Frozen yogurt is a popular treat in communities across the country. And that makes it a popular business opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs. There are even self-serve frozen yogurt franchise options for those who want to align themselves with an existing brand. If you’re interested in frozen yogurt franchise opportunities, read on for a guide to the best options.
What is a frozen yogurt franchise?
Frozen yogurt is a popular cold dessert, similar to frozen custard or soft serve ice cream. Frozen dessert franchises offer a model for starting a business that sells this product. You can usually get started quickly by paying a franchise fee and royalties, and the chain provides the resources and support you need to get your business off the ground.
The frozen yogurt industry in 2022
The frozen yogurt market is valued at nearly $975 million by 2022. It is a profitable dessert that appeals to a wide range of customers, from health-conscious consumers to families. There are many frozen yogurt franchises making an impact in this market, but there is still room for growth in new areas.
Why You Should Consider a Frozen Yogurt Franchise
If you’re thinking about starting your own frozen yogurt shop in 2022, here are some reasons to consider franchising:
- Simplify your launch: Frozen yogurt franchises offer a proven model of finding a location, sourcing equipment, and hiring a team.
- Align with a popular brand: Many franchises are well-known in other markets, so customers may already have some familiarity.
- Serve your community: Frozen yogurt franchises allow you to serve customers and meet people in person.
- Get proven support: Franchises don’t just help with the start-up phase. They also support you with marketing, inventory and equipment throughout the life of your business.
- Turn Profits Faster: In general, the support and brand recognition that comes with franchising can help you make more sales and keep costs manageable.
The best frozen yogurt franchises
If you’re ready to jump into the froyo business, here are some of the best frozen yogurt franchises to consider.
1. Pinkberry
Pinkberry offers a lot of brand recognition and moderately healthy options. There are several franchise models, including street-front locations, online stores, and kiosks. There is a $35,000 franchise fee, a 6% royalty fee, and a 2% advertising fee.
2. Orange leaf
Orange Leaf offers a community-driven atmosphere and partners with Humble Donut Co. for co-branded franchises. The total initial investment ranges from $120,000 to $315,000, with a 5% royalty and a 2% marketing fee.
3. TCBY
With over 40 years in business, TCBY is one of the leading frozen yogurt franchises in the US. Various models are available, from counter service to kiosks. Franchise fees range from $5,000 to $35,000, and total start-up costs range from $15,000 to $635,000.
4. 16 handles
16 Handles is a self-serve froyo shop known for fun and celebration, innovative flavors and world-class technology. There is a $30,000 franchise fee and a total startup cost of $225,000 to $670,000.
5. Yogurtland
Yogurtland is known for its customizable franchise model and real ingredients like fresh fruit. Brand recognition is primarily associated with those who can secure popular locations in shopping malls. There is a $35,000 initial fee, 6% royalties and 2% marketing fees, and startup costs range from about $180,000 to $490,000.
6. CherryBerry
CherryBerry is a self-serve yogurt business that partners with Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. The franchise fee is about $25,000, with total costs starting at $350,000.
7. U-shaped swirl
U-Swirl is another yogurt franchise owned by Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. But this product is known for including live active cultures for optimal health, along with fresh ingredients. There is also a franchise fee of $25,000 and total costs starting at $350,000.
8. Menchie frozen yogurt
Menchie’s offers another self-serve option with various toppings available. The initial franchise fee is $40,000 and total costs start around $330,000.
9. sweet frog
sweetFrog is known as the “shiniest” froyo franchise. They offer various models, from amusement parks to a truck-based business. Total costs start at $240,000, with a franchise fee of $30,000.
10. Yogen Fruz
Yogen Fruz is a custom yogurt shop known for quality ingredients and store designs. The starting fee is $25,000, with a total cost starting at $150,000.
11. Baskin-Robbins
Baskin-Robbins is known for ice cream, but they carry other tasty treats like froyo and frozen custard. The franchise fee is $25,000 and the total initial investment ranges from $90,000 to $625,000.
12. Nautical Bowls
Nautical Bowls specializes in açaí and fresh ingredients instead of sugary treats. But the model is similar to many frozen yogurt franchises. With a franchise fee of $30,000, the initial investment starts around $180,000.
13. Milkshake Mom
Milkshake Momma offers a unique concept that focuses on gourmet milkshakes. The franchise fee is $35,000 and the initial investment starts around $180,000.
14. Yogurt forever
Forever Yogurt offers a customizable franchise opportunity to fit each unique market and space. The initial investment ranges from about $230,000 to $500,000.
15. Kings and Irvy’s
Reis & Irvy’s is a robot-powered froyo business. It’s not exactly a franchise. But you can apply to host a machine if you have an existing location. Startup fees start around $15,000.
How to choose the best franchise to set up your frozen yogurt business
The franchises mostly sell frozen yogurt. But they differ in many other ways. If you are interested in frozen yogurt or ice cream franchises, these considerations may help.
Create a budget
Before you start, determine how much liquid cash you can spend up front and how much you’re willing to pay for royalties and marketing support.
Analyze your local market
Explore the options in your local area to find an opportunity that stands out. For example, a self-serve froyo counter may be ideal in a community that already has many traditional ice cream parlors.
Consider your role in the business
Do you want to be involved in the day-to-day operations, or do you prefer to buy a franchise and leave it to your team?
Compare support options
Some franchises help with everything from site selection to stocking inventory, which can be ideal for inexperienced entrepreneurs. Others are freer, perfect for entrepreneurs who value autonomy.
How much does it cost to open a frozen yogurt franchise?
The exact costs of opening a frozen yogurt franchise vary widely, but the average franchise fee is between $30,000 and $40,000. When combined with other startup costs like location and equipment, you can invest $100,000 or more to get started.
Are Frozen Yogurt Franchises Profitable?
Frozen yogurt franchises can be profitable, but it depends on the model you choose. Your location, start-up costs and expenses also have an impact. Some yogurt chains report nearly $800,000 in annual sales once they are up and running. This could allow you to cover expenses and make a profit for the first year or two.
READ MORE:
- Check out our Franchise Guide
- Reis & Irvy offers a robot-powered yogurt franchise
Image: Envato Elements