What is the estimated range for vehicle costs in the initial investment for a Bens Soft Pretzels franchise?
Bens_Soft_Pretzels Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
| Type of Expenditure* | Amount | Method of Payment | When Due | To Whom Payment Is To Be Made |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee (1) | $30,000 | Lump sum. | Due upon signing the Franchise Agreement. | Us. |
| Vehicle (5) | $27,000 to $89,000 | As arranged | Supplier’s terms | Other suppliers. |
| Travel and Living | $1,000 to $10,000 | As incurred. | Before opening. | Airlines, hotels and |
| Expenses During Training | Stores. | |||
| Office Equipment and | $500 to $1,000 | As incurred. | Before opening. | Other suppliers. |
| Supplies | ||||
| Business Insurance | $2,500 to $4,000 | As incurred. | Before opening. | Other suppliers. |
| Professional Fees (2) | $5,000 to $10,000 | As incurred. | Before opening. | Other suppliers or us. |
| Initial Inventory | $1,650 to $4,000 | As incurred. | Before opening. | Other suppliers. |
| Live Large Initial Inventory | $350 to $1,000 | As incurred. | Before opening. | Our affiliate Live Large Distribution Inc. |
| Equipment (including POS System) | $12,000 to $65,000 (with $1,000 to $11,500 potentially payable to our affiliate) | As incurred. | Before opening. | Other suppliers and our affiliate Live Large Distribution Inc. |
| Signage | $7,500 to $5,000 | As incurred. | Before opening. | Other suppliers and our affiliate Live Large Distribution Inc. |
| Type of Expenditure* | Amount | Method of Payment | When Due | To Whom Payment Is To Be Made |
| Business Licenses and | $500 to $2,000 | As incurred. | Before opening. | Other suppliers. |
| Permits | ||||
| Additional Funds for First | $10,000 to $20,000 | As incurred. | As incurred. | Third parties. |
| 3 Months (3) | ||||
| TOTAL | $98,000 to $241,000 | --- | --- | --- |
| (4) |
Source: Item 7 — ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT (FDD pages 16–18)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bens Soft Pretzels' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the estimated cost for a vehicle ranges from $27,000 to $89,000. This cost is specifically associated with operating a Mobile Store. The method of payment is arranged with other suppliers, and the payment terms are determined by those suppliers.
This vehicle cost is a significant part of the initial investment for a mobile Bens Soft Pretzels franchise. The wide range in cost likely reflects different options for the type and quality of vehicle, as well as whether the franchisee chooses to buy or lease.
Prospective franchisees should inquire about the specific vehicle standards and specifications required by Bens Soft Pretzels to ensure they select an appropriate vehicle. Understanding these requirements will help in budgeting accurately and avoiding unexpected costs. It is also important to consider the additional costs to brand the vehicle, which is listed separately under signage.