Established
1996
Franchise Units
32
Minimum Investment
$65,000
Franchise Fee
$15,000
Total Investment Range
$154,000
Home Based
No
Description
Introduction: A Fresh Twist on a Classic American Snack
If you have ever walked through a bustling shopping mall or a high-traffic retail center and felt that irresistible pull of warm, buttery dough and cinnamon spice, you have experienced the "magic" of We’re Rolling Pretzel Co. In a world of complex dining concepts, we keep things beautifully simple: high-quality ingredients, hand-rolled freshness, and a menu that turns a humble snack into a premium experience.
Since our inception, We’re Rolling Pretzel Co. has carved out a unique space in the $100+ billion American snack food industry. While others focus on mass production, we focus on the craft. Our pretzels aren't just food; they are an "impulse destination." Our market positioning is strategic—locating ourselves where the people are. From major retail supercenters to regional malls and amusement parks, we capture the foot traffic that is already there, turning passersby into loyal fans with the simple waft of a fresh-baked batch.
Investing in a We’re Rolling Pretzel Co. franchise isn't just about buying into a business; it’s about joining a Midwestern-born brand that values quality over hype and community over cold transactions.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
Investing in We’re Rolling Pretzel Co. offers a blend of operational simplicity and high consumer demand. Here is why savvy entrepreneurs are looking at us in 2026:
Low Operational Complexity: Unlike full-service restaurants, our model requires minimal equipment, a small footprint, and a streamlined staff of 6–8 employees.
Strategic Real Estate: We have long-standing relationships with major retailers, allowing franchisees to tap into built-in, high-frequency customer bases without massive marketing spends.
Menu Innovation: Beyond the classic twist, our proprietary Knot Sandwiches™, Pizza Pretzels™, and Over The Top Pretzel Rods drive higher average tickets than standard pretzel kiosks.
Scalability: Because of the low initial investment compared to other food franchises, many of our owners find it feasible to scale from a single unit to a multi-unit portfolio within a few years.
Recession-Resistant: Snacks are an affordable luxury. Even when consumers tighten their belts on fine dining, the $5–$10 treat remains a staple of the American shopping experience.
Background
Established Year: Founded in October 1996.
First Unit Franchised: 2000.
Founders: Kevin Krabill and his dedicated team.
Headquarters: Alliance, Ohio.
Active Units: Currently operating approximately 32+ locations across the USA, with a strong presence in the Midwest and expanding.
Brand Journey: What started as a tiny 168-square-foot kiosk in an Ohio mall has grown into a respected regional powerhouse. Founder Kevin Krabill used his business background to refine a system that prioritizes "simple, fun, and profitable." The brand is now a staple in non-traditional locations, proving that you don't need a 2,000-square-foot dining room to generate significant brand loyalty.
Support Training
We don’t just hand you a bag of flour and wish you luck. Our support system is designed to be a "safety net" for new business owners.
Pre-Launch & Academic Support
Site Selection & Lease Review: We assist in identifying high-traffic locations and help you navigate the complexities of retail leases.
Store Design: Expert guidance on layout and equipment placement to maximize efficiency in small-footprint spaces.
Comprehensive Training
Pretzel University: You and your manager will undergo intensive training (typically 1–2 weeks). This covers everything from the "secret" dough-making process to back-office management.
On-Site Launch Team: During your Grand Opening week, corporate trainers are on-site to help "roll" out the brand and ensure your staff is hitting the mark.
Ongoing Operational & Marketing Support
Supply Chain Access: Leverage our negotiated rates with approved vendors for flour, cheese, and supplies.
Marketing & Digital Presence: Access to the customer loyalty program, social media assets, and seasonal promotional materials.
Field Visits: Regular check-ins from Corporate Support Associates to help you optimize your margins and troubleshoot operations.
Ideal Candidate
We aren't looking for "silent" investors; we are looking for "hand-rolled" leaders. The ideal candidate typically fits the following:
Community Focused: You enjoy interacting with people. This is an "impulse" business where a smile and a free sample are your best marketing tools.
Operational Mindset: You don't need to be a professional chef, but you should have a knack for following systems and managing a small, energetic team.
Financial Readiness: You should have a minimum liquid capital of $30,000 and a net worth of at least $100,000.
Owner-Operator Spirit: While we allow for semi-absentee ownership, we find that our most successful units are those where the owner is visible and engaged with the local community.
Financial Detail
| Expense Category | Estimated Amount |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $15,000 ($10,000 for additional units) |
| Total Investment Range | $65,000 – $154,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | $30,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% of Gross Sales |
| Marketing Fund Fee | Approx. 2% |
| Infrastructure/Build-out | Included in total investment; varies by site |
| Working Capital | Recommended $10,000 – $20,000 for the first 3 months |
