Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii Expands to Louisville
Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii, a popular coffee franchise known for its premium Hawaiian coffee and lively café environment, is set to begin its expansion in Louisville, Kentucky with a signed agreement for three new locations. The first coffee shop is scheduled to open its doors in early 2026, marking a significant milestone for the brand as it strengthens its presence in the Bluegrass State.
A Unique Partnership
The franchise deal is spearheaded by Daniel and Nicole Lenhardt, a husband-and-wife duo with a rich background in diverse fields. Daniel, who comes from Austria, has experience in sports and healthcare industries, emphasizing business development and client relationship management. On the other hand, Nicole, a Louisville native, has a heartfelt profession as a nurse and a history as a competitive field hockey player at the University of Pennsylvania. Their love for community, alongside their entrepreneurial aspirations, has led them to embark on this exciting journey together.
The couple first discovered Bad Ass Coffee during their honeymoon in Maui, where they developed a lasting appreciation for the coffee atmosphere. After numerous visits, they decided to bring the Aloha spirit back to Louisville by becoming franchisees, eager to share their passion for coffee culture with the local community.
Meeting Local Demands
“The people of Louisville have a discerning taste for food and coffee, and we believe that introducing Bad Ass Coffee to this community will fulfill their desire for high-quality options,” expressed Daniel Lenhardt. He emphasized that the vibrant and inviting environment of Bad Ass Coffee will be a refreshing addition to the local café scene, attracting both coffee enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Daniel and Nicole aim to create an “alternative space” where individuals can enjoy coffee in a setting that reflects their European café experiences while infusing it with Hawaiian elements. The couple has already started scouting locations for their first Louisville unit, eagerly anticipating its opening.
Brand Growth and Community Focus
Scott Snyder, the CEO of Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii, praised the Lenhardts’ commitment to excellence: “They are exactly the type of partners we seek—ambitious, enthusiastic, and eager to achieve perfection. Their choice of Louisville aligns perfectly with our growth strategy, expanding our presence in Kentucky beyond Lexington.”
Since its inception in 1989 on the Big Island of Hawaii, Bad Ass Coffee has shared its mission of delivering premium Hawaiian coffee sourced from renowned regions like Kona, Kauai, and Maui. In addition to outstanding coffee offerings, the brand provides a wide array of blended drinks, signature lattes, teas, and innovative menu items that incorporate Hawaiian flavors and culture.
As the company continues to expand, Bad Ass Coffee remains focused on partnering with franchisees who share its vision of responsible growth and quality experiences. The brand offers comprehensive support systems including marketing assistance, operational guidance, and real estate expertise to ensure franchisees succeed in their endeavors.
For individuals interested in joining the Bad Ass Coffee family, the investment for starting a franchise ranges from $454,200 to $920,500, with additional perks for veterans joining through the International Franchise Association VetFran program.
If you want to learn more about franchising with Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii, you can visit their website at
badasscoffeefranchise.com or contact them directly at 833-205-2224.
With nearly 40 existing locations across the United States and more on the way, Bad Ass Coffee is committed to celebrating Hawaiian coffee culture while fostering community connections and memorable café experiences.