The Mugg & Bean founder, Ben Filmalter, didn’t just build a coffee franchise—he created a cultural phenomenon. With over 260 restaurants across South Africa and beyond, Mugg & Bean has become synonymous with generous portions, bottomless coffee, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. But how did it all start? Let’s dive into the inspiring journey of the Mugg & Bean founder and the brand’s rise to success.
The Early Days of the Mugg & Bean Founder
Ben Filmalter, the Mugg & Bean founder, was born in Vryburg, South Africa, in 1949. Raised on a farm until the age of five, he later moved to the East Rand after his father’s passing. His journey into hospitality began in 1968 as a chef’s apprentice, and by 1979, he was managing one of Johannesburg’s premier hotels. It was during this time that he met his wife, Judi, a pastry chef, who would become his lifelong business partner.
Filmalter’s entrepreneurial spirit shone early. In the 1980s, he and his brother John revived a struggling restaurant, Linger Longer, turning it into one of South Africa’s finest dining establishments. This success marked the beginning of his “Restaurant Life,” where he opened over 50 restaurants, each with unique concepts ranging from Cajun to Mexican cuisine.
The Birth of Mugg & Bean
The idea for Mugg & Bean came during a trip to Chicago in the early 1990s. The Mugg & Bean founder and his wife visited a cozy coffee shop that left a lasting impression. Inspired by its warm atmosphere and bottomless coffee, they envisioned bringing a similar concept to South Africa.
In 1996, the first Mugg & Bean opened at Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront. Combining the values of generosity and quality, the restaurant was an instant hit. Two years later, Filmalter began franchising, allowing the brand to expand rapidly. By 2003, Mugg & Bean had over 80 locations, a testament to its growing popularity.
Innovation and Expansion
The Mugg & Bean founder was a visionary who constantly reinvented the brand. From introducing Rooibos tea espresso to offering Wi-Fi in restaurants, Filmalter ensured Mugg & Bean stayed ahead of the curve. His focus on generous portions and a family-friendly atmosphere resonated with South Africans, making it a staple in shopping malls and city centers.
In 2009, Famous Brands acquired Mugg & Bean for R104 million, a move that further solidified its position in the market. Despite the acquisition, Filmalter’s legacy of innovation and customer-centric values remained intact.
Mia Family: The Pioneers Behind Waterfall City
The Legacy of the Mugg & Bean Founder
Ben Filmalter’s journey wasn’t without challenges. From near-bankruptcy in the 1990s to building a multi-million-rand empire, his resilience and creativity defined his career. After selling Mugg & Bean, he moved to the U.S., where he continued to explore new ventures until his passing in 2016.
Today, Mugg & Bean stands as a testament to the Mugg & Bean founder’s vision. With over 260 restaurants in South Africa, Kenya, Botswana, and the UAE, the brand continues to thrive, offering generous portions, bottomless coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Get the latest entrepreneurial success stories, expert tips, and exclusive updates delivered straight to your inbox — Sign up for Entrepreneur Hub SA’s newsletter today!
