What is the estimated high-end cost for the computer system for a Carvel franchise?
Carvel Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
| As incurred | Us, employees, vendors, etc. | | Total Initial Investment 23, | $73,075 | $222,260 | | | , |
YOUR ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT: HOSTED EXPRESS SHOPPE
These figures do not include the cost of (i) any Host Facility that you may operate in the same space or (ii) any other surrounding facility.
| Amount of I | Expenditure | Method of | When | To Whom | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type of Expenditure | Low | High | Payment | Payments Are Due | Payment Will Be Made |
| Initial Franchise Fee 1 | $10,500 | $10,500 | Lump sum | At signing of Franchise Agreement | Us |
| Construction and Build Out Costs 2 | $550 | $11,200 | As incurred | Before opening | Contractors |
| Equipment Package 4 | $12,800 | $30,300 | Lump sum | Before opening | Vendors |
| Millwork 5 | $1,600 | $5,300 | As incurred | Before opening | Contractors |
| Furniture 6 | $0 | $1,100 | As incurred | Before opening | Vendors |
| Menu Board, Graphics and Interior Signage 7 | $1,600 | $2,700 | As incurred | Before opening | Vendors |
| Exterior Signage 8 | $0 | $4,300 | Lump sum | Before opening | Vendors |
| Computer System 9 | $3,000 | $6,400 | As incurred | Before opening | Vendors |
| Smallwares 10 | $650 | $1,300 | As incurred | Before opening | Vendors |
| Grand Opening Marketing 14 | $3,000 | $7,500 | As incurred | Before opening | Vendors or Us |
| Legal and Accounting |
Source: Item 7 — Estimated Initial Investment (FDD pages 42–52)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Carvel's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the estimated high-end cost for the computer system can vary based on the type of Carvel franchise. For a traditional Carvel Shoppe, the estimated cost for the computer system ranges from $3,000 to $6,400. For an Express Shoppe, the estimated cost for the computer system ranges from $10,500 to $20,000. For a Carvel Shoppe, the estimated cost for the computer system ranges from $10,500 to $32,000.
The computer system that Carvel requires franchisees to install includes a POS system, computer systems, mobile hardware, software, an online ordering platform, associated computer hardware, telephone lines, network connections, communications equipment, high-speed internet access, and credit card processing equipment. The specific components include a back-office PC, a monitor, a multi-function printer, POS system terminals (ranging from one to four depending on the Shoppe type), a firewall device, a dedicated iPad or Windows tablet/computer, and a POS system server.
Prospective Carvel franchisees should note that these costs are estimates and can vary. The actual cost will depend on the specific vendor chosen, the equipment selected, and the installation costs in their area. It is important to obtain detailed quotes from approved suppliers to get a more accurate estimate for their specific location and needs. Additionally, franchisees should factor in ongoing costs such as software updates, maintenance, and internet service fees.