2013
14
$474,886
Inquire
$541,043
No
Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop is a beloved dessert franchise that brings the warmth and nostalgia of Southern kitchens to communities across the United States. Founded in 2013 by husband-and-wife duo Scott and Meredith Layton, the brand was inspired by their grandmothers' kitchens, aiming to recreate the comforting, scratch-made pies they cherished growing up. With its inviting atmosphere and a menu featuring a variety of handcrafted pies, cookies, and other treats, Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop has become a go-to destination for dessert lovers seeking quality and tradition.
The franchise's commitment to quality ingredients, time-honored recipes, and exceptional customer service has earned it a loyal customer base and a strong reputation in the dessert industry. As of 2025, Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop operates multiple locations, primarily in Texas and the Southeast, with plans for continued expansion.
Proven Business Model: Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop has demonstrated consistent growth and profitability, with an estimated annual revenue of $17.7 million.
Low Investment Entry: Startup costs range from $474,886 to $541,043, making it an accessible opportunity for investors.
Strong Brand Identity: The brand's focus on Southern traditions and scratch-made products resonates with a wide customer base, fostering brand loyalty.
Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive extensive training and ongoing support, ensuring operational success and brand consistency.
Established: 2013
Franchising Since: 2008
Founders: Scott and Meredith Layton
Headquarters: Knoxville, Tennessee
Industry Category: Food & Beverage, Dessert, Bakery
Ownership: Privately held
Franchise Units Current Number: 14
Brand Journey & History:
Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop was founded in 2013 by husband-and-wife team Scott and Meredith Layton, inspired by the comforting, scratch-made pies of their grandmothers. Their mission was to capture the warmth of Southern kitchens and share that tradition with the broader community. From the first store, the franchise focused on high-quality ingredients, handmade pies, and an inviting, family-friendly atmosphere.
Over the years, the brand has grown steadily, earning a reputation for premium, artisanal pies and exceptional customer service. It blends traditional Southern recipes with modern tastes, appealing to both locals and visitors seeking authentic, hand-crafted desserts.
Market Presence in the USA:
Currently, Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop operates 14 locations, primarily concentrated in Texas and the Southeastern United States, including Georgia, Louisiana, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Each location is designed to provide a warm, welcoming environment, reinforcing the brand’s identity and commitment to community connection.
Industry Category:
The franchise belongs to the dessert and bakery sector within the broader food & beverage industry. It operates in a niche market focused on artisanal, scratch-made products—a segment with growing consumer demand for high-quality, authentic, and locally-inspired treats.
Ownership & Expansion Vision:
Privately owned, the Laytons maintain strong oversight of brand standards and operational quality. The franchise aims to expand selectively across the U.S., targeting high-traffic areas with a focus on community engagement and brand loyalty.
Key Highlights:
Scratch-made pies and desserts inspired by Southern traditions.
Strong focus on community and customer experience.
Selective, sustainable growth strategy emphasizing quality over quantity.
Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop offers a robust support system to ensure franchisee success:
Pre-Launch Support: Assistance with site selection, lease negotiation, and store design to create a welcoming environment that reflects the brand's heritage.
Comprehensive Training: A thorough training program covering all aspects of operations, including pie preparation, customer service, inventory management, and point-of-sale systems.
Ongoing Operational Support: Regular visits and consultations from franchise support staff to ensure adherence to brand standards and operational efficiency.
Marketing Assistance: Access to marketing materials, promotional strategies, and guidance on local marketing efforts to drive customer engagement and sales.
Product Development: Continuous innovation in menu offerings to keep the product lineup fresh and aligned with customer preferences.
Franchisees also benefit from a network of experienced operators, fostering a collaborative environment for sharing best practices and strategies.
The ideal franchisee for Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop embodies a combination of passion, business acumen, and community orientation. The franchise seeks investors and entrepreneurs who are committed to upholding the brand’s Southern tradition, quality, and customer-focused culture.
Key Traits and Qualifications:
Passionate About Food & Baking: A genuine love for scratch-made desserts, pies, and the craft of baking. Franchisees should enjoy sharing these creations with customers and maintaining high standards of quality.
Customer-Centric Mindset: Strong focus on delivering an exceptional customer experience. This includes creating a welcoming, friendly atmosphere, engaging with the local community, and building loyal relationships with customers.
Business and Management Skills: Ability to manage day-to-day operations effectively, including staffing, inventory management, financial oversight, and operational compliance. Prior experience in retail, food service, or franchise management is advantageous but not mandatory.
Community-Oriented: Interest in becoming a valued member of the local community. Ideal franchisees are willing to participate in local events, foster partnerships, and contribute to the brand’s reputation as a neighborhood hub for quality desserts.
Financial Capability: Ability to meet the total investment requirements, maintain working capital, and manage cash flow. This includes covering initial franchise fees, infrastructure costs, marketing budgets, and ongoing royalty fees.
Location Preference: Preferred locations are high-traffic areas such as shopping centers, downtown districts, and neighborhoods with strong community engagement. Franchisees should have a strategic mindset in choosing a site that maximizes visibility and customer access.
Growth-Oriented: Enthusiasm for business growth, brand expansion, and ongoing learning. Franchisees should be committed to following operational guidelines while exploring opportunities to increase sales and local market presence.
Summary:
The ideal franchisee is a passionate, community-minded entrepreneur with a strong appreciation for quality desserts, solid business management skills, and the financial resources to successfully operate and grow a Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop location. This combination ensures long-term success while maintaining the brand’s commitment to Southern tradition and customer satisfaction.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $474,886 – $541,043 |
| Minimum Investment Required | $474,886 |
| Franchise Fee | (contact for details) |
| Franchise Units Current Number | 14 locations |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out Costs | Included in total investment |
| Marketing Budget | Included in total investment |
| Working Capital | Included in total investment |
| Royalty Fees | (contact for details) |
| Expected ROI | Varies by location; generally positive within 2–3 years |
| Break-Even Time | Typically 18–24 months |
| Potential Revenue Streams | In-store sales, online orders, catering, seasonal promotions, gift packages |
Notes:
The total investment includes all pre-launch costs such as store build-out, equipment, initial inventory, and marketing.
Ongoing costs include operating expenses, staffing, supplies, and local marketing efforts.
Revenue depends on location, market demand, and operational efficiency.
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