Honeybee Coffee to Reopen Knoxville Locations with New Investors
Knoxville is buzzing with excitement as Honeybee Coffee announces its return after a long closure. The popular coffee shop brand will reopen its stores but without the brewery component. This change comes alongside the addition of three new investors who have come on board to help revive the business.
Reopening Timeline
Honeybee Coffee has been re-establishing its presence in the community. The company recently took to social media to inform customers that its Sevierville shop reopened on August 23. Other locations are also set to follow, with the shops on Sevier Avenue in South Knoxville and Kingston Pike in West Knoxville set to open between August 26 and August 27. According to co-owner and founder Norris Hill, all locations may be operational within a week and a half. The shop in West Town Mall might take a little longer to reopen as negotiations regarding the lease are still in process.
A Return to Roots
“We’re going to go back to what we do best, and that’s providing a fantastic experience around coffee,” Hill stated. He emphasized Honeybee’s commitment to being a part of the Knoxville community, a mission he intends to fulfill as the company gets back on its feet.
Background on Recent Challenges
The journey to reopening hasn’t been easy. Honeybee’s previous owner, Aaron Hensley, purchased the brand in February, with plans to expand through franchising. Unfortunately, his business tactics created turmoil within the staff and led to a mass exodus. Reports from former employees highlighted the challenging work environment marked by unpaid wages and the removal of tips.
Hensley left the company on June 25 after many employees walked out. Since then, Hill has regained control of Honeybee Coffee and has been working tirelessly to bring back familiar faces, with over 20 former staff members returning to help restart the operations.
Important Lessons Learned
Reflecting on the struggles, Hill noted that the experience taught him vital lessons about maintaining focus on the company’s roots and community connections. “Had I not taken my eye off of who we are and the ethos of Honeybee as a community, I don’t think we would have gotten in trouble,” he said.
Honeybee Coffee’s finances remain tight, which adds additional pressure to reopen quickly. The company has been losing money while the shops stood empty, prompting urgent action to start serving customers again.
Recent Investments and Changes
During the closure, several local investors showed interest in helping Honeybee return. Hill has retained part ownership while three anonymous investors will support the revitalization of the beloved coffee shops. This fresh collaboration indicates a new beginning for the brand, allowing Hill to execute his vision for the company’s future.
Ongoing Challenges
Although Honeybee will not have its brewery anymore, it continues to sell locally roasted coffee and some beers at the South Knoxville and West Knoxville shops. Hill believes these offerings will help attract a wide range of customers.
Looking Toward a Brighter Future
As Honeybee Coffee works through its reopening, Hill emphasizes the community’s importance in their journey. “The way forward presented itself, and it was through the community of Knoxville,” he explained, hopeful for the coffee brand’s successful re-establishment. This sentiment resonates strongly with loyal customers eager to enjoy Honeybee’s coffee once again.
As the company races against time to open its doors, Honeybee Coffee is determined to continue serving its loyal patrons while working diligently to rebuild its brand in Knoxville.
