1983
260
$100,000
$35,000
$1,227,150
No
Bruegger's Bagels stands as a cornerstone in American quick-service dining, renowned for its authentic New York-style bagels and a diverse menu that includes breakfast sandwiches, lunch options, and premium coffee. Established in 1983 in Troy, New York, Bruegger's has cultivated a loyal customer base by combining traditional bagel-making techniques with a modern café experience. Each of its locations bakes bagels fresh daily in small batches, ensuring quality and authenticity.
The franchise has expanded its footprint across the United States, with over 260 locations, and is actively seeking passionate entrepreneurs to join its network. By investing in a Bruegger's Bagels franchise, you align with a brand that emphasizes community, quality, and a commitment to excellence.
Established Brand Legacy: With over four decades in the industry, Bruegger's has built a reputation for quality and consistency.
Proven Business Model: The franchise offers a scalable model with comprehensive support, making it suitable for both first-time and experienced investors.
Diverse Revenue Streams: Beyond in-store sales, franchisees can benefit from catering services, online orders, and branded merchandise.
Ongoing Innovation: The brand continuously updates its menu and services to meet evolving consumer preferences, ensuring sustained customer interest.
1. Established Year:
Bruegger’s Bagels was founded in 1983 in Troy, New York.
2. Founders:
The brand was started by Nordahl Brue and Michael Dressell, who shared a vision of bringing authentic New York-style bagels to a wider American audience.
3. Franchise Units:
Today, Bruegger’s operates over 260 locations across 16 U.S. states and the District of Columbia, with a mix of company-owned and franchise-operated stores.
4. Brand Journey & Company History:
Bruegger’s began as a single store specializing in hand-rolled, kettle-boiled bagels.
Over the years, it expanded to a quick-service bakery café model, offering breakfast sandwiches, lunch items, and premium coffee.
The brand’s success is rooted in freshly baked bagels, high-quality ingredients, and a welcoming café environment.
In 2011, Bruegger’s became part of JAB Holding Company, which helped strengthen its market presence and expand its growth strategy.
5. Ownership & Market Presence in the USA:
Bruegger’s is under the umbrella of JAB Holding Company, a global investment firm with holdings in several major food and beverage brands.
The franchise is particularly strong in northeastern and midwestern states, with plans for ongoing expansion in urban and suburban markets.
6. Industry Category:
Bruegger’s belongs to the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) and Bakery-Café industry, catering to consumers seeking fresh, fast, and high-quality breakfast and lunch options.
7. Unique Selling Proposition (USP):
Authentic New York-style bagels baked fresh daily.
A full café experience with coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and lunch options.
Commitment to quality, freshness, and customer satisfaction.
8. Expansion & Growth Strategy:
Bruegger’s continues to grow through franchising, targeting high-foot-traffic areas such as college towns, urban centers, and shopping districts.
The brand emphasizes community engagement and innovative menu development to maintain relevance and customer loyalty.
Bruegger's Bagels offers a robust support system to ensure franchisee success:
Pre-Launch Training: Comprehensive training covering operations, customer service, and brand standards.
Operational Support: Ongoing assistance with inventory management, staffing, and day-to-day operations.
Marketing Support: Access to national and local marketing campaigns, digital advertising, and promotional materials.
Academic Resources: Training modules and workshops to enhance business acumen and operational efficiency.
Ongoing Support: Regular check-ins, performance reviews, and access to a dedicated support team.
The ideal franchisee for Bruegger's Bagels is someone who not only has the financial capability to invest in the franchise but also aligns with the brand’s values and operational standards. Here’s a breakdown of the traits and qualifications:
Business and Financial Acumen
Should have experience or a strong interest in managing a business, understanding financial statements, and making strategic decisions.
Comfortable with budgeting, managing cash flow, and ensuring profitability.
Passion for Customer Service
Enthusiastic about creating a welcoming, community-focused environment for customers.
Dedicated to delivering high-quality food and a memorable experience.
Operational Commitment
Willingness to actively participate in day-to-day operations, especially during the initial launch phase.
Ability to hire, train, and lead a team effectively to maintain brand standards.
Entrepreneurial Spirit
Motivated, self-driven, and goal-oriented.
Interested in growing the business and exploring additional revenue streams like catering and online orders.
Location and Market Awareness
Prefers high-traffic areas such as urban centers, college towns, business districts, or areas with strong retail presence.
Able to assess and adapt to local market conditions.
Alignment with Brand Values
Appreciates Bruegger’s emphasis on quality, authenticity, and community engagement.
Committed to upholding the reputation of the brand while providing excellent service.
Investment Capability
Has sufficient liquid capital (minimum $100,000) and net worth ($500,000) to meet franchise requirements.
Prepared to make the total investment ($693,800–$1,227,150) to cover franchise fees, infrastructure, marketing, and working capital.
| Financial Category | Details / Range |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $693,800 – $1,227,150 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | $100,000 |
| Net Worth Requirement | $500,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% of gross sales |
| Marketing Fee | 2% of gross sales |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out Cost | $250,000 – $600,000 (includes equipment, signage, and interior setup) |
| Working Capital | $50,000 – $100,000 |
| Expected Break-Even Time | 18 – 24 months |
| Potential Revenue Streams | In-store sales, catering services, online orders, branded merchandise |
| Expected ROI | 15% – 25% annually (varies by location and operational efficiency) |
| Franchise Units in USA | Over 260 locations |
| Additional Fees | Grand opening support, training materials, POS setup, technology fees (~$5,000–$10,000) |
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