For coffee-loving entrepreneurs, success is only a few sips away with a coffee-based franchise opportunity. Today’s top brands offer more than just a cup of joe—they excel through quality beans, expert craftsmanship and welcoming atmospheres.
In this article, explore the top coffee franchises, according to the 2024 Franchise 500 Ranking. From quaint corner cafes to bustling urban hubs, these franchises offer a diverse range of experiences for both coffee enthusiasts and entrepreneurs looking to break into the thriving industry.
Let’s dive into the rankings to discover which coffee franchises are leading the pack and what sets them apart in the competitive landscape of coffee culture.
Related: Considering franchise ownership? Get started now to find your personalized list of franchises that match your lifestyle, interests and budget.
1. Dunkin’
Founded: 1950Franchising since: 1955Overall rank: 6Number of units: 13,372Change in units: +1.9% over 3 yearsInitial investment: $438,000-$1,800,000Leadership: Paul Brown, CEOParent company: Inspire Brands
Dunkin’, originally known as Dunkin’ Donuts, traces its roots back to 1948 when Bill Rosenberg opened The Open Kettle in Quincy, Massachusetts. Renamed Dunkin’ Donuts in 1950, the franchise started franchising in 1955, quickly grew to over 100 locations by 1965 and now has more than 13,000 outposts. Franchisees benefit from a recognized brand, large customer base, various available markets and support from Dunkin’s quality support team and training programs.
2. Scooter’s Coffee
Founded: 1998Franchising since: 2001Overall rank: 65Number of units: 651Change in units: +133.3% over 3 yearsInitial investment: $895,000-$1,400,000Leadership: Joe Thornton, CEOParent company: Boundless Enterprises
Scooter’s Coffee, founded in 1998 by Don and Linda Eckles, emphasizes quality coffee served quickly. Franchising began in 2001, and the brand promises “Amazing People, Amazing Drinks… Amazingly Fast!” With hundreds of franchises across the U.S. and plans for further expansion, Scooter’s Coffee appeals to entrepreneurs seeking a reputable brand in the competitive coffee market.
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3. The Human Bean
Founded: 1998Franchising since: 2002Overall rank: 131Number of units: 149Change in units: +41.9% over 3 yearsInitial investment: $552,000-$1,100,000Leadership: Dan Hawkins and Tom Casey, FoundersParent company: Casey Hawkins Inc.
The Human Bean, founded in 1998 in Ashland, Oregon, specializes in premium espresso served through drive-thru locations. Franchising since 2002, the brand has expanded to well over 100 locations nationwide. Franchisees are valued as key contributors to the company’s success, working alongside management as a team. With a management team boasting extensive experience, The Human Bean provides franchisees with the expertise needed to thrive in the coffee market.
4. PJ’s Coffee of New Orleans
Founded: 1978Franchising since: 1989Overall rank: 135Number of units: 164Change in units: +36.7% over 3 yearsInitial investment: $406,000-$1,100,000Leadership: David Mesa, CDOParent company: Ballard Brands
Aside from its famous coffee, every PJ’s Coffee franchise is also a market favorite for its organic tea and fresh breakfast pastries to go. In addition to being a successful national coffee chain, PJ’s Coffee is known for being part of the culture of the communities it serves, being a place where people share a special bond and connect over a shared passion—coffee.
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5. Biggby Coffee
Founded: 1994Franchising since: 1999Overall rank: 243Number of units: 360Change in units: +46.3% over 3 yearsInitial investment: $246,000-$565,000Leadership: Bob Fish and Michael McFall, Co-CEOsParent company: Global Orange Development LLC
The atmosphere at Biggby Coffee franchises is welcoming, which might make it a great place for coffee-lovers. Biggby Coffee means business and is intent on building relationships. Over time, its baristas might even get to know their clients by name. The company culture tends to be fun and supportive. You might be given the tools for success, from training to marketing.
6. Ziggi’s Coffee
Founded: 2004Franchising since: 2016Overall rank: 347Number of units: 75Change in units: +200.0% over 3 yearsInitial investment: $467,000-$1,800,000Leadership: Brandon Knudsen, President/CofounderParent company: N/A
Ziggi’s Coffee, a coffee and drive-thru franchise founded in Longmont, Colorado, has expanded nationally through franchising since 2016. With over 70 franchises across the U.S., Ziggi’s emphasizes building meaningful relationships and community connections. They serve from double-sided drive-thru stations but also have cafes and cafe-drive-thru combos. Ziggi’s looks for franchisees who value positive working relationships, quality customer service and community involvement.
7. Ellianos Coffee
Founded: 2002Franchising since: 2003Overall rank: 398Number of units: 47Change in units: +147.4% over 3 yearsInitial investment: $612,000-$899,000Leadership: Scott Stewart, Owner/FounderParent company: Ellianos LLC
Ellianos is committed to serving “Italian quality at American pace.” While on a visit to the Pacific Northwest, Scott and Pam Stewart were inspired by the booming coffee drive-thru industry. In 2002, they brought the concept to their home in Lake City, Florida, and opened the town’s first double-sided drive-thru specialty coffee shop. Popularity grew quickly, and the Stewarts started franchising just one year later.
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8. Aroma Joe’s
Founded: 2000Franchising since: 2013Overall rank: N/RNumber of units: 105Change in units: +50.0% over 3 yearsInitial investment: $501,000-$959,000Leadership: Loren Goodridge, CEOParent company: Aroma Joe’s Franchising LLC
Aroma Joe’s Coffee was founded in 2000 by four cousins from Maine who aimed to serve good coffee in a friendly atmosphere. Since then, it has expanded its beverage offerings to include specialty espressos and energy drinks, all made with high-quality ingredients tailored to each customer’s preferences. With more than 100 stores across the U.S. and plans for further expansion, Aroma Joe’s Coffee is seeking passionate franchisees who share their commitment to quality and community involvement.
9. Beans & Brews
Founded: 1993Franchising since: 2004Overall rank: N/RNumber of units: 71Change in units: +22.4% over 3 yearsInitial investment: $519,000-$762,000Leadership: Jeff Laramie, CEOParent company: Beans & Brews Franchise Co.
Founded in 1993, Beans & Brews is not only committed to offering top-tier coffee mountain-roasted coffee but also puts community outreach at the forefront of its values. Part of the company’s mission includes “supporting the neighborhoods and communities in which we live and do business.”
10. Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii
Founded: 1991Franchising since: 1998Overall rank: N/RNumber of units: 33Change in units: +43.5% over 3 yearsInitial investment: $454,000-$921,000Leadership: Scott Snyder, CEOParent company: N/A
Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii was established in 1989 on the Big Island, with the goal of introducing premium Hawaiian coffee to coffee enthusiasts worldwide. With American-grown coffee from various Hawaiian islands, including Kauai, Oahu, Maui and Kona, the franchise quickly gained popularity, with tourists spreading the word about their Hawaiian coffee experience. Bad Ass Coffee prides itself on offering a wide variety of Hawaiian coffees, all benefiting from the rich volcanic soil and unique weather conditions of the islands. These coffees are known for their mild taste, low acidity and hint of honey, fruit and brown sugar flavors, making them ideal for both single-origin enjoyment and blending with international coffee varieties.
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