What Are the Best Coffee Franchises?

Coffee: The nectar of the gods and a pick-me-up that underpins our regimented lifestyles. Whichever way you describe it, this is certain – coffee is one of the most popular beverages on our planet. Besides, coffeehouses are on every corner, and chances are good that there’s one within walking distance of where you’re sitting right now. Meanwhile, take a quick peek at one of the best coffee franchises you’ve probably heard of, or maybe not.

Do you want in on the coffee business? If so, you’re in good company, as many people dream of opening their coffee shop one day. Plus, the franchise route appears ‘more scenic’ than going it alone.

But with so many different options, deciding which coffee franchise is ideal for you can be mind-boggling. Fortunately, we’ve curated a list of some of the best coffee franchises so you can make an informed decision. Here’s a rundown of what a franchise opportunity with some of them entails:

1. Dunkin’

Dunkin’ is one of the most popular coffee franchises in the world. The company was founded in the late 1940s, and today there are more than 11,300 Dunkin’ locations in 36 countries. Out of these restaurants, roughly 8500 are in the U.S.

The company is best known for its coffee and baked goods, but it also offers a wide variety of food items, including breakfast sandwiches and wraps, lunch sandwiches, and salads.

To open a Dunkin’ franchise, you’ll need to invest between $413,200 and $1,853,700, depending on location and other variables. This includes a franchise fee of $40,000 to $90,000. You’ll also have to pay an ongoing royalty fee of 5.9% and an ad royalty fee of 5%.

The liquid cash requirement for joining the Dunkin network is $250,000. It’s advisable to contact the firm directly for more information or confirmation of the figures.

1. Biggby Coffee

Biggby Coffee is a late entrant into the coffee franchise industry, founded in 1995. The company is based out of East Lansing, Michigan, and today has more than 200 locations in nine states.

The franchise’s extensive menu includes coffee, tea, smoothies, bagels, pastries, and more. The company is also known for its unique customer service experience, as baristas are encouraged to interact with customers and get to know them by name.

A Biggby franchising opportunity means you’ll need between $100,000 and $350,000 in liquid capital. The total investment required is roughly $200,000 to $415 000. Meanwhile, the franchise fee is $15,000 – down from $30,000 previously – with a 6% ongoing royalty fee. The monthly marketing ad fee is 3%.

Currently, the firm is seeking franchisees in Kentucky, Florida, Michigan, Ohio, South Carolina, and Texas. You could consider this franchise if you’re in any of these areas. And if you qualify, you would be eligible for a 10-year agreement.

1. Aroma Joe’s Coffee

Aroma Joe’s Coffee is a drive-thru coffee chain with more than 60 locations across New England and the Midwest. The company was founded in 2000 and today has a loyal customer base that swears by its coffee.

Its focus on speed and convenience sets Aroma Joe’s apart from the competition. The coffee chain has streamlined its processes to ensure customers get their coffee as quickly as possible without compromising quality. Plus, they operate in smaller-scale outlets, which helps keep costs down.

Aroma Joe’s offers a primary menu that includes coffee, tea, and iced beverages. However, it also has a range of food items, including breakfast sandwiches, pastries, salads, and more.

If you’re interested in joining the Aroma Joe’s franchise family, you’ll need at least $50,000 in liquid cash. The total investment required is between $256,500 and $705,000, while the franchise fee is $15,000. An ongoing royalty of 8% and a 4.5% ad royalty fee also apply.

This opportunity is ideal if you live in New Hampshire, Florida, Pennsylvania, or Vermont. Plus, you’re entitled to a discount from Aroma Joe’s if you’re a veteran.

1. Scooter’s Coffee

Scooter’s Coffee is one of the fastest-growing coffee franchises in the United States. The company was founded in 1998 and has locations across 25 U.S. states. 

The franchise is best known for its drive-thru model, which allows customers to get their coffee quickly and efficiently. The menu is also reasonably simple, with just a handful of coffee and tea options. The firm’s other value proposition is the sale of responsibly sourced coffee. This could be your franchise if you’re passionate about such a cause.

To join Scooter’s Coffee as a franchisee, $100,000 in liquid capital is required, while the total investment is between $294,700 and $638,000. The franchise fee for new entrants is $40,000. You’ll also pay an ongoing royalty fee of 6%.

Overall, your options are unlimited when scoping out potential franchise opportunities. We’ve barely scratched the surface. For more in-depth insights, it’s best to talk to the teams in the coffee franchises that interest you the most. They can answer any questions and give you a better idea of the requirements to start your venture.