2007
400
$280,000
$40,000
$500,000
No
Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt has become one of America’s most beloved self-serve dessert brands, turning a simple frozen treat into a joyful, community-driven experience. Known for its bright, welcoming stores and wide variety of customizable frozen yogurt flavors and toppings, Menchie’s has redefined how families and friends enjoy dessert together. The concept focuses on fun, flavor, and freedom — allowing guests to create their perfect combination while enjoying a vibrant atmosphere designed around happiness.
As one of the most recognized frozen yogurt franchises in the world, Menchie’s offers entrepreneurs the chance to build a profitable business backed by a proven system, global brand recognition, and a loyal fan base. With more than 400 locations across the United States and an expanding international footprint, Menchie’s continues to lead the frozen dessert category through innovative marketing, strong operational support, and a people-first philosophy.
Investing in a Menchie’s franchise means joining a well-established, fast-casual dessert brand that combines a low-stress operational model with strong consumer appeal. The frozen dessert industry in the United States continues to thrive, fueled by the growing demand for customizable, healthier alternatives to traditional ice cream. Menchie’s sits perfectly at this intersection — offering a fun, interactive experience with a wide range of better-for-you options including non-fat, low-fat, vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free yogurts.
Menchie’s franchisees benefit from a business model that emphasizes simplicity, scalability, and community engagement. The brand’s approachable store layout, low food waste, and minimal staffing requirements make operations straightforward compared to full-service restaurants. Meanwhile, the marketing and product innovation teams continuously develop new flavors, limited-time offers, and seasonal campaigns that keep customers coming back.
Menchie’s was founded in 2007 in Los Angeles, California, by Adam and Danna Caldwell, who wanted to create a frozen yogurt experience centered on fun, flavor, and friendship. The first store quickly became a local hit, attracting families with its self-serve model and inviting environment. In just a few years, Menchie’s expanded through franchising, gaining national recognition for its distinctive pink-and-green branding and cheerful mascot, Menchie.
The company began franchising in 2008 and grew rapidly to hundreds of units across the United States, Canada, and over 15 international markets including Mexico, Japan, and the Middle East. Headquartered in Encino, California, Menchie’s operates within the frozen dessert and quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry, known for its simple operations and consistent profitability.
Today, Menchie’s is a trusted brand name in the self-serve frozen yogurt space, earning industry accolades for innovation, customer satisfaction, and franchise support. Despite market fluctuations, the brand continues to adapt and thrive, focusing on local community events, partnerships with schools, and digital loyalty programs that deepen customer engagement.
As of recent reports, Menchie’s has approximately 350–400 franchise units operating in the U.S. and several more internationally. Its strong leadership team and continuous brand evolution make it a standout franchise for the next generation of QSR investors.
Menchie’s franchise system is designed to ensure that every new franchisee — whether experienced in food service or not — has the tools, knowledge, and confidence to succeed. The brand’s support extends across every stage of the franchise journey.
Pre-Launch Support:
Franchisees receive hands-on assistance in site selection, lease negotiation, and store design. The Menchie’s real estate team helps identify high-traffic areas such as shopping centers, entertainment zones, or suburban plazas. The construction and design department provides approved vendors, layout plans, and signage guidelines to maintain the brand’s vibrant aesthetic.
Comprehensive Training:
All new owners participate in a detailed, multi-week training program covering store operations, customer service, POS system use, inventory management, sanitation standards, and financial reporting. This training takes place both at Menchie’s headquarters and on-site at your store prior to opening.
Marketing & Brand Support:
Menchie’s marketing team provides franchisees with national advertising campaigns, social media content, seasonal promotions, loyalty program integration, and local store marketing toolkits. Franchisees are encouraged to host community events, fundraisers, and school nights — strategies proven to increase store traffic and strengthen local relationships.
Ongoing Operational Support:
After launch, franchise business consultants regularly visit each store to provide operational evaluations, coaching, and updates on best practices. Franchisees also gain access to proprietary software for inventory management and sales tracking, along with continued education through Menchie’s online learning platform.
From grand opening guidance to continuous business growth, Menchie’s commitment to franchisee success is at the heart of its brand promise — making people smile one cup at a time.
Menchie’s is seeking enthusiastic, community-oriented entrepreneurs who believe in creating positive guest experiences and fostering local engagement. The ideal Menchie’s franchisee is not necessarily a food industry veteran but someone with strong leadership, communication, and customer service skills.
Key Qualities of Successful Menchie’s Franchisees:
A passion for hospitality, fun, and family-friendly business environments
The ability to manage operations efficiently and lead a small team
Financial capability to meet investment requirements and sustain growth
Willingness to engage with local communities through events and partnerships
A desire to own a business that balances lifestyle flexibility with profitability
Menchie’s appeals to a wide range of investors — from first-time business owners and couples seeking family-run opportunities to multi-unit operators expanding their QSR portfolios. Locations perform well in suburban areas, near schools, entertainment complexes, and busy retail zones with strong pedestrian traffic.
| Category | Estimated Amount (USD) | Notes / Description |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $40,000 | One-time fee for brand rights, training, and onboarding. |
| Total Estimated Investment | $280,000 – $500,000 | Includes franchise fee, leasehold improvements, equipment, and startup inventory. |
| Liquid Capital Required | $120,000 – $150,000 | Minimum available cash or liquid assets required. |
| Net Worth Requirement | $300,000+ | Recommended for financial stability and expansion potential. |
| Royalty Fee | 6% of gross sales | Paid weekly to Menchie’s corporate for ongoing brand and system support. |
| Marketing Fund Contribution | 2% of gross sales | Supports national and regional marketing campaigns. |
| Leasehold Improvements | $120,000 – $200,000 | Build-out, fixtures, signage, and décor to meet Menchie’s brand standards. |
| Equipment & Furniture | $60,000 – $90,000 | Includes yogurt machines, POS system, seating, and display units. |
| Initial Inventory & Supplies | $8,000 – $12,000 | Frozen yogurt mix, toppings, packaging, utensils, and uniforms. |
| Grand Opening Marketing | $10,000 – $15,000 | Pre-launch marketing and local promotional events. |
| Working Capital (3 months) | $20,000 – $40,000 | Covers early operational expenses, payroll, and utilities. |
| Average Store Size | 1,000 – 1,600 sq. ft. | Typically located in shopping centers, plazas, or near schools. |
| Break-Even Period | 18 – 30 months | Depending on location, sales volume, and operational efficiency. |
| Potential ROI | 15% – 25% annually | Estimated range; varies by market and performance. |
| Franchise Term | 10 years | Renewable with franchise agreement renewal fee. |
| Franchise Units (Approx.) | 350 – 400 (USA) | Operating across multiple states with continuous growth. |
