Caribou Coffee and Einstein Bagels are two popular chains that have gained popularity among coffee and bagel lovers alike. Many people often wonder if these two companies are somehow connected or if one owns the other. In this article, we will explore the relationship between Caribou Coffee and Einstein Bagels and delve into the ownership and history of these beloved establishments.
The Connection Between Caribou Coffee and Einstein Bagels
Ownership
To put it simply, Caribou Coffee does not own Einstein Bagels. The two companies operate independently and have different owners. Caribou Coffee is owned by German holding company JAB Holding Company, while Einstein Bagels is a subsidiary of the Einstein Noah Restaurant Group. Despite their separate ownership, Caribou Coffee and Einstein Bagels often have locations that are adjacent to one another, leading to the misconception that they are somehow connected.
Co-Branded Locations
While Caribou Coffee and Einstein Bagels are not owned by the same company, they sometimes share the same physical space. This is known as a co-branded location, where both Caribou Coffee and Einstein Bagels reside under one roof. This arrangement allows customers to enjoy the best of both worlds – delicious coffee and mouth-watering bagels all in one place. These co-branded locations can be found in various parts of the United States, making it convenient for customers who have a preference for both coffee and bagels.
Benefits of Co-Branded Locations
The co-branded concept provides numerous benefits for both Caribou Coffee and Einstein Bagels. By sharing one space, these establishments can reduce operating costs, streamline their operations, and attract a larger customer base. For example, a person who enters a co-branded location looking for a coffee might be enticed to try a bagel or vice versa. This cross-promotion benefits both businesses and ultimately helps them thrive in an ever-competitive market.
Ownership and History of Caribou Coffee
Ownership
Caribou Coffee, founded in 1992, had its humble beginnings in Minnesota. Initially, it was not associated with any major corporation and remained an independent entity. However, in 2013, it was acquired by JAB Holding Company, a German conglomerate that owns several renowned coffee companies around the world, including Peet’s Coffee and Intelligentsia Coffee. Despite the change in ownership, Caribou Coffee retained its brand identity and continued to deliver its signature high-quality coffee to its loyal customers.
Expansion and Growth
Under its new ownership, Caribou Coffee experienced significant growth and expansion. The company extended its reach beyond Minnesota, and today it has over 300 locations across the United States. Caribou Coffee’s success can be attributed to its dedication to providing a unique coffee experience, sourcing high-quality beans, and creating a cozy atmosphere in their cafes. Whether customers are looking for an energizing espresso or a soothing latte, Caribou Coffee aims to cater to all tastes and preferences.
Ownership and History of Einstein Bagels
Ownership
Einstein Bagels, originally named Einstein Bros. Bagels, was founded in 1995 in Golden, Colorado. It started as a partnership between Boston Chicken (now known as Boston Market) and the Einstein Brothers, a chain of bakeries. In 1999, the company merged with New World Coffee, which also owned Noah’s Bagels. This merger resulted in the formation of Einstein Noah Restaurant Group, the current owner of Einstein Bagels. Although the ownership has changed over the years, Einstein Bagels has retained its commitment to providing freshly baked bagels and a variety of other deli products.
Expansion and Growth
Following its merger, Einstein Bagels experienced rapid expansion and growth. The company expanded its menu offerings to include sandwiches, salads, and soups to complement their bagels. Today, there are over 700 Einstein Bagels locations spread across the United States, making it one of the largest bagel chains in the country. Despite its significant growth, Einstein Bagels remains dedicated to its original vision of serving freshly baked bagels and high-quality food to its customers.
In conclusion, while Caribou Coffee and Einstein Bagels may sometimes share physical space in co-branded locations, they are separate entities with different owners. Caribou Coffee is owned by JAB Holding Company, while Einstein Bagels falls under the umbrella of the Einstein Noah Restaurant Group. Both companies have experienced growth and success in their respective fields and continue to provide their customers with delicious coffee and bagels. Whether you are a coffee enthusiast or a bagel lover, you can find satisfaction in these two distinct establishments.