Emmanuel Kokoris

Operations mogul & unswerving pragmatist

Emmanuel Kokoris, an original founder of The Coffee Club back in 1989, has had a long association with the retail hospitality industry for almost 40 years having owned many small businesses in Brisbane, some of which were co-owned by co-founder of The Coffee Club Emmanuel Drivas. Furthermore, Kokoris has had experience in the franchise industry as a franchisee for Big Rooster in Queensland. 

In 1988, Kokoris and Drivas set up Lectmont Pty Ltd (now The Coffee Club Franchising Company Pty Ltd). In 1989, Lectmont Pty Ltd established The Coffee Club's first store at Eagle Street Pier, Brisbane, which has now progressed to a franchise of more than 270 stores. 

Kokoris is currently involved in day to day leadership of The Coffee Club as Director, with a special interest and gift in the area of operations. 

In his personal life, Kokoris has held a number of committee member seats in Hellenic community groups in Brisbane. His selfless endeavour to improve the lives of sick children in Australia has led to The Coffee Club Changing Children's Lives initiative which raises much needed funds for Children's Hospital Foundations Australia (CHFA) ongoing. 

Kokoris' peers describe him as a man of intellect, knowledge and creativity who seems to make practical sense every time he speaks. A perpetual realist, Kokoris aggressively seeks absolute solutions to any challenge and never leaves an opportunity waiting. Many describe him as inspirational in his pursuit for best practice operations. He's also well-known as the 'Director of Golf' amongst colleagues, friends, and himself! 

How do you take your coffee? 

Short black with cream on the side. 

Caught "out" having said (after every sentence):

"...and that's the end of the story." 

What is your favourite meal on The Coffee Club menu?

I'd have to say a Chef's Choice that I had at The Coffee Club West End in December 2007. It was called ‘Thai Marinated Chicken with Coriander’ – supple chicken breast marinated in a sauce designed by their Chef, served with fresh couscous and coriander. There is a lot of Good Food on our standard menu in all stores, but when I visit a CBR (Café Bar Restaurant), I have to try one of the Chef's creations. They are ever-changing and delicious...and that's the end of the story!