Baristas Texas Opens for Business.

SEATTLE, May 2, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Baristas Coffee Company, Inc. announces that its first franchise opened for business on Sat. April 30, 2011.  The Costume Coffee drive-thru is located at 12023 Perrin Beitel Road, San Antonio, Texas.  Baristas features attractive female models wearing themed costumes.  They serve  specialty coffees, top quality smoothies, fresh baked pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and other confections.

The location in San Antonio is the first to open as part of a development franchise agreement with Jag Capital that includes San Antonio. San Marcos, and New Braunfels areas.  The agreement to open 10 locations over the next three years has an option for 20 additional locations within the territory over the next eight years. Remodeling, permitting, and staffing required to open was accomplished in less than 45 days from the signing of the lease.

Veteran restaurant executive, Thomas E. Metzger, FMP and Baristas COO stated that "Now that we have our first franchise open for business and have built support infrastructure, we are pursuing other viable territory partners and franchise operators. We are very proud of the accomplishments of Jag Capital in that they opened a first class Baristas Drive-Thru Coffee Stand in such a short period of time.  The ability to open with minimal capital on a short timeline is one of the primary attractions of the Baristas business model which allows an early ROI."  Mr. Metzger is focusing on expanding the Baristas business model and brand throughout North America and implementing proven operational systems to insure efficient and streamlined and compliant processes. Mr. Metzger has served as Chief Executive Officer / President / Chief Operating Officer for numerous restaurants, notably Wolfgang Puck, Sizzler Steakhouses, Boston Market, and Kenny Rogers Roasters.  His experience also includes the development of many national food service brands such as Cinnabon and Wendy's International.

"We are extremely encouraged by the response and excitement that we have experienced in our first days of being open.  The knowledge and support that we received from the Baristas team has aided us in our ability to navigate the numerous impediments to developing a business, and we will continue to work closely with them in order to maximize the opportunity. We are planning a Grand Opening that is expected to take place later this month," stated Bill Gallager President of Jag Capital, Inc.

"In addition to providing revenue, franchising will expand the awareness of our brand and expedite our mission to introduce Costume Coffee to the nation and beyond. Since announcing our intentions to franchise we have been inundated with requests for information. Now that our first franchise location is open, we are now able to follow up on those opportunities.  This strategy will allow Baristas to expand the brand more rapidly and contribute to the bottom line of our business," stated Barry Henthorn CEO.

About Baristas Coffee Company (OTCPK:BCCI) Headquartered in the Seattle, Washington area, Baristas Coffee Company (www.baristas.tv) was formed to create a national brand of drive-thru espresso stands.  It is accomplishing this by acquiring established businesses that fit its model, opening new locations, and by franchising.  Baristas employs and promotes attractive female baristas trained to interact with the customer to maximize sales as well as prepare the finest beverages available.  All baristas wear constantly changing and appealing costumes, allowing for customers to enjoy the anticipation of a fun, creative, new, and intriguing experience every day.

Baristas Coffee Company Inc.
Mr. Barry Henthorn CEO
206-579-0222
[email protected]

SOURCE Baristas Coffee Company, Inc.