birmingham al, September 21, 2025
News Summary
The 7 Brew Coffee Chain has experienced explosive growth, with over 470 locations and a staggering 2,000% increase in unit count since 2022. Led by Tacala, which operates 31 locations, this burgeoning coffee franchise has ambitious plans for even more outlets. Significant investments, including one from Blackstone, have bolstered the chain’s success, highlighted by a unique double drive-thru service. With a focus on employee engagement and efficient operations, 7 Brew’s bright future and low turnover rates are setting it apart in the competitive coffee market.
Explosive Growth for 7 Brew Coffee Chain
In recent months, the coffee scene has been buzzing with excitement, thanks to the 7 Brew Coffee Chain, which is experiencing phenomenal growth! As of now, this up-and-coming coffee icon boasts over 470 locations and has made a remarkable increase in its unit count by 2,000% from 2022 to the end of 2024. Can you believe that in just a few short years, they’ve gone from 38 stores to more than 320? That’s some serious momentum!
Tacala’s Expansion Journey
Leading the charge in this coffee revolution is Tacala, a company rooted in Birmingham, Alabama. They now operate a total of 31 locations for the 7 Brew chain. Most of you might know Tacala for its vast array of Taco Bell stores, a number stretching over 379 in states like Texas, Alabama, and Tennessee. This well-known franchise continues to explore growth opportunities, with plans to open an additional four to five Taco Bell locations by the end of 2024.
Just last year, Tacala acquired nine 7 Brew cafes from Brew Team TN in Tennessee, casually blending coffee culture with their existing portfolio. Since joining the 7 Brew system in 2023, they’ve built an impressive 22 new 7 Brew locations. That speaks volumes about the franchise’s reach and appeal.
Investing in the Future
Backing this rapid expansion, Blackstone made a notable investment in 7 Brew the previous year. Observing the brand’s vibrant energy and swift service culture, it’s no wonder the coffee chain has commitments for an additional 3,000 locations nationwide! The brand’s unique approach to serving an array of delicious beverages through double drive-thru service and engaging customer interactions is really paying off.
A Steady Working Environment
Turning to the workplace itself, the design of 7 Brew’s 510-square-foot modular buildings is crafted for efficient customer and employee engagement. Not only does this help in quick service, but it also fosters a sense of connection that keeps employees coming back. In fact, they boast a remarkably low employee turnover rate below 30%, which is a testament to their engaging workplace culture.
CEO and Chief Financial Officer of Tacala oversees this swift growth and expresses optimism about finding suitable locations for new 7 Brew outlets, even with the challenges posed by real estate in busy areas. With the average unit sales reported at around $2.35 million, it’s clear that investing in 7 Brew is a promising venture!
Profound Success
Tacala currently hires about 11,000 people, with a support staff of around 150. Annually, the company rakes in sales that are nearing $900 million from its two brands—the beloved Taco Bell and rising star 7 Brew. Joey Pierson, the driving force behind Tacala, points out the distinct challenges Taco Bell and 7 Brew face. Taco Bell serves a diverse food menu while 7 Brew stays focused primarily on beverages, making their operations quite uniquely streamlined.
The success story of 7 Brew continues to unfold, with the coffee chain rapidly expanding and a bright future ahead. With an engaging culture, speedy service, and a solid business model, the coffee chain is definitely one to watch!
FAQs
How many locations does 7 Brew currently have?
As of now, 7 Brew has over 470 locations.
What was the growth percentage of 7 Brew from 2022 to the end of 2024?
7 Brew increased its unit count by 2,000% from 2022 to the end of 2024.
How many Taco Bells does Tacala operate?
Tacala operates 379 Taco Bells in seven states, primarily Texas, Alabama, and Tennessee.
How many locations of 7 Brew does Tacala operate?
Tacala now operates 31 locations of the 7 Brew chain.
What is the employee turnover rate at 7 Brew?
7 Brew has an employee turnover rate below 30%.
What are the average unit sales for 7 Brew?
The average unit sales for 7 Brew are reported at around $2.35 million.
Key Features of 7 Brew’s Growth
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Locations | Over 470 |
| Growth Rate | 2,000% increase |
| Tacala’s Locations | 31 |
| Taco Bells Operated by Tacala | 379 |
| Employee Turnover Rate | Below 30% |
| Average Unit Sales | $2.35 million |
| Planned New Locations | 3,000 nationwide commitments |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Y’all Sweet Tea Secures $500,000 Investment on Shark Tank
Caleb Goodwyn Appointed Chief Officer of Economic Development in Montgomery
Big Bad Breakfast Set to Open in Cahaba Heights
New 7 Brew Coffee Location Opening in Gadsden, Alabama
7 Brew Coffee Opens New Location in Montgomery
7 Brew Coffee Shop Opens in Montgomery
Chelsea Welcomes New Coffee Destination: 7 Brew
New Ventures Introduced Amid Departures in Birmingham
Chelsea Welcomes 7 Brew Coffee with Grand Opening
Chelsea Welcomes New 7 Brew Coffee Location
Additional Resources
- Franchise Times: Largest Taco Bell Franchisee Acquires Nine 7 Brews in Tennessee
- Wikipedia: 7 Brew Coffee
- PR Newswire: Altamont Capital Partners and Tacala
- Google Search: 7 Brew Coffee
- NRN: 7 Brew’s Growth is Driven by Its Culture and Capital Connection
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Franchising
- Franchise Times: Emerging Franchise 7 Brew Changes Drive-Thru Coffee Experience
- Google News: Tacala

Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.


