Australian owned global specialty coffee brand, Gloria JeanÕs Coffees, has been awarded the Excellence in International Franchising Award at the Australian MYOB Franchising Awards in Perth.

Gloria JeanÕs Coffees has driven a successful strategy that has seen the business grow to 917 coffee houses worldwide and 37 master franchise agreements signed across 36 countries including 489 coffee houses in Australia.

“Our vision is to be the most loved and respected coffee company in the world which includes having a presence in all capital cities around the world. This award recognises the contribution of our whole family of team members, franchise partners and supply partners who have made our international aspirations a reality,” said Nabi Saleh, executive chairman Gloria JeanÕs Coffees.

In the last 12 months the company has opened 10 new international markets, including India and China. Global sales have increased by more than 25 per cent and coffee house openings have grown 35 per cent encompassing 93 new openings.

Earlier this year Gloria JeanÕs Coffees International affiliate company, Praise International North America Inc, also completed negotiations to buy Gloria JeanÕs Coffees US retail and franchise operations from the US owner, comprising of 102 coffee houses in 24 states. This now brings all international master franchises for the brand under the management of Gloria JeanÕs Coffees International.

“For us, the US purchase marks a truly historic moment in the company history and the realisation of a dream to unite the global family of Gloria JeanÕs Coffees International under the one Vision.

“We expect continued growth into the future and our goal is to have 1,450 coffee houses opened by 2011,”said Saleh.