Baskin Robbins ice cream and related frozen food products have a rich history, dating back to 1945. Founders Irv Robbins and Burt Baskin began their enterprise with a standalone parlor in Glendale, California, and quickly grew in the 1950s and beyond through franchising.

Baskin Robbins is the largest specialty ice cream chain in the world. It famously began with 31 beloved flavors and now boasts more than 1,400 unique flavors across its national and international locations.

Baskin Robbins parent company is Inspire Brands, and many of its franchises are co-branded with sister-company Dunkin Donuts, making franchising opportunities even more attractive and lucrative.

  1. Baskin Robbins operates entirely through franchising, offering options for both new and existing store purchases.
  2. Extensive training, including a 10-day program, prepares Baskin Robbins franchisees for successful ice cream ventures.
  3. Initial investments for a Baskin Robbins unit range from $94,350 to $402,200, with ongoing fees including royalties and advertising.
  4. Veterans may receive a 20% discount on the franchise fee, with additional incentives for new store locations.
  5. Baskin Robbins franchise owners typically earn between $84,000 to $280,000 annually, with gross sales per unit reaching from $420,000 to $1,400,000.

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Is Baskin Robbins a Franchise?

Yes, in fact, 100% of Baskin Robbins locations are franchised. Potential franchise owners have the option of the franchisor purchasing an existing location or starting a new one.

For new franchises, Baskin-Robbins offers franchisees the choice between traditional and non-traditional locations.

  • Traditional sites range from freestanding to in-line setups and include locations co-branded with Dunkin Donuts.

  • Non-traditional venues leverage existing foot traffic in airports, casinos, and stadiums.

The flexibility of the franchise type, coupled with Baskin Robbins’ brand recognition, makes it an enticing opportunity for prospective franchisees.

How Many Baskin Robbins Locations Are There?

Over its nearly 80-year history, Baskin Robbins franchises have expanded into all 50 US states and 50 international territories and countries.

There are 2,272 Baskin Robbins franchises in the United States and more than 8,000 other similar franchises internationally.

What Training is Required To Open A Baskin Robbins?

Baskin Robbins franchising does not require previous experience as the company offers comprehensive training for all new franchisees. This includes a required 10-day training program for potential franchisees to be trained in producing, merchandising, serving and packaging products.

The individual elements of this initial training are:

  • 25-30 hours of classroom training in fundamentals and dessert operations

  • 15-20 hours of applied operations training

  • 40 hours of classroom training in franchisee business fundamentals

  • 20 hours of classroom training in general restaurant operations

  • 20 hours of applied general restaurant operations training

The total required training for a new franchisee is 85-90 hours of classroom training and 35-40 hours of restaurant operations training.

In addition to the time investment, Baskin Robbins requires a $1,500 fee per attendee for its 10-day franchise owner training experience.

After startup, Baskin Robbins offers online modules that provide further insights into business management, dessert operations, and brand training. This thorough commitment to support equips franchisees for entrepreneurial success.

How Much Does It Cost To Open A Baskin Robbins?

The initial investment and total Baskin Robbins franchise fees will involve a variety of costs depending on location and store type.

For the purchase of an existing Baskin Robbins store, a minimum 10% down payment and 30% liquidity of the total selling price plus remodel costs are required.

To open a new Baskin Robbins location, estimated initial investment can range from $94,350 to $402,200 and includes a $25,000 initial franchise fee. It should be noted that the financial burden on new franchise owners is considerably lower than the industry average.

Baskin Robbins franchisees pay mandatory ongoing fees, including a 5.9% royalty on monthly gross sales and a 5% advertising fee. However, for new Baskin Robbins franchisees, there is an added financial incentive. Instead of the standard 5.9% royalty fee, the first five years you own a Baskin Robbins franchise, the numbers look like this:

  • Year One – 0%

  • Year Two – 1.9%

  • Year Three – 2.9%

  • Year Four – 3.9%

  • Year Five – 4.9%

The company requires Baskin Robbins franchisees to possess liquid capital of at least $125,000 and a minimum net worth of $250,000.

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