frequently Asked Questions

While our on-site coffee bean roasting is what really sets us apart from the crowd, we’re also proud to offer our franchisees a solid brand built on:

• A friendly, inviting, and relaxing environment
• Several options for store size and style
• Our dedication to local communities
• Providing fresh roasted beans for sale in store
• Additional income opportunities: a coffee subscription service and catering capabilities

The first Cabin Coffee location opened in Clear Lake, Iowa in December 2002. The first franchise location opened in St. Charles, Minnesota in November 2007. You can learn more about our early days and move to franchising in this blog post.

The initial investment will depend on the model you choose, but the minimum cash injection required is $150,000 and/or 20% of total project cost (not including land cost and/or municipal tap fees). Check out our Franchise Information page for more detailed information about Franchise Fees and initial costs.

• From day one, you’ll have our team of franchise development experts with you every step of the way, including:

  • Site selection and property and  lease negotiations
  • Construction project management 
  • Complete equipment and decor package
  • Our Franchise Information Portal intranet site serves as a single point of access for communication, training, and operating procedures 
  • Comprehensive training for owners, managers and baristas
  • Assistance with interviewing applicants
  • 24/7 on-going support

Since no two franchise locations are the same, it’s difficult to predict future profits. However, you’ll have the opportunity to contact some of our current franchisees to talk about their experience. 

Our comprehensive program includes eight consecutive weeks of training at a Cabin Coffee location. We’ll also be there to provide pre- and post-opening training at your store. We also have a Barista Training Program specifically designed for your employees.

We currently have two company-owned stores in Iowa, and franchise store locations in several states. Each store is unique, check out our different locations here.

One of the benefits of a Cabin Coffee franchise is the wide variety of model options available, from 600-square foot express locations with a drive through only, to larger buildings up to 2,400 square feet with a meeting room. There are also options for an endcap style location or a conversion from an existing building. 

Typical hours for a Cabin Coffee store are from 6:00am to 4:30pm, however, it can vary depending on the location and the needs of the community.

Please read about our fees on our Franchise information page.

Once the site has been selected and approved, a Cabin Coffee franchise store can be up and running in as little as five months, or up to 12 months depending on the location and model.