2020
2
$148,150
$49,500
$290,200
No
Donut I Love U! is revolutionizing the dessert industry by offering handcrafted, 100% gluten-free mini donuts and premium beverages through a vibrant mobile experience. Founded on the belief that indulgence should be inclusive, the brand caters to those with dietary restrictions without compromising on taste or quality. With a commitment to fresh ingredients, community engagement, and a fun-loving brand personality, Donut I Love U! is poised for expansion across the United States.
Rising Demand for Gluten-Free Options: With the increasing number of individuals seeking gluten-free alternatives, Donut I Love U! taps into a growing market segment.
Mobile Flexibility: The food truck model allows for mobility, catering to various events and locations, maximizing exposure and sales opportunities.
Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive extensive training and operational support, ensuring a smooth launch and sustained business growth.
Community Engagement: The brand's focus on community involvement fosters customer loyalty and brand recognition.
Unique Product Offering: The combination of gluten-free donuts and premium beverages sets Donut I Love U! apart from traditional dessert establishments.
Established Year: 2020
Donut I Love U! was founded in 2020 with a mission to make indulgent, handcrafted donuts accessible to everyone, including those with dietary restrictions.
Founders: Mithoon and Lindsey Patel
The founders grew up in households where food was an expression of love, inspired by recipes passed down from their grandmothers. Their vision was to create gluten-free mini donuts that deliver both joy and inclusivity.
Franchise Units: Currently, there are 2 company-owned units, with ambitious plans for expansion through franchising across the United States.
Ownership: Privately owned and operated.
Brand Journey & Company History:
From a small local operation, Donut I Love U! quickly gained recognition for its 100% gluten-free donuts, fresh ingredients, and vibrant mobile food truck experience. The brand emphasizes community engagement, attending local events, farmers markets, and private parties to build a loyal customer base. Its unique concept blends health-conscious offerings with indulgent flavors, filling a gap in the dessert and specialty food market.
Market Presence in USA: Currently serving regions in the Carolinas, the brand is preparing for national expansion via franchise opportunities. Its innovative mobile model allows franchisees to serve multiple locations and events efficiently.
Industry Category: Food & Beverage, specializing in gluten-free desserts, premium beverages, and mobile food services.
Mission & Vision:
Mission: To create moments of joy through inclusive, high-quality donuts that everyone can enjoy.
Vision: To become a leading gluten-free donut brand in the USA, recognized for quality, community engagement, and innovative mobile experiences.
Unique Selling Proposition (USP):
100% gluten-free, handcrafted donuts
Mobile food truck flexibility for events and catering
High-quality ingredients and visually appealing presentation
Strong focus on customer experience and community involvement
Donut I Love U! ensures franchisees have all the tools, knowledge, and guidance needed to launch and operate a successful business. Their support system is comprehensive and structured, covering every stage of the franchise journey:
Site Selection & Setup: Guidance in choosing optimal locations for maximum foot traffic and event access.
Lease Negotiation Assistance: Support in securing favorable lease terms.
Equipment & Inventory Setup: Recommendations for food trucks, kitchen equipment, and initial inventory to ensure smooth operations from day one.
Operational Planning: Assistance with creating a tailored operational plan, including staffing, logistics, and scheduling.
Hands-On Training Program: Comprehensive onboarding covering daily operations, customer service, and product preparation.
Food Preparation & Quality Control: Training on crafting donuts to maintain the brand’s 100% gluten-free quality standards.
Food Truck Operations: Guidance on mobility logistics, health and safety compliance, and efficient service management.
Grand Opening Assistance: Strategies and materials to ensure a strong launch in your market.
Branding & Promotion: Access to approved marketing assets, social media templates, and advertising campaigns.
Local Marketing Guidance: Tips and plans for engaging local communities, participating in events, and increasing brand visibility.
Continuous Operational Support: Regular check-ins with the corporate support team to address challenges and optimize performance.
Product Updates & Innovation: Access to new recipes, seasonal flavors, and promotional ideas to keep offerings fresh and appealing.
Franchisee Network: A community of fellow franchisees for sharing best practices, problem-solving, and peer support.
Business Analytics: Tools and guidance for tracking sales, monitoring ROI, and improving operational efficiency.
Workshops & Webinars: Periodic training sessions on leadership, customer engagement, and marketing strategies.
Guides & Manuals: Step-by-step operational manuals covering everything from food preparation to customer service protocols.
Ongoing Innovation: Support for adopting new technologies, digital ordering, and mobile event management.
Summary:
The franchise model is designed to ensure that even first-time entrepreneurs can confidently operate a Donut I Love U! food truck. From pre-launch preparation to ongoing marketing and operational support, franchisees receive continuous guidance to maximize revenue, maintain brand standards, and grow their business successfully.
Donut I Love U! seeks franchisees who are passionate, motivated, and ready to be hands-on operators of a unique and growing food brand. The ideal candidates combine business acumen with a love for food and community engagement.
A genuine interest in food, desserts, and specialty beverages, particularly gluten-free products.
Commitment to delivering a high-quality, memorable customer experience.
Enthusiasm for participating in local events, festivals, and community engagement to promote the brand.
Business-minded individuals capable of managing day-to-day operations, staff, and finances.
Willingness to follow a proven franchise system while contributing personal energy and creativity to grow the business.
Experience in retail, hospitality, food service, or small business management is beneficial but not mandatory.
Ability to meet the initial investment requirements (franchise fee, equipment, working capital, marketing fund).
Preparedness to manage operating costs, including payroll, supplies, and ongoing marketing expenses.
Understanding that profitability grows with consistent operational excellence, community engagement, and strategic location selection.
Willingness to be actively involved in daily operations, especially in the early stages.
Ability to train and manage staff, maintain quality standards, and ensure smooth food truck operations.
Passion for building strong relationships within the community, participating in local events, and creating a loyal customer base.
Commitment to representing the Donut I Love U! brand positively and consistently.
Open to operating in areas with high foot traffic, event locations, festivals, and private catering opportunities.
Mobility and flexibility to maximize revenue streams through various events and pop-up locations.
Summary:
The ideal Donut I Love U! franchisee is a dedicated, community-focused entrepreneur with a love for gluten-free desserts, strong operational skills, and the financial capability to invest in and grow the business. This profile ensures franchisees not only meet corporate standards but thrive in a competitive and rewarding mobile food franchise market.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $49,500 |
| Total Estimated Investment | $148,150 – $290,200 |
| Minimum Net Worth Requirement | $300,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% of gross sales |
| Marketing Fee | 2% of gross sales |
| Infrastructure / Equipment Costs | Included in total investment; varies by location and setup |
| Working Capital | Part of total investment to cover initial operations |
| Expected ROI | Varies by location, typically within 12–24 months |
| Break-Even Time | 12 – 24 months depending on sales and market conditions |
| Revenue Streams | • Sales from gluten-free donuts and premium beverages • Catering for private events • Food truck pop-ups at festivals, fairs, and community events |
| Additional Notes | Flexible mobile food truck model allows multiple revenue channels and event-based income. Strong focus on marketing and community engagement enhances profitability. |
