1994
4
$273,000
$25,000
$477,000
No
Big O Bagels is a beloved Central Oregon institution that has been serving delicious, handcrafted bagels since 1994. With a commitment to quality ingredients and a passion for community, Big O Bagels offers a unique franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs seeking to invest in a brand with a strong local following and a proven business model.
Established Brand: Big O Bagels has been a staple in Central Oregon for over three decades, building a loyal customer base and a strong brand reputation.
Proven Business Model: The franchise offers a straightforward, easy-to-operate business model with a focus on quality food and customer service.
Community Focused: Big O Bagels is deeply rooted in the community, with a commitment to supporting local events and organizations.
Exclusive Territory: Franchisees are granted exclusive territories, reducing competition and increasing the potential for success.
Comprehensive Support: From initial training to ongoing operational support, Big O Bagels provides franchisees with the tools and resources needed to succeed.
Established Year: Big O Bagels was founded in 1994 in Central Oregon, with the mission of creating high-quality, handcrafted bagels that serve both locals and visitors.
Founders: The company was started by a group of local entrepreneurs passionate about fresh, authentic bagels and a welcoming café experience. Their vision was to build a brand that combined artisanal baking with community engagement.
Franchise Units: As of 2025, Big O Bagels operates four locations in Central Oregon—three in Bend (Westside, Eastside, South 97) and one in Redmond. The first franchise unit launched in 2022, marking the beginning of the company’s expansion outside its original corporate-owned stores.
Brand Journey: Over the past three decades, Big O Bagels has evolved from a small neighborhood bakery into a respected regional brand. The company has cultivated a loyal customer base, built a reputation for high-quality products, and leveraged community engagement to differentiate itself from competitors.
Market Presence in the USA: Currently concentrated in Central Oregon, the company is expanding through franchising, aiming to bring its signature bagels and breakfast offerings to new markets across the United States.
Industry Category: Big O Bagels operates in the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry, specializing in bagels, breakfast sandwiches, coffee, and lunch items. Its focus on freshly made products and community engagement places it in a niche market with strong growth potential.
Additional Information:
Emphasizes fresh ingredients and artisanal preparation methods.
Known for innovative flavors and seasonal specials.
Actively participates in local events and community initiatives, building strong brand loyalty.
Strong potential for multi-unit franchise ownership, given the proven success of current locations.
Pre-Launch Support: Assistance with site selection, lease negotiation, and store design to ensure a successful launch.
Initial Training: A comprehensive training program covering all aspects of the business, including operations, customer service, and inventory management.
Ongoing Support: Continuous support from the corporate team, including regular visits, marketing assistance, and operational guidance.
Marketing Support: Access to marketing materials and strategies to help drive traffic and build brand awareness.
Technology Support: Utilization of proprietary point-of-sale and inventory management systems to streamline operations.
The ideal franchisee for Big O Bagels is an individual who is passionate about food and community, with a strong desire to operate a business that serves the local area. Key characteristics include:
Business Experience: Previous experience in retail or food service is beneficial but not required.
Leadership Skills: Ability to manage a team and provide excellent customer service.
Community Engagement: A commitment to being involved in and supporting the local community.
Financial Stability: Sufficient capital to invest in the franchise and cover operating expenses.
Location Preference: Interest in operating in Central Oregon or other markets with a similar demographic profile.
| Financial Item | Amount / Range | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Investment | $273,000 – $477,000 | Covers store build-out, equipment, signage, initial inventory, and pre-opening costs. |
| Franchise Fee | $25,000 | One-time fee for franchise rights. |
| Royalty Fee | 5% of gross sales | Ongoing fee for brand use and operational support. |
| Advertising Fee | 1% of gross sales | Contributes to national/regional marketing campaigns. |
| Net Worth Requirement | $25,000 | Minimum personal net worth required to qualify as a franchisee. |
| Cash Requirement | $25,000 | Liquid capital required to invest and cover initial expenses. |
| Franchise Term | 10 years (renewable) | Standard agreement length with renewal options. |
| Break-Even Time | 18 – 24 months | Timeframe to recover initial investment, depending on location performance. |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Retail sales, catering, wholesale distribution | Multiple income streams including in-store, online, and B2B sales. |
| Working Capital | Included in Initial Investment | Funds to cover operating expenses for initial months. |
| Infrastructure / Build-out Cost | Part of Initial Investment | Includes kitchen equipment, furniture, signage, and renovations. |
| Expected ROI | 20% – 25% (approx.) | Varies by location, market size, and operational efficiency. |
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