Franchising

Jersey Mike’s franchisee opening Dunn Bros Coffee in Illinois, Iowa

Photo: Dunn

October 8, 2026

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Dunn Brothers Coffee is entering Illinois and adding to its Iowa presence through a development agreement with a new multi-unit franchisee.

The Minneapolis-based chain signed the deal with Beans & Rice LLC, led by Kevin and Michelle Ramirez. The agreement covers shops in Davenport and Clinton, Iowa, and East Moline, Illinois, with the first location opening in 2027.

The Ramirezes, both Iowa natives, have more than two decades of franchise experience, and operate multiple Jersey Mike's Subs restaurants and previously spent 20 years as Arby's franchisees.

"After more than 20 years in franchising, we know what a strong brand partner looks like," Michelle Ramirez said in a company press release. "Dunn Brothers roasts its coffee right in the shop, which gives guests an experience they can't find anywhere else, and the leadership team has supported us at every step. It felt like the right brand for our next chapter."

Kevin Ramirez said the couple are avid coffee enthusiasts who like seeing everything made fresh in the shop.

"We believe in giving back to the areas that allow us to operate, and to give back consistently," he said in the release. "Our upcoming coffee shops will allow us to do just that."

Dunn Brothers roasts globally sourced coffee beans in small batches in its shops daily.

The agreement follows a busy year for the chain. In Minnesota, Dunn Brothers recently opened four locations at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, where it is the official coffee partner. It also became the official coffee partner of the St. Paul Saints earlier this year. The company has announced plans to expand into South Dakota next summer.

"We are excited to support them with the brand expansion into Illinois, while strengthening our presence in Iowa with additional shops," said Ben Anderson, president of Dunn Brothers Coffee. "They are community-focused leaders that we are proud to be partnering with."

Founded in 1987, Dunn Brothers has nearly 50 locations in six states.