Oregon-based The Human Bean is looking to open its first location in Northeast Florida, starting with a site coming to Normandy Square at 7900 Normandy Blvd.
The company’s first Jacksonville location will move into the Winn-Dixie-anchored retail center that is less than a half-mile from 7Brew and Dunkin’, according to the Florida Times-Union. The new 562-square-foot site with a drive-thru was scheduled to open in early 2023, but there have been delays. This is the first of many locations from franchise owner Vershel Enterprises LLC, led by Florida native Vernon Higginbotham and Duval residents Christopher and Tracy Rodriquenz.
Once the group opens this location in Normandy Square, they hope to open at least three more locations in the area. The Human Bean currently only has one location in Florida in Lake City. The company has more than 300 locations open or in development in 25 states, many owned by local franchisees. When these new locations open, customers can expect a variety of specialty drinks, available hot, iced, or blended, such as Chocolate Macadamia Nut Breve, Irish Cream Breve, and Salted Caramel.
“Much like how The Human Bean originally started, we want to be more than just a business, we want to be a part of the community and treat everyone like a good human bean,” Tracy Rodriquenz told FTU last year in an email. “Every moment with customers is an opportunity to build authentic human connection, to make each other feel loved, seen, and valued. Our vision is to take something as simple as going through a drive-thru and turn it into something special while delivering both great beverages and a great experience.”
