2020
50
$232,500
$35,000
$552,500
No
Cookie Co. is revolutionizing the gourmet cookie industry with its irresistible, made-from-scratch treats and a business model designed for profitability and scalability. Founded in 2020 by Elise and Matt Thomas in Redlands, California, Cookie Co. began as a home-based venture during the COVID-19 pandemic. Elise, known as "The Cookie Lady," baked her signature cookies using real ingredients like eggs, butter, and cane sugar, delivering them directly to customers' driveways. This personal touch quickly garnered a loyal following, leading to the opening of the first brick-and-mortar location.
Since then, Cookie Co. has expanded rapidly, with plans to open 100 new locations across the United States. The brand's commitment to quality, community, and customer experience has positioned it as a standout in the competitive baked goods market.
0% Royalty Fees: Cookie Co. offers a unique 0% royalty structure, allowing franchisees to retain all profits.
Low Capital Investment: With an initial investment starting at ₹16 Lakhs (approximately $19,000), Cookie Co. provides an affordable entry into the franchise world.
Quick Return on Investment: Franchisees can expect a return on investment within 13 months, thanks to the brand's efficient operations and strong customer demand.
Semi-Absentee Ownership: Cookie Co. franchises can be operated semi-independently, making it ideal for investors seeking passive income opportunities.
Proven Business Model: The brand's simple operations and low overhead costs contribute to its profitability and scalability.
Established: 2020
Founders: Elise and Matt Thomas
Headquarters: Redlands, California
Industry Category: Gourmet Baked Goods / Cookie Franchise
Ownership: Privately held
Franchise Units: 20–50 locations across the U.S., with plans for 100 new openings in the next two years
International Expansion: Initiating entry into Canada with locations planned in Calgary, Vancouver, and Toronto
Cookie Co. was founded in 2020 by Elise and Matt Thomas during the COVID-19 pandemic. Elise, affectionately known as “The Cookie Lady,” began baking gourmet cookies in her home using real ingredients like eggs, butter, and cane sugar. She prepared hundreds of boxes weekly for curbside pickup, delivering a nostalgic and comforting experience to customers.
The initial success of this home-based venture led to the opening of the first brick-and-mortar location in Redlands, California, in August 2020. The brand quickly gained popularity, known for its signature cookies and a rotating menu of flavors.
In 2023, Cookie Co. appointed Pamela Fazio as CEO to spearhead its nationwide expansion, with plans to open 100 new locations across the United States.
As of September 2025, Cookie Co. operates between 20 and 50 franchise units across the United States. The brand is actively expanding, with plans to open an additional 100 locations over the next two years, focusing on states such as Arizona, Missouri, Texas, Tennessee, Florida, Nevada, Idaho, Indiana, and Utah .
Cookie Co. operates within the gourmet baked goods industry, specializing in high-quality, fresh-baked cookies. The brand differentiates itself by offering a rotating menu of unique flavors and a commitment to using real, high-quality ingredients.
Cookie Co. offers a comprehensive pre-opening training program to ensure franchisees are well-prepared for the launch of their store. Approximately 45 days before the scheduled opening, the franchisee and their general manager are required to attend a five-day, full-time training session at one of Cookie Co.'s corporate training locations. This training covers various aspects of store operations, including:
Cookie Execution: Mastering the preparation and baking of Cookie Co.'s signature cookies.
Back-of-House Operations: Understanding kitchen workflows and inventory management.
Staffing: Recruitment, training, and team management.
Supply Chain Management: Efficient sourcing and handling of ingredients and materials.
This hands-on training ensures that franchisees are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to operate their store successfully.
After the store opens, Cookie Co. continues to provide robust support to its franchisees, including:
Field Operations Assistance: Regular visits and consultations to address operational challenges and optimize performance.
Marketing Support: Guidance on local marketing strategies and access to advertising materials to promote the store.
Purchasing Co-ops: Opportunities to participate in cooperative purchasing programs to reduce costs.
Newsletters and Meetings: Regular updates and opportunities to connect with other franchisees through newsletters and conventions.
Grand Opening Assistance: Support in planning and executing a successful store opening event.
This ongoing support helps franchisees maintain high operational standards and adapt to market changes effectively.
Cookie Co. provides franchisees with access to various tools and resources to streamline business operations, including:
Custom Designed Computer Software: A proprietary system for ordering and billing, designed to save franchisees time and improve efficiency.
Ad Templates: Pre-designed advertising materials that franchisees can customize for local marketing campaigns.
Online Support: Access to a dedicated online portal for resources, training materials, and support.
These tools are designed to simplify administrative tasks and enhance marketing efforts, allowing franchisees to focus more on customer service and business growth.
Cookie Co. seeks franchisees who are motivated, business-minded, and passionate about creating memorable experiences through gourmet baked goods. The ideal candidate possesses a combination of entrepreneurial drive, community focus, and operational capability.
While prior experience in the food industry is beneficial, it is not mandatory.
Candidates with a background in retail management, hospitality, or small business ownership tend to adapt quickly to the franchise operations.
Individuals comfortable managing staff, inventory, and day-to-day operations are highly desirable.
Self-motivated individuals who are willing to actively oversee store operations, particularly during the initial months.
Enthusiasm for building a brand locally and contributing to community engagement is essential.
Ability to follow a proven business model while injecting creativity in marketing or customer engagement initiatives.
A genuine interest in gourmet cookies, baked goods, and desserts.
Commitment to delivering a high-quality customer experience and upholding Cookie Co.’s brand standards.
Strong interpersonal skills for interacting with customers, local businesses, and staff.
Minimum net worth: $250,000
Liquidity requirement: $100,000
Total investment: $232,500 – $552,500, covering franchise fees, infrastructure, marketing, and working capital.
Ability to invest in initial inventory, equipment, and marketing while sustaining the business until it reaches profitability.
Preference for high-traffic areas, shopping centers, or community hubs with strong footfall.
Candidates open to operating in suburban or urban markets where gourmet dessert demand is high.
Suitable for hands-on operators who want to manage day-to-day operations.
Also appropriate for semi-absentee owners who can hire managers while maintaining oversight of business performance.
Strong leadership skills to hire, train, and retain high-performing staff.
Commitment to the brand’s mission of quality, community, and customer satisfaction.
Adaptable, organized, and detail-oriented, able to navigate challenges in a fast-growing franchise.
Team-oriented mindset with the ability to collaborate with corporate support and fellow franchise
| Category | Details / Amount (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 | One-time payment to secure franchise rights |
| Total Investment Required | $232,500 – $552,500 | Includes franchise fee, infrastructure, equipment, working capital, and initial marketing |
| Minimum Net Worth Required | $250,000 | Demonstrates financial stability |
| Liquidity Requirement | $100,000 | Available cash to cover initial operations and contingencies |
| Royalty Fee | 7% | Ongoing percentage of gross sales paid to franchisor |
| Advertising / Marketing Fee | 2% | National and local marketing support |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out Cost | $150,000 – $300,000 | Costs for store design, equipment, and furnishings |
| Working Capital | $20,000 – $50,000 | Operational funds to cover first months of business |
| Expected Revenue per Unit (Average) | $1,228,155 | Based on historical unit performance |
| Average Gross Profit per Unit | $579,791 | Before royalty and marketing fees |
| Break-Even Time | ~13 months | Average time to recover initial investment |
| ROI | 50% – 60% estimated | Based on average sales and profit margins |
| Revenue Streams | Cookies, brownies, gelato, beverages | Opportunities for upselling, seasonal products, and catering |
