Utica Biggby Owner Hangs up Apron

There may be one less familiar face for those of you whose morning routine consists of stopping at the on Hall Road for a hot cup of Joe.

Well, you can still get Joe, but you won't see Joe. Utica Biggby franchise owner Joe Butkovich sold the store last week to neighboring owner Sam Aleman.

However, assured his loyal Biggby fans that all the friendly Utica Biggby employees will remain.

Butkovich launched the Utica Biggby store in 2008, on the same day as Dave Daynko opened the Biggby on Van Dyke, just north of 23 Mile Road.

But after more than 4 years in the business, the 29-year-old Washington Township resident told Patch he has decided to hang up his apron and set down the Carmel Marvels. 

But that doesn't mean Joe, who lives up the road in Washington Township is done with Biggby. On this particular Monday, Patch found Butkovich, sipping on a cold quad super Americano with chocolate, caramel and whip cream. Nobody can throw out fancy drink orders like a former barista.

So what was life like for the Utica Biggby owner?

Patch: How was your experience with the Biggby?

Joe: It was good. It was a learning experience for sure. I learned a lot in the last three and a half years. I think it’s a good company. They’ll end up taking over the Midwest market and at least Michigan, and I think they’ll continue to grow.

Patch: Why did you decide to sell your store?

Joe: I opened on Dec. 16, 2008, the same day as the 23 Mile Road Biggby. The timing was right. I am just looking to move on to different areas. I am back in school and studying legal.

Patch: What’s the thing you’ll miss the most about Biggby?

Joe: The employees and the customers, and learning about their lives and stories. I'll especially miss my morning customers because they know me too.

Patch: What was the single best day working with Biggby?

Joe: Our company Christmas party. That was always great. It was a chance to get to know my employees better and treat them to a night of fun. Another time is when we hit 300 cups sold in one day.

Patch: Do you have a message for your employees and customers?

Joe: I will miss them all and I wish them the best of luck. If anyone wants to get in touch with me, my email is jbutkovi@gmail.com.

Good luck to you, Joe.