Franchise Deep Dive: The Human Bean Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data

LAST UPDATED: August 2024
FRANCHISE WEBSITE: https://franchise.thehumanbean.com/
NUMBER OF LOCATIONS: 280+
REPORTED COST TO GET IN: $552,350 - $1,058,850
REPORTED ROI (Item 19): N/A

The Human Bean is a coffeehouse franchise based in Medford, Oregon, that is known for its drive-thru coffee stands. 

How Many The Human Bean Locations Are There?

The Human Bean began its journey in 1998, opening its first drive-thru locations in Ashland and Central Point, Oregon. The brand quickly gained popularity, leading to the opening of its first franchise in Klamath Falls, Oregon, in 2003. The following year, The Human Bean expanded outside of Oregon, launching a drive-thru in Evans, Colorado. In 2005, the brand introduced its Coffee for a Cure event, supporting breast cancer diagnosis, treatment and education, which has become the brand’s biggest annual give-back day.

In 2008, The Human Bean added the Java Chip, made with Ghirardelli dark chocolate, to its menu. By 2013, the brand's community involvement grew with the first Food Drive and Earth Day events. In 2015, it launched Mochas for Men, focusing on men's health issues. The Human Bean refreshed its logo in 2016 to better reflect its culture, values and community.

The Human Bean continued to innovate, launching a rewards app in 2018 to replace traditional punch cards, and introducing Cold Foam for their Cold Brew in 2021. By 2022, the rewards program had grown significantly, with over 500,000 app users enjoying benefits like free birthday drinks and Double Reward Wednesdays. 

In 2023, The Human Bean celebrated its 25th anniversary and expanded to over 280 locations across 23 states.

What Is The Human Bean’s Business Model?

The Human Bean operates a drive-thru coffee model that emphasizes quality, convenience and customer service. The franchise focuses on providing a unique experience with each visit, highlighted by their signature “bean on top” of every drink. 

Notably, franchisees benefit from a business model that does not require royalty fees, instead earning revenues through bulk sales of coffee beans, cups, lids and other supplies. Additionally, all locations contribute 1% of gross sales to a brand fund for promotional activities.

How Much Can The Human Bean Franchise Owners Make?

The Human Bean does not publicly disclose specific earnings for franchisees. However, the absence of traditional royalty fees and the support structure in place suggests a strong potential for profitability and growth.

How Much Does It Cost to Open a The Human Bean Franchise?

The initial investment required to open a The Human Bean franchise ranges from $552,350 to $1,058,850, depending on site development specifics. This includes the franchise fee, equipment, initial training and other startup costs.

What Is the Franchise Fee for The Human Bean?

The initial franchise fee for The Human Bean is $30,000. Additionally, franchise candidates must have a minimum net worth of $400,000 and at least $200,000 in liquid assets.

Who’s On The Human Bean’s Leadership Team?

• Dan Hawkins — Co-Founder, CEO and President
• Tom Casey — Co-Founder and Vice President
• Scott Anderson — Chief Operating Officer
• Janie Page — Chief Marketing Officer
• Leslee Swanson — Director of Franchise Engagement
• Jean Schneider — Director of Franchise Development
• Angela Beeks — Director of Franchise Sales
• Justin Hawkins — Director of Franchise Development
• Lily Hawkins — Director of Training
• Kim Steenslid — Director of Field Operations
• Alexa Cording — Real Estate Specialist

What Helpful Articles Can I Read to Learn More About The Human Bean?

• The Human Bean Ranks 4508 on the 2023 Inc. 5000 List
• The Human Bean Announces Grand Opening in Florence, OR
• The Human Bean Celebrates 25 Year Beanniversary
• The Human Bean Opens Third Vancouver, WA Location
• The Human Bean Ranked Among the Top Franchises in Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500®

Want to learn more about franchise opportunities on 1851 Franchise? Be sure to visit our Power Rankings to read more on brands making moves. 

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Every great franchisee had help buying a franchise. Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit www.1851growthclub.com and start your journey.

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