How to Open a Dutch Bros Franchise: Costs and Profit Potential
Opening a Dutch Bros franchise can be an exciting venture for those passionate about coffee and community. As one of the most popular coffee chains in the United States, Dutch Bros has built a loyal customer base. If you’re considering becoming a part of this thriving brand, it’s essential to understand the costs involved and the potential for profit.
In this article, we’ll explore the How to Open a Dutch Bros Franchise with cost, the potential Dutch Bros franchise profit, and other key factors that can help you decide if this opportunity is the right fit for you.

Is Dutch Bros a Franchise?
Before diving into the specifics of opening a Dutch Bros location, it’s important to understand the franchise model. Is Dutch Bros a franchise?
Yes, Dutch Bros operates as a franchise. The company allows entrepreneurs to open their own locations under the Dutch Bros name, benefiting from the brand’s recognition and customer loyalty.
Dutch Bros began as a small pushcart in Oregon in 1992 and has since grown into one of the largest coffee chains in the United States. It now has over 500 locations, and that number is steadily increasing.
By offering a franchise opportunity, Dutch Bros enables entrepreneurs to bring their business model and delicious coffee to new locations, with the support and guidance of a successful and well-known brand.
Dutch Bros Franchise Cost
Starting a Dutch Bros franchise cost can vary depending on several factors, including location, size, and the type of facility you choose. On average, the total investment required to open a Dutch Bros franchise ranges from $400,000 to $1 million.
This amount includes various expenses, such as the initial franchise fee, construction costs, equipment, and working capital.
- Franchise Fee: The initial franchise fee for opening a Dutch Bros location is typically around $30,000. This fee grants you the right to use the Dutch Bros brand name and business model.
- Construction and Build-Out Costs: Depending on your location, the build-out costs for a Dutch Bros coffee shop can be significant, ranging from $200,000 to $500,000.
- Equipment and Inventory: The cost for necessary equipment, such as coffee machines, furniture, and other supplies, may add another $100,000 to $300,000.
- Working Capital: You’ll also need sufficient working capital to cover your initial operating expenses, which can vary based on location and market conditions.
Dutch Bros Franchise Profit
The potential Dutch Bros franchise profit can be quite appealing, with many franchisees seeing significant returns on their investment. On average, Dutch Bros franchises generate $1 million to $2 million in annual revenue per location, though this can vary based on factors such as location, customer traffic, and market demand.
The company’s business model is designed to ensure high profitability. Dutch Bros focuses on efficiency, speed, and a fun, customer-friendly environment that keeps customers coming back. Additionally, the company offers strong support for franchisees, including comprehensive training and marketing assistance, which can help you maximize your chances of success.
What You Need to Know About a Dutch Bros Franchise for Sale
If you’re looking to invest in a Dutch Bros franchise for sale, there are a few things you should know. Dutch Bros franchises are typically available for sale in areas where the brand is expanding, and they require a qualified, financially capable individual to take over the operations.
When searching for a Dutch Bros franchise for sale, it’s essential to carefully consider the location, as it plays a huge role in determining the success of your business.
High-traffic areas, such as busy streets or near college campuses, tend to generate more sales. It’s also crucial to assess the current market demand for Dutch Bros coffee in that area to ensure the investment is worthwhile.
Dutch Bros No Longer Offers the Option to Franchise
It’s important to note that Dutch Bros no longer offers the option to franchise. Moving forward, all locations are company-owned, and regional operator positions are offered exclusively to those within the company who have shown outstanding employment history and exemplify the company culture.
This means that those interested in operating a Dutch Bros location must look for internal opportunities rather than purchasing a franchise.
This change in the business model reflects Dutch Bros’ decision to focus on maintaining consistent quality and culture across all its locations. As a result, the opportunity to own a Dutch Bros franchise is no longer available to external entrepreneurs.
Learn more about starting a career with Dutch Bros here! dutchbros.com/employment/become-a-broista
Steps to Open a Franchise Dutch Bros (Before the Change)
- Research and Application: Begin by thoroughly researching the Dutch Bros franchise. Visit their official website and inquire about available locations. You would need to fill out an application and meet the franchise qualifications.
- Franchise Agreement: If you were approved, you’d enter into a franchise agreement, which outlined the terms, fees, and support provided by Dutch Bros.
- Financing: Prepare your financing to cover the Dutch Bros franchise cost. This would include securing loans or other financing options. The company may also provide guidance on funding options.
- Site Selection and Construction: Work with Dutch Bros to choose the best location for your new shop. Then, you would undergo the construction and build-out process, which was supported by the company.
- Training and Grand Opening: Once construction was complete, you’d undergo extensive training. Afterward, you could open your Dutch Bros location and start serving coffee to the community.
Also read:
- Dutch Bros Sparkling Soda
- Where can I check dutch bros digital gift card balance?
- Can I Purchase Dutchwear Apparel?
- Can I print a dutch bros digital gift card and give it as a gift?
- What is a Dutch Bros coffee subscription?
Final Thoughts
Opening a franchise Dutch Bros used to be a profitable and exciting business opportunity. The Dutch Bros franchise cost may have been significant, but the potential for Dutch Bros franchise profit made it an attractive investment for many entrepreneurs.
However, as Dutch Bros no longer offers the option to franchise, future opportunities are limited to those within the company who are promoted to regional operator roles.
For those who were looking to invest in a Dutch Bros franchise or buy a Dutch Bros franchise for sale, these options are no longer available. However, if you’re still interested in working with the company, you can pursue a career with Dutch Bros and aim for a regional operator position, where you can help manage locations and uphold the company’s strong culture.
FAQs About Opening a Dutch Bros Franchise
1. How much does it cost to open a Dutch Bros franchise?
The Dutch Bros franchise cost typically ranged from $400,000 to $1 million. This included the initial franchise fee, construction costs, equipment, and working capital.
2. What is the initial franchise fee for Dutch Bros?
The initial franchise fee for a Dutch Bros location was approximately $30,000. This fee granted the right to use the Dutch Bros brand and operate under its business model.
3. How profitable is a Dutch Bros franchise?
The Dutch Bros franchise profit potential was high. On average, Dutch Bros franchises generated between $1 million and $2 million in annual revenue, depending on location and other factors.
4. Can I buy an existing Dutch Bros franchise for sale?
Previously, there were opportunities to purchase a Dutch Bros franchise for sale, but the company no longer offers this option. All future locations are now company-owned.
5. Is Dutch Bros a franchise?
Dutch Bros was a franchise, but the company no longer offers new franchises. All locations are now company-owned, and regional operator positions are available only to current employees with a strong track record.
6. What are the qualifications to open a Dutch Bros franchise?
To open a franchise Dutch Bros, individuals needed business experience, financial stability, and a passion for customer service. However, since the company has moved to a company-owned model, this is no longer applicable.
7. What support did Dutch Bros offer its franchisees?
Dutch Bros used to offer extensive training, marketing support, and operational assistance to its franchisees. Now, this support applies to internal employees promoted to regional operator roles.
8. How long did it take to open a Dutch Bros franchise?
It typically took about 6 to 12 months to open a new Dutch Bros franchise location, but this process is now handled internally for company-owned locations.
9. Can I open a Dutch Bros franchise outside the United States?
Dutch Bros currently operates only in the United States, and they do not offer international franchise opportunities.
10. What are the key factors that determined the success of a Dutch Bros franchise?
The success of a Dutch Bros franchise was influenced by location, customer service, and the franchisee’s commitment to the brand. However, since Dutch Bros no longer offers franchises, those interested in operating a Dutch Bros location must pursue internal opportunities.