The dream of owning a coffee shop is a powerful one, and for many aspiring entrepreneurs, that dream is painted in a specific shade of green. The question, "How can I buy a Starbucks franchise?" is one of the most common queries in the world of business ownership. With its globally recognized brand, premium products, and bustling cafes on seemingly every corner, owning a piece of the Starbucks empire feels like a direct path to success. However, the path isn't as straightforward as one might think, especially in the United States.
The surprising truth is that Starbucks does not offer traditional franchises to individual entrepreneurs in the U.S. and Canada. Instead of selling territories to franchisees, the company has maintained a tight grip on its brand and customer experience by primarily operating company-owned stores. This strategy allows them to ensure uniformity in quality, service, and atmosphere across thousands of locations. But this doesn't mean the door is completely closed. For specific types of business partners and locations, Starbucks offers a "licensed store" model. This is the opportunity you see inside airports, universities, grocery stores, hotels, and hospitals.
This comprehensive guide will demystify the Starbucks business model, explaining the crucial differences between a franchise and a licensed store. We will explore the costs and qualifications for securing a licensed Starbucks location for eligible operators. More importantly, for the individual entrepreneur who wants that coffee shop dream, we will dive deep into the exciting world of Starbucks alternatives - thriving coffee franchises that offer a similar opportunity for growth and community impact. Finally, we will outline the specific financing solutions, from SBA loans to equipment financing, that Crestmont Capital provides to help turn your coffee business aspirations into a reality.
In This Article
To be clear and direct: Starbucks does not offer franchises in the United States or Canada. If an individual entrepreneur wants to own and operate a standalone Starbucks store, it is not a possibility through a traditional franchise agreement. The company made a strategic decision early in its growth to own its domestic stores corporately. This approach gives them unparalleled control over brand consistency, product quality, employee training (whom they call "partners"), and the overall "Starbucks Experience."
So, how do Starbucks locations appear in places like Target, Barnes & Noble, or your university student center? The answer lies in their licensed store program.
A licensed store is fundamentally different from a franchise. Instead of selling the rights to operate a business under its name, Starbucks grants a license to another company to sell Starbucks products within their own existing business. Think of it as a "store within a store" or a branded solution for a captive audience. The host business owns and operates the Starbucks kiosk or cafe, but they do so according to the coffee giant's strict operational and brand standards.
Starbucks provides the licensee with a comprehensive package:
In return, the licensee is responsible for all the operational aspects, including hiring and managing staff, daily management, and all associated costs, while paying Starbucks a licensing fee and ongoing royalties or service fees.
This is the key distinction. The licensed store program is not open to individual entrepreneurs. Starbucks partners with established, large-scale businesses and institutions that can offer a strategic location with a built-in, high-traffic customer base. The ideal candidates are typically:
Essentially, Starbucks seeks partners who are already experts in their respective fields (e.g., food service management, hospitality, retail) and can seamlessly integrate the Starbucks brand into their existing operations. Companies like Aramark, Sodexo, HMSHost, and SSP Group are major players in the licensed store ecosystem, managing hundreds of locations across various sectors.
Understanding the differences is crucial for any business owner considering their options.
| Feature | Starbucks Licensed Store | Traditional Franchise (e.g., Dutch Bros) |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | The host business (e.g., a university or hotel) owns and operates the Starbucks location. | The individual entrepreneur (franchisee) owns and operates the business. |
| Eligibility | Limited to large corporations, institutions, and established business operators. | Open to qualified individual entrepreneurs who meet financial and experience criteria. |
| Control | Starbucks maintains significant control over branding, menu, and operations. The licensee is an operator following a strict playbook. | The franchisor provides the system and support, but the franchisee has more day-to-day autonomy and direct ownership. |
| Fees | Includes an initial licensing fee and ongoing service/royalty fees. | Includes an initial franchise fee, ongoing royalties, and marketing fees. |
| Real Estate | The location is part of the licensee's existing property or venue. | The franchisee is typically responsible for securing and building out their own real estate (lease or purchase). |
| Primary Goal | To enhance an existing business and serve a captive audience. | To build a standalone, independent business from the ground up. |
While franchising is off the table in North America, it's worth noting that Starbucks does utilize a franchise model in certain international markets, particularly in Europe and the Middle East. In these regions, they partner with large, well-capitalized companies that have extensive experience in food and beverage operations to develop entire regions or countries. This is still a world away from the single-unit franchise opportunities available with other brands.
For the eligible corporations and institutions, opening a Starbucks licensed store is a significant capital investment. While the exact costs can vary dramatically based on the location type, size, and existing infrastructure, the estimated initial investment typically ranges from $315,000 to over $700,000. This figure does not include the ongoing fees that licensees must pay.
Let's break down the major components of this investment:
This is the upfront fee paid to Starbucks for the right to use the brand name, operating system, and access their support and supply chain. The exact amount can vary, but it's a substantial cost that covers the initial value of the brand partnership.
This is often the largest portion of the investment. Starbucks has meticulous design standards to ensure every location, whether in an airport or a grocery store, reflects the brand's premium image. These costs include:
A "kiosk" model in a grocery store will be on the lower end of the cost spectrum, while a full-fledged cafe with seating in a new university building will be on the higher end.
The heart of any Starbucks is its state-of-the-art equipment. Licensees must purchase the specific, approved equipment package, which includes:
Before the doors can open, the store must be fully stocked. This includes an initial supply of coffee beans, teas, milk, syrups, cups, lids, sleeves, and food products. Additionally, licensees need a significant amount of working capital. This is the operating cash used to cover expenses during the initial ramp-up period before the business becomes self-sustaining. It covers payroll for the first few months, utility bills, ongoing supply orders, and any unforeseen expenses.
The financial commitment doesn't end with the initial investment. Licensees pay ongoing fees to Starbucks, which are typically calculated as a percentage of gross sales. These fees cover the continued use of the brand, ongoing support, menu innovation, and access to the supply chain. The exact percentage can vary based on the licensing agreement and location type.
Ready to Finance Your Coffee Business?
Whether you're an eligible Starbucks licensee or an entrepreneur pursuing a top coffee franchise, Crestmont Capital has the funding solutions you need. Explore SBA loans, equipment financing, and more.
Get Pre-Qualified TodayWhether you represent a large corporation planning a Starbucks licensed store or an individual entrepreneur ready to launch a coffee franchise, securing the right financing is the most critical step. The capital required for build-out, equipment, and initial operations is substantial. Fortunately, a variety of robust financing solutions are available to help you achieve your goal. At Crestmont Capital, we specialize in structuring these funding packages for businesses in the food and beverage industry.
Here are the primary financing options available:
The SBA 7(a) loan is the U.S. Small Business Administration's flagship program and arguably the most popular and flexible financing tool for franchise businesses. While the loan comes from a lender like Crestmont Capital, a portion of it is guaranteed by the SBA, which reduces the lender's risk. This allows for more favorable terms for the borrower.
The SBA 504 loan program is designed specifically for financing major fixed assets. It's an excellent choice if your business plan involves purchasing or constructing a building or acquiring expensive, long-life equipment.
For established businesses or borrowers with exceptionally strong credit and financial history, a conventional bank loan can be a great option. These loans are not guaranteed by the government and are underwritten solely based on the lender's criteria.
Coffee businesses are equipment-intensive. High-end espresso machines, grinders, ovens, and refrigeration can cost tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. Equipment financing is a specific type of loan or lease designed solely for these purchases.
A business line of credit provides flexible, revolving access to cash up to a predetermined limit. It's not a lump-sum loan but rather a financial safety net.
For entrepreneurs looking to finance a coffee franchise, SBA loans are often the gold standard. The U.S. Small Business Administration's mission is to support small businesses, and their loan guarantee programs make it possible for lenders to provide capital to entrepreneurs who might not qualify for conventional financing. The coffee industry, with its proven business models and strong consumer demand, is a favorite among SBA lenders.
Let's take a closer look at the two most relevant SBA programs.
The 7(a) program is the workhorse of SBA lending. Its flexibility makes it the perfect tool for financing a new franchise from the ground up. A single SBA 7(a) loan can cover nearly every expense associated with opening your coffee shop.
What can a 7(a) loan be used for?
Key Terms and Benefits:
If your primary need is financing the physical assets of your coffee shop - the building and the heavy-duty equipment - the 504 loan program is an unbeatable option. It's specifically designed to encourage business growth and job creation through fixed-asset investment.
How the 504 Loan Structure Works: Imagine you need $1 million to buy and equip your coffee shop building. A typical 504 loan would be structured like this:
Key Benefits of the 504 Program:
To make the lending process smoother and more predictable, the SBA maintains a Franchise Directory. This is a national registry of franchise brands whose franchise agreements have been reviewed by the SBA and found to be eligible for financing.
When a coffee franchise is listed in the directory, it signals to lenders like Crestmont Capital that the brand's structure is sound. This can significantly speed up the loan application and approval process because the lender doesn't have to conduct a full legal review of the franchise agreement from scratch. Nearly all of the top Starbucks alternatives, such as Dutch Bros, Scooter's Coffee, and The Human Bean, are listed on the SBA Franchise Directory.
Securing a business loan, especially one for a significant amount like a coffee franchise, requires meeting a set of qualifications that demonstrate your ability to succeed and repay the debt. Lenders look at what we call the "Five C's of Credit": Character, Capacity (cash flow), Capital (down payment), Collateral, and Conditions (the market/industry).
Here's a breakdown of the typical requirements for coffee franchise financing:
Your personal credit score is a primary indicator of your financial responsibility.
Franchisors and lenders need to know that you have the financial capacity to not only invest in the business but also to weather potential challenges.
While you don't necessarily need to have been a barista, lenders and franchisors want to see relevant experience.
Collateral is an asset that you pledge to the lender to secure the loan. If you default on the loan, the lender can seize the collateral to recoup its losses.
No lender will finance 100% of a project. They need to see that you have "skin in thegame."
This capital injection shows your commitment to the project and shares the risk between you and the lender.
By the Numbers
Starbucks and Coffee Franchise Industry Statistics
38,000+
Starbucks Locations Worldwide (2023)
$36B+
Starbucks Annual Revenue (FY 2023)
17,000+
Starbucks Licensed Stores Globally
$50B+
U.S. Coffee Shop Market Size
Since a traditional Starbucks franchise is out of reach for individual entrepreneurs, the focus shifts to the vibrant and rapidly growing market of coffee franchises. These brands offer a proven playbook, strong brand recognition, and comprehensive support, giving you a Starbucks-like opportunity with the benefits of direct ownership. Here are some of the top coffee franchises to consider, all of which are excellent candidates for financing through Crestmont Capital.
Dutch Bros has cultivated a cult-like following with its high-energy, positive culture and focus on specialty coffee, smoothies, and its proprietary "Blue Rebel" energy drinks. Their model is almost exclusively drive-thru, which leads to lower overhead and higher efficiency.
With the motto "Amazing People, Amazing Drinks... Amazingly Fast!®", Scooter's Coffee has carved out a niche with its small-footprint, drive-thru-only kiosks. They are known for high-quality coffee, speed of service, and their signature "Caramelicious" latte.
The Human Bean is another drive-thru focused brand that differentiates itself by not charging royalty or marketing fees. Instead, they make their revenue through the sale of their private-label coffee and other products to franchisees. This creates a unique, supportive partnership.
Biggby Coffee aims to be the "best coffee shop in your neighborhood." They offer a welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere and a diverse menu that includes lattes, smoothies, and teas. Their model supports various formats, from drive-thru kiosks to full cafes with seating.
Bringing the flavor and soul of New Orleans to the coffee world, PJ's Coffee has a 40+ year history. They are known for their small-batch roasted, specialty coffee beans (including their famous Original Cold Brew Iced Coffee) and a focus on Southern hospitality.
An international brand with a strong presence in malls and shopping centers, Gloria Jean's offers a classic gourmet coffee house experience. They are known for their wide variety of flavored coffees, traditional espresso drinks, and baked goods.
Navigating the world of commercial financing can be complex, especially when it involves the specific requirements of franchising or licensed store agreements. This is where a dedicated financial partner like Crestmont Capital becomes an invaluable asset. We are more than just a lender; we are a team of financing experts committed to helping your coffee business succeed, from the initial application to the grand opening and beyond.
Our deep understanding of the coffee and franchise industries allows us to streamline the funding process and tailor solutions that fit your unique needs. Here’s how we help:
We specialize in the loan programs that are most beneficial for coffee business owners. Our team has extensive experience structuring and securing SBA loans, helping you take full advantage of their low down payments and long repayment terms. We guide you through every step of the SBA application process, from preparing the documentation to communicating with the agency, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience. For those who qualify, we also offer a range of competitive small business loans with faster closing times.
We know that the right equipment is non-negotiable for a premium coffee shop. A top-of-the-line espresso machine can be the single most expensive item in your budget. Our dedicated equipment financing solutions allow you to acquire the best tools for your trade without depleting your working capital. We offer flexible terms, and because the equipment serves as its own collateral, the approval process is often faster and simpler.
Cash flow is the lifeblood of any new business. Our business line of credit products provide the flexible capital you need to manage day-to-day operations with confidence. Whether it’s for making payroll during a slow week, ordering extra inventory for a holiday rush, or covering an unexpected repair, a line of credit ensures you have the funds you need, exactly when you need them. For more immediate needs, our fast business loans can provide a quick infusion of capital to seize an opportunity or solve a problem.
At Crestmont Capital, we believe in building long-term relationships. We take the time to understand your vision, your business plan, and your financial situation. We don’t just process paperwork; we provide strategic advice to help you choose the right financing structure. We work with first-time franchisees, multi-unit operators, and large-scale corporate licensees, providing the same high level of personalized service to every client. Our goal is to be your trusted financial partner as you grow your coffee empire.
Unlock Your Business's Potential
Don't let financing stand between you and your dream coffee shop. The experts at Crestmont Capital are ready to build a customized funding plan for your venture. Let's talk today.
Start Your ApplicationTo better illustrate how these financing options work in practice, let's explore a few real-world scenarios.
The Client: A regional university's food service management company, which already operates several dining halls on campus. They have been approved by Starbucks to open a new licensed store in a brand-new, high-traffic student life building. The Need: They need approximately $450,000 to cover the full build-out, the Starbucks-approved equipment package (espresso machines, ovens, POS system), and initial inventory. The Crestmont Solution: Since the client is an established business with strong financials, a conventional loan might be too slow. Crestmont Capital arranges a multi-faceted solution. A $300,000 equipment financing agreement is used to cover the entire equipment package, using the assets themselves as collateral. This preserves the company's cash. For the remaining $150,000 needed for construction and initial setup, Crestmont provides a short-term business loan. This combination allows the project to move forward quickly and efficiently.
The Client: A former retail manager with 15 years of experience, a 740 credit score, and $150,000 in liquid savings. She has been approved by Scooter's Coffee to open a new drive-thru kiosk in a growing suburban area. The Need: The total project cost is estimated at $850,000. She needs financing for the franchise fee, site work, kiosk purchase, equipment, and working capital. The Crestmont Solution: This is a perfect case for an SBA 7(a) loan. Crestmont Capital works with the client to package a loan application for the full project. Her $150,000 in savings covers the required down payment (approx. 17%) and some extra reserves. Crestmont facilitates an SBA 7(a) loan for the remaining $700,000. The loan is structured with a 10-year term, resulting in manageable monthly payments that align with the business's projected cash flow. Because Scooter's is on the SBA Franchise Directory, the approval process is streamlined.
The Client: A regional hotel chain with 10 properties. They want to renovate the lobby of five of their hotels to include a "We Proudly Serve Starbucks" cafe to enhance the guest experience and drive ancillary revenue. The Need: They need to finance the equipment and minor renovation costs for all five locations, totaling around $600,000. They want a simple, unified financing solution rather than five separate loans. The Crestmont Solution: Crestmont Capital provides a master equipment lease agreement. This single agreement covers the financing for all the equipment across all five locations. The hotel group makes one simple monthly payment. This structure is highly efficient and allows them to upgrade all properties simultaneously. Additionally, Crestmont provides a $100,000 business line of credit to the parent company for any unforeseen costs or future needs.
The Client: An entrepreneur who has successfully owned and operated a PJ's Coffee franchise for three years. The location is highly profitable, and he's ready to open a second store in a neighboring town. The Need: He needs $400,000 for his second location. He has a proven track record with the brand and strong business financials. The Crestmont Solution: Because the client is an existing, successful business owner, he has multiple options. He could secure another SBA 7(a) loan, but he wants to move faster. Crestmont Capital offers him a conventional business loan. The process is quicker because of his established business history. He needs to provide a slightly larger down payment (20%), but the interest rate is very competitive, and he can close on the loan in under 30 days, allowing him to secure his desired real estate quickly.
No, Starbucks does not offer traditional franchises to individual entrepreneurs in the United States or Canada. The company primarily owns and operates its stores corporately to maintain strict control over brand and quality. The only way to operate a Starbucks is through their licensed store program, which is limited to large corporations and institutions.
A Starbucks licensed store is a location that is owned and operated by another company (the licensee) but sells Starbucks products according to the company's strict standards. These are typically found inside other businesses, such as airports, universities, grocery stores (like Target or Safeway), hospitals, and hotels. The licensee pays Starbucks a fee and ongoing royalties to use the brand and operating system.
The total initial investment for a Starbucks licensed store typically ranges from $315,000 to over $700,000. This wide range depends on the size, location, and format (kiosk vs. full cafe). The cost includes a licensing fee, design and construction, a full package of approved equipment, initial inventory, and working capital.
Approval is limited to established businesses and institutions that can provide a strategic, high-traffic location. You must be a decision-maker for a company in a sector like hospitality, higher education, healthcare, or corporate food service. The process involves a direct application to Starbucks, where they will evaluate your company's operational capabilities, financial strength, and the strategic value of your proposed location.
Yes, it is possible. If the licensee company meets the SBA's definition of a "small business," they could potentially use an SBA 7(a) or 504 loan to finance the build-out and equipment for a licensed store. However, many licensees are large corporations that would not qualify. For those that do, an SBA loan can be an excellent financing tool.
For most franchise financing, especially SBA loans, lenders look for a personal credit score of at least 680. A score of 700 or higher is strongly preferred and will increase your chances of approval and may result in more favorable loan terms.
The timeline can vary. A conventional business loan for a well-qualified applicant might close in 30-45 days. An SBA 7(a) loan typically takes longer, from 60 to 90 days, due to the additional layer of government approval. Working with an experienced lender like Crestmont Capital can help expedite the process by ensuring your application package is complete and accurate from the start.
The SBA 7(a) loan is generally the best all-around option because it can be used to finance nearly every aspect of starting a franchise: the fee, build-out, equipment, and working capital. The SBA 504 loan is an excellent, specialized choice if your primary need is to finance the purchase of real estate and major equipment, as it offers long-term, fixed-rate financing.
Yes. Crestmont Capital provides financing solutions for eligible operators of Starbucks licensed stores. We offer conventional loans, equipment financing, and other commercial lending products to help large-scale partners fund the significant investment required to open a licensed Starbucks location.
There are many excellent coffee franchises available for entrepreneurs. Some of the top alternatives include Scooter's Coffee, Dutch Bros (though highly competitive), The Human Bean, Biggby Coffee, and PJ's Coffee of New Orleans. These brands offer strong support, brand recognition, and a proven business model.
Most franchisors recommend having at least 3-6 months of operating expenses in reserve as working capital. This typically ranges from $25,000 to $75,000 or more, depending on the size and location of your shop. This capital covers payroll, inventory, rent, utilities, and marketing before your business becomes cash-flow positive. This can be included as part of your SBA 7(a) loan.
Absolutely. Equipment financing is a very common and effective way to fund the expensive machinery required for a coffee shop. Lenders like Crestmont Capital offer specialized financing and leasing programs specifically for restaurant equipment, allowing you to acquire assets like espresso machines, ovens, and POS systems while preserving your cash for other business needs.
The key difference is ownership and eligibility. A franchisee is an independent business owner who buys the rights to operate a brand. A licensee is an existing business (like a hotel or university) that is granted permission to sell a brand's products within its own establishment. Starbucks does not offer franchises in the U.S., only licenses to corporate partners.
To qualify, you will generally need a strong personal credit score (680+), sufficient liquid capital for a down payment (10-20% of the project cost), a solid net worth, relevant management experience, and a comprehensive business plan. Lenders will assess your ability to successfully operate the business and repay the loan.
Most major coffee franchises have gone through the process to be listed on the SBA Franchise Directory. This includes brands like Scooter's Coffee, The Human Bean, Biggby Coffee, PJ's Coffee, and Gloria Jean's Coffees. A listing on the directory helps streamline the SBA loan approval process, making financing faster and more efficient.
Your Dream Coffee Shop is Within Reach
Let our team of financing experts guide you through every step of the process. With the right funding partner, you can turn your entrepreneurial vision into a thriving business.
Apply for Funding NowYou've learned about the Starbucks model, explored exciting franchise alternatives, and understand the financing options available. Now it's time to take action. Follow these steps to move forward on your path to coffee business ownership.
Your Next Steps to Coffee Franchise Financing
Assess Your Financial Readiness
Before you do anything else, get a clear picture of your financial standing. Check your credit score, calculate your liquid capital, and determine your net worth. This will help you identify which franchise opportunities and loan types are realistically within your reach.
Research Franchise Opportunities
Dive deep into the franchise alternatives mentioned in this guide. Request their Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDDs), speak with existing franchisees, and compare their business models, support systems, and brand cultures. Find the one that best aligns with your personal and financial goals.
Develop a Comprehensive Business Plan
This is a critical document for both the franchisor and your lender. Your business plan should include detailed financial projections, a local market analysis, a marketing plan, and an overview of your management team. This proves you have a clear vision for success.
Contact Crestmont Capital
Once you have a plan in place, it’s time to secure your funding. Reach out to our team of financing specialists. We will review your plan, discuss your needs, and guide you to the best financing solution - whether it's an SBA 7(a) loan, equipment financing, or a combination of products - to make your coffee shop a reality.
While the path to owning a Starbucks is closed to most, the opportunity to thrive in the booming coffee industry is more open than ever. High-quality, drive-thru-focused franchises have created incredible avenues for entrepreneurs to build successful, community-centered businesses. Understanding the financial landscape is the first step. With a strong plan, the right franchise partner, and a dedicated financing expert like Crestmont Capital by your side, you have all the ingredients necessary to brew up your own success story.
The information provided in this article is for general educational purposes only and is not financial, legal, or tax advice. Funding terms, qualifications, and product availability may vary and are subject to change without notice. Crestmont Capital does not guarantee approval, rates, or specific outcomes. For personalized information about your business funding options, contact our team directly.