New Biggby coffee shop opens on Plymouth Road in Ann Arbor
Be happy. That's the slogan for Biggby Coffee.
Yeah, caffeine can do that for a person. And so can the service at the new Biggby that just opened in Ann Arbor this week.The city’s third Biggby Coffee is owned and operated by local entrepreneur Jeannine Mickeleit, who according to its press release, earned degrees from both Eastern Michigan University and Michigan State University. Mickeleit pursued careers in both financial advising and teaching, but her experience as a BIGGBY customer left an impression that redirected her post-graduate plans.
“I graduated with a number of degrees. This means I spent a lot of time as a student studying at my favorite spot near campus, Biggby,” said Mickeleit. “I chose to open a store close to the U of M campus because I want to offer students the same great customer experience I had as a student at MSU.”And Mickeleit’s efforts show. Her attention to customers and her welcoming attitude make this a happy place to grab a great cup of coffee. Her friendliness is something that seems to rub off on patrons and staff alike.
The store has a more colorful, modern, new design. “Its friendly ….it fits with Biggby because we are the fun brand,” says Mickeleit. This week the fun includes a dancing chicken at the entry to the shopping plaza alerting passersby to the offer of a free cup of coffee now through Oct. 4.
But this Biggby is not all just fun and games; Mickeleit’s background in teaching drives her to get involved in the Ann Arbor community service as well. “Since I teach, I am somewhat involved with schools. I know how difficult it is for them to get additional funding,” explains Mickeleit. So the Plymouth Road store will be hosting an effort to raise funds for Huron High School’s athletic department this Saturday Oct. 3.Cory Gildersleeve, Huron High School’s varsity football coach, will be manning the barista counter instead of the field. One dollar from every beverage will support the high school’s athletic programs, according to the press release.
Lead Retail Blogger Angie Smith will hunt for deals and dish on the latest in retail in Ann Arbor. Readers will attain notices of great deals, and store happenings in and around the city. To report a news item or tip contact her at angieannarbor@gmail.com
Comments
Angela Smith
Sat, Oct 3, 2009 : 8:06 a.m.
Actually, thee free cup of coffee I had was excellent! Most people are familliar with Biggby, so I did not mention that in the post, but you may not know that Biggby (then Beaners) started off as a small Michingan coffee shop. From the Press Release: About BIGGBY COFFEE East Lansing, Mich.-based BIGGBY COFFEE was founded in March 1995 and began franchise operations in 1999. Today, the Company has 107 stores open across six states including Michigan, Ohio, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina and Wisconsin.
Wolverine3660
Fri, Oct 2, 2009 : 9:14 p.m.
Good location. However, the quality of the coffee served is far inferior to the coffee served at the Ugly Mug or Comet Coffee, or the Roos Roast Cart, or at the Mighty Good place.