| 5 to go | |
| Type: | Private |
| Founded: | [1] |
| Location: | Bucharest, Romania |
| Area Served: | Romania, Hungary |
| Industry: | Coffee |
| Products: |
|
| Num Locations: | 550+ (2024) |
| Homepage: | fivetogo.ro |
5 to go is a Romanian coffee chain founded in Bucharest in 2015 by Radu Savopol and Lucian Bădilă. The brand quickly gained popularity due to its unique pricing strategy, initially offering all items for a fixed price of 5 RON (Romanian Leu), which translates to approximately €1 or $1.20. This approach made specialty coffee and a variety of other products accessible to a wider audience.
The first 5 to go café opened in February 2015 in Bucharest. The concept was developed to cater to the fast-paced lifestyle of urban residents, providing high-quality coffee and snacks at an affordable price. Within a short period, the chain expanded rapidly due to its successful business model and strong customer demand.
By 2020, 5 to go had grown to over 150 locations, not only in Bucharest but also in other major Romanian cities, making it one of the largest coffee chains in the country.[2] The expansion included both company-owned and franchise-operated stores. The brand's growth strategy focused on maintaining low prices while ensuring quality and consistency across all outlets.
As of 2024, 5 to go operates over 550 branches, extending its reach beyond Romania with several new locations in Hungary. Additionally, the company plans to enter the Slovakian and Bulgarian markets in 2024.[3] [4] [5] This international growth marks a significant milestone for the brand, showcasing its appeal and adaptability in new markets.
5 to go offers a range of coffee-based beverages, including espresso, cappuccino, and latte, as well as a variety of teas, fresh juices, and smoothies. The menu also includes pastries, sandwiches, and other snacks.[6]
The chain has received several awards and recognitions for its innovative business model and rapid growth. In 2018, 5 to go won the "Best Romanian Brand" award at the Forbes Brands for the Future Gala.[7] Additionally, Radu Savopol, co-founder of 5 to go, received the Outstanding Contribution to the European Coffee Industry award at the 2023 European Coffee Awards gala in Barcelona.[8]