Franchise Deep Dive: Shuckin’ Shack Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data

LAST UPDATED: February 2024

FRANCHISE WEBSITE: https://shuckinshackfranchise.com/ 

NUMBER OF LOCATIONS: 19

REPORTED COST TO GET IN: $471,750 - $1,416,420. 

REPORTED ROI (Item 19): $1,650,674 (average gross sales for locations over 2,000 sq. ft.)

Shuckin’ Shack is an emerging oyster bar franchise that was founded with a focus on creating a welcoming space for individuals and families alike. It aspires to be a destination where patrons can savor freshly-prepared meals and inventive cocktails in a laid-back atmosphere. 

How Many Shuckin’ Shack Locations Are There?

In 2007, Shuckin’ Shack co-founders Matt Piccinin and Sean Cook found themselves craving fresh oysters. To their surprise, they discovered a lack of oyster bars in their area of Carolina Beach, North Carolina. This sparked the idea to open their own seafood restaurant to fulfill this unmet need.

After conceptualizing their plan over cases of beer and napkin sketches, the duo opened the first Shuckin’ Shack location, a 900-square-foot establishment dedicated to domestic seafood, cold beer and a laid-back atmosphere for the local community. The restaurant quickly became popular among locals.

In 2014, Jonathan Weathington joined the team as CEO and the business began to expand. Under his leadership, the concept of franchising the Shuckin’ Shack brand was introduced, offering ownership opportunities to interested individuals.

The first franchise location opened its doors in Summerville, South Carolina, in 2015, marking the beginning of the brand's expansion. Since then, Shuckin’ Shack has continued to grow and offer franchise opportunities to individuals interested in joining the journey of expanding the brand nationwide. Today, there are 19 locations in six states, with more in development. 

What Is The Shuckin’ Shack Business Model?

The franchise emphasizes high-quality seafood at affordable prices, distinguishing itself from other seafood restaurant franchises. Owners benefit from strong support and guidance from the Shuckin’ Shack team, making it a lucrative and rewarding investment opportunity.

How Much Can Shuckin’ Shack Franchise Owners Make?

Shuckin’ Shack offers the potential for significant profitability with average gross sales of over $1,650,674 for locations over 2,000 sq. ft., as detailed in their 2022 Franchise Disclosure Document. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, Shuckin’ Shack maintained million-dollar restaurants and boasted a 266% sales-to-investment ratio. 

How Much Does It Cost to Open Shuckin’ Shack?

The investment to open Shuckin’ Shack ranges from $471,750 to $1,416,420. 

• Initial Franchise Fee: $65,000 
• Training and Opening Fee: $10,000 
• Construction and Leasehold Improvements: $232,000 - $803,540
• Lease Deposits and Rent (3 Months): $10,000 - $30,000
• Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment: $103,000 - $332,353
• Signage: $1,400 - $21,954
• Computer, Software and POS System: $8,600 - $14,750
• Grand Opening Marketing: $1,500 - $7,800
• Initial Inventory: $15,000 - $16,500
• Utility Deposits and Miscellaneous Opening Costs: $1,000 - $20,432
• Insurance Deposits (3 Months): $750 - $9,000
• Travel for Initial Training: $700 - $8,000
• Professional Fees: $1,000 - $2,500
• Licenses and Permits: $1,800 - $24,591
• Additional Funds (3 Months): $20,000 - $50,000

What Is the Franchise Fee for Shuckin’ Shack?

The franchise fee is $65,000. 

Who Are the Leaders of Shuckin’ Shack?

• Matt Piccinin - Co-Founder
• Sean Cook - Co-Founder
• Jonathan Weathington - CEO
• Darren Keeler - VP of Marketing
• Nancy Tully - Controller
• Sarah Meriam - Director of Franchise Operations

What Helpful Articles Can I Read to Learn More About Shuckin’ Shack?

• How Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar Innovates with Non-Traditional Locations
• How Franchise Owners Kyle and Angie Howard Found Success with Shuckin’ Shack Despite a Lack in Restaurant Ownership Experience
• Jacksonville, N.C. Locals to Host Grand Reopening Party for Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar
• Shuckin' Shack Closes 2022 with 3 New Locations in 2 New States
• Former Legal and Current Railroad Professionals Sign On to Open Texas’ First Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar Location

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