The Twelve Tribes own over 25 substantial businesses around the world, including high-end construction companies that do not publicly acknowledge their affiliation. I have provided a list of links to Twelve Tribes businesses below. I believe the Twelve Tribes hides the extent of their business operations and wealth from the public and their own members.
The origins of the Twelve Tribes trace back to a youth ministry called the "Light Brigade", started in 1972 by Gene Spriggs and his wife Marsha. The Light Brigade lived communally and opened a restaurant called the "Yellow Deli."
The Twelve Tribes can operate many businesses because members work without wages, with all proceeds going back into the group. While leaders claim some restaurants operate at a loss, construction businesses generate substantial revenue.
The Twelve Tribes sells maté to health-conscious consumers seeking natural wellness products. Lower brewing temperatures, around 60 to 65 degrees Celcius, are recommended.
The Mate Factor in Savannah is owned by the Twelve Tribes, a religious community. Brian Fenster explains that the group supports itself by creating businesses that allow members to stay close to their families. The community has supported itself in Savannah through its Commonwealth Construction company and a tall ship. Some travelers who visited Machu Picchu like the mate drinks because it reminds them of their trips.
The Mate Factor serves coffee, espresso drinks, baked goods, and mate drinks made from certified organic maté from Brazil. Students can enjoy the drinks, baked goods and free wifi.
A friend’s sister got involved with the Twelve Tribes. After money, legal authorities and deprogramming she returned home. They invited me once for a free lunch years ago but haven’t been back since. Though friendly, they leave me alone now.
Many working at the Mate Factor are victims who likely didn’t fully understand the teachings when they joined. We should feel compassion and offer help to leave as they own nothing and need support.
The Maté Factor is a coffee shop chain run by The Twelve Tribes, a religious group that nevertheless makes good maté. I’ve eaten at the franchise in Ithaca, New York. Their overarching organization also owns the yellow deli in Boulder.
In Ithaca many people consider the consequences of how and where they spend their money. So in the summer of 2006 when we learned about the history, beliefs and practices of the Twelve Tribes religious group that owns and operates the Mate Factor on the Commons, we were surprised that fellow Ithacans had yet to organize any kind of public awareness effort.
The Twelve Tribes religious cult. Promoting a boycott and raising awareness about the beliefs and practices. The group operates as a 501(d) – "for-profit organization with a religious purpose and a common treasury."
The Yellow Deli is one of the revenue streams of a Christian sect called “The Twelve Tribes Community” or “The Community.” It was founded in 1972 in Chattanooga, Tennessee by Elbert “Gene” Spriggs. There are 8 Yellow Deli locations. Members live communally, sharing money and resources.
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The Ithaca, NY branch has been present about 20 years. Their presence has attracted negative attention as most Ithacans know Twelve Tribes is a cult, appealing more to visitors. When the group arrived in 2003, they held a forum to address concerns but 20 years later remain.
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Locals are divided on whether it is a cult. A 400-page child manual and FBI documents point to corporal punishment and striking children being required for obedience. The deli works to serve the community through simplicity.