Established
2019
Franchise Units
1
Minimum Investment
$114,200
Franchise Fee
$20,000
Total Investment Range
$534,000
Home Based
No
Description
The Yak Shak is more than just a retail store; it is the heartbeat of the modern paddlesport community. Positioned at the intersection of adventure and lifestyle, The Yak Shak specializes in premium fishing kayaks, high-end tackle, apparel, and electronics. Unlike big-box retailers, The Yak Shak offers a curated, expert-led experience that resonates with the growing demographic of outdoor enthusiasts who value quality, conservation, and community.
As the outdoor recreation industry continues to surge—driven by a renewed American passion for "socially distanced" adventure and sustainable tourism—The Yak Shak has established itself as a dominant authority in the Southern United States. By focusing on a "pro-shop" atmosphere rather than a generic warehouse feel, the brand has secured a unique market position: providing professional-grade equipment with the personalized service of a local shop. This is a rare opportunity to own a business that doesn't just sell products but fosters a lifestyle of exploration and environmental stewardship.
Why Invest in this Franchise?
Investing in The Yak Shak allows you to capitalize on a multi-billion dollar outdoor recreation market with a proven, scalable model.
Niche Market Dominance: Kayak fishing is one of the fastest-growing segments in the outdoor industry. You’ll be entering a specialized market with high customer loyalty.
Curated Partnerships: The brand has established relationships with the industry’s top-tier manufacturers, giving you a competitive edge in inventory and product knowledge.
Community-Centric Revenue: Beyond retail, the model encourages community engagement through events and local outings, creating a recurring customer base.
Flexible Footprint: Storefronts are designed to be adaptable, operating efficiently in various facility sizes depending on the local geography and water access.
Sustainable Mission: The brand’s commitment to conserving natural waterways appeals to the modern, eco-conscious consumer, enhancing your local reputation.
Background
Established Year: Founded in 2019
Franchising Since: 2021.
Active Units: 1
Founders: Allen Norris and Jessica Norris (with foundational contributions from Von and Olivia Hankins).
Brand Journey: What started as a late-night dream in 2013 among friends in Dalton, Georgia, became a reality in Pelham, Alabama. The brand was built on the founders’ genuine love for kayak bass fishing and a desire to improve the outdoor retail experience.
Market Presence: Based in Alabama, currently expanding across the USA with a focus on areas with strong water recreation infrastructure.
Industry Category: Recreation / Sporting Goods / Outdoor Retail.
Support Training
The Yak Shak provides a comprehensive support ecosystem designed to turn outdoor enthusiasts into savvy business owners:
Pre-Launch Support: Assistance with site selection based on proximity to waterways, lease negotiations, and store layout/design to maximize floor space.
Operational Training: Comprehensive training on day-to-day operations, including inventory management of high-value kayaks and electronic equipment.
Marketing & Branding: Access to established marketing strategies, social media templates, and branding assets that have already built a loyal following.
Academic & Technical Training: Deep-dive education on product technicalities (kayak hulls, electronics, and rigging) so your staff can act as genuine experts.
Ongoing Support: Continued access to the corporate team for real estate, construction, and management consulting as your business scales.
Ideal Candidate
We are looking for individuals who don’t just want to "run a store," but want to lead a community.
The Passionate Explorer: You should have a genuine love for the outdoors and, ideally, a personal interest in kayaking or fishing.
The Strategic Leader: Candidates should be resourceful, timely, and persistent. Business management experience is a plus but not a requirement if you have the drive to learn.
Community Advocate: You must be willing to engage with local conservation groups and organize community events.
Investment Capability: You should have the liquid capital and net worth required to sustain the business through its growth phase.
Location Preference: Ideal candidates are located near lakes, rivers, or coastal regions with high foot traffic from outdoor enthusiasts.
Financial Detail
| Investment Category | Estimated Cost / Rate |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $20,000 |
| Total Initial Investment | $114,200 – $534,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital Required | $100,000+ |
| Royalty Fee (Ongoing) | 6% of Gross Sales |
| National Ad Royalty Fee | 3% of Gross Sales |
| Local Marketing Budget | 1% of Gross Sales (Recommended) |
| Infrastructure & Build-out | Includes specialized kayak racking, showroom displays, and signage. |
| Working Capital | Recommended 3–6 months of operating expenses. |
| Primary Revenue Streams | Premium Kayak Sales, Fishing Tackle, Outdoor Apparel, Marine Electronics, & Rigging Services. |
| Expected Break-even | 18 – 36 Months (Market dependent) |
