Established
2013
Franchise Units
100
Minimum Investment
$738,150
Franchise Fee
$40,000
Total Investment Range
$1,400,000
Home Based
No
Description
Black Sheep Coffee is a bold, disruptive coffee brand that has taken the UK by storm and is now making its mark in the United States. Founded in 2013 by university flatmates Eirik Holth and Gabriel Shohet, the brand was born from a desire to challenge the coffee establishment and offer something truly unique: 100% specialty-grade Robusta coffee. This commitment to quality and innovation has set Black Sheep Coffee apart in a crowded market.
The brand's ethos, encapsulated in the slogan "Leave the Herd Behind," resonates with consumers seeking an alternative to mainstream coffee chains. With a rapidly expanding footprint, including recent openings in Dallas and Miami, Black Sheep Coffee is poised for significant growth in the U.S. market.
Why Invest in this Franchise?
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Unique Product Offering: Black Sheep Coffee is the only retail coffee company globally to serve 100% specialty-grade Robusta beans, setting it apart from competitors.
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Strong Brand Identity: The brand's rebellious spirit and commitment to quality resonate with a growing segment of coffee enthusiasts.
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Proven Business Model: With a 74% increase in system sales from $62 million to $108 million since January 2024, Black Sheep Coffee demonstrates strong financial performance.
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Global Expansion: The company has recently opened its first U.S. location in Dallas and is actively seeking qualified franchise partners across the country.
Background
Founded: 2013
Founders: Gabriel Shohet and Eirik Holth
Franchise Active Units: 100+ globally
Industry Category: Specialty Coffee / Food & Beverage
Brand Journey: What started as a mission by two college friends to kill "boring coffee" has turned into a global movement. They famously turned down Dragons' Den (UK's Shark Tank) offers to maintain their independent spirit.
USA Market Presence: Black Sheep Coffee has made a strategic entry into the US market, focusing on high-traffic urban centers. They are currently scaling through a mix of corporate-owned flagships and sophisticated multi-unit franchise partners.
Support Training
Black Sheep Coffee offers comprehensive support to its franchisees, ensuring they are equipped to succeed:
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Pre-Launch Support: Assistance with site selection, lease negotiation, and store design.
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Operational Training: Comprehensive training covering all aspects of store operations, including barista skills, customer service, and inventory management.
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Marketing Support: Access to national marketing campaigns, local store marketing strategies, and digital marketing resources.
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Ongoing Support: Continuous support through regular visits, performance reviews, and access to a dedicated franchise support team.
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Franchise Manual: A detailed manual outlining operational procedures, brand standards, and best practices
Ideal Candidate
We aren't looking for "silent" investors; we’re looking for partners who embody the brand’s energy:
Business Acumen: Experience in multi-unit retail or hospitality management is highly preferred. You should understand P&L statements and team leadership.
The "Black Sheep" Spirit: A passion for breaking the status quo. You should be someone who values community engagement and isn't afraid to be bold.
Financial Capability: The ability to fund a multi-unit development plan is often prioritized, as the brand seeks to dominate specific US territories.
Location Preference: Entrepreneurs with deep roots in their local real estate market—specifically looking at high-footfall urban corners, transport hubs, or premium suburban shopping districts.
Financial Detail
| Investment Category | Estimated Cost / Requirement |
| Total Initial Investment | $738,150 – $1,400,000+ |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | $1,000,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $40,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 7% of Gross Sales |
| Marketing / Ad Fund | 2% of Gross Sales |
| Infrastructure & Build-out | $350,000 – $600,000 |
| Working Capital | $100,000 |
| Minimum Unit Commitment | 10 Locations (Multi-unit) |
| Expected Break-even Time | 18 – 36 Months |
| Primary Revenue Streams | Coffee, Waffles, Alcohol, & Retail |