2019
16
$389,100
$40,000
$644,350
No
Candy Cloud is a vibrant, fast-growing specialty beverage franchise that has captivated the U.S. market with its innovative, Instagram-worthy drinks and warm, inviting atmosphere. Founded in 2019 by Alex and Paityn Edwards in Illinois, Candy Cloud began as a small pop-up stand and has since blossomed into a beloved destination for drink enthusiasts.
The brand's concept revolves around offering a diverse menu of specialty beverages, including coffee, boba, smoothies, teas, fresh-squeezed lemonades, and curated shakes. Signature items like house-made horchata with brown sugar boba and strawberry purée lemonade have become fan favorites. With a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, Candy Cloud has expanded its presence across the United States, with plans for further growth. The franchise's unique blend of delicious drinks, quick service, and a welcoming environment makes it an attractive investment opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Investing in a Candy Cloud franchise offers several compelling advantages:
Proven Business Model: Candy Cloud's rapid growth and customer loyalty demonstrate the effectiveness of its business model.
Diverse Menu Offerings: The brand's extensive menu caters to a wide range of tastes, ensuring a broad customer base.
Seasonal Collections: Monthly and seasonal drink rotations keep the menu fresh and customers engaged.
Quick Service: With an average order turnaround of just 3 minutes, Candy Cloud ensures efficient service without compromising quality.
Strong Brand Identity: The brand's aesthetic and unique drink offerings make it stand out in the competitive beverage industry.
Established Year:
Candy Cloud was founded in 2019 by Alex and Paityn Edwards in Illinois, USA. What began as a small, local pop-up specializing in unique beverages and sweets has rapidly grown into a recognizable brand in the specialty beverage industry.
Founders:
Alex Edwards – Co-founder and operational lead with experience in retail management and beverage concept development.
Paityn Edwards – Co-founder and marketing visionary, responsible for brand aesthetics, social media engagement, and customer experience strategies.
Brand Journey & Company History:
Initially launched as a cotton candy and dessert stand, the brand quickly realized the potential of expanding into specialty beverages, especially Instagram-worthy drinks.
By 2020, Candy Cloud began offering boba teas, smoothies, coffees, and fresh juices, creating a unique niche in the crowded beverage market.
In 2022, Candy Cloud opened its doors to franchise opportunities, formalizing a replicable business model designed for rapid expansion across the U.S.
Ownership:
The company remains privately owned by the founders, maintaining full control over brand direction, quality standards, and franchise operations.
Franchise Units & Market Presence:
Candy Cloud currently operates several corporate and franchised locations in Illinois, Texas, and select states.
The franchise is actively expanding, with plans to establish 16+ new units across high-traffic urban and suburban markets in the U.S.
The brand falls under the Food & Beverage / Specialty Drinks category and competes in a market driven by social media trends, customer experience, and unique product offerings.
Industry Positioning:
Candy Cloud has positioned itself as a modern, experience-driven beverage brand targeting younger demographics, families, and social media-savvy consumers. Its colorful, aesthetically appealing drinks and cozy store layouts make it not just a place to buy beverages but also a destination for social experiences.
Key Highlights:
Innovative Menu: Signature drinks like horchata with brown sugar boba and seasonal lemonade collections.
Strong Brand Identity: A recognizable logo, vibrant store design, and active social media presence.
Expansion-Ready Model: Designed for franchisees to replicate the corporate success efficiently.
Candy Cloud is committed to ensuring the success of every franchisee by offering comprehensive pre-launch, operational, marketing, and ongoing support. The system is designed to equip franchisees with all the knowledge, tools, and guidance necessary to run a profitable and sustainable business.
1. Pre-Launch Support
Before opening, Candy Cloud provides extensive assistance to help franchisees set up their store efficiently and correctly:
Site Selection Assistance: Franchisees receive help identifying the most profitable locations, including demographic studies, foot traffic analysis, and lease negotiations.
Design & Build-Out Support: Guidance on store layout, décor, signage, and compliance with brand standards.
Equipment & Inventory Setup: Recommendations and assistance in sourcing equipment, initial inventory, and point-of-sale systems.
Licensing & Permits: Support in understanding and acquiring local business licenses, health permits, and other legal requirements.
2. Initial Training
Candy Cloud provides hands-on training to ensure franchisees and their staff are ready for day-to-day operations:
Corporate Headquarters Training: 10 days of intensive classroom and practical training at Candy Cloud HQ, covering operational procedures, product preparation, quality standards, and customer service.
On-Site Pre-Opening Training: 6–7 days of on-site support at the franchise location before launch, helping with staff onboarding, workflow setup, and operational readiness.
Menu Preparation & Product Knowledge: Franchisees learn all recipes, beverage preparation techniques, and presentation standards to ensure consistent quality.
3. Marketing Support
Candy Cloud assists franchisees in building a strong local presence and driving sales:
Grand Opening Campaigns: Pre-planned marketing campaigns for the store launch, including social media promotion, local PR, and in-store events.
Ongoing Marketing: Guidance on local marketing strategies, promotions, and seasonal campaigns.
Brand Development Fund: Up to 2% of weekly gross sales is allocated for systemwide and local marketing, managed by the franchisor to maintain brand consistency.
4. Operational Support
Franchisees receive continuous operational guidance to maintain high standards:
Monthly Meetings: Regular sessions with corporate representatives to discuss performance, challenges, and improvements.
Site Visits: Corporate team conducts periodic visits to ensure compliance, provide recommendations, and offer hands-on assistance.
Secret Shopper & Performance Reviews: Evaluations of customer service and product quality to maintain brand reputation and operational excellence.
5. Academic & Ongoing Learning
Candy Cloud invests in continuous education for franchisees and staff:
Workshops & Seminars: Updates on new menu items, marketing strategies, and customer engagement techniques.
Digital Resources: Access to manuals, video tutorials, and training platforms for easy reference.
Support Hotline: Dedicated franchise support team available to answer questions and provide guidance in real-time.
Candy Cloud seeks franchisees who are passionate, driven, and capable of delivering exceptional customer experiences. The franchise model is designed for entrepreneurs who want to actively participate in day-to-day operations while benefiting from a proven, structured system.
1. Passion for the Brand
Franchisees should have a genuine enthusiasm for specialty beverages, desserts, and customer service.
A love for creative, Instagram-worthy products and an understanding of the modern food & beverage market helps maintain the brand’s vibrant identity.
Being personally invested in the brand’s culture and community presence is key to long-term success.
2. Hands-On Operator
Ideal franchisees are actively involved in daily store operations, including managing staff, ensuring product quality, and maintaining excellent customer service.
Previous retail, food, or beverage experience is helpful but not mandatory, as Candy Cloud provides comprehensive training and operational support.
Franchisees should enjoy engaging with customers and building strong relationships in their community.
3. Financial Capability
Candidates must have the financial capacity to meet the franchise investment requirements and sustain the business until it becomes profitable.
Ability to manage working capital, payroll, inventory, and marketing expenses is critical.
Prospective franchisees should be prepared for ongoing royalty and advertising contributions while reinvesting in growth opportunities.
4. Entrepreneurial Mindset
Franchisees should be goal-oriented, self-motivated, and proactive in problem-solving.
The ability to adapt to market trends, implement operational improvements, and explore local marketing initiatives is highly valued.
Strong organizational and leadership skills help manage staff efficiently and maintain high brand standards.
5. Community-Focused
Candy Cloud franchisees are expected to engage with their local community, fostering loyal customer relationships.
Participation in local events, promotions, and collaborations enhances brand visibility and strengthens community ties.
6. Location Flexibility
Ideal franchisees should be open to locations with high foot traffic, visibility, and accessibility, such as malls, shopping centers, and busy urban areas.
Preference for areas where the target demographic—teens, young adults, and families—frequent ensures steady customer flow.
✅ Summary
The ideal Candy Cloud franchisee is someone who combines passion for specialty beverages, a hands-on operational approach, financial capability, and an entrepreneurial mindset. Engaging with the community, embracing the brand’s culture, and maintaining operational excellence are key factors that contribute to the success and growth of a Candy Cloud franchise.
| Category | Amount / Range (USD) | Notes / Details |
|---|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $389,100 – $644,350 | Includes all initial costs like leasehold improvements, equipment, inventory, and working capital. |
| Franchise Fee | $40,000 | One-time fee paid to the franchisor to obtain the rights to operate under the Candy Cloud brand. |
| Royalty Fee | 6% of weekly gross sales | Ongoing fee for continued use of brand, operations support, and corporate guidance. |
| Advertising / Marketing Fund | Up to 2% of weekly gross sales | Managed by franchisor for systemwide and local marketing campaigns. |
| Leasehold Improvements | $75,000 – $170,000 | Costs to renovate or build out the store location to meet brand standards. |
| Equipment & Fixtures | $85,000 – $110,000 | Includes coffee machines, blenders, refrigerators, POS systems, and other operational equipment. |
| Signage | $8,000 – $15,000 | Exterior and interior branding signage. |
| Initial Inventory | $8,000 – $15,000 | Ingredients, beverages, packaging, and other consumables for opening stock. |
| Grand Opening Marketing | $8,000 | Managed by franchisor, including social media campaigns, local PR, and promotions. |
| Working Capital | Varies based on location | Recommended to cover 3–6 months of operating expenses. |
| Expected ROI | Varies; refer to FDD | Depends on location, operational efficiency, and market conditions. |
| Break-Even Time | Varies by location | Typical range depends on sales volume and expenses; generally within 12–24 months. |
| Revenue Streams | Beverage sales, seasonal specials, catering, merchandise | Diversified income sources to maximize profitability. |
