859,492 or $1.86 million. The minimum liquid capital required is $200,000, and the minimum net worth is $350,000. The franchise fee is between $12,5000 and $25,000, with veteran discounts available.

The cost of opening an Aroma Joe's franchise includes various expenses such as leasehold improvements, training expenses, store development and architectural fees, engineering and planning, and initial marketing. It is important to note that these costs can vary based on location and other factors.

Aroma Joe's offers a comprehensive support system for its franchisees, including initial and ongoing training, regular updates, a dedicated support team, and marketing resources. The brand has a strong market presence and impressive growth, currently operating over 100 locations across the US.

It is important for prospective franchisees to carefully review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and conduct thorough research before making any investment decisions.

Aroma and Israel

Aroma Joes should not be confused with Aroma Espresso Bar, a private Israeli chain of coffee shops with branches in Canada and other places. Aroma Espresso Bar has been targeted by pro-Palestinian activists for its alleged support of the Israeli military and settlements. However, it is important to note that the two are separate entities, and Aroma Joe's has no apparent connection to Israel or any political affiliations.

Aroma Joe's military support

Aroma Joe's has shown support for the military in several ways. Firstly, the company offers a free 24oz drink to all veterans on Veterans Day, demonstrating their appreciation for those who have served in the armed forces. This initiative is part of their brand promise to "Positively Impact People," which they embody through their support for both the community and their franchisees.

In addition to their community initiatives, Aroma Joe's also provides extensive support for their franchisees, or "Aroma Joe's family," as they refer to them. They offer a comprehensive training program that covers coffee brewing techniques, customer service, business operations, and marketing strategies. They also assist in market location research and selecting optimal locations based on their experience.

Aroma Joe's provides over 70 hours of in-store and classroom training for franchisees and their managers, ensuring they are well-equipped to succeed. They offer guidance and support in various areas, including general operations, purchasing, inventory, and supply chain logistics. The company also has an in-house research and development team dedicated to new product development and optimization.

Furthermore, Aroma Joe's supports the development and growth of their employees. Their Fueling Up Success (FUS) certificate program offers employees the opportunity to further their careers through business and entrepreneurship courses. This program empowers employees who aspire to own their own Aroma Joe's location in the future.

While the majority of the information found focuses on Aroma Joe's and their support for the military, one source mentions an "Aroma" that has been accused of supporting Israel and its military. It is unclear if this is the same company, as the source refers to "Aroma Espresso Bar," which may be a different entity. However, it is worth noting that this particular company has faced backlash and calls for boycotts due to its perceived support for Israel and its alleged transgressions against Palestinians.

Aroma Joe's locations

Aroma Joe's has locations across the United States, with a heavy presence in New Hampshire and Maine. The company's headquarters are in Maine, and they have locations in the following cities:

• Rochester, NH
• Sanford, ME
• Dover, NH
• Berwick, ME
• Biddeford, ME
• Somersworth, NH
• Portland, ME
• South Sanford, ME
• South Berwick, ME
• Durham/UNH, NH
• Laconia, NH
• Wells, ME
• Waterville, ME
• West Ossipee, NH
• Oxford, ME
• Lisbon Falls, ME
• Windham, ME
• Orono, ME
• Manchester, NH
• Derry, NH
• Epping, NH
• South Portland, ME
• Newmarket, NH
• Lee, NH
• Waterboro, ME
• Standish, ME
• Alton, NH
• Tilton, NH
• Newport, NH
• Greenland, NH
• Kennebunk, ME
• Hooksett, NH
• Kittery, ME
• Exeter, NH
• North Conway, NH
• Auburn, ME
• Gray, ME
• Hampton, NH
• Gorham, ME
• Concord, NH
• Leominster, MA
• North Berwick, ME
• South Sanford, ME
• Salem, NH
• Farmington, NH
• Brunswick, ME
• Merrimack, NH
• Greensburg, PA
• Pompano Beach, FL
• South Portland, ME
• Salisbury, MA
• Portsmouth, NH
• Augusta, ME
• Haverhill, MA
• Bath, ME
• Lewiston, ME
• Land O' Lakes, FL
• Swansea, MA
• Amherst, NH
• Concord, NH
• Epsom, NH
• Raynham, MA
• Tewksbury, MA
• Rindge, NH
• Plymouth, NH
• Pittsburgh (Plum), PA
• Bristol, CT
• Scarborough, ME
• Wrentham, MA
• Salem, NH
• Raymond, ME
• Winslow, ME
• Mansfield, MA
• Hudson, NH
• Troy, NY
• Unity, ME
• Augusta, ME
• Nashua, NH

Aroma Joe's is expanding its locations to include Pennsylvania, Florida, New York, and more.

Aroma Joe's app

Aroma Joe's is a local franchise that sources its coffee from the world's best coffee beans. It offers coffee lovers unique, handcrafted coffee and espresso drinks, flavour infusions, signature AJ's Rush Energy Drinks, and all-day food options.

The AJ's Rewards mobile app is available on iOS and Android. With the app, you can earn amazing rewards on coffee and energy drinks, receive exclusive promotions, and more. You can earn points towards select products for every $1 you spend. These points can be used to redeem rewards in the rewards store, and the more points you save, the more valuable they become.

You can use the app to pay in-store by loading a credit/debit card, gift card, or Apple Pay and pay directly with your phone at all Aroma Joe's locations. You can also preload any amount directly onto AJ's Rewards and save time.

Other key benefits of the app include exclusive deals, double and triple points days, a $3 reward after your first visit using AJ's Rewards, and a free birthday treat the week of your birthday.

The app can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play.

Frequently asked questions