KASEY BALL, Reveille Radio News Reporter:
A new location of the PJ’s coffee franchise has opened its doors in the North Gate area, offering students a new place to hit the books and promoting increased foot traffic in the area that will hopefully benefit nearby businesses. PJ’s is one of several new businesses to open in the North Gate area including a Menchie’s frozen yogurt, a CVS pharmacy, and a buffalo wild wings with more development on the way with the aim to increase the variety and convenience available to LSU students.General manager Billy Whitton believes that the addition of the new business next door to his Menchie’s location will be of great benefit in the months to come.
BILLY WHITTON (Menchie’s General Manager): “I think it’s really good. I think it’s going to help bring some business to the area, along with some of the other new locations that are coming into this area. And it should help us all out during different times of the year. I think people will see that there’s a Menchie’s here right now, when it’s a little cooler outside, and it will help bring them back once it starts to warm up, once we get out of the fifties.”
BALL: In addition to the potential boost to other businesses in the North Gate area, the new coffee shop will offer students another location to sit down and study, and will cater especially to the needs of students in terms of atmosphere and product. Co-owner Brad Crowder said in an interview what he believes PJ’s will bring to the table for students.
BRAD CROWDER (PJ’s franchise owner): We have a nice, relaxed environment in a very subdued setting. We have plenty of seating available, great for groups studying together. Once again, just a nice quiet atmosphere with also a great product.”
BALL: As development continues in the North Gate area, students can expect to see a wide variety of new choices for dining emerging, and business owners are eagerly awaiting for students to find their way to the North Gate’s to sample what they have to offer.
Kasey Ball, Reveille Radio News.