What was the net change in the number of franchised Bambu outlets during 2024?
Bambu Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
| Outlet Type | Year | Outlets at the Start of the Year | Outlets at the End of the Year | Net Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Franchised | 2022 | 59 | 61 | +2 |
| 2023 | 61 | 69 | +8 | |
| 2024 | 69 | 60 | -9 | |
| Company Owned(2) | 2022 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| 2023 | 1 | 0 | -1 | |
| 2024 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
| Total Outlets | 2022 | 60 | 62 | +2 |
| 2023 | 62 | 69 | +7 | |
| 2024 | 69 | 60 | -9 |
Source: Item 20 — Outlets and Franchisee Information (FDD pages 47–52)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bambu's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the net change in the number of franchised outlets during 2024 was -9. This means that the total number of franchised Bambu locations decreased by 9 during that year. At the start of 2024, there were 69 franchised locations, and by the end of the year, the number had dropped to 60.
It is important to note that while the overall number of franchised locations decreased, this does not necessarily mean that franchisees were leaving the system permanently. The FDD indicates that some closures were temporary, with franchisees relocating their Bambu shoppes and planning to reopen in 2025. Specifically, franchisees in California, Michigan, and Virginia closed their stores for relocation purposes, but these closures did not result in them leaving the Bambu system.
For a prospective franchisee, this information highlights the importance of understanding the factors that can influence outlet performance and stability. While Bambu is expanding overall, individual locations can be subject to closures or transfers. Investigating the reasons behind the net decrease in franchised outlets, such as relocation or other operational challenges, can provide valuable insights into the potential risks and opportunities associated with investing in a Bambu franchise.