1982
40
$150,000
$25,000
$250,000
No
Eileen’s Colossal Cookies is a beloved American bakery brand that has built its reputation on freshly baked, oversized cookies that make people smile. Founded on the principles of quality, consistency, and community, this franchise has grown into a household name across the Midwest and beyond. With decades of experience perfecting recipes, operations, and customer satisfaction, Eileen’s Colossal Cookies offers aspiring entrepreneurs a proven, profitable business model in the booming dessert and bakery franchise market.
Each Eileen’s location captures the essence of small-town charm with a modern approach to baking — offering signature cookie designs, custom-decorated treats for every occasion, and an irresistible aroma that keeps customers coming back. The franchise stands out by focusing on fresh, made-from-scratch cookies baked daily in-store, using high-quality ingredients that set them apart from mass-produced competitors.
As the demand for gourmet cookies and indulgent desserts continues to rise in the U.S., Eileen’s Colossal Cookies presents a golden opportunity for franchisees to own a business that blends nostalgia, community, and profitability under a strong, time-tested brand.
Eileen’s Colossal Cookies is not just another dessert brand — it’s a community favorite with a loyal following and decades of operational success. Investing in this franchise means joining a network that combines a family-oriented business model with modern franchising expertise.
Here’s why investors are drawn to Eileen’s Colossal Cookies:
Established Brand Recognition: With over four decades of success, the brand is well-known for its distinctive large cookies and consistent quality.
Low Overhead Model: The bakery setup is simple and efficient, requiring minimal staffing and modest equipment investment compared to full-service restaurants.
High Repeat Business: From birthday celebrations to holidays, customers rely on Eileen’s for personalized cookie gifts, ensuring steady year-round sales.
Strong Community Presence: Each franchise becomes a local favorite, encouraging word-of-mouth marketing and customer loyalty.
Supportive Franchise System: Comprehensive training, supply chain support, and operational guidance make it ideal for both new and experienced entrepreneurs.
Founded: 1982
Founder: Eileen DuBois
Headquarters: Hastings, Nebraska, USA
Industry Category: Bakery, Dessert, and Food Retail Franchise
Franchise Units: Over 40 locations and growing across multiple U.S. states
Eileen’s Colossal Cookies began as a single bakery in Hastings, Nebraska, where Eileen DuBois started baking her signature large cookies with love and precision. What began as a small operation quickly gained traction due to word-of-mouth referrals and community enthusiasm. In 1982, Eileen began franchising the concept to share her recipes and success model with aspiring bakers nationwide.
Today, Eileen’s Colossal Cookies continues to thrive as a family-oriented brand with a strong regional footprint. The franchise system has refined its operations, menu, and customer experience, while still preserving the homemade charm that defines its identity.
Eileen’s Colossal Cookies provides franchisees with exceptional support from the moment they join the system, ensuring a smooth launch and sustainable growth.
Pre-Launch Support:
Assistance with site selection and store layout
Guidance in lease negotiations and store design
Vendor sourcing and equipment list setup
Comprehensive pre-opening checklist
Training Program:
In-depth initial training covering baking operations, decorating techniques, POS system management, and customer service
On-site training at both a certified training bakery and your new store
Recipes, manuals, and standardized processes for consistent product quality
Ongoing Support:
Continued access to updated recipes and seasonal promotions
Marketing support, including social media strategies, local advertising templates, and grand opening campaigns
Field support visits and performance reviews from the corporate team
Guidance on community involvement and local event participation
Franchisees benefit from the brand’s decades of operational experience, ensuring confidence and consistency as they grow their own successful cookie business.
Eileen’s Colossal Cookies seeks passionate entrepreneurs who love baking, customer service, and community engagement. You don’t need prior bakery experience — just the right mindset and commitment to uphold the brand’s quality and values.
The ideal franchisee should:
Have strong communication and people skills
Be passionate about serving high-quality products
Enjoy hands-on operations and managing a small team
Possess business acumen and a desire to be actively involved in the business
Be financially prepared to invest and sustain growth
This franchise is ideal for family operators, food lovers, and first-time entrepreneurs looking for a low-risk, community-driven business with rewarding returns. Prime locations include suburban towns, college areas, and high-traffic shopping centers where footfall and repeat business are strong.
Below is an estimated overview of the investment required to open an Eileen’s Colossal Cookies franchise in the United States. Actual costs may vary by market and location.
| Financial Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $25,000 – $30,000 |
| Total Investment | $150,000 – $250,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital Required | $75,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% of gross sales |
| Marketing/Advertising Fee | 1% – 2% of gross sales |
| Working Capital (3 months) | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| Equipment & Build-Out | $70,000 – $120,000 |
| Training & Initial Supplies | $10,000 – $15,000 |
| Expected ROI | 2–3 years |
| Break-Even Timeframe | 12–18 months |
| Revenue Potential | $300,000 – $600,000+ annually (varies by location) |
