Established
2008
Franchise Units
119
Minimum Investment
$3,500,000
Franchise Fee
$40,000
Total Investment Range
$8,800,000
Home Based
No
Description
Cobblestone Inn & Suites is one of America’s fastest-growing upper-midscale hotel brands, designed specifically for small towns and underserved markets across the United States. Known for providing “Big City Quality… Small Town Values®,” the franchise has earned a reputation for delivering consistent hospitality, stylish accommodations, and community-focused service. By combining a recognizable national brand with the comfort and authenticity that travelers seek, Cobblestone Inn & Suites has carved out a strong position in the competitive hospitality industry. The brand is trusted by both leisure and business travelers, offering modern guest rooms, convenient amenities, and a warm, welcoming environment.
With a proven franchise model and a growing footprint, Cobblestone Inn & Suites has become a top choice for entrepreneurs and investors who want to enter the thriving U.S. hospitality sector while catering to growing demand in secondary and tertiary markets.
Why Invest in this Franchise?
Investing in a Cobblestone Inn & Suites franchise offers significant advantages:
- Proven Success in Small Markets – The brand has strategically positioned itself in towns and smaller cities that are often overlooked by larger hotel chains.
- Strong Brand Identity – Recognized for quality, reliability, and a consistent guest experience, Cobblestone creates loyalty among travelers.
- Multiple Revenue Streams – Franchises benefit from lodging revenue, food & beverage options, meeting spaces, and long-term business travel partnerships.
- High Growth Potential – With demand for regional hospitality expanding, Cobblestone’s market presence continues to rise.
- Comprehensive Support – Franchisees receive end-to-end support in training, marketing, operations, and site development.
Background
- Founded: 2008
- Franchise since: 2013
- Founders: Brian Wogernese and partners under Cobblestone Hotels, LLC.
- Headquarters: Neenah, Wisconsin, USA.
- Franchise Units: 119
- Ownership: Privately held under Cobblestone Hotels, LLC.
- Industry Category: Hospitality – Hotels & Lodging.
- Brand Journey: Cobblestone Inn & Suites was created to fill a hospitality gap in underserved rural communities by offering high-quality lodging experiences typically found in larger cities. Over the years, the brand expanded with a focus on affordability, comfort, and community connection.
- Market Presence: Primarily in the Midwest and small-town America, with expanding coverage across multiple states.
Support Training
Cobblestone offers a comprehensive "turnkey" support system designed to guide both first-time hoteliers and seasoned developers.
Pre-Launch Support: Expert assistance with site selection, market feasibility studies, and navigating local zoning. The brand works closely with approved builders to provide streamlined construction management.
Initial Training: A rigorous two-week training program at corporate headquarters in Wisconsin for owners and General Managers, covering everything from property management systems (PMS) to brand standards.
Operational Support: Ongoing field visits, quality assurance audits, and a dedicated franchise support team to ensure your property runs at peak efficiency.
Marketing & Tech: Access to a global Central Reservation System (CRS), a robust rewards program, and national digital marketing campaigns that keep occupancy high.
Academic Support: Periodic conferences and regional training seminars to keep your staff updated on hospitality trends and revenue management strategies.
Ideal Candidate
The Community Leader: Someone who understands that a hotel is the "front door" to a small town and is eager to build local partnerships.
Business Savvy: Investors with a background in real estate development, construction, or corporate management are typically well-suited for this model.
Financial Capability: Candidates should have access to significant capital for new construction or high-quality conversions.
Passion for Service: While you can hire a management company, a passion for high-quality guest experiences is essential for maintaining brand integrity.
Location Preference: Willingness to develop in secondary/tertiary markets or rural hubs with strong local industry.
Financial Detail
| Category | Details |
| Total Investment (New Build) | $3,500,000 – $8,800,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | $1,000,000+ |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $40,000 |
| Royalty Fee | Approx. 4% - 5% of Gross Rooms Revenue |
| Marketing Fund Fee | Approx. 2% |
| Infrastructure Cost | Variable based on land acquisition and local labor rates |
| Working Capital | Recommended $150,000 – $300,000 for the first year |
| Break-Even Time | Typically 3 to 5 years depending on market ramp-up |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Room stays, meeting room rentals, onsite lounge sales, and marketplace |