2011
6
$100,000
$35,000
$404,900
No
Clusters Handcrafted Popcorn is redefining the gourmet snack industry with its innovative approach to popcorn. Founded in 2011 by Linda and Jules Sghiatti in New Hope, Pennsylvania, the brand began franchising in 2019 and has since expanded to multiple locations across the United States. Clusters offers a unique blend of sweet and savory popcorn flavors, all handcrafted using non-GMO kernels popped in coconut oil. Their boutique-style stores provide a warm, inviting atmosphere, making each visit an experience to remember. With a focus on quality ingredients and exceptional customer service, Clusters has established itself as a beloved community fixture.
Proven Business Model: Clusters has demonstrated consistent growth and profitability since its inception, with a strong track record of success in various markets.
Low Investment, High Return: The franchise offers a cost-effective entry point into the food industry, with a manageable initial investment and potential for significant returns.
Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive extensive training and ongoing support in areas such as operations, marketing, and site selection, ensuring a smooth and successful business journey.
Community Engagement: As a franchisee, you'll become an integral part of your local community, offering a product that people love and crave.
Established Year: 2011
Franchise Units: 6 (as of 2025)
Founders: Linda and Jules Sghiatti
Company History: Clusters began as a small family-owned business in 2011, inspired by the Sghiattis' love for Jersey Shore caramel corn. Recognizing a lack of quick snack options in New Hope, PA, they decided to create a unique popcorn shop. The first store opened in April 2011, and the brand began franchising in 2019.
Ownership: Privately owned by Linda and Jules Sghiatti
Market Presence in the USA: Clusters has expanded to multiple locations across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and beyond, with plans for further growth.
Industry Category: Food & Beverage – Retail Snacks
Clusters Handcrafted Popcorn provides a comprehensive support system to ensure each franchisee can launch and operate their business successfully. This includes pre-launch, operational, marketing, academic, and ongoing support:
Site Selection Assistance: The franchisor helps franchisees choose the optimal location based on foot traffic, demographics, and community engagement to maximize revenue potential.
Lease Negotiation Guidance: Experts assist in reviewing and negotiating lease agreements to secure favorable terms for the franchisee.
Store Design & Buildout: Assistance with store layout, design, décor, and equipment installation to maintain brand consistency and create a welcoming environment.
Grand Opening Support: Guidance and resources to plan a successful launch event that drives initial footfall and generates local buzz.
Classroom Training: Franchisees and their staff receive hands-on training at a corporate or designated training facility covering core operations, customer service, product preparation, and merchandising.
On-the-Job Training: Practical, in-store experience to ensure franchisees are comfortable with daily operations, quality control, and inventory management.
Staff Training Programs: Training modules designed for new hires covering customer interaction, product knowledge, and store protocols to ensure consistent service standards.
National and Regional Campaigns: Access to marketing campaigns designed by Clusters’ corporate team to drive brand awareness and attract customers.
Local Marketing Guidance: Assistance in developing local marketing strategies, including promotions, community events, and social media campaigns tailored to the franchise location.
Promotional Materials: Supply of branded signage, menus, packaging, and digital marketing templates to maintain a professional, cohesive look.
Inventory Management Tools: Proprietary software and guidance to track sales, manage stock levels, and minimize waste.
Quality Assurance: Regular checks to ensure adherence to company standards for product quality and customer service.
Financial Guidance: Support with bookkeeping, accounting systems, and cost control to maintain profitability.
Field Visits & Consulting: Regular visits from corporate representatives to monitor operations, provide advice, and share best practices.
Annual Franchise Meetings: Opportunities to connect with other franchisees, learn about new products, and receive updates on business strategies.
Continuous Training: Updates on new products, processes, and marketing initiatives to keep franchisees competitive and informed.
Clusters Handcrafted Popcorn seeks motivated and committed individuals who are passionate about gourmet snacks, community engagement, and running a profitable retail business. The ideal franchisee possesses a mix of personal traits, professional background, and financial capability.
Love for Food & Snacks: Franchisees should have a genuine interest in gourmet food, particularly popcorn and specialty treats, to connect with customers authentically.
Customer-Oriented: Someone who enjoys interacting with people and providing memorable service experiences, creating loyal customers.
Business Ownership Aspirations: Candidates should be driven to manage their own business and be responsible for daily operations, marketing, and financial performance.
Growth-Oriented: Interested in expanding their franchise footprint and exploring multiple revenue streams such as catering, events, or online sales.
Retail or Food Experience (Preferred, Not Required): Experience in retail, hospitality, or food service is advantageous but not mandatory; Clusters provides full training.
Management Skills: Ability to supervise staff, handle customer inquiries, manage inventory, and maintain operational efficiency.
Marketing Savvy: Comfortable promoting the business locally through events, social media, and community engagement.
Investment Readiness: Ability to meet the financial requirements including liquid capital (minimum $100,000), total investment (~$170,800 – $404,900), and franchise fee ($35,000).
Risk Management: Understanding of financial risk and willingness to invest time and resources to ensure business success.
Community-Oriented: Eager to build a strong presence in the local community and create a loyal customer base.
Passionate & Energetic: Enthusiasm for the brand and its products, coupled with the ability to motivate staff and lead by example.
Detail-Oriented & Organized: Committed to maintaining high standards in product quality, store cleanliness, and customer service.
High-Traffic Areas: Ideally, franchisees should target locations with strong foot traffic, shopping centers, tourist destinations, or areas with a vibrant community culture.
Growth Potential: Areas where demand for premium, handcrafted snacks is high and competition is moderate to low.
| Category | Details / Range |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $170,800 – $404,900 |
| Minimum Investment (Liquid Capital) | $100,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 6% of gross sales |
| Advertising / Marketing Fee | 1% of gross sales |
| Term of Agreement | 10 years, renewable |
| Net Worth Requirement | $300,000 |
| Financing Options | Third-party financing available to cover franchise fee, startup costs, equipment, inventory, and more |
| Break-Even Time | Typically 12–18 months, depending on location and operations |
| Expected ROI | Varies by location; potential for significant returns with effective management |
| Franchise Units (2025) | 6 |
| Revenue Streams | In-store sales, online orders, catering, party favors |
| Infrastructure / Buildout Cost | Part of total investment; varies by location and store size |
| Working Capital | Included in total investment; ensures smooth operations during initial months |
| Additional Costs | Equipment, initial inventory, training, permits, insurance |
