We greatly appreciate your interest in the Cookies by Design® franchise system. Read the chart for an estimated investment for each franchised shoppe.
Categories of Expenses Estimated Range Of Costs
Initial Fees (e.g. Franchise, Processing...) $ 12,750 - 35,000
Opening Inventory (First Month Only) $ 5,000 - 8,000
Major Equipment $ 19,750 - 32,000
Leasehold Improvements $ 20,000 - 50,000
Furniture, Fixtures & Cabinetry $ 10,000 - 12,500
Signs $ 3,500 - 5,000
First Month's Rent $ 1,500 - 3,000
Security Deposit/Insurance Deposits $ 3,000 - 5,000
Training $ 1,500 - 2,500
Working Capital $ 12,000 - 25,000
Licenses & Permits $ 500 - 1,000
Advertising Fee $ 500 - 1,000
  $ 90,000 - 180,000
*These figures are estimates only. Costs will differ according to a variety of variables that include the following: geographical area, the size and location of your shoppe, inflation, cost of labor and materials, and the terms of your lease.

Explanation of Expenses:

Initial Fees
The Franchise Licensing Agreement grants the right to open one shoppe in a specific location. Each shoppe services a "Primary Marketing Area," which is generally identified by U.S. Postal Zip Codes. The initial licensing fee will vary according to the size and demographic characteristics of the population within the Primary Marketing Area.

Opening Inventory
Various supplies are included in this category such as ingredients, baskets and containers, and other materials needed in production for the first month of business.

Major Equipment
This category includes major bakery equipment, cookie cutters and computer software and hardware, as well as any installation costs.

Leasehold Improvements
These consist of shoppe construction costs, which include such things as plumbing, painting, electrical work, cabinetry work, contractor's fee, etc.

Furniture, Fixtures & Cabinetry
This line item includes the cost of tables, chairs, shelving, cabinetry and other miscellaneous furniture items, as well as any associated installation costs.

Signs
Storefront and illuminated signs are included in this category, along with installation costs.

First Month's Rent
This category represents the monthly rent charges for the first month of operation.

Security Deposit/Insurance Deposits
Utility deposits and rent security deposits are included in this category. Insurance down payments are also included.

Training
Training costs include amounts for transportation and room and board for each person while attending Cookie College.

Working Capital
This figure approximates salary, occupancy costs, and other expenses that will be incurred during the first three months of operation.

Licenses & Permits
This item includes the cost for the various business licenses and permits that may be required depending on your location.

Advertising Fee
This fee consists of the estimated cost of listing your business in the yellow & white pages of telephone directories in your area.