2002
70
$332,350
$35,000
$610,000
No
Dream Dinners is a pioneering meal preparation franchise that revolutionized the way families approach dinner time. Founded in 2002 by Stephanie Allen and Tina Kuna in Mill Creek, Washington, Dream Dinners introduced the concept of meal assembly centers, offering customers the opportunity to prepare multiple meals in advance, freeze them, and cook them at home. This innovative approach not only saves time but also fosters family bonding and healthy eating habits.
With a strong reputation for quality and convenience, Dream Dinners has expanded its presence across 22 states, operating 70 locations. The brand's commitment to providing real food made from scratch, with all shopping, chopping, prepping, and cleanup handled, has resonated with busy families seeking wholesome meal solutions.
As the only meal kit concept targeting the growing number of millennial families, Dream Dinners continues to lead the industry with its unique business model and customer-centric approach.
Investing in a Dream Dinners franchise offers several compelling advantages:
Proven Business Model: With over two decades of experience, Dream Dinners has refined its operations to ensure efficiency and profitability.
Growing Market Demand: As families seek convenient and healthy meal solutions, the demand for meal prep services continues to rise.
Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive extensive training and ongoing support, ensuring they are equipped to succeed.
Flexible Ownership Options: The franchise model allows for various ownership structures, accommodating different investor preferences.
Established Year: 2002
Founders: Stephanie Allen and Tina Kuna
Headquarters: Snohomish, Washington, USA
Franchise Units: Approximately 70 locations across 22 states in the USA
Franchising Since: 2003
Industry Category: Meal Preparation / Food Service
Ownership: Privately held
Brand Journey & History:
Dream Dinners was founded with the goal of helping busy families enjoy home-cooked meals without the stress of meal planning and preparation. The founders introduced the concept of meal assembly centers, where customers can assemble multiple meals in advance, freeze them, and cook them later. This innovative model addressed the growing need for convenience in meal preparation while maintaining healthy and homemade standards.
The franchise quickly gained popularity due to its unique approach, efficiency, and strong customer satisfaction. Within the first six months of opening the franchise model, Dream Dinners signed 35 new stores from over 6,800 applications, reflecting high demand and investor interest.
Market Presence in the USA:
Strong presence in 22 states with more than 70 franchise locations.
Recognized nationally as a leading brand in the meal prep industry, appearing on media outlets such as O, The Oprah Magazine, The View, and Good Morning America.
Known for its family-friendly, community-oriented business approach that encourages repeat customers and loyalty.
Industry & Competitive Position:
Dream Dinners operates in the growing meal kit and food service industry, targeting busy families and health-conscious consumers. The brand is positioned as a convenient, healthy, and time-saving solution in a competitive market that includes other meal kit services and grocery-prepared meals.
The company emphasizes quality ingredients, flexibility, and ease of use, which differentiates it from traditional meal kit providers by offering hands-on assembly with guided support, giving customers a personalized experience.
Dream Dinners is committed to the success of its franchisees by offering comprehensive support and training at every stage of the franchise journey. This ensures new owners are fully equipped to operate efficiently and profitably.
1. Pre-Launch Support
Before opening, franchisees receive guidance on critical aspects of starting a Dream Dinners location:
Site Selection: Assistance in identifying high-traffic, customer-friendly locations based on demographic and market analysis.
Lease Negotiation & Store Design: Support in negotiating favorable lease terms and designing an efficient, welcoming store layout.
Local Market Research: Insights into local competition and customer trends to maximize initial market entry success.
2. Initial Training
Dream Dinners provides structured training programs to prepare franchisees for day-to-day operations:
Corporate Training Program: Typically a five-day intensive program at corporate headquarters, covering operational procedures, customer service, and franchise management.
Hands-On Meal Assembly Training: Franchisees learn the standardized process for meal prep sessions, ensuring quality and consistency across locations.
Marketing and Sales Training: Instruction on local marketing strategies, social media campaigns, and customer engagement techniques.
3. Operational Support
After launch, franchisees receive ongoing operational support to maintain efficiency and profitability
Access to Proprietary Systems: Use of Dream Dinners’ online platform for menu management, scheduling, and customer orders.
Operational Manuals: Detailed guides on store operations, staff management, inventory, and safety protocols.
Inventory & Supply Assistance: Guidance on sourcing ingredients and managing supply chains to maintain high-quality standards.
4. Marketing Support
Dream Dinners helps franchisees drive brand awareness and local customer acquisition:
National Marketing Campaigns: Franchisees benefit from company-led advertising and promotional initiatives.
Local Marketing Assistance: Strategies and templates for community outreach, events, and promotions to attract repeat customers.
Digital Presence Support: Guidance on website management, email campaigns, and social media engagement to increase customer loyalty.
5. Ongoing Support
Dream Dinners ensures franchisees have continuous support throughout their ownership:
Operational Assistance: Regular check-ins from corporate staff, troubleshooting, and best-practice sharing.
Training Updates: Continuous education on new recipes, seasonal menus, and improved operational processes.
Peer Network: Access to a community of franchisees to share experiences, strategies, and solutions.
The Dream Dinners franchise is best suited for entrepreneurs who are passionate about food, community, and customer service. The brand seeks individuals who are committed to running a hands-on, family-focused business and can maintain the high standards of the Dream Dinners experience.
Passion for Food and Cooking
Enjoys preparing and serving meals.
Values healthy, homemade food and wants to help families enjoy convenient, high-quality meals.
Excited about teaching and guiding customers through meal assembly sessions.
Customer-Oriented Mindset
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Committed to delivering exceptional customer service and creating a welcoming environment for families.
Able to build lasting relationships with repeat customers and the local community.
Business Acumen
Experience in business management, operations, or retail is highly desirable.
Capable of managing staff, budgeting, and day-to-day operational responsibilities efficiently.
Motivated to achieve sales targets and grow the business sustainably.
Community Engagement
Actively participates in the local community, understanding the value of networking and brand visibility.
Able to leverage local events, schools, and organizations to promote the franchise.
Financial Capability
Meets the minimum financial requirements for initial investment, including franchise fee, working capital, and operating costs.
Understands the long-term commitment required to run a franchise and can invest time and resources accordingly.
Location & Lifestyle Fit
Prefers operating in a suburban or urban area with a strong family customer base.
Enjoys running a business that allows for direct involvement in operations, while also managing a team.
| Category | Details / Range |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $35,000 |
| Total Investment Required | $332,350 – $610,000 |
| Net Worth Requirement | $450,000 |
| Cash Requirement | $150,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 6% of gross sales |
| Marketing Fee | 2% of gross sales |
| Franchise Units (Current) | Approximately 70 locations across 22 states |
| Break-Even Time | 18 – 24 months (depending on location and market conditions) |
| Average Revenue Per Unit | $497,064 |
| Potential Revenue Streams | - In-store meal assembly sessions - Online meal kit orders - Catering services - Seasonal promotions and events |
| Working Capital | Included in total investment; varies by store size and location |
| Infrastructure / Setup Cost | Included in total investment; covers leasehold improvements, equipment, and furniture |
| Expected ROI | Varies by market; generally achievable within 2–3 years depending on performance |
