Baskin-Robbins is a globally operating ice cream franchise known for having 31 flavor options at each location. In addition to traditional ice cream, the chain offers ice cream cakes for various occasions. The famous “31 flavors” slogan came from the idea of being able to have a different flavor on every day of the month. Baskin-Robbins is a part of the Dunkin’ corporate umbrella and has many shared locations co-branded with Dunkin’ (previously known as Dunkin’ Donuts). More about the cost of owning a Baskin Robbins franchise below.
New Baskin Robbins franchisees can choose from a traditional / standard format or a non-traditional location format for their Baskin-Robbins franchise.
Traditional Location: Most franchisees will develop a standard Baskin-Robbins location. These can be freestanding, end-cap, or in-line configurations. A typical traditional Baskin-Robbins franchise location is 800 to 1,500 sq. ft. with approximately 20 feet of frontage.
Non-Traditional Location: For prospective Baskin-Robbins franchisees who already own or control a unique venue and have experience operating a business, adding a Baskin-Robbins within their existing establishment or real estate could be an appealing option to further monetize their location’s foot traffic.
Examples of non-traditional locations include:
- Airports
- Casinos
- Colleges & Universities
- Grocery Stores
- Mass Transit Terminals
- Stadiums
The common theme is that all these locations attract significant foot traffic from Baskin-Robbins’ target customer demographic.
Baskin-Robbins Franchise Opportunities – History
Brothers Burt Baskin and Irv Robbins merged their two LA-based ice parlors in 1945, and as result, founded the first ever Baskin-Robbins. By 1948, there were six open locations, and in the following year, Baskin-Robbins began franchising. Shortly prior to the passing of Burt Baskin, the franchise chain was acquired by United Brands Company in the late 60’s, and later purchased by J. Lyons and Co. in the 70’s.
As Baskin-Robbins began to globally expand, J. Lyons merged with Domecq, which, in turn, brought together Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins in 1994. The ice cream franchise struggled in the early 2000’s due to competition with frozen yogurt shops but began expanding again in the 2010’s. Baskin-Robbins now has approximately 8,000 franchise locations throughout 50 countries. 100 percent of the locations are franchised.
Baskin-Robbins Franchise Cost, Initial Franchise and Requirements
Initial Investment and Initial Franchise Fees
The estimated initial investment required to open a Baskin-Robbins ice cream franchise is $94,350 to $402,200, including an initial franchise fee of $25,000.
Ongoing Royalties and Program Contributions
Baskin-Robbins franchise owners must pay a 5.9% royalty on monthly gross sales as well as contribute a 5% advertising fee toward the franchisor’s marketing program.
Baskin-Robbins Franchise System Size and Composition
Baskin-Robbins has over 8,000 franchise locations, with around 2,550 U.S. stores and approximately 5,500 international stores. 100% of Baskin-Robbins stores are franchised. Overall, the franchise system generates around $1.9 billion of annual revenue.
Facts & Figures
| Liquid capital required | $125,000 |
| Net worth required | $250,000 |
| Investment | $90,985 – $625,185 |
| Franchise fee | $12,500 – $25,000 |
| Royalty | 5.9% |
| Offers Financing | Yes |
| Units in operation | 7,752 |
| Founded | 1945 |
| Franchising Since | 1948 |
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