1994
160
$527,500
$55,000
$1,495,000
No
Aroma Espresso Bar is a renowned Israeli coffeehouse chain that has captivated coffee enthusiasts worldwide with its Mediterranean-inspired ambiance and high-quality offerings. Established in 1994 by brothers Yariv and Sahar Shefa in Jerusalem, Aroma has expanded to over 160 locations globally, including select cities in the United States . The brand is celebrated for its commitment to delivering exceptional coffee, fresh food, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
In the U.S., Aroma Espresso Bar has made a significant impact, particularly in Florida, Maryland, New Jersey, and New York. The franchise offers a unique blend of traditional espresso beverages, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, and a modern café experience, setting it apart in the competitive coffeehouse market.
Investing in an Aroma Espresso Bar franchise presents a compelling opportunity for entrepreneurs seeking to enter the thriving coffeehouse industry. Key reasons to consider this franchise include:
Established Brand Recognition: Leverage a globally recognized brand with a strong reputation for quality and customer satisfaction.
Proven Business Model: Benefit from a time-tested business model with a focus on operational efficiency and customer experience.
Comprehensive Support: Receive extensive training and ongoing support to ensure the success of your franchise.
Diverse Menu Offerings: Attract a wide customer base with a menu that combines traditional coffeehouse favorites with Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Growing Market Demand: Capitalize on the increasing consumer demand for high-quality coffee and fast-casual dining experiences.
1. Established Year:
Aroma Espresso Bar was founded in 1994 in Jerusalem, Israel. It started as a single café with a mission to provide premium coffee and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in a welcoming environment.
2. Founders:
The brand was created by Yariv and Sahar Shefa, two brothers who aimed to bring high-quality coffee culture and exceptional service to local communities. Their vision focused on consistency, customer satisfaction, and a unique café experience.
3. Brand Journey:
1994-2000: Aroma expanded rapidly across Israel, becoming a household name.
2000-2010: International expansion began, with locations opening in North America and Europe.
2010-Present: Aroma solidified its global reputation, especially in North America, maintaining a consistent focus on quality coffee, fresh food, and inviting café environments.
4. Ownership:
Aroma remains privately owned, with ongoing strategic management by the founders, ensuring that the brand’s vision and quality standards are preserved globally.
5. Franchise Units:
Globally, Aroma operates over 160 locations, with select locations in the USA, including states such as Florida, Maryland, New Jersey, and New York, and continues to pursue expansion opportunities in high-demand markets.
6. Market Presence in the USA:
Aroma Espresso Bar has carefully entered the U.S. market, targeting cities with strong coffee culture and potential for Mediterranean-inspired café experiences. It differentiates itself through high-quality products, consistent branding, and a modern café atmosphere.
7. Industry Category:
Aroma Espresso Bar falls under Quick Service Restaurants (QSR) / Coffeehouse / Fast-Casual Dining, competing with other premium coffee chains while carving a niche with its Mediterranean menu and café experience.
8. Other Notable Facts:
Aroma emphasizes fresh, high-quality ingredients, sourcing locally where possible.
It integrates modern café design and customer-centric service.
The brand has a loyal customer base, which helps new franchises attract consistent traffic.
Aroma Espresso Bar offers comprehensive support and training programs designed to help franchisees launch successfully and operate efficiently. The support spans pre-launch preparation, operational guidance, marketing, and ongoing assistance.
1. Pre-Launch Support:
Site Selection & Lease Negotiation: Aroma helps franchisees identify high-potential locations and negotiate favorable lease terms to maximize foot traffic and profitability.
Store Design & Construction: The brand provides design guidelines for café layouts, interior décor, and kitchen setup to maintain consistency across all locations.
Equipment & Supplier Guidance: Aroma advises on sourcing quality equipment, materials, and ingredients, ensuring operational efficiency and product quality from day one.
2. Initial & Comprehensive Training:
Barista Training: Hands-on instruction in coffee preparation, espresso machines, brewing techniques, and specialty beverages.
Food Preparation: Training on Mediterranean-inspired menu items, standard recipes, and quality control.
Operational Management: Instruction on inventory management, staff scheduling, point-of-sale systems, and daily workflow.
Customer Service: Techniques for delivering consistent, high-quality guest experiences that reflect the Aroma brand.
3. Marketing & Brand Support:
Local & National Marketing: Access to marketing strategies, campaigns, and materials to promote brand awareness and attract customers.
Digital & Social Media Guidance: Assistance with social media marketing, website presence, and online promotions to drive engagement and sales.
Grand Opening Support: Aroma provides promotional strategies, staff guidance, and launch events to ensure a strong market entry.
4. Ongoing Operational Support:
Field Visits & Audits: Regular site visits from experienced field consultants to monitor operations, provide feedback, and ensure adherence to brand standards.
Continuous Training: Opportunities for franchisees and staff to attend workshops and refresher courses on operations, product knowledge, and customer service.
Best Practices Updates: Aroma shares new processes, menu innovations, and operational improvements to keep franchises competitive and profitable.
5. Aroma Academy:
Aroma Espresso Bar has a dedicated training academy where franchisees and staff can gain advanced skills in coffee preparation, culinary expertise, and operational excellence.
This academy fosters mentorship and collaboration, helping franchisees adapt best practices from successful locations.
6. Additional Support:
Supply Chain Assistance: Guidance to maintain consistent product quality and timely inventory replenishment.
Technology Support: Training and troubleshooting for point-of-sale systems, reporting, and analytics.
Community Engagement Advice: Strategies to build loyal customer bases and integrate the café into the local community.
Aroma Espresso Bar seeks franchisees who are passionate, business-savvy, and community-oriented, capable of maintaining the brand’s high standards while driving growth in the U.S. market. The ideal franchisee profile includes several key traits:
1. Passion for Coffee and Hospitality:
A genuine love for coffee, beverages, and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
Strong commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences that reflect Aroma’s reputation for quality and service.
Interest in being actively involved in daily operations, engaging with staff and customers.
2. Business-Oriented Mindset:
Strong managerial and leadership skills to oversee daily café operations efficiently.
Ability to monitor financial performance, manage budgets, and make data-driven decisions.
Entrepreneurial drive to grow and expand the franchise within a designated territory.
3. Financial Capability:
Sufficient capital to invest in the franchise, including startup costs, working capital, and initial operating expenses.
Prepared to commit to long-term business ownership with an understanding of ROI timelines (typically 12–24 months to break-even).
Comfort with paying franchise fees, royalties, and marketing contributions while maintaining profitability.
4. Experience & Skills:
While previous experience in foodservice, retail, or hospitality is advantageous, it is not mandatory.
Willingness to learn Aroma’s operational systems, standards, and processes through training programs.
Ability to hire, train, and lead staff to maintain consistent service and quality.
5. Community & Customer Engagement:
Desire to connect with the local community, participate in events, and build a loyal customer base.
Understanding that café culture thrives on repeat business, quality service, and strong community relationships.
6. Location Preference & Market Awareness:
Franchisees should be ready to operate in high-traffic urban or suburban areas with strong demand for premium coffee and fast-casual dining.
Awareness of local demographics, competition, and consumer preferences to tailor offerings without compromising brand standards.
7. Personal Traits:
Self-motivated, disciplined, and committed to maintaining high standards.
Flexible and adaptable to changing market conditions and customer expectations.
Passionate about building a sustainable business while upholding Aroma’s brand values.
| Financial Component | Details (USD) |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $527,500 – $1,495,000 (includes real estate, equipment, initial inventory) |
| Minimum Investment Required | $527,500 |
| Franchise Fee | $55,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 7% of gross sales |
| Advertising / Marketing Fee | 1.5% of gross sales |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out Costs | Varies by location; includes café design, furniture, equipment, and signage |
| Working Capital | $10,000 – $30,000 |
| Expected ROI | Dependent on location and performance; typically achievable within 2–3 years |
| Break-Even Time | 12–24 months |
| Potential Revenue Streams | - Sale of coffee & espresso beverages - Fresh food items (sandwiches, salads) - Catering services - Retail products & packaged coffee |
| Franchise Units (Global / USA) | 160+ globally; multiple locations in Florida, Maryland, New Jersey, New York |
