Scooter’s Coffee

Scooter's Coffee is a specialty coffee chain headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska that has built its reputation on speed, quality, and the drive-thru format. The company was founded in 1998 by Don and Linda Eckles in Bellevue, Nebraska, initially operating as Scooter's Java Express with the straightforward goal of delivering premium coffee quickly and conveniently to busy customers. The brand began franchising in 2001, which opened the door to rapid expansion across the Midwest and eventually nationwide.

As of November 2025, Scooter's Coffee operates approximately 900 locations across more than 30 states, establishing itself as one of the largest drive-thru coffee franchises in the United States. The company's geographic presence is concentrated in the Midwest, South, and emerging markets in the West and Southeast, with particular momentum in Texas, Florida, Tennessee, and the Carolinas. Over the past five years, Scooter's Coffee has pursued an aggressive growth strategy focused on suburban and secondary markets, continuing to open new locations monthly while also pursuing infill opportunities in established regions.

The brand's store formats are built around operational efficiency. Most locations feature compact drive-thru kiosks and freestanding buildings designed to maximize speed and convenience for on-the-go customers. This format-driven approach has proven durable and scalable, allowing the company to maintain consistent operations across its growing footprint. Scooter's Coffee has also developed a recognizable menu anchored by signature drinks like the Caramelicious and a range of cold brew and cold foam beverages that have become customer staples.

For landlords and developers, Scooter's Coffee represents a proven franchise operator with a streamlined real estate model, demonstrated ability to execute new store openings at scale, and a clear expansion roadmap targeting high-growth corridors across multiple regions.