A rapidly expanding drive-thru coffee chain that boasts more than 20,000 unique drink combinations has its sights set on Galesburg.
7 Brew, which operates over 300 drive-thru-only locations across 32 states, including 13 in Illinois, says it plans to open a location in Galesburg later this year.
A corporate spokesperson tells WGIL, “Yes, plans are in motion for a new 7 Brew location in Galesburg, and our current goal is to open toward the end of 2025.”
7 Brew did not reveal the location of its proposed Galesburg store. Steve Gugliotta, director of Community Development, said his office has received and reviewed site plans for a 7 Brew location in Galesburg.
Signature offerings include:
- Coffee: Espresso-based drinks like the “Blondie” (caramel and vanilla breve) and “Cinnamon Roll” (white chocolate and brown sugar cinnamon).
- Specialty drinks: Trending options like the brown sugar cinnamon strawberry chai tea with cold foam, popularized on TikTok.
- Other beverages: Energy drinks, teas, lemonades, smoothies, and milkshakes.
- Service style: Baristas take orders via iPads at the vehicle, similar to Chick-fil-A, creating an “energetic” and personal experience.
7 Brew’s locations are typically small, around 510 square feet, with a drive-thru focus and occasional walk-up options.
The nearest 7 Brew location to Galesburg is in Sterling. Other Illinois locations include Champaign, Danville, two in Decatur, Huntley, Jacksonville, Lake Zurich, Marion, Mount Vernon, Naperville, Round Lake, and Urbana.
Galesburg could soon have 12 coffee shops or drive-throughs. With the anticipated opening of 7 Brew, there also are three Starbucks locations, Scooter’s, and Dunkin’, along with locally-owned Innkeeper’s Fresh Roasted Coffee, three Orange Cup Java Station locations, The Beanhive and Dame Fine Coffee.
