Established
2015
Franchise Units
4
Minimum Investment
$291,525
Franchise Fee
$29,900
Total Investment Range
$419,900
Home Based
No
Description
In a world saturated with synthetic additives and dairy-heavy desserts, Yoga-urt stands as a refreshing, conscious alternative. More than just a frozen yogurt shop, Yoga-urt is a destination for nourishment, community, and mindful indulgence. Since its inception, the brand has carved out a unique niche in the competitive USA dessert market by offering 100% plant-based, organic, and handcrafted soft serve that appeals to vegans, health enthusiasts, and dessert lovers alike.
Yoga-urt’s market positioning is built on the foundation of "clean labeling." While most "froyo" brands rely on pre-made mixes filled with artificial sweeteners, Yoga-urt’s proprietary recipes are made from scratch daily, using a creamy almond and cashew milk base. By infusing each swirl with four distinct strains of beneficial probiotics, the brand bridges the gap between a "guilty pleasure" and a functional health food. This commitment to quality has earned the brand a cult following and significant national press, positioning it as a premium, eco-conscious leader in the multi-billion dollar wellness and plant-based industries.
Why Invest in this Franchise?
Investing in a Yoga-urt franchise is an opportunity to join the frontlines of the "Green Gastronomy" movement. Here is why entrepreneurs are choosing Yoga-urt:
Pioneer Status: Yoga-urt is the first vegan soft-serve concept to offer such a high level of handcrafted, organic sophistication in a scalable franchise model.
Growing Market Demand: The plant-based food market is exploding, with consumers increasingly seeking dairy-free, soy-free, and gluten-free options that don't compromise on taste.
Proprietary Recipes: You gain access to over 30 rotating flavors (like Chocolate Bliss and Salted Caramel Zen) and unique products like soft-serve pies and ice cream sandwiches made from recycled almond pulp.
Eco-Conscious Brand Equity: From compostable paper goods to "Green Business" certifications, the brand's commitment to sustainability resonates deeply with Gen Z and Millennial demographics.
Operational Excellence: The business model is refined and proven, designed to maximize efficiency while maintaining the "small-batch" quality that customers crave.
Background
Established Year: Founded in 2015.
Franchising Since: 2023.
Founder: Melissa Schulman.
Franchise Active Units: Currently operating 4+ units (including company-owned and early franchise locations in Southern California).
Brand Journey: After a "yoga bubble year" of self-discovery, Melissa Schulman realized the market lacked a truly healthy, dairy-free frozen yogurt. She spent three years in R&D to perfect a nut-based recipe that tasted like traditional dairy. Today, Yoga-urt is a woman-owned success story, recognized by major animal rights organizations and national news outlets.
Industry Category: Frozen Desserts / Health & Wellness / Plant-Based Food.
Support Training
Yoga-urt is committed to the philosophy of "being in business for yourself, but not by yourself." Franchisees receive a comprehensive support package:
Pre-Launch Support: Assistance with site selection in high-traffic, wellness-oriented neighborhoods and guidance on facility design to ensure the "Zen" aesthetic of the brand is maintained.
Academic & Hands-on Training: A rigorous 45-hour training program consisting of both classroom instruction and on-the-job training. This covers food prep (learning the scratch-made process), hiring, and day-to-day management.
Operational Manuals: Detailed guides on opening/closing procedures, equipment maintenance, and quality control.
Marketing & Grand Opening: Assistance with social media strategy, local PR, and a "Grand Opening" plan to generate immediate community buzz.
Ongoing Support: Periodic field visits, supply chain assistance for organic ingredients, and continuous R&D for new seasonal flavors.
Ideal Candidate
Yoga-urt is looking for more than just investors; they are looking for brand ambassadors. The ideal candidate fits the following criteria:
Passion for Wellness: A genuine belief in healthy living and the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle.
Hands-on Leadership: This is not a passive investment. Franchisees are expected to be involved in daily operations, community engagement, and team management.
Business Acumen: While restaurant experience is preferred, a strong background in project management, retail, or hospitality is highly valued.
Interpersonal Skills: The ability to foster a welcoming, "neighborhood hub" environment is essential for the brand’s community-centric model.
Location Preference: Urban or suburban areas with high foot traffic, proximity to yoga studios, fitness centers, or organic grocers.
Financial Detail
| Investment Category | Estimated Cost (Low - High) |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $29,900 |
| Real Estate & Leasehold Improvements | $130,000 – $185,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment | $80,000 – $120,000 |
| Signage & Branding | $7,000 – $13,500 |
| Opening Inventory & Supplies | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Grand Opening Marketing | $5,000 – $7,500 |
| Training Expenses (Travel/Living) | $1,500 – $5,000 |
| Additional Funds (3-6 Months Working Capital) | $35,000 – $50,000 |
| TOTAL ESTIMATED INVESTMENT | $291,525 – $419,900 |
