Bitty & Beau's Coffee seeks US franchisees as Cruiser fleet grows

Bitty & Beau's Coffee is recruiting franchise owners across eligible US markets as it expands its mobile coffee business, the company announced from Wilmington, North Carolina, on 9 October 2026. It said eight of its Cruiser units are operating, with eight more in production and preparing to open.

The company also reported dozens of further opportunities at various stages of development as prospective owners assess new markets. The recruitment drive extends a franchise format that combines mobile coffee service with the brand's focus on employing people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Mobile format removes need for a permanent shop

The Cruiser is an equipped mobile coffee shop intended for service at festivals, community events, schools, corporate functions and private celebrations. According to the company, it gives franchisees a smaller physical footprint than a conventional coffee shop and allows them to operate without establishing a permanent retail site.

For prospective operators, the distinction is the ability to take the business to local destinations rather than serve solely from a fixed shop. Bitty & Beau's Coffee said the format can serve communities of different sizes and enable owners to build relationships with businesses, schools, organisations and event hosts.

The company presents the model as an option for entrepreneurs seeking business ownership alongside the creation of jobs for people with disabilities. It also describes the Cruiser as designed for efficient service and straightforward operation.

Employment mission underpins expansion

Amy and Ben Wright founded Bitty & Beau's Coffee in Wilmington in 2016. From its first coffee shop, the business has developed into a brand that now employs more than 500 people with disabilities, according to the company.

“People want to own businesses that mean something,” said co-founder Amy Wright. She said the Cruiser franchise links the opportunity to own a business with creating employment for people with disabilities in the owner's community.

Wright described the company's founding aim as changing perceptions of people with disabilities. She said additional Cruisers would extend that work to more communities as the business partners with new owners across the country.

Support and terms for prospective owners

Franchisees receive training at the outset, branded product access, operating resources and continuing support from the Wilmington headquarters, the company said. It is seeking candidates aligned with its approach to inclusion, community involvement and customer service.

Enquiries are open for eligible US markets, with territory and application information available through the company's franchise website. Investment requirements, fees and other terms are set out in its Franchise Disclosure Document, while opportunities depend on territory availability and applicable franchise regulations.