Scooter’s Coffee is a thriving drive-through coffeehouse chain known for its high-quality drinks and speedy service. Founded in 1998 by Don and Linda Eckles in Bellevue, Nebraska, the brand has grown to over 800 locations across 29 states, making it the second-largest drive-through coffee chain in the United States. If you are considering becoming a franchise owner, this article covers everything you need to know about the Scooter’s Coffee franchise, including brand introduction, franchise costs, conditions, process, and profit potential.
Scooter’s Coffee Brand Introduction
Scooter’s Coffee started with a simple but effective idea: combine coffeehouse quality with drive-thru convenience. Don and Linda Eckles were inspired by a drive-thru coffee hut they saw in California and decided to bring that concept to the Midwest. The first location opened in 1998 in Bellevue, Nebraska, and focused on delivering high-quality drinks quickly with friendly service.
The company’s brand promise is “Amazing People, Amazing Drinks…Amazingly Fast!™” This reflects its commitment to quality coffee, fast service, and a positive customer experience. Scooter’s Coffee locations are primarily drive-thru only, with standardized buildings around 664 square feet, designed for efficiency and speed. Their menu includes hot and cold coffees, teas, smoothies, pastries, breakfast items, and sandwiches. The signature drink is the Caramelicious, an espresso-based beverage with caramel sauce and whipped cream.
Scooter’s Coffee has grown rapidly since it began franchising in 2001, expanding to over 850 locations by 2024. The company supports its franchisees with strong operational systems, training, and marketing resources, emphasizing the importance of people and community in its business model.
Scooter’s Coffee Franchise Cost
Starting a Scooter’s Coffee franchise requires a significant investment. The total initial investment ranges from approximately $895,000 to $1,393,000. This includes the franchise fee, construction, equipment, inventory, training, and other startup costs.
Key cost components include:
Initial Franchise Fee: $40,000
Construction Costs: $495,000 to $829,000 (excluding land purchase)
Equipment, Fixtures, and Furniture: $172,500 to $183,000
Signs: $51,000 to $61,000
Technology Systems (POS and software): $49,000 to $56,000 combined
Initial Training and Opening Support Fees: Around $20,000
Opening Inventory and Supplies: $25,000 to $27,000
Additional funds for 3 months of operation: Up to $86,000 depending on location and needs
In addition to the initial investment, franchisees pay ongoing fees:
Royalty Fee: 6% of gross sales
Advertising Royalty Fee: 2% of gross sales
Scooter’s Coffee Franchise Conditions
To qualify for a Scooter’s Coffee franchise, applicants must meet certain financial and operational requirements:
Minimum Net Worth: $500,000
Minimum Liquid Cash: $200,000 to $250,000 available for investment
Initial Franchise Fee: $40,000
Franchise Agreement Term: 10 years, renewable
Absentee ownership is not allowed; franchisees must be actively involved in operations
Typically requires about 6 employees to operate a location efficiently
Veterans may receive a $20,000 credit toward their first-year product purchase as an incentive.
Scooter’s Coffee Franchise Process
The process to become a Scooter’s Coffee franchisee involves several steps designed to ensure a good fit and prepare the franchisee for success:
Initial Contact: Interested candidates request more information or call the franchise recruitment team.
Discovery Call: The franchise team discusses the business model, investment, and answers initial questions.
Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) Review: Candidates receive and review the FDD, which contains detailed legal and financial information about the franchise.
Franchisee Validation: Prospective owners connect with existing franchisees to learn about their experiences.
“Be Amazing Day”: Candidates visit Scooter’s Coffee headquarters in Omaha, Nebraska, to meet the team, tour operations, and experience the brand culture firsthand.
Signing the Agreement: Once approved, the franchisee signs the franchise agreement and receives their license to open a Scooter’s Coffee location.
Training and Opening: Franchisees undergo classroom and on-the-job training (a total of about 160 hours) and receive ongoing support during store setup and grand opening.
Scooter’s Coffee Franchise Profit
Profitability depends on location, management, and operational efficiency. Scooter’s Coffee mobile kiosk franchises typically see profit margins between 10% and 15%, with annual earnings ranging from approximately $40,000 to $100,000.
Key financial factors influencing profit include:
Revenue: High-traffic urban locations tend to generate more sales than suburban or rural areas.
Cost of Goods Sold (COGS): Usually 25-30% of revenue, including coffee and supplies.
Labor Costs: Efficient staffing is crucial to controlling expenses.
Franchise Fees: Ongoing royalties and advertising fees reduce net profit but support brand marketing and operations.
Pricing Strategy and Customer Volume: Directly affect income and profitability.
Scooter’s Coffee franchisees benefit from a strong brand, comprehensive training, and marketing support, which help maximize revenue and manage costs effectively. The company’s focus on fast, friendly service and quality products also drives repeat business and customer loyalty.
Conclusion
In summary, Scooter’s Coffee offers a well-established franchise opportunity with a proven business model centered on quality, speed, and customer experience. While the initial investment is substantial, the brand’s strong growth, support systems, and market position make it an attractive option for entrepreneurs passionate about the coffee industry.
Prospective franchisees should carefully review the financial requirements and engage fully in the franchise process to maximize their chances of success.
Related topics：
- Coles Pepperoni Pizza Franchise Costs, Profit & Requirements For 2025
- Houston TX Hot Chicken Franchise Costs, Profit & Requirements For 2025
- Hot Head Burritos Franchise Costs, Profit & Requirements For 2025