1990
100
$233,000
$29,500
$873,150
No
Bahama Buck’s is America’s premier shaved ice and tropical refreshments franchise, delivering the ultimate “island escape” experience in every cup. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, wide menu variety, and loyal customer base, Bahama Buck’s has carved a unique niche in the quick-service dessert and beverage industry. From flavorful shaved ice and smoothies to refreshing sodas and specialty drinks, the brand combines fun, flavor, and family-friendly service into a business model that consistently attracts high traffic year-round.
As a franchisee, you are not just investing in a dessert brand—you are becoming part of a lifestyle-driven concept that appeals to children, families, teens, and young adults across the USA. With its proven track record, scalable operations, and unmatched consumer appeal, Bahama Buck’s stands as a highly rewarding investment opportunity in the booming frozen dessert and quick-service restaurant (QSR) market.
Proven Business Model – Over 30 years of successful operations with continuous growth.
Strong Market Demand – Frozen desserts and specialty drinks are a billion-dollar industry in the USA.
Brand Recognition – Trusted and loved across multiple states with a strong franchise network.
Unique Customer Experience – Not just food, but a fun and tropical escape.
High Repeat Business – Customers return frequently for affordable, refreshing treats.
Comprehensive Support – Franchisees receive top-tier operational, training, and marketing assistance.
Flexible Location Opportunities – Suitable for both urban and suburban communities.
Established Year: 1990
Founder: Blake Buchanan (founded while attending Texas Tech University)
Headquarters: Lubbock, Texas, USA
Industry Category: Quick-Service Restaurant (QSR) / Frozen Dessert & Beverage
Franchise Units: Over 100+ operating stores across the USA and expanding rapidly
Brand Journey: Starting as a small stand in Lubbock, Bahama Buck’s grew into the nation’s leading shaved ice franchise. Its innovative flavor combinations, proprietary ice-shaving techniques, and focus on customer experience built a loyal fanbase.
Ownership: Privately held franchise with strong leadership and franchise-focused growth strategy.
Market Presence in USA: Popular in Texas, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, California, Florida, and expanding nationwide.
Bahama Buck’s provides end-to-end franchisee support to ensure smooth business operations:
Pre-Launch Support
Assistance with site selection and store layout design.
Guidance on lease negotiations and construction planning.
Comprehensive franchisee orientation and training modules.
Initial Training Program
Hands-on training at corporate headquarters.
In-store operational training for franchise owners and staff.
Financial management and inventory training.
Marketing Support
National and regional advertising campaigns.
Social media and digital marketing strategies.
Local marketing toolkits for community engagement.
Operational Support
Proprietary POS systems and supply chain access.
Ongoing quality checks and menu innovation.
Assistance with hiring and staff training programs.
Ongoing Franchise Support
Regular business reviews and performance coaching.
Access to a dedicated franchise support team.
Annual conferences and training refreshers.
Bahama Buck’s seeks passionate, growth-driven entrepreneurs who want to build a fun, community-focused business. The ideal franchisee should be:
Background: No prior restaurant experience required, but business management or customer service experience is a plus.
Personality: Outgoing, customer-focused, and passionate about delivering memorable experiences.
Financial Capability: Ability to meet the minimum investment requirements and secure funding if needed.
Commitment: Hands-on involvement preferred, though multi-unit investors and semi-absentee owners are also welcome.
Location Preference: High-traffic areas such as shopping centers, college towns, suburban neighborhoods, and family-friendly communities.
| Financial Requirement | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $233,326 – $873,150 |
| Minimum Investment Required | Approx. $233,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $29,500 – $34,500 |
| Royalty Fee | 6% of gross sales |
| Marketing/Advertising Fee | 2% of gross sales |
| Infrastructure & Build-Out Cost | $150,000 – $500,000 (depending on location & size) |
| Working Capital Needed | $30,000 – $50,000 |
| Expected ROI | 15% – 25% annually (varies by location) |
| Break-Even Time | 18 – 36 months |
Bahama Buck’s offers multiple revenue streams, giving franchisees more opportunities to maximize profitability beyond in-store shaved ice sales. These include:
Shaved Ice Sales –
The core of Bahama Buck’s business, featuring hundreds of flavors and custom combinations. Customers return frequently, driving consistent daily sales and high margins.
Smoothies & Specialty Drinks –
Offering smoothies, sodas, lemonades, and tropical drinks adds variety to the menu, appealing to customers who may not choose shaved ice but still want refreshing beverages.
Catering & Events –
Franchisees can generate additional income through catering services for birthdays, corporate events, school functions, weddings, festivals, and community gatherings. This provides bulk orders and higher per-event revenue.
Take-Out & Delivery –
With strong demand for convenience, Bahama Buck’s franchisees can boost sales through online ordering, third-party delivery apps, and curbside pick-up services.
Merchandise Sales –
Branded merchandise (cups, apparel, accessories, and gift cards) enhances brand visibility while creating an additional retail revenue channel.
Seasonal & Promotional Items –
Limited-time offers, holiday specials, and promotional menu items encourage repeat visits and drive incremental sales during peak seasons.
Community Partnerships –
Fundraising events and local collaborations not only strengthen brand presence but also generate extra income streams outside the regular store model.
