The Spice & Tea Exchange® Achieves 100 Store Milestone: A Franchise Success Story

100th Store Celebration of The Spice & Tea Exchange®

The Spice & Tea Exchange®, a premier retail brand specializing in fine spices, unique seasoning blends, and exotic loose-leaf teas, is marking a significant milestone with the opening of its 100th store in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, on November 13, 2026. This achievement places the brand among the less than 18% of franchise brands that reach the 100-store threshold, a milestone that typically requires a decade of hard work and strategic investment.

A Milestone with a Meaning

This exciting moment is indicative of the franchise's growth and the confidence that franchisees, like Jason and Nicole Green, have in the brand. Amy Freeman, the CEO and Co-Founder, pointed out that each of the 100 locations tells a story of owners who chose to invest in the Spice & Tea Exchange® and reflect a robust belief in the franchise system.

"Every store represents a commitment to our brand’s vision and potential," said Freeman, emphasizing the importance of the multi-unit operators in enabling the franchise to thrive. The Greens, who signed a multi-store agreement, opened their first location in Bentonville before preparing to launch their next one in Fayetteville.

The Owner's Journey

Jason and Nicole Green, both long-time fans of The Spice & Tea Exchange®, were drawn to the brand because of their mutual passion for cooking and healthy living. With nearly 50 years of retail and supply chain experience between them, they bring valuable insights and expertise into their operations. Nicole has a rich background that includes spending over two decades in retail, while Jason has honed his skills in logistics and supply chain management.

Their son, Reece, is also involved in the family business, creating a legacy of passion for the brand. This family-oriented approach makes their journey even more commendable. "It's a full-circle moment for us, as we have been loyal customers of this brand for so long," said Nicole.

The Greens are not just focused on the business aspect; they are committed to making a positive impact in their community. The new store in Eureka Springs aims to become a local hotspot where residents can explore and discover a world of flavors.

Training and Support Structure

The Spice & Tea Exchange® is renowned not only for its products but also for its thorough training and support framework. Aspiring franchise owners go through a comprehensive five-day training program called Spice UniversiTEA in St. Augustine, Florida. After signing agreements and starting the build-out, new owners receive two weeks of on-site training followed by ongoing support via Franchise Business Consultants.

This meticulous system helps ensure that franchisees are well-prepared and supported as they transition into the business, leading to long-term success. Tatum Crews, Vice President of Sales and Franchise Operations, highlighted that the franchise's success is tied directly to its franchise owners' achievements. The Greens exemplify the kind of helpful and engaged owners that the brand seeks.

The Grand Opening Event

To celebrate the opening of their new store, Jason and Nicole are hosting a Friends & Family night on November 12, which will take place before the official public opening on November 13. This launch event will offer attendees a chance to experience the unique atmosphere the store promises, including the ability to smell, taste, and sample over 140 spices, 85 seasoning blends, and 40 types of loose-leaf teas available for purchase.

Looking Ahead

With this 100-store milestone, The Spice & Tea Exchange® shows no signs of slowing down. With plans for further expansion and growing recognition within the industry—in fact, it was recently named in the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies in the Southeast—the brand is well poised for future success. Potential franchisees interested in building a culinary and exploratory hub in their communities can find out more about opportunities at The Spice & Tea Exchange® when they visit their franchise page.

Overall, this celebration is not merely a testament to the durability and appeal of The Spice & Tea Exchange® but also a symbol of community, family, and shared passion for fine culinary experiences. With committed owners like Jason and Nicole Green leading the way, the future looks bright for this dynamic brand.

Conclusion

The Spice & Tea Exchange® is more than just a retail brand; it’s a community of passionate individuals from all walks of life, each contributing to a shared mission of bringing delightful flavors and experiences to their neighborhoods. As it continues to grow, the commitment to quality, community, and customer engagement remains steadfast, setting a high benchmark in the specialty food industry.