1987
60
$460,000
$37,500
$710,000
No
Dunn Brothers Coffee is one of America’s most beloved specialty coffee franchises, built on craftsmanship, community, and quality. Founded with a mission to serve freshly roasted coffee with a local touch, Dunn Brothers has carved a strong reputation for its authentic approach to coffee and customer experience. Unlike many large chains, Dunn Brothers Coffee takes pride in roasting its beans in-store daily, creating a uniquely fresh and flavorful experience that keeps guests coming back.
Operating across the United States, Dunn Brothers Coffee has built a strong following among coffee enthusiasts who appreciate authenticity over automation. With a strong focus on sustainable sourcing, artisanal roasting, and a welcoming café atmosphere, the brand blends small-town charm with big-brand potential. As the coffee industry continues to grow and consumer demand for premium, ethically sourced coffee rises, Dunn Brothers Coffee stands out as a smart franchise investment for entrepreneurs passionate about both coffee and community.
Investing in a Dunn Brothers Coffee franchise offers a rare opportunity to join a respected brand with deep roots and a proven track record. This franchise goes beyond just selling coffee—it creates community hubs where people connect, work, and relax.
Here’s why Dunn Brothers Coffee is an attractive choice for investors:
Proven Brand Legacy: Over three decades of experience in the specialty coffee segment.
Freshness as a USP: Beans are roasted in-store, ensuring unmatched flavor and aroma.
Community-Driven Concept: Focus on creating neighborhood cafés rather than corporate-style outlets.
Flexible Business Model: Suitable for both single-unit operators and multi-unit investors.
Growing Market Demand: The U.S. coffee shop market continues to expand, exceeding $50 billion annually.
Comprehensive Franchise Support: Strong systems, marketing, and training ensure success even for first-time business owners.
By owning a Dunn Brothers Coffee franchise, investors join a brand that values authenticity, sustainability, and entrepreneurship—all backed by a trusted national franchise system.
Dunn Brothers Coffee was founded in 1987 by Ed and Dan Dunn in St. Paul, Minnesota. Their vision was simple yet powerful: to create a coffee experience that prioritized freshness and craftsmanship. They began roasting coffee beans on-site—a practice that quickly became their hallmark and a key differentiator in a rapidly growing market.
Over the years, Dunn Brothers Coffee has expanded to over 60 locations across multiple U.S. states, maintaining its local feel while growing into a nationally recognized name. The brand operates under Dunn Brothers Coffee Franchising, Inc., which continues to emphasize quality, community engagement, and a hands-on approach to business.
The brand belongs to the specialty coffeehouse and café industry, a sector that has seen steady growth due to the increasing consumer preference for high-quality, freshly brewed beverages. With a strong Midwest presence and growing interest nationwide, Dunn Brothers continues to build a network of passionate franchisees committed to delivering an exceptional coffee experience.
Dunn Brothers Coffee takes pride in helping every franchisee succeed through a complete support framework designed to simplify business ownership:
Pre-Launch Assistance:
Site selection and lease negotiation guidance.
Café design and construction support to ensure alignment with brand standards.
Initial marketing plan development to create local buzz before launch.
Comprehensive Training:
Hands-on training at the company’s headquarters and within existing franchise locations.
Education on coffee roasting, brewing techniques, food preparation, and café management.
Operational training on POS systems, inventory control, and staff management.
Marketing & Branding Support:
Access to national marketing campaigns and brand assets.
Guidance for localized marketing, including social media, community partnerships, and seasonal promotions.
Ongoing Operational Support:
Continuous updates on menu innovation and product sourcing.
Regular field visits, performance reviews, and business growth consultations.
Access to a dedicated franchisee portal with resources, training videos, and operational updates.
Dunn Brothers ensures that each franchise owner feels supported from day one, making it an ideal franchise for both experienced business owners and first-time entrepreneurs.
The ideal Dunn Brothers Coffee franchisee is someone who values people as much as profit. The brand seeks entrepreneurs who are:
Passionate about Coffee and Community: Individuals who appreciate craftsmanship and want to create a welcoming café experience.
Customer-Focused Operators: People who enjoy interacting with customers and building loyal relationships.
Business-Savvy Professionals: Background in management, hospitality, or retail is helpful but not mandatory.
Financially Ready: Investors capable of meeting the brand’s financial requirements.
Community-Oriented: Preference for franchisees who wish to become local ambassadors of the brand.
Dunn Brothers franchises perform best in areas with steady foot traffic—urban centers, suburban neighborhoods, or near universities and office districts.
| Investment Category | Estimated Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Total Initial Investment | $460,000 – $710,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital Required | $150,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $37,500 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% of gross sales |
| Marketing Fee | 2% of gross sales |
| Working Capital (First 3 Months) | $25,000 – $50,000 |
| Equipment & Build-Out Costs | $300,000 – $500,000 |
| Expected ROI | 2 to 3 years (average) |
| Break-Even Point | Typically within 18–24 months |
| Revenue Streams | Coffee, espresso beverages, teas, bakery items, breakfast & lunch options, retail beans, and merchandise |
Dunn Brothers Coffee offers a profitable and scalable business model, supported by an experienced team and a loyal customer base. The financial framework is designed for long-term sustainability, ensuring franchisees can achieve healthy margins while growing their local footprint.
