Biggby Bob visits UM-Dearborn

He started with a small coffee shop in East Lansing.

Bob Fish later decided to franchise. Today, that idea has spawned into more than 130 stores throughout the Midwest.

Fish, CEO and cofounder of Biggby Coffee, spoke Jan. 12 at UM-Dearborn’s Fairlane Center.

More than 50 members of the campus community attended the event, in which Fish spoke about his company’s extraordinary growth through franchising.

The event stems from the Business of Franchising Initiative at the College of Business, which educates students and graduates about franchising as a business or entrepreneurial opportunity and connects students to franchising opportunities. The University is hosting a series of events that guide participants through the world of franchising.

In addition to the events, eligible students will be able to participate in franchising internships, where they will gain knowledge of the organizational structure and “behind the scenes” operations of a franchise. The Michigan Initiative for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, in partnership with iLabs at the College of Business, provided initial funding for the program.

For more information about the franchising program, contact the College of Business at 313-583-4060.