Well now, it’s about time you’re able to get a nice espresso when you drop off your grain. Can you say, “After you get done checking the moisture content can you fix me a nice cappuccino?” It looks like this fits into the “Energy” component of the CHS business. I know I need some each morning to get going. I put a little caffeine in me and some ethanol in my vehicle. In fact, I think I need another cup right now.

CHS Inc., a leading energy and grain-based foods company, announced today it has formed a joint venture with Mountain Mudd, LLC, which operates drive-thru specialty coffee kiosks in 22 states. Under the agreement, CHS will partner with the present owners, Brenda and Dennis Burkhartsmeier, who will continue to manage and operate the business in Billings, Mont. Financial terms of the partnership were not disclosed.

Mountain Mudd Espresso, was formed 13 years ago and has over 70 branded specialty coffee kiosks, the nation’s largest in its sector. “We believe this is an excellent opportunity to enter this growing niche market,” said Leon Westbrock, executive vice president, Energy, for CHS. “Our involvement with Mountain Mudd kiosks provides a unique way for both convenience stores and other businesses to expand their retail offerings.” “The specialty coffee market is one of the fastest growing food service segments and is projected to expand by 7 percent annually,” said Brenda Burkhartsmeier, president of Mountain Mudd Espresso. “This joint venture with CHS will help us reach the rapidly growing drive-thru portion of the specialty coffee market.”