Retail Food Group buys Gloria Jean's

Snapping up of Gloria Jean's upped its store count by 358 domestically and 420 around the world, making Retail Food Group the "clear leader in retail food franchises specialising in coffee", said chief executive Tony Alford.

The acquisition triples its roasting capacity, but Gloria Jean's will retain its usual coffee blends and flavours.

"Each of our Brand Systems has a specific, unique blend which does differ," he said. "Our capacity to deliver ... unique coffee flavour profile further strengthens opportunities for differentiation between brands."

The coffee chain is expected to rake in $11.8 million in earnings before interest and tax in the 2015 financial year and $6.3 million in profit. It has long been the target of the company.

"We have recognised the opportunity to capitalise on coffee excellence, while also expanding into freshly prepared food lines as major elements to drive franchisee sales," Mr Alford said.