Established
2004
Franchise Units
10
Minimum Investment
$250,000
Franchise Fee
$30,000
Total Investment Range
$450,000
Home Based
No
Description
Lasaters Coffee & Tea has carved out a highly respected place in the competitive American coffeehouse market by blending high-quality specialty coffee with a warm, community-focused café experience. Known for handcrafted beverages, artisan teas, fresh pastries, and an inviting neighborhood atmosphere, Lasaters offers franchisees the chance to partner with a brand built on consistency, authenticity, and customer loyalty. As consumers increasingly seek out premium coffee experiences crafted with care, Lasaters positions itself as a reliable franchise opportunity with strong operational foundations and a compelling brand story.
For entrepreneurs looking to enter the booming U.S. coffee industry—one that continues to expand with demand for specialty beverages, locally inspired cafés, and premium service—Lasaters Coffee & Tea presents a model that is both scalable and approachable. Whether located in suburban neighborhoods, high-traffic commercial corridors, or fast-growing small towns, the brand brings a proven, customer-centric formula that drives repeat business and long-term profitability.
Why Invest in the Lasaters Coffee & Tea Franchise?
Investing in Lasaters Coffee & Tea means entering a high-growth sector backed by a brand with loyal customers, strong unit-level economics, and a philosophy built on quality and connection. With consumers increasingly prioritizing handcrafted beverages and unique café experiences over mass-market chains, Lasaters sits in a sweet spot—offering professional operational systems while maintaining the charm of a local coffeehouse.
Franchisees benefit from a well-structured business model, streamlined supply chain, specialized product training, marketing support, and a leadership team committed to franchise success. By joining the Lasaters family, investors gain access to a recognizable brand, flexible store design options, and comprehensive support that reduces common risks associated with independent coffee startups.
Background
Established Year: 2004
Founders: Jody and Sula Lasater
Franchise Active Units (Current): Approximately 10+ locations across Tennessee and neighboring states
Industry Category: Coffee, Beverages, Café, Fast-Casual
Headquarters: Tennessee, USA
Lasaters Coffee & Tea began as a single gourmet coffee shop created by husband-and-wife founders Jody and Sula Lasater. Their goal was to deliver premium roasted coffee, artisan teas, and a welcoming atmosphere that felt authentic, approachable, and community-oriented. As the brand developed a deeply loyal customer base, it expanded into retail coffee roasting, packaged products, and eventually a franchise program designed to replicate its successful operations model in new markets.
The company continues to roast its beans in small batches, emphasizing freshness and exceptional flavor. Over the years, Lasaters has expanded its footprint while maintaining tight operational standards and quality control. The brand is known for its southern hospitality, clean and modern store design, and its balance of classic and innovative beverage offerings. As it grows, the brand remains committed to its roots: consistently great products, strong community engagement, and a mission to uplift local neighborhoods while supporting franchise owners every step of the way.
Support Training
Lasaters Coffee & Tea offers a franchise support system built to help new owners launch confidently and operate effectively from day one. Franchisees receive hands-on guidance across multiple stages—from site selection to daily operations—ensuring they are never navigating the process alone.
Pre-Launch Support
• Market evaluation and site selection assistance
• Lease negotiation guidance
• Café layout, design planning, and equipment specifications
• Vendor onboarding and supply chain setup
• Pre-opening marketing strategy and brand alignment
• Hiring assistance and staff onboarding planning
Initial Training Program
• Comprehensive training at headquarters and in a certified Lasaters location
• Beverage preparation, café workflow, food safety, and customer service training
• POS system training and operational procedures
• Inventory control, ordering schedules, and product quality protocols
Grand Opening Support
• On-site specialist during the opening phase
• Marketing activation strategies
• Operational walkthroughs and hands-on coaching for staff and management
Ongoing Support
• Continuous marketing guidance and seasonal promotions
• Ongoing product development and menu innovation
• Regular field support visits
• Operational audits and performance reviews
• Access to training resources, manuals, and updated SOPs
This robust support ecosystem ensures franchise owners have clarity, structure, and a reliable team behind them as they grow their coffeehouse business.
Ideal Candidate
Lasaters Coffee & Tea is best suited for passionate entrepreneurs who enjoy community-focused business models and the fast-growing specialty coffee industry.
Ideal candidates typically possess:
• A strong desire to operate a hands-on, customer-driven retail business
• Previous experience in food & beverage, hospitality, or retail (preferred but not required)
• A commitment to maintaining high service standards and consistent product quality
• The financial capability to support build-out, staffing, and early-stage operations
• Interest in multi-unit development or long-term expansion
• Alignment with the brand’s mission of hospitality, community engagement, and local impact
Whether you're a first-time entrepreneur or an experienced business owner, Lasaters offers a supportive structure and accessible model that appeals to investors seeking a meaningful, lifestyle-friendly business.
Financial Detail
Total Investment Required: $250,000 – $450,000 (varies by market, store size, and build-out)
Minimum Liquid Capital: $75,000 – $100,000+
Franchise Fee: Approximately $30,000
Royalty Fees: Typically 5% of gross sales
Marketing/Brand Fund: 1–2% of gross sales
Working Capital Needed: $25,000 – $60,000
Infrastructure Costs:
• Café build-out
• Equipment package (espresso machines, grinders, refrigeration, ovens)
• Furniture, fixtures, signage, and décor
• Technology/POS systems
Potential Revenue Streams
• Hot and iced specialty coffee beverages
• Premium teas and infusions
• Smoothies, pastries, and light café menu items
• Packaged coffee beans and retail merchandise
• Seasonal beverages and limited-edition items
• Catering services for events, offices, and institutions
Expected ROI & Break-Even Time
Most franchisees target a break-even window of 12–24 months, depending on operational efficiency, location demographics, and marketing execution. With strong unit economics and repeat customer traffic, Lasaters offers an attractive long-term return for the right operator.