In a world obsessed with food trucks and mobile food and beverage concepts, finding the right balance of opportunity and sustainability can be the perfect recipe for success. Russ O’Rear and his wife, Amber, are Kona Ice franchise owners who saw an opportunity to grow their food truck empire with Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee. Through a blend of entrepreneurial spirit, family collaboration, and strong corporate support, the O’Rears have crafted a thriving success story.
Frozen Treats, Specialty Drinks, and Craft Coffee
Why Travelin’ Tom’s and Kona Ice Make the Perfect Pairing
Russ O’Rear, his wife Amber, and their family were already seasoned in the food truck business as Kona Ice franchisees when they expanded into the Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee concept. Owning three Kona Ice trucks, they were well-acquainted with the seasonal nature of food trucks. Kona Ice is a summer staple. When the founder of Kona Ice, Tony Lamb (pictured above with Russ and Amber), introduced the Travelin’ Tom’s opportunity, Russ saw it as a way to keep his business and staff busy year-round and he jumped at the chance.
Russ and Amber purchased their first Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee truck in July 2021, marking a pivotal moment in their business journey. The addition of a coffee truck franchise bolstered their revenue during the cooler seasons and ensured consistent employment for their team.
“The biggest advantage for us is being able to keep quality full-time employees all year and not losing them for lack of hours during Kona’s slower seasons,” Russ explains.
Travelin’ Tom’s offers a wide variety of specialty drinks, including traditional coffee options, Nitro Cold Brew, and Caramel Frappuccinos, as well as alternative beverages like hot chocolate, energy drinks, lemonade, and tea. With something for everyone, the broad appeal of Travelin’ Tom’s has clients lining up no matter the season.
Running a Food Truck Franchise Empire
Making Travelin’ Tom’s a Family Affair
For Russ, owning a Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee franchise is more than just a business; it’s an endeavor his whole family enjoys. His wife, daughter Emma, and son-in-law Bryant are all integral to the daily operations, alongside their talented manager, Mya. With five full-time and around 15 part-time employees, the team works cohesively to handle all aspects of the business.
Emma serves as the General Manager, overseeing everything from scheduling to operations. Bryant focuses on maintaining equipment, inventory, and the warehouse. Mya handles client relationships and event coordination, ensuring the business continues to grow. Together, this dream team exemplifies the power of collaboration in a family business.
Russ credits Tony Lamb, the founder of both Kona Ice and Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee, as a key reason for investing in the coffee franchise.
“Tony is such a great leader,” says Russ. “He’s innovative, franchisee-centered, and he genuinely cares. Anything he does will be successful if you do your part. We trust him completely.”
In addition to Tony’s leadership, Travelin’ Tom’s sets itself apart with its unparalleled corporate support. From Tom’s Academy—a 2.5-day intensive training program—to ongoing coaching, regional calls, and a treasure trove of resources, franchisees are never left to navigate challenges or celebrate their successes alone.
“The efficiency of corporate resources for what we pay is unparalleled,” Russ notes. “There’s no substitute for experience, and Tony built this thing from the ground up.”
Overcoming the Challenges of a New Brand
Like any new venture, the early days of Russ’s Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee franchise came with challenges. As a relatively new franchise concept, building brand awareness in new markets created some hurdles, as did learning to manage and operate the new equipment. However, corporate support made all the difference, and the product simply sold itself—people love it!
“Tony and his team held weekly calls with us for the first year of development,” Russ recalls. “They listened, pivoted, and even engineered a lithium battery system that makes our operations clean and efficient. It’s very innovative! Our equipment can do things other trucks simply can’t.”
Why Travelin’ Tom’s is a Unique Proposition
For Russ, Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee is certainly more than just another food truck. It’s a community-focused, innovative brand that stands out in the mobile food industry. The coffee truck’s ability to serve at events and venues in any season has opened up new revenue streams and solidified year-round profitability.
“Our truck is engineered to be clean and efficient,” Russ says. “That innovation allows us to take on opportunities that other trucks simply can’t.”
Advice for Aspiring Franchise Owners
Russ’s advice for anyone considering a Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee franchise is straightforward: “If you’re serious about running a business, creating opportunities, and making a difference, do it. Although it’s hard work, it’s incredibly rewarding.”
Russ emphasizes that corporate support, coupled with the satisfaction of working with family, makes the effort worthwhile.
“Tony and the corporate staff will be your biggest cheerleaders,” Russ adds. “If you’re willing to put in the effort, success will follow. I just love running these businesses alongside my family.”
What’s Ahead for Travelin’ Tom’s
As Russ continues to grow his Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee business, he focuses on serving his community, supporting his team, and building a legacy.
“What I love most about this business is my team,” he says. “To work with family every day and see their dedication—it’s incredible. We’re truly blessed.”
Russ O’Rear’s journey with Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee is a testament to the power of hard work, faith, and community. By seizing opportunities and embracing innovation, he’s created a thriving business worthy of inspiring aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere.
Learn more about Joining Travelin’ Tom’s at travelintomscoffee.com or email ownacoffeetruck@
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