What is the required ice machine capacity for a Bambu shoppe?
Bambu Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Note 5: Equipment, Fixtures and Furniture. This item includes the estimated costs to obtain the required furniture, finishes, counter, decor and kitchen equipment for a shoppe, including: 200-250 cu. ft. of refrigeration and freezer storage, a 650 lb. capacity ice machine(s), cooking equipment, exhaust hood (if
required), grease interceptor, worktables, sinks, shelving and smallwares. This estimate does not include state or local taxes. The lower range in the chart assumes that you are equipping the shoppe with used and/or leased equipment. You are required to obtain our approval of your choice of colors and furniture. We will provide you with an Interior Design Guide.
Source: Item 7 — (FDD pages 18–22)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bambu's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a new shoppe will need an ice machine with a capacity of 650 lbs. This is part of the estimated costs to obtain the required furniture, finishes, counter, decor, and kitchen equipment for the location. The equipment, fixtures, and furniture are estimated to cost between $28,000 and $70,000. The lower range assumes the franchisee is equipping the shoppe with used and/or leased equipment. Bambu requires approval of the franchisee's choices of colors and furniture and will provide an Interior Design Guide.
The ice machine is a crucial piece of equipment for Bambu, given the nature of its beverages. The 650 lb. capacity requirement suggests a high volume of ice usage to maintain the quality and consistency of drinks. Franchisees should factor in the cost of a new or used ice machine when considering the overall investment. Leasing equipment may reduce the initial investment but could result in higher long-term costs.
Prospective franchisees should carefully consider the implications of purchasing used or leased equipment, balancing the upfront cost savings with potential maintenance issues and the need for Bambu's approval. It is important to factor in the cost of the ice machine and other equipment when evaluating the overall financial feasibility of opening a Bambu franchise.