2010
18
$176,850
$30,000
$176,850
No
CFS Coffee, short for "Coffee For the Soul," is a vibrant and culturally rich coffeehouse franchise that brings the authentic flavors and warmth of Colombian coffee culture to communities across the United States. Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Orlando, Florida, CFS Coffee has rapidly expanded its footprint, offering a unique blend of specialty coffees, traditional Colombian dishes, and a welcoming atmosphere that resonates with coffee enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
The brand's commitment to quality is evident in its signature offerings, such as the Dulce de Leche Cappuccino and the Rainbow Latte, which showcase the fusion of Colombian heritage with contemporary coffee trends. CFS Coffee's dedication to sustainability and community engagement further enhances its appeal, making it a standout choice for both customers and potential franchisees.
Investing in a CFS Coffee franchise offers numerous advantages:
Proven Business Model: CFS Coffee has demonstrated significant growth across various U.S. markets, underpinned by a structured and systematized business model that ensures ease of replication and operational efficiency.
Strong Brand Identity: The brand's unique Colombian-inspired concept differentiates it from competitors, attracting a diverse customer base seeking authentic and high-quality coffee experiences.
Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive extensive training and ongoing support, including assistance with site selection, store design, marketing strategies, and operational procedures, ensuring a smooth and successful business journey.
Community Engagement: CFS Coffee's emphasis on community involvement and sustainability initiatives fosters customer loyalty and enhances the brand's reputation.
Established Year:
CFS Coffee, which stands for Coffee For the Soul, was founded in 2010 in Orlando, Florida. Since its inception, the brand has focused on delivering an authentic Colombian coffeehouse experience, blending traditional flavors with modern coffee trends.
Founders:
The company was founded by Paola Bornacelli, who currently serves as the President & CEO. Her vision was to create a coffee brand that not only serves exceptional beverages but also celebrates Colombian culture and hospitality.
Franchise Units:
As of September 2025, CFS Coffee operates 18 locations in the United States, primarily concentrated in Florida, with one location in Oak Brook, Illinois. Additionally, four more locations are in development, reflecting the brand’s expansion plans.
Brand Journey & Company History:
CFS Coffee started as a passion project aimed at introducing the rich Colombian coffee culture to the U.S. market. The first store in Orlando quickly gained popularity due to its unique offerings, such as Dulce de Leche Cappuccinos, Rainbow Lattes, and other signature Colombian-inspired beverages and dishes. Over the years, CFS Coffee evolved into a recognized franchise brand with a dedicated customer base, combining quality, authenticity, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Ownership:
CFS Coffee is privately owned and operated under CFS Franchise LLC, with a commitment to expanding through a franchise-based growth model while maintaining consistent brand standards.
Market Presence in the USA:
The brand has a strong foothold in Florida, with locations in Orlando, Dr. Phillips, Kirkman, Heathrow (Lake Mary), Lake Nona, Winter Park, Oviedo, Casselberry (CFS Express), Sanford, Maitland, Celebration, Moss Park, The Villages, and Coral Gables. Its presence in Illinois marks the beginning of expansion beyond Florida, targeting other high-potential U.S. markets.
Industry Category:
CFS Coffee operates in the specialty coffeehouse and café franchise sector, catering to customers seeking premium coffee experiences, Colombian cuisine, and a community-oriented environment.
Additional Information:
CFS Coffee emphasizes community engagement, sustainability, and authentic cultural experiences.
The brand is known for innovative menu offerings that combine Colombian tradition with contemporary trends in coffee and beverages.
Its franchise model is designed to be scalable, providing franchisees with operational, marketing, and training support to ensure consistent success across locations.
CFS Coffee offers a robust support system for its franchisees:
Pre-Launch Support: Assistance with site selection, lease negotiation, and store design to ensure optimal location and layout.
Initial Training: Comprehensive training at the headquarters covering all aspects of operations, including coffee preparation, customer service, inventory management, and POS systems.
Ongoing Operational Support: Regular visits and evaluations by the support team to ensure adherence to brand standards and operational excellence.
Marketing Assistance: Access to marketing materials, promotional strategies, and digital marketing support to drive customer engagement and sales.
Supply Chain Management: Guidance on sourcing high-quality Colombian coffee beans and other ingredients, ensuring consistency and quality across all locations.
Community Engagement Strategies: Support in implementing local events and initiatives that foster community involvement and brand loyalty.
The ideal CFS Coffee franchisee possesses:
Business Acumen: Experience in retail or foodservice management, with a strong understanding of operations and customer service.
Passion for Coffee and Culture: A genuine appreciation for coffee and an interest in sharing Colombian culture with the community.
Financial Capability: The ability to invest in the franchise, with financial resources to cover startup costs and initial operating expenses.
Community-Oriented Mindset: A commitment to engaging with and contributing to the local community, aligning with CFS Coffee's values.
Location Preference: Interest in establishing a franchise in urban or suburban areas with a strong potential customer base.
| Financial Detail | Amount / Notes |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $30,000 |
| Minimum Investment Required | $176,850 (approximate; includes franchise fee, infrastructure, and working capital) |
| Total Investment Required | $176,850–$250,000 (varies by location, store size, and build-out costs) |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out Cost | Varies depending on store size, location, and interior design requirements |
| Marketing Budget | Allocated locally & nationally; managed with corporate support |
| Working Capital | Recommended to cover initial operational expenses |
| Royalty Fees | Not publicly disclosed; contact franchise team for details |
| Expected ROI | Strong compared to industry averages; depends on location & management efficiency |
| Break-Even Time | Typically 12–24 months depending on sales and operational efficiency |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Coffee & beverage sales, food items, catering services, merchandise, online retail |
| Franchise Units Current Number | 18 operating locations (with 4 more in development) |
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