Established
1961
Franchise Units
20
Minimum Investment
$358,477
Franchise Fee
$35,000
Total Investment Range
$571,119
Home Based
No
Description
In a world of fast food and automated services, Winans Chocolates + Coffees stands as a beacon of authentic, handcrafted luxury. For over a century, the Winans name has been synonymous with premium confections, and for the last three decades, it has evolved into a premier destination for world-class, small-batch roasted coffee. This isn’t just a cafe or a candy shop—it is a dual-revenue powerhouse that captures the "treat yourself" market from sunrise to sunset.
The Winans concept is built on a "Hometown Store" feel. Every location serves as a community hub where the aroma of freshly roasted beans meets the nostalgic scent of copper-kettle caramels. Our brand reputation is anchored in quality; we don't cut corners. While many competitors use preservatives or automated machinery, Winans still hand-rolls Buckeyes and hand-dips chocolates in our Ohio factory. By combining a high-end chocolatier with a sophisticated coffee roastery, franchisees tap into two of the most resilient and profitable sectors in the food and beverage industry.
Why Invest in this Franchise?
Investing in Winans is an investment in a proven, multi-generational business model with a modern, scalable edge.
Dual Revenue Streams: Unlike traditional coffee shops that see a dip in afternoon traffic, Winans thrives all day. Coffee drives morning volume, while premium chocolates and gifts drive high-ticket sales in the afternoon, evenings, and throughout the holiday seasons.
Vertical Integration: We control the supply chain. By roasting our own coffee and manufacturing our own chocolates in Piqua, Ohio, we ensure consistent quality and better margins for our franchise partners.
Resilient Industry: Coffee and chocolate are "affordable luxuries." Even in fluctuating economies, consumers rarely give up their daily latte or their gift-giving traditions.
Subscription & Online Sales: Franchisees benefit from a modern business model that includes recurring revenue through coffee subscriptions and a robust online merchandise presence.
Sustainability & Ethics: We are committed to long-term sustainability. From compostable straws to repurposing historic buildings for new locations, Winans appeals to the modern, eco-conscious consumer.
Background
Established Year: Founded in 1961
Franchising Since: 2005.
Current Active Units: Approximately 20+ locations primarily across the Midwest.
Founders: Max and Dick Winans.
Current Leadership: Wilson Reiser (CEO), representing the 5th generation of family ownership.
Brand Journey: What started as "Winans Carriage House Candies" in Piqua, Ohio, was transformed in the 1990s when the 4th generation added small-batch coffee roasting. Today, it is a sophisticated retail experience that blends heritage techniques with modern specialty coffee culture.
Industry Category: Specialty Food & Beverage / Retail Confectionery & Coffee Shop.
Support Training
We don’t just hand you the keys; we bring you into the family. Our support system is designed to take the guesswork out of business ownership.
Initial Training: A comprehensive program split between classroom instruction at our Piqua headquarters and on-the-job training. You’ll learn the art of the barista, the science of chocolate storage, and the specifics of our operational systems.
Site Selection & Build-Out: We assist with identifying high-traffic locations and provide guidance on lease negotiations and store design to ensure your space meets our "Hometown Store" aesthetic.
Marketing & Grand Opening: New owners receive a "Grand Opening" toolkit and ongoing marketing support, including social media templates, email marketing strategies, and access to the Winans Rewards loyalty app.
Operational Support: Ongoing field visits, purchasing cooperatives for better pricing, and annual conventions to keep you updated on the latest seasonal flavors and industry trends.
Ideal Candidate
We are looking for partners who want to be the "face" of their community’s favorite shop.
Entrepreneurial Spirit: You don’t need to be a master chocolatier, but you must have the drive to manage a retail team and grow a local brand.
Community Connection: The best Winans owners are those who love people. You should be excited about hosting local events, supporting school fundraisers, and creating a welcoming atmosphere.
Management Experience: A background in business management or retail operations is highly preferred.
Commitment to Quality: You must be a "brand champion" who understands that the Winans legacy is built on maintaining the highest standards of craft.
Location Preference: Currently seeking expansion in the USA market, with a focus on community-centric neighborhoods and high-traffic retail corridors.
Financial Detail
| Investment Category | Estimated Cost / Fee |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $35,000 |
| Total Initial Investment (Range) | $358,477 – $571,119 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital Required | $200,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 4% of Gross Sales |
| National Advertising Fund | 1.5% of Gross Sales |
| Term of Agreement | 10 Years (Renewable) |
