Established
1997
Franchise Units
20
Minimum Investment
$500,000
Franchise Fee
$35,000
Total Investment Range
$1,050,000
Home Based
No
Description
Café Yumm! is a fast-casual restaurant chain renowned for its wholesome, organic, and sustainably sourced menu offerings. Founded in 1997 by Mary Ann and Mark Beauchamp in Eugene, Oregon, the brand has evolved from a modest juice bar into a beloved regional dining destination. Central to its appeal is the Yumm! Bowl™, a signature dish featuring organic rice, beans, fresh vegetables, and the proprietary Yumm! Sauce—a blend of almonds, garbanzo beans, soybeans, lemon juice, oil, herbs, and nutritional yeast. This unique combination has garnered a dedicated customer base and numerous accolades, including recognition as "Best Vegetarian" and "Best Cheap Eats" by Eugene Weekly from 2014 to 2018.
With a commitment to environmental sustainability, Café Yumm! has pioneered initiatives such as the first Gold LEED-certified retail restaurant in Oregon and the first solar-powered electric vehicle charging station at a U.S. restaurant. The brand's dedication to quality and community has positioned it as a leader in the fast-casual dining sector, offering a compelling opportunity for franchise investors seeking to align with a purpose-driven, health-conscious brand.
Why Invest in this Franchise?
Proven Concept: Café Yumm! offers a unique menu centered around the Yumm! Bowl™, appealing to a broad demographic, including vegans, vegetarians, and health-conscious consumers.
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Sustainability Leadership: The brand's commitment to environmental responsibility through sustainable sourcing and green building practices enhances its appeal to eco-conscious consumers.
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Strong Brand Recognition: With over two decades of operation and a loyal customer base, Café Yumm! has established a reputable brand known for quality and consistency.
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Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive extensive training and ongoing support, including site selection, marketing, and operational guidance, ensuring a smooth and successful business launch and operation.
Background
Founded: 1997 (Eugene, Oregon)
Founders: Mark and Mary Ann Beauchamp
Active Units: 20+ locations across Oregon, Washington, and Idaho (with expanding territories).
Industry Category: Fast-Casual / Health-Conscious Dining
The Journey: The Beauchamps started with a simple vision: to serve "Beautiful, Delicious, Nourishing" food. The brand quickly became an Oregon staple, known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and commitment to organic ingredients. Over the last 25+ years, it has evolved from a local favorite into a regional powerhouse, maintaining strict quality control and a strong family-oriented corporate culture.
Support Training
Café Yumm! offers a robust support system to ensure franchisee success:
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Pre-Launch Training: A minimum of two weeks of in-depth classroom and hands-on training at the headquarters in Eugene, Oregon.
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Opening Support: An opening team assists for one week before and one week after the restaurant opens, providing on-site training and ensuring operational readiness.
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Ongoing Support: Franchisees receive continuous support, including a detailed operations manual, weekly newsletters with best practices, and access to a Franchise Advisory Council that meets three times a year.
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Marketing Assistance: Tailored marketing plans, graphic design support, and guidance on local marketing initiatives to drive brand awareness and customer engagement.
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Operational Guidance: Ongoing business consulting, including assistance with site selection, construction, bookkeeping, and vendor relations.
Ideal Candidate
Values-Driven Leaders: Individuals who genuinely care about sustainable business practices and healthy living.
Business Experience: While restaurant experience is a plus, a strong background in team management, P&L oversight, and customer service is essential.
Community Connectors: Entrepreneurs who want to be active in their local neighborhoods, schools, and civic organizations.
Financial Readiness: Candidates must meet the minimum liquidity and net worth requirements to ensure a healthy launch.
Location Preference: Urban centers, college towns, and high-traffic suburban shopping districts with high daytime populations.
Financial Detail
| Investment Category | Estimated Cost / Details |
| Total Initial Investment | $500,000 – $1,050,000+ |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | $200,000 |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $35,000 (per unit) |
| Infrastructure & Build-out | $350,000 – $650,000 (Design, LEED-certified materials, kitchen equipment) |
| Marketing Budget (Pre-Launch) | $15,000 – $30,000 (Grand opening promotion) |
| Working Capital | $50,000 – $100,000 (First 3–6 months) |
| Royalty Fee | 6% of Gross Sales |
| Brand Development Fund | 2% – 3% of Gross Sales |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Dine-in, Take-out, Delivery, Catering, Retail Sauce Sales |
| Expected Break-Even Time | 18 – 36 Months (Variable based on location and volume) |
| Current Active Units | 20+ Locations |