For coffee-loving entrepreneurs, success is just a few drinks away and a coffee-based franchise opportunity. Today’s top brands offer more than just a cup of joe—they excel in quality beans, craftsmanship and a welcoming atmosphere.
In this article, check out the top coffee franchises, according to the 2024 Franchise 500 Ranking. From corner cafes to bustling urban hubs, these franchises offer a variety of experiences for both coffee enthusiasts and entrepreneurs looking to tap into the booming industry.
Let’s dive into the rankings to find out which coffee franchises are leading the pack and what sets them apart in the competitive coffee culture landscape.
Related: Considering franchise ownership? Start now to find your personal list of franchises that match your lifestyle, interests and budget.
1. Dunkin’
- Established: 1950
- Franchising from: 1955
- Overall rating: 6
- Number of units: 13,372
- Change in units: + 1.9% over 3 years
- Initial investment: $438,000-$1,800,000
- Leadership: Paul Brown, CEO
- Parent company: Inspiration Brands
Dunkin’, formerly 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 began operations in 1955, quickly expanded to more than 100 locations in 1965 and now has more than 13,000 locations. Franchisees benefit from a recognized brand, a large customer base, a variety of markets available and support from Dunkin’s quality support team and training programs.
2. Scooter Coffee
- Established: 1998
- Franchising from: 2001
- Overall rating: 65
- Number of units: 651
- Change in units: + 133.3% over 3 years
- Initial investment: $895,000-$1,400,000
- Leadership: Joe Thornton, CEO
- Parent company: Businesses Without Borders
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 US and plans for more expansion, Scooter’s Coffee appeals to entrepreneurs looking for a reputable brand in the competitive coffee market.
Related: These Women-Founded Franchises Are Past Milestones – Against the Odds. Here’s How They Do It.
3. The Human Bean
- Established: 1998
- Franchising from: 2002
- Overall rating: 131
- Number of units: 149
- Change in units: + 41.9% in 3 years
- Initial investment: $552,000-$1,100,000
- Leadership: Dan Hawkins and Tom Casey, Founders
- Parent company: Company Casey Hawkins Inc.
Human Bean, founded in 1998 in Ashland, Oregon, specializes in premium espresso served through drive-thru locations. Franchising since 2002, the brand has grown to 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, Human Bean provides franchisees with the knowledge needed to thrive in the coffee market.
4. PJ’s New Orleans Coffee
- Established: 1978
- Franchising from: 1989
- Overall rating: 135
- Number of units: 164
- Change in units: + 36.7% in 3 years
- Initial investment: $406,000-$1,100,000
- Leadership: David Mesa, CDO
- Parent company: Ballard Brands
Apart from its famous coffee, the entire PJ’s Coffee franchise is a market favorite for its organic tea and fresh breakfast pastries. 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, a place where people share a special bond and bond over a shared love—coffee.
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5. Biggby Coffee
- Established: 1994
- Franchising from: 1999
- Overall rating: 243
- Number of units: 360
- Change in units: + 46.3% in 3 years
- Initial investment: $246,000-$565,000
- Leadership: Bob Fish and Michael McFall, Co-CEOs
- Parent company: Global Orange Development LLC
The atmosphere at Biggby Coffee franchises is welcoming, which can make it a great destination for coffee lovers. Biggby Coffee means business and aims to build relationships. Over time, its baristas may know their clients by name. Company culture tends to be fun and supportive. You may be given the tools for success, from training to marketing.
6. Ziggi’s coffee
- Established: 2004
- Franchising from: 2016
- Overall rating: 347
- Number of units: 75
- Change in units: + 200.0% over 3 years
- Initial investment: $467,000-$1,800,000
- Leadership: Brandon Knudsen, President/Cofounder
- Parent company: N/A
Ziggi’s Coffee, a coffee and drive-thru company founded in Longmont, Colorado, has expanded nationally through franchising since 2016. With more than 70 franchises across the US, Ziggi’s emphasizes building meaningful relationships and connecting with the community. They operate two-way drive-thru stations but also have cafes and cafe-drive-thru combos. Ziggi is looking for shareholders who value good working relationships, excellent customer service and community involvement.
7. Ellianos Coffee
- Established: 2002
- Franchising from: 2003
- Overall rating: 398
- Number of units: 47
- Change in units: + 147.4% in 3 years
- Initial investment: $612,000-$899,000
- Leadership: Scott Stewart, Owner/ Founder
- Parent company: Ellianos LLC
Ellianos is committed to serving “Italian quality at American speed.” While visiting the Pacific Northwest, Scott and Pam Stewart were inspired by the growing drive-thru coffee industry. In 2002, they brought the concept home to Lake City, Florida, opening the first two-story drive-thru coffee shop. The popularity grew quickly, and the Stewarts started making money one year later.
Related: California Fast Food Workers Now Get $20 Minimum Wage – Here’s How This Will Affect Franchising
8. The smell of Joe
- Established: 2000
- Franchising from: 2013
- Overall rating: N/R
- Number of units: 105
- Change in units: + 50.0% over 3 years
- Initial investment: $501,000-$959,000
- Leadership: Loren Goodridge, CEO
- Parent company: Aroma Joe’s Franchising LLC
Aroma Joe’s Coffee was founded in 2000 by four cousins from Maine who aimed to serve great coffee in a friendly environment. 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 over 100 stores across the US and plans for more expansion, Aroma Joe’s Coffee is looking for passionate franchisees who share their commitment to quality and community involvement.
9. Beans & Alcohol
- Established: 1993
- Franchising from: 2004
- Overall rating: N/R
- Number of units: 71
- Change in units: + 22.4% in 3 years
- Initial investment: $519,000-$762,000
- Leadership: Jeff Laramie, CEO
- Parent company: Beans & Brews Franchise Co.
Founded in 1993, Beans & Brews is not only committed to serving quality 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 Hawaiian Coffee
- Established: 1991
- Franchising from: 1998
- Overall rating: N/R
- Number of units: 33
- Change in units: + 43.5% over 3 years
- Initial investment: $454,000-$921,000
- Leadership: Scott Snyder, CEO
- Parent company: N/A
Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii was founded in 1989 on the Big Island, with the goal of introducing premium Hawaiian coffee to coffee lovers around the world. With American-grown coffee from various Hawaiian islands, including Kauai, Oahu, Maui and Kona, the franchise quickly gained popularity, with guests spreading the word about their Hawaiian coffee experience. Bad Ass Coffee is proud to offer a wide variety of Hawaiian coffees, all of which benefit from the rich volcanic soil and unique climate of the islands. These coffees are known for their mild taste, low acidity and hints of honey, fruit and brown sugar flavors, making them suitable for both single origin enjoyment and blending with international coffee brands.
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