For a Cinnabon Co-Branded Bakery, what do the estimated costs include?
Cinnabon Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
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- Co-Branded Bakeries. The figures in the Co-Branded Bakery tables have been prepared by us, after consultation with the Co-Branded Franchisors, and are based on our and their experiences franchising our respective franchises and our and their standards for cobranded locations. The estimate includes all of the costs necessary to purchase, develop, and begin operating a Co-Branded Bakery (including a Swirl Bakery), including the costs to acquire an Auntie Anne's® or Carvel® franchise and to construct and outfit the Co-Branded Bakery in accordance with our and the applicable Co-Branded Franchisor's standards for such a co-branded location.
Source: Item 7 — Estimated Initial Investment (FDD pages 45–59)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Cinnabon's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the estimated costs for a Co-Branded Bakery encompass all expenses required to purchase, develop, and commence operations. This includes the costs to acquire an Auntie Anne's or Carvel franchise, as well as the construction and outfitting of the Co-Branded Bakery. These costs must align with the standards set by both Cinnabon and the respective Co-Branded Franchisor for such co-branded locations.
Specifically, the initial franchise fee for a Co-Branded Bakery includes $30,500 paid to Cinnabon, plus either $35,500 to Auntie Anne's or $30,500 to Carvel, depending on the co-branded franchise. The construction and build-out costs cover fees paid to a general contractor for building the bakery to meet the standards of both Cinnabon and the Co-Branded Franchisor. These costs include leasehold improvements like HVAC, electrical work, carpentry, flooring, and painting.
Other significant costs include expenses for millwork (cabinets and counters), furniture, menu boards, graphics, interior signage, and exterior signage. Franchisees must also factor in the purchase or lease of a computer system that meets the standards of both Cinnabon and the Co-Branded Franchisor. This system includes POS terminals, computers, software, and necessary equipment for processing credit, gift, and loyalty cards. Additionally, the estimate covers the costs of smallwares (cooking utensils, cleaning supplies), architect and engineer fees for drafting construction plans, and initial inventory of food and paper products. A grand opening advertising program will cost $6,000 for a Co-Branded Bakery in an Other Location, and $15,000 ($25,000 if the Bakery is one of your first four Co-Branded Bakeries in an Emerging Market) for a Co-Branded Bakery in a Streetside Location.
Prospective franchisees should note that these estimates are based on Cinnabon's and the Co-Branded Franchisor's experiences and standards. Actual costs can vary significantly based on location, market conditions, and specific requirements. It is advisable to conduct thorough due diligence and consult with qualified advisors to assess the financial feasibility of a Cinnabon Co-Branded Bakery.