System sales at Scooter’s Coffee hit $723 million in 2024, a three-year growth rate of 81.5 percent.
Even though it dropped from its No. 3 spot on this ranking, Scooter’s is growing at an impressive rate, with systemwide sales up 81.5 percent between 2022 and 2024, to $723 million. Unit growth for the drive-thru coffee concept was 53 percent during that three-year span as the brand ended 2024 with 849 locations; it’s since crossed the 900-store mark.
CEO Joe Thornton described a twofold strategy of sustainable growth that involves deepening the footprint in established markets “while thoughtfully expanding into new ones where demand is rising.” But the pace and scale of growth, he noted, “are always aligned with the success of our franchisees.”
The Omaha, Nebraska-based brand embraced a data-first mindset for expansion, Thornton said, because in today’s environment, companies can’t rely on intuition.
Joe Thornton is the CEO of Scooter's Coffee.
“Every decision, from site selection to marketing strategy, is backed by analytics and insights,” he said. “This disciplined, data-driven approach ensures we’re not just growing quickly but growing smart—with franchise partners who share our values and long-term vision.”
Entry into new markets remains a challenge, and Thornton said Scooter’s must earn trust “from the ground up.” It aims to support franchisees with tailored resources, local engagement strategies and “a deep commitment to building authentic relationships,” he said. “Success in these markets isn’t just about opening stores—it’s about becoming part of the community.”