The 10 Best Coffee Shop Franchise Opportunities for 2024

Data from the National Coffee Association shows that U.S. consumers spent almost $110 billion on coffee and related goods in 2022 — equivalent to about $301 million every day. And with coffee accounting for more than 8% of the value of the entire food service industry, the time has never been better to open a coffee shop franchise. 

If you want to help the millions of people around the world who need their caffeine fix, these 10 franchises make great business opportunities. 

Dunkin’

• Investment Range: $526,900 to $1.8 million
• Unit Count: 13,200+

Formerly known as Dunkin' Donuts, Dunkin' is the largest coffee and donuts brand in the United States, with more than 13,200 restaurants in nearly 40 global markets. Known for its affordability, quick service and tasty donuts, Dunkin' has developed quite the loyal following since its founding in 1982. 

Scooter’s Coffee

• Investment Range: $797,000 to $1.3 million
• Unit Count: 780+

Scooter's Coffee is a regional coffeehouse chain that originated in Bellevue, Nebraska, in 1998. Known for its drive-thru coffee kiosks and coffeehouses, Scooter's has expanded its presence primarily in the Midwest and Great Plains regions of the U.S. The chain is recognized for its commitment to quality coffee and a friendly, customer-centric atmosphere.

BIGGBY COFFEE*

• Investment Range: $246,305 to $564,626
• Unit Count: 379

BIGGBY COFFEE is a gourmet coffee franchise that exists to help entrepreneurs own a business that allows them to love life while making a difference. Franchise owners are incredibly active in their communities from Day 1. By developing a culture of warmth, friendliness and support in the shops, they are rewarded with the support of their community in return.

Tim Hortons

• Investment Range: $247,000 to $2.2 million
• Unit Count: 5,290+

Originally a Canadian chain, Tim Hortons now has over 4,000 locations worldwide. Known for its signature coffee and donuts, Tim Hortons has expanded its menu to include sandwiches, soups and other food items.

Caribou Coffee

• Investment Range: Contact the brand directly
• Unit Count: 600+ 

Caribou Coffee has become a popular choice for coffee enthusiasts who appreciate a focus on quality, distinct blends and a comfortable setting for enjoying their favorite brews. The brand is known for its commitment to clean label ingredients with no artificial colors, sweeteners, flavors, monosodium glutamate (MSG) or preservatives. 

The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf

• Investment Range: Contact the brand directly
• Unit Count: 1,000+

Born and brewed in Southern California since 1963, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is a leading global roaster and retailer of specialty coffees and teas. The franchise offers one of the most extensive selections of coffee and tea from around the world. Beverages are handcrafted and customized to the guest’s preference. 

Dunn Brothers Coffee

• Investment Range: $396,000 to $590,000
• Unit Count: 65+

Brothers Ed and Dan Dunn, inspired by early experiences in coffee roasting, fulfilled their dream in 1987 by opening Dunn Brothers Coffee in St. Paul, Minnesota. Committed to small-batch roasting, fresh brews, a welcoming atmosphere and community engagement, their vision thrives in numerous shops across the U.S., offering entrepreneurial opportunities for expansion.

Coffee Beanery

• Investment Range: $185,000 to $473,000
• Unit Count: 50+

Founded in 1976 by JoAnne Shaw and her husband, Julius, The Coffee Beanery embraced franchising in 1985. The Dearborn, Michigan-based specialty coffee shop brand, known for streetfront cafes, mall, airport, office, hospital and college campus locations, expanded internationally in 1998, with master franchises in China, Korea and the Middle East.

PJ’S Coffee

• Investment Range: $207,000 to $1.1 million
• Unit Count: 160+

Founded in 1979 by Phyllis Jordan, PJ’s Coffee of New Orleans is a renowned national coffee shop franchise celebrated for roasting the top 1% of Arabica beans. Noteworthy for its cold brew iced coffee, brewed using a particular cold drip process, PJ’s also offers organic tea and delectable breakfast pastries. 

Maui Wowi Hawaiian Coffees and Smoothies

• Investment Range: $28,900 to $200,050
• Unit Count: 125+

Founded in 1982 by Jeff and Jill Summerhays, Maui Wowi Hawaiian Coffees and Smoothies was crafted as a healthy fast-food alternative. With a menu featuring tropical smoothies and Hawaiian coffees, the brand seeks franchisees aligned with the Ohana culture and the proven mobile business model.

Surprised Starbucks isn’t on this list? That’s because it's not actually a franchise. But these 10 other brands make a great opportunity for anyone looking to get their coffee fix in the franchising industry.