Michelle and Richard Lee of Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii Honored as IFA Franchisees of the Year

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  • Husband And Wife Team Recognized by the International Franchise Association During Annual Convention
  • Duo is Celebrated for Outstanding Performance and Contributions within their Community
  • Building on Their Success, The Lees are Preparing to Open Their Second Bad Ass Coffee Franchise Location in Arlington, VA

DENVER – Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii is proud to announce Michelle and Richard Lee, owners of the brand’s Alexandria, VA and soon-to-open Arlington, VA locations, have been named Franchisee of the Year by the International Franchise Association (IFA) at its Annual Convention in Las Vegas, NV this week.

The Franchisee of the Year awards recognize leading franchise owners from IFA member brands whose outstanding performance and contributions help protect, enhance, and promote the franchise business model. Nominated by their franchisor, Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii, individuals are selected for their service to their communities, fostering a strong and vibrant workforce, opening the doors for career growth and entrepreneurship, and supporting their fellow franchisees.

“Receiving the IFA Franchisee of the Year award is an incredible honor and a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team,” said Richard and Michelle Lee. “This journey has been filled with learning experiences, and we’re grateful for the support of our customers, team members, and the Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii ‘ohana at the home office. We look forward to continuing our growth and making a lasting impact in the communities we serve.”

The Lees, a dynamic husband-and-wife duo with two small children at home, transitioned from corporate careers to franchise ownership, bringing a unique mix of expertise to their entrepreneurial journey. Michelle, a coffee enthusiast, has a background in healthcare management, while Richard has experience in engineering, program management, and real estate. Their diverse skill sets, combined with a shared vision for growth and community impact, have propelled their success as franchisees.

Since opening their Alexandria location, the first of a three-store commitment, the Lees have built a thriving business while becoming integral in their community. In 2024, Richard was named a member of Bad Ass Coffee’s first-ever Franchise Advisory Council, further solidifying their leadership within the brand. Prioritizing a supportive workplace culture, they foster an environment where employees feel valued, empowered, and take pride in their work. Beyond their store, Richard and Michelle actively engage in charitable initiatives, from supporting Maui relief efforts at the national scale to partnering with local nonprofits like Lucky Dog Animal Rescue.

“Michelle and Richard are the epitome of what being a badass franchisee is all about and we are incredibly proud to see them recognized nationally by the IFA,” said Scott Snyder, CEO of Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii. “The Lees bring an energy to their business that is infectious and an attention to operational detail that makes them an easy model for other franchisees to emulate. As they expand with their second location in Arlington later this month, we appreciate them both for being the very best version of our brand.  Their story serves as a blueprint for aspiring entrepreneurs and multi-unit operators looking to turn their passion into a thriving business.”

“Franchisees of the Year represent the very best of franchising,” said Matt Haller, President and CEO of the International Franchise Association. “They embody the American Dream, create economic opportunity, serve their communities, and show what it means to go into business for yourself, but not by yourself. We are proud to recognize the Lees with the highest honor IFA awards to individual franchisees, and we salute his tireless efforts to uplift all those they serve.”

With its unique blend of Hawaiian culture and responsible growth, Bad Ass Coffee offers a compelling opportunity for entrepreneurs ready to join a thriving community of operators. Franchisees benefit from a proven business model, innovative technology, and a brand that resonates with modern consumers.

For more information on Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii franchise opportunities, visit badasscoffeefranchise.com or call 833-205-2224.

About Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii®

Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii was born on the Big Island of Hawai’i in 1989 and is dedicated to sharing premium Hawaiian coffees “with a kick” from the Hawaiian Islands through nearly 40 U.S. franchise locations – with 100+ additional shops in various stages of development. Today, Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii stores also serve popular blended drinks, teas, food, along with other international premium coffees and sell popular branded merchandise with exceptional service and the Aloha Spirit. Bad Ass Coffees are available in franchise stores, online and will soon be available through grocery, hospitality, and specialty retail channels. The Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii brand and franchise is owned by Royal Aloha Franchise Company, LLC. For more information, visit badasscoffee.com and connect on Facebook and Instagram @badasscoffeeofhawaii. Franchise information is available at badasscoffeefranchise.com.

*Source: 2024 FDD – Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii

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