ST. PAUL, Minn. ?" Mountain Mudd Espresso drive-thru specialty coffee is expanding into the state of Connecticut through a long-term contract with PJP Coffee Enterprises, Inc. "I??m thrilled to represent the Mountain Mudd brand and bring world-class specialty coffee drinks to the Nutmeg State," said Phillip J. Penn, owner of PJP Coffee Enterprises, in a press release.

Penn, already a minority owner of two non-competing beverage businesses, will be drawing on more than two decades of business experience to drive the success of Mountain Mudd in Connecticut. First phase of the development includes opening two Mountain Mudd kiosks in Hartford and Litchfield counties in 2011, with plans to develop 38 additional franchise locations in Connecticut by early 2016.

"We are excited to grow into the Connecticut market and move into this strategic relationship with Phil Penn," said Gary Braaten, president of Mountain Mudd operations for CHS. "Phil??s experience and entrepreneurial spirit are impressive, and his personal passion for the brand is contagious. This expansion fits our mission of becoming the dominant, premier drive-thru specialty coffee retailer worldwide. The success of our franchisees is our highest priority."

Despite the weak economic backdrop, Mountain Mudd Espresso system-wide sales held strong in 2010, and are slated for substantial growth in 2011, according to Braaten.

"Mountain Mudd locations offer the same great experience and delectable products, whether you order your latte in Burlington, Conn., or Byblos, Lebanon," said Jill Mason, Mountain Mudd national sales consultant. "Progressive entrepreneurs recognize the value of this brand and are capitalizing on the market for convenient, premium beverages."