Mokas Coffee & Eatery Targets Kansas City in Nine-Unit Expansion

Operating under the newly formed Cornerstone Hospitality, Turner and Bennett are leveraging decades of combined experience in business development and multi-unit franchising to scale the brand. The expansion focuses on high-traffic corridors in Clay and Jackson Counties, aiming to replicate the company's model of combining in-house roasted coffee with made-to-order breakfast and lunch menus.

Turner, a U.S. Army veteran and founder of Duty First Holdings, and Bennett, a specialist in construction and land development, intend to position the cafes as community hubs. Beyond the commercial footprint, the partners plan to implement mentorship programs for young employees and establish charitable partnerships within each local market. Jason Ingermanson, CEO of JRI Hospitality, noted that the group’s background aligns with the brand’s focus on community-centric growth. Site selection for the nine units is currently underway, with the first openings projected for 2027.