An Oregon-based drive-thru coffee chain is charging ahead with plans to open new stores across four states this summer as part of its aggressive growth strategy.

Dutch Bros Coffee - famous for its cult following and sprawling secret menu - has been rapidly expanding since 2021, more than doubling its total store count.

Over the last five years, the chain has grown from 500 to 1,234 locations, including 185 new stores this year - and it hopes to have a total footprint of 2,029 stores by 2029.

Dutch Bros' expansion comes as it serves up some of the most impressive results in the industry: In the first quarter, the chain reported an 8 percent jump in same-store sales, fueled by a 5 percent increase in customer traffic - double Starbucks comparable store sales in the quarter.

It also comes as local and nationwide chains are competing aggressively for a bigger share of America's coffee habit. 

Established brands are rolling out new cold drinks and energy beverages, while upstart drive-thru chains  are rapidly expanding nationwide.

Dutch Bros outlets are presently concentrated in the Western and Southwestern United States.

The summer expansion targets states where it has a smaller presence, like Ohio with five stores, Illinois with seven outlets and North Carolina with 10 locations.

In June, the chain will open four new stores, one each in Florida, Illinois, North Carolina and Ohio.

Dutch Bros fans say they love the chain's upbeat atmosphere, speedy service and friendly 'broistas,' as they call staff members. 

But what really keeps customers coming back is the chain's famous secret menu.

Among the fan favorites unveiled this spring were the Red Velvet White Chocolate Blended Mocha and the Funky Monkey, an espresso-based drink made with double chocolate sauce and banana syrup and topped with whipped cream.

The announcement comes as smaller coffee chains continue to challenge industry giants Starbucks and Dunkin'.

One of the fastest-growing rivals is 7 Brew, which launched in Rogers, Arkansas, in 2017 and has since expanded to more than 700 locations across 38 states, with hundreds more in development.

The chain has attracted customers with lower prices, weekly deals and a menu boasting more than 20,000 drink combinations, while most customizations come at no extra charge.

Its stores have also delivered impressive results, averaging $2.66 million in annual sales - topping Dutch Bros' roughly $2.16 million and Starbucks' $1.9 million per US store.