Established
2018
Franchise Units
57
Minimum Investment
$297,000
Franchise Fee
$25,000
Total Investment Range
$442,000
Home Based
No
Description
In a world of generic "fast food" subs and mass-produced buns, West Coast Sourdough has carved out a prestigious niche by returning to the fundamentals of great baking. Founded on the principle that a sandwich is only as good as the bread it’s built on, our brand has become synonymous with the authentic, tangy, and chewy San Francisco-style sourdough that foodies crave.
We aren’t just another deli; we are a fast-casual powerhouse that bridges the gap between convenience and gourmet quality. By using a natural starter that dates back to 1995 and hand-rolling our loaves daily, we offer a product that stands out in a crowded market. Our reputation is built on "The Freshness Factor"—premium meats sliced daily, local produce, and bread that was in the oven just minutes before it reaches the customer’s hands. For a franchise investor, this means entering the market with a massive competitive advantage: unrivaled product quality and a loyal, cult-like following.
Why Invest in a West Coast Sourdough Franchise?
Investing in West Coast Sourdough is a strategic move into the high-growth fast-casual segment. Here’s why entrepreneurs are choosing this brand:
Accessible Entry Point: With a total investment significantly lower than many full-service restaurant chains, we offer a path to business ownership that balances lower capital risk with high brand prestige.
Operational Efficiency: Our model is perfected for the "Lunch Rush." With a significant portion of sales occurring during peak midday hours, franchisees can maximize profitability while managing labor costs effectively during off-peak times.
Multiple Revenue Streams: Beyond walk-in traffic, our franchisees capitalize on high-ticket corporate catering, "lunch box" programs for local businesses, and a robust online ordering system.
Proven Scalability: Our rapid expansion from a single shop to dozens of locations across multiple states proves that the concept works—and thrives—in diverse US markets.
Background
Founded: 2018
Headquarters: San Francisco Bay Area / Davis, California
Founders & Leadership: Founded by entrepreneur Kay Uppal and a team of artisan baking enthusiasts dedicated to the craft of sourdough.
Current Presence: The brand currently boasts approximately 57+ active units and is expanding rapidly across the United States, including California, Texas, and the Midwest.
The Heritage: While the brand was officially established in 2020, its "soul" is much older. We use a natural sourdough starter from 1995, ensuring every loaf carries the authentic heritage of the West Coast.
Industry Category: Fast-Casual / Deli / Specialty Sandwich Shop.
Support Training
We don’t just hand you a recipe; we give you the blueprint for a successful business. Our comprehensive support system includes:
1. Pre-Launch & Operational Support
Site Selection: Expert assistance in identifying high-traffic, office-dense, and suburban retail locations that match our target demographic.
Design & Construction: Detailed blueprints and architectural layouts to create a beautiful, functional restaurant that maximizes square footage.
Supply Chain Power: Leverage our brand’s established relationships to secure premium ingredients and specialized sourdough flour at competitive prices.
2. Comprehensive Training
Intensive Program: New owners undergo a rigorous training program covering the art of sourdough preparation, assembly line management, customer service, and POS technology.
Ongoing Education: We provide updated manuals, recipe cards, and seasonal menu updates to keep your business fresh and relevant.
3. Marketing & Academic Support
Grand Opening Strategy: A dedicated marketing plan to ensure your local community knows you have arrived before the doors even open.
Field Support: Regular visits from corporate specialists to help fine-tune your operations, analyze P&L statements, and boost local profitability.
Ideal Candidate
We are looking for partners who are as passionate about quality as we are. The ideal West Coast Sourdough franchisee is:
A Hands-On Leader: While we offer manager-run models, we prefer "active owners" who are involved in the local community and the daily rhythm of the shop.
Business Savvy: A background in management or previous business ownership is a plus, but a "growth mindset" and attention to detail are essential.
Financially Qualified: Candidates should meet the minimum liquidity and net worth requirements to ensure a smooth launch and healthy working capital for the first year.
Passion for the Product: You must believe in the "Sourdough Difference"—our franchisees are our biggest brand ambassadors.
Financial Detail
| Category | Details |
| Total Investment Range | $297,000 – $442,000 (Estimate) |
| Minimum Cash Required | $100,000 |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $25,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% of Gross Sales |
| Marketing Budget | Local and Brand-wide contributions apply |
| Estimated Break-Even | Varies by market; target 18–36 months |
