1991
100
$843,000
$25,000
$2,378,000
No
Corner Bakery Cafe is a beloved fast-casual dining brand that began in 1991 as a neighborhood bakery in downtown Chicago. Known for its freshly baked bread, pastries, and a diverse menu ranging from breakfast scramblers to hearty sandwiches and salads, the brand has evolved into a modern café experience. With approximately 100 locations across the United States, Corner Bakery Cafe offers a welcoming atmosphere where culinary innovation meets community spirit.
Investing in a Corner Bakery Cafe franchise presents a compelling opportunity for entrepreneurs seeking to enter the thriving fast-casual dining sector. The brand's commitment to quality, innovation, and community engagement positions it for sustained growth. Recent investments in remodeling and technology enhancements demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to meet evolving consumer expectations.
Established Year:
Corner Bakery Cafe was founded in 1991 in Chicago, Illinois. It began as a neighborhood bakery with the vision of offering freshly baked bread, pastries, and casual café meals in a welcoming environment.
Founders & Ownership:
The brand was originally founded by a team of entrepreneurs passionate about artisanal bakery products and casual dining experiences. Over the years, it underwent several ownership changes, most recently being acquired by SCCP Restaurant Investors in 2023, following a restructuring after a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing. This acquisition allowed the brand to revitalize its operations, invest in renovations, and modernize its customer experience.
Franchise Journey & Units:
Corner Bakery Cafe launched its franchise model in the early 2000s, allowing entrepreneurs to replicate its successful fast-casual dining concept across the United States. Currently, the franchise has approximately 100 locations nationwide, with a presence in key urban and suburban markets.
Brand Journey & Company History:
1991–2000: Started as a single bakery in Chicago, gaining popularity for fresh breads and casual meals.
2001–2010: Expanded across major U.S. cities through company-owned and franchise locations.
2011–2022: Strengthened its menu offerings, integrating seasonal and health-conscious items to match market trends.
2023–Present: Under new ownership, Corner Bakery Cafe invested over $6 million in store renovations, including modern interiors, self-order kiosks, and upgraded dining experiences to attract both loyal and new customers.
Market Presence & Industry Category:
Corner Bakery Cafe operates in the fast-casual dining sector, competing with brands that focus on quality, convenience, and community-centered experiences. Its market presence in the U.S. positions it as a recognizable and trusted name in cafés and casual dining, with potential for further franchise expansion.
Other Information:
Known for a community-first approach, hosting events and catering services that strengthen local ties.
Focused on quality, innovation, and consistency, which enhances brand loyalty and repeat customer rates.
Aims to combine traditional bakery charm with modern café convenience, appealing to diverse demographics including families, working professionals, and health-conscious customers.
Corner Bakery Cafe offers comprehensive, structured support to ensure that franchisees can launch successfully and operate efficiently. Their programs cover all stages of the franchise lifecycle, from pre-launch to ongoing operations:
Before opening a location, Corner Bakery Cafe guides franchisees through every crucial step:
Site Selection & Evaluation: Assistance in identifying high-traffic, strategic locations that maximize customer reach and profitability.
Lease Negotiation & Real Estate Guidance: Expert advice on negotiating favorable lease terms and managing property acquisition.
Construction & Store Design: Support with building layouts, interior design, equipment installation, and adherence to brand standards to create a cohesive café experience.
Corner Bakery Cafe provides extensive training programs designed to equip franchisees and staff with the skills necessary for daily operations:
Initial Training: Includes classroom and on-site instruction covering operational procedures, food preparation, customer service, and financial management.
On-the-Job Training: Up to 583 hours of hands-on training for Controlling Principals, Shift Supervisors, and Kitchen Managers to ensure franchisees understand store management comprehensively.
Manager & Staff Training: Focused modules for kitchen staff, servers, and management to maintain consistent product quality and customer experience across all locations.
Ongoing assistance helps franchisees maintain and grow their business:
Operational Manuals & Playbooks: Step-by-step guides on daily operations, inventory management, staffing, and compliance with brand standards.
Performance Monitoring: Regular check-ins and reporting to identify areas for improvement and optimize store efficiency.
Technology Integration: Guidance on POS systems, online ordering, and loyalty programs to enhance customer experience.
Franchisees receive support to build brand awareness and drive traffic:
Local Marketing Programs: Guidance for community events, local promotions, and partnerships.
National Marketing Campaigns: Contribution to a marketing fund that supports digital campaigns, seasonal promotions, and brand-wide advertising initiatives.
Digital & Social Media Support: Assistance in leveraging social media channels, website listings, and online review platforms.
Corner Bakery Cafe ensures that franchisees are never alone after launch:
Field Support Teams: Experienced professionals visit stores periodically to provide coaching, operational advice, and quality checks.
Continuing Education: Periodic training updates to implement new menu items, operational technologies, and industry best practices.
Networking Opportunities: Franchisee conferences and regional meetings to share insights, success strategies, and operational innovations.
Corner Bakery Cafe seeks driven, business-savvy entrepreneurs who are passionate about food, customer service, and community engagement. The ideal franchisee combines financial capability with operational excellence and a strong commitment to the brand’s values.
Proven experience in restaurant management, retail operations, or hospitality, with an ability to oversee multiple aspects of a café business.
Strong leadership skills to manage staff, ensure smooth operations, and maintain high standards of quality and service.
Understanding of financial management, budgeting, and inventory control to sustain profitability.
Minimum liquid capital of $3 million and a net worth of at least $7.5 million, ensuring the franchisee can manage startup costs, working capital, and unforeseen operational expenses.
Ability to invest in high-quality real estate, store design, and marketing campaigns to drive long-term growth.
Genuine interest in delivering exceptional dining experiences, with a focus on fresh bakery products, quality meals, and excellent customer service.
Enthusiasm for community engagement, catering, and local marketing initiatives that build brand loyalty.
Willingness to follow Corner Bakery Cafe’s operational playbooks and training protocols, ensuring consistency in food quality, service, and overall customer experience.
Openness to adopting new technologies, marketing strategies, and innovations introduced by the brand.
Preference for high-traffic urban or suburban areas with strong community presence and footfall.
Ability to identify growth opportunities in underserved or strategic markets, contributing to both personal and brand expansion.
Motivated, goal-oriented, and capable of handling operational challenges while maintaining a positive and professional demeanor.
Resilient and adaptable, with a long-term commitment to business success and brand growth.
| Financial Component | Details / Range |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | Up to $25,000 |
| Total Initial Investment | $843,000 – $2,378,000 (includes real estate, equipment, signage, and startup costs) |
| Minimum Liquid Capital Required | $3,000,000 |
| Minimum Net Worth Required | $7,500,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% of gross sales |
| Advertising / Marketing Fee | 2% of gross sales |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out Cost | Included in total investment; varies based on location, store size, and renovations |
| Working Capital | $100,000 – $150,000 (to cover operational expenses in initial months) |
| Expected ROI | 15% – 25% annually (varies by location and performance) |
| Break-Even Time | Approximately 18 – 24 months |
| Revenue Streams | Dine-in sales, takeout, catering, online orders, seasonal promotions |
| Franchise Units (Current) | ~100 locations nationwide |
| Additional Fees / Costs | Equipment leasing (if applicable), initial inventory, staff hiring, permits/licenses |
