Lake City, Florida (June 6, 2025) – Ellianos Coffee, a southeast-based drive-thru specialty coffee brand, is proud to announce that QSR Magazine has recognized Executive Director Mallory Pruitt as one of the “29 Young Restaurant Leaders to Watch” in 2025. This prestigious list honors emerging leaders who are shaping the future of the quick-service restaurant industry through innovation, growth, and operational excellence.
At just 35, Pruitt has been instrumental in Ellianos Coffee’s rapid expansion across the Southeastern U.S., helping to grow the brand from a regional favorite to a nationally recognized franchise. Under her leadership, Ellianos has been named a Top Franchise for Women by Franchise Business Review and earned a spot in Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500 rankings.
“Mallory’s strategic vision and passion for empowering others have been key drivers of our success,” said Scott Stewart, Founder of Ellianos Coffee. “Her recognition by QSR Magazine is a testament to her leadership and the bright future she’s helping to build for Ellianos.”
Pruitt’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth has also helped position Ellianos as a standout brand for women entrepreneurs. She has championed initiatives that support female franchisees and team members, reinforcing the company’s mission to provide opportunities for all.
“It’s an incredible honor to be included among such inspiring leaders,” said Pruitt. “At Ellianos, we’re focused on building a brand that not only delivers exceptional coffee but also uplifts the people behind it. I’m excited to continue growing alongside our amazing team and franchise partners.”
The Ellianos menu boasts Signature Creations such as the Caffe Dolce Latte, iced Tuscany Toffee Latte, or a Cookies and Cream Freezer. For non-coffee drinkers, Ellianos offers fruit smoothies, energy drinks, teas, and refreshers. The coffee franchise also provides an array of food items such as breakfast sandwiches, fresh New York-style bagels, hearty breakfast bowls with creamy homemade grits, and more.
Over the past year, Ellianos has seen significant growth, expanding its footprint in Florida, Georgia, and Alabama, and offering territories in other states across the southeast. The brand continues to seek franchisees for territories in Alabama, Tennessee, South Carolina, and North Carolina.
About Ellianos Coffee
Ellianos Coffee, established in 2002 by entrepreneurs Scott and Pam Stewart, is committed to delivering Italian Quality at America's Pace®. Throughout its 20-year history, Ellianos has expanded to 68 stores, with over 200 more in various stages of development. Franchise Business Review (FBR) recognized Ellianos as a 2025 Top Franchise and a 2024 Top Food Franchise. Entrepreneur magazine included Ellianos in its 2025 Franchise 500® list, highlighting it among the nation's top franchises. Additionally, Ellianos was celebrated as a Top 10 Coffee Franchise by Entrepreneur Magazine in 2024 and was featured in QSR Magazine's 16 Best Restaurant Franchising Deals for 2024. To explore franchising opportunities with Ellianos Coffee, visit www.ellianos.com/franchising/.
