FAQ and Quick Facts
How to Start a Smoothie Business: Minimum qualifications
- For single store: Min. $100,000 in liquid capital; $300,000 in tangible net worth
- For 3 Stores: Min. $250,000 in liquid capital; $700,000 in tangible net worth
- For Area Developer: Min. $400,000 Liquid; $1 million in tangible net worth
- A FICO score above 680
- Knowledge of the trade area in which your location will operate
- Commitment to give best effort in meeting obligations of Robeks Franchise Agreement
- Sound business reputation; values aligned with Robeks
- U.S. citizen or possession of a valid Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
FAQ
Q: How much does a franchise cost?
A: The total investment inclusive of franchise fee, equipment, construction and working capital, etc. will range between $239,800 to $344,500. For detailed information about the investment, please complete the Franchise Application in order to receive a Franchise Disclosure Document, which contains details on every element of Robeks’ initial investment.
Q: What is the Robeks franchise investigation process? How long does it take?
This 60-90 day process will ultimately culminate in a meeting at Robeks headquarters in Los Angeles where we will come to a mutual conclusion about whether or not there is a good fit for you and the company.
If you like what you see so far and would like to enter the process, please fill out our Franchise Application and we will be in touch with you shortly.
Q: What makes Robeks different from another company that sells smoothies that might already operate in my city?
A: We offer customers the healthiest, best-tasting smoothies by using premium, natural ingredients and no added sugar or preservatives. We also offer nutritional supplements that allow us to optimize meals for people with different lifestyles.
Q: What are the minimum financial qualifications to become a Robeks franchisee?
A: Financially, a potential Robeks franchisee must have a net worth of at least $300,000 and be (or be able to become) liquid for a minimum of $100,000. If a prospective franchisee meets these qualifications along with having a good credit score and history, Robeks can assist in the process of securing financing.
Q: How much are royalties and advertising contributions?
A: Our royalty is 7% of the net sales of your first store. The royalty shrinks to 6.5% upon the opening of your second store, and decreases to as low as 6% for those with 10 or more locations. If you sign an area development agreement, royalty for all of your stores is 6%. The Advertising Fee, which helps support advertising campaigns, is 2.5% of net sales.
Q: How much money can I make as a Robeks franchisee?
A: Robeks does show this data to candidates who have filled out our Confidential Questionnaire. It is part of our Franchise Disclosure Document in Item 19, “Financial Performance Representation.” As you go through the awarding process you will have an opportunity to analyze our disclosed earnings data and get firsthand information from Robeks store owners. To learn more, complete our Franchise Application today.
A: We recommend a location that is 800-1,200 SF. We provide you with a floor plan specifically designed for your space. Maximizing square footage is very important in order to maximize your return on investment, and we also have kiosk and express models to fit smaller spaces that meet our required site features.
Q: How many employees will I need?
A: A typical Robeks will have approximately 12 to 20 part-time employees who are typically in high school or college. Owners can also hire a manager, but many franchisees manage the stores themselves.
Q: What are the hours of operation?
A: Robeks stores are generally open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., 7 days a week, and we allow you to modify your store’s hours based on the trade area. For instance, some downtown locations open and close earlier in order to better serve business customers, and may not be open on weekends. Some locations, especially those near busy gyms, choose to extend hours.
Q: How long does it take to get a Robeks open?
A: Once a franchise agreement is signed, the typical time needed to get a store open is approximately 9-12 months. The actual build out process generally takes 2-3 months. Much of the timeframe that it takes is for real estate to be identified. In the case of a newly constructed shopping center, the timeframe could be longer and in some cases it could be much sooner. To get started, complete the Robeks Franchise Application today.
Q: How can I get a copy of the Robeks Franchise Disclosure Document?
A: In order to receive a copy of the Robeks Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), please request more information. Once we receive your completed application, we will forward you our Franchise Information Kit which includes the Robeks FDD and much more information about Robeks and the process. We are looking forward to hearing from you and getting started in your exploration of the Robeks opportunity.
Q: Are there good locations available?
Our primary focus for growth is the continued development of new stores in existing markets where we already have operating stores. This includes direct corporate areas and additional markets supported by Regional Directors.
Q: Exactly what support do you offer franchisees?
Our senior management team has significant retail and foodservice experience to provide you with the finest level of franchise support. Robeks also has Regional Directors who live in key markets and provide comprehensive support to franchisees developing in their region.
Among the many support services provided:
- Franchise Training Program on all aspects of Robeks operating system
- Classroom and in-store training covers systems, procedures, practical understanding
- Robeks Franchise Manual is a detailed operating and reference guide
- Multi-units franchisees receive assistance in strategic planning for key trade area
- Site selection criteria and store design and construction support
- Ongoing operational, marketing and organizational guidance and support programs
- Field support for initial opening and grand opening
- Guidance on vendor qualification and participation in bulk purchasing contracts
Our Franchise Disclosure Document, which is provided to qualified franchise prospects on approval of a Preliminary Franchise Application, provides greater detail on all these areas.
Q: What about training?
Robeks offers a comprehensive training program included in your Franchise Agreement for the first store location. It covers all aspects of how to start a smoothie business with us, including product knowledge, management, operations and customer service in a seven-day intensive training session. Three more days of continued training and assessment are provided next, again in the Los Angeles area.
We train two key operations personnel, and one person must complete final testing to earn a Robeks Certified Manager designation. Robeks marketing department will help you develop a successful local store marketing plan to include a grand opening event as well as activities surrounding ongoing promotions.