Franchise Deep Dive: Central Bark USA Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data

FRANCHISE WEBSITE: https://centralbarkfranchising.com/ 

NUMBER OF LOCATIONS: ~40

REPORTED COST TO GET IN: $552,769 – $934,172

REPORTED ROI (Item 19): $731,602 (2022)

Central Bark USA is a canine care facility offering day care, boarding services, grooming  services, training, specialty retail boutique for dogs, and other products and services. 

How Many Central Bark USA Locations Are There?

The Central Bark franchise system was founded in 2003 by Jackie Jordan and Chris Gaba, who sought to provide a nurturing environment for dogs to play, exercise and socialize. Recognizing a lack of such facilities at the time, they created Central Bark based on the idea that dogs deserve the best care.

Over the last two decades, Central Bark has grown into one of the nation's largest networks of dog day care facilities with nearly 40 locations across more than a dozen states. The company has hosted over two million dog visits since its inception. 

In the last year alone, the brand completed 25 new franchise agreements, opened its 38th location, expanded into multiple new states and achieved its fourth consecutive year of system wide double-digit revenue increases.

In late 2021, Central Bark struck a strategic partnership with equity firm NewSpring Franchise. The dog day care franchise has since on boarded an experienced executive team and has invested in personnel across its finance, marketing, franchise development and operations teams. 

Driven by its unique value proposition of catering to all dog care needs under one roof, Central Bark has plans to reach 200 locations by 2027. The franchise is extending its reach into new territories, including New York, New Jersey, Arizona and Nevada, fueled by recent multi-unit development agreements, a strengthened leadership team and a proven, best-in-class business model.

What Is the Central Bark USA Business Model?

The Central Bark business model revolves around providing holistic pet care services that prioritize the well-being of dogs and their owners. Key components of their business model include:

• Enrichment Dog Day Care: Central Bark offers day care services for dogs based on canine behavioral science, aimed at promoting healthier dogs and happier owners.
• Memberships: They encourage regular attendance of dogs at day care, which promotes better socialization, safety and predictable revenue for franchisees.
• Boarding: Central Bark provides boarding services, allowing franchisees to generate revenue without the need for overnight staffing.
• Grooming: Full-service dog grooming is offered, providing an additional revenue stream and opportunities for cross-selling.
• Retail Market: Franchisees can sell pet-related products such as food, treats, toys and more, making it convenient for customers to purchase these items.
• Training and Enrichment: Central Bark offers training and socialization services for puppies and older dogs, fostering lifelong customer relationships.

The business model is designed to be recession-resilient, as pet spending tends to remain stable even during economic downturns. Central Bark provides ongoing support and resources to franchise owners, including marketing materials, training through Central Bark University and connections with other franchisees.

Overall, the Central Bark business model aims to provide comprehensive pet care services while supporting franchise owners with the tools and support they need to succeed.

How Much Can Central Bark USA Owners Make?

Below are the gross sales for fiscal year 2022 (for the 2022 Sales Group), according to Central Bark’s Franchise Disclosure Document.

• Average Gross Sales: $731,602 
• Central Bark facilities exceeding the average: 15 (45.5%) 
• High: $1,376,540 
• Median: $679,059 
• Low: $240,471 

How Much Does It Cost to Open a Central Bark USA Franchise?

The total cost to open Central Bark ranges from $552,769 to $934,172. Below is a breakdown of the associated costs: 

• Initial Franchise Fee: $49,000 
• Leasehold Improvements: $280,000 – $500,000
• Architectural Fee: $8,000 – $15,000
• Equipment, Fixtures: $55,000 – $80,000
• Store Signage: $6,500 – $8,000
• Security Deposits: $7,000 – $12,000
• Opening Inventory: $3,000 – $5,000
• Initial Launch Advertising: $26,000 
• Pre-Opening Promotional Package: $5,295 – $7,198
• Pre-Opening Training Travel and Lodging Expense: $2,000 – $5,000
• Training Materials: $1,500 
• Misc. (Legal, Permits): $1,500 – $4,000
• Supplies: $13,974 – $18,974
• Insurance: $5,000 – $10,000
• Computer Hardware and Software: $5,000 – $6,000
• Microsite Fees: $4,000 
• Lease Assignment Agreement Review Fee: $0 - $2,500 
• Rent: $5,000 – $8,000
• Additional Funds (3 Months): $75,000 – $150,000
• Vehicle: $0 – $22,000

What Is the Franchise Fee for Central Bark USA?

The franchise fee for Central Bark is $49,000. 

Who Are the Leaders of Central Bark USA?

• Robert Crawford - CEO
• Tim Weiderhoft - Chief Development Officer
• Teresa Baker - Director of Operations
• Todd Hillman - Director of Franchise Development
• Jason Perras - Chief Financial Officer
• Kristen Risby - Vice President of Marketing

What Helpful Articles Can I Read to Learn More?

• Central Bark Expands to Orange County, NY
• Central Bark Growth is Exploding in 2024
• Central Bark is Expanding Across the Southwest
• Central Bark Signs First Multi-Unit Agreement For New Jersey
• Central Bark Sets Sights on More Than Doubling its Footprint Over the Next Few Years

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