Ellianos Coffee Franchise FDD, Costs & Fees (2025)

Ellianos Coffee is a drive-thru coffee franchise offering a variety of specialty coffees, espressos, and smoothies, providing a convenient and high-quality beverage experience.

Founded in 2002 by coffee enthusiasts and seasoned entrepreneurs Scott and Pam Stewart, Ellianos Coffee Company originated in Lake City, Florida. Inspired by the thriving drive-thru specialty coffee scene in the Pacific Northwest, the Stewarts introduced this concept to their hometown, establishing a brand that quickly resonated with the community.

Recognizing the immediate success and potential for growth, Ellianos began franchising in 2003. The company has since expanded its footprint across the Southeastern United States. Ellianos offers a diverse menu that includes handcrafted espresso beverages, smoothies, frappés, and a selection of breakfast and lunch items, catering to a broad range of customer preferences.

What sets Ellianos apart from competitors is its commitment to delivering "Italian Quality at America's Pace." This philosophy emphasizes providing high-quality products with efficiency and convenience, particularly through its double-sided drive-thru design.

Initial investment

Here's what you would need to invest if you were to start this franchise. These costs are provided by the franchisor in the Franchise Disclosure Document.

Type of Expenditure Amount
Initial Franchise Fee $30,000 - $30,000
Initial Training Program -- Travel and Living Expense $1,000 - $3,000
Real Estate Variable
Building/Improvements $385,000 - $515,000
Payment and Performance Bonds $9,000 - $20,700
Site Work $50,000 - $175,000
Civil Engineering & Permitting $12,000 - $30,000
Architectural, MEP, & Engineering Costs $14,000 - $19,500
Impact & Tap Fees $2,000 - $40,000
Landscaping $10,000 - $25,000
Equipment and Supplies $113,500 - $134,500
Signs $14,000 - $25,000
Security Deposits $5,000 - $10,000
Opening Inventory $10,000 - $10,000
Miscellaneous Opening Costs $2,000 - $6,000
Opening Advertising $10,000 - $10,000
Additional Funds (3 Months) $10,000 - $20,000
Total $671,500 - $1,068,700
Type of Expenditure Amount
Initial Franchise Fee $30,000 - $30,000
Initial Training Program -- Travel and Living Expense $1,000 - $3,000
Real Estate Variable
Building/Improvements $385,000 - $515,000
Payment and Performance Bonds $9,000 - $20,700
Site Work $50,000 - $175,000
Civil Engineering & Permitting $12,000 - $30,000
Architectural, MEP, & Engineering Costs $14,000 - $19,500
Impact & Tap Fees $2,000 - $40,000
Landscaping $10,000 - $25,000
Equipment and Supplies $113,500 - $134,500
Signs $14,000 - $25,000
Security Deposits $5,000 - $10,000
Opening Inventory $10,000 - $10,000
Miscellaneous Opening Costs $2,000 - $6,000
Opening Advertising $10,000 - $10,000
Additional Funds (3 Months) $10,000 - $20,000
Total $671,500 - $1,068,700

Franchise Disclosure Document

Number of units

Training

Ellianos provides a comprehensive suite of training programs for franchisees, their managers, and staff to ensure effective operation of the Franchised Store. Here are the types of training offered:

  1. Initial Training Program: This is mandatory for franchisees and includes both classroom and on-the-job training. Topics include barista techniques, payroll, advertising, marketing, administrative practices, and in-store operations. It is conducted online and at Ellianos' training facility or an Ellianos Store. Completion is required before store opening.
  2. Development Training: Franchisees and designated employees must complete training specified by Ellianos related to store development. Optional development training may also be required, with tuition fees and travel expenses covered by the franchisee.
  3. Additional Training Courses: The franchisor may require completion of additional courses beyond the initial program. These could include updates on new procedures or compliance standards, and franchisees are responsible for associated fees and expenses.

Territory Protection

Ellianos grants franchisees a Protected Area, within which it agrees not to open or license another Ellianos Store, provided the franchisee complies with the terms of the Franchise Agreement.

This means the franchisee can operate continuously at the designated location without internal brand competition within the defined radius. However, this territorial protection is limited in scope and does not amount to an exclusive territory.

The franchisor retains certain rights within the Protected Area, which means franchisees might still face competition from other Ellianos outlets if the agreement ends or from stores already operating in the area.

Competitors

Below are some of

Ellianos Coffee

key competitors in the

Coffee & Tea

sector.

Franchise
Franchisees
Initial fee
Total investment
Revenue
Upgrade
Gross Profit
Upgrade
EBITDA
Upgrade

63

New
+
110%
110%

$30,000

$672,000

$1,069,000

n.a.

$1,127,000

$xxx,xxx

66.2%

xx%

n.a.

23.1%

xx%

n.a.

Competitors

Kahala Coffee Traders

Kahala Coffee Traders is a coffee shop franchise serving premium coffee, espresso drinks, teas, and baked goods, backed by franchisor support, extensive training, and efficient operational systems.

Franchisees

?

5
+
67%
67%
Investment

?

$88,000 - $517,000

It's Boba Time

It's Boba Time is a beverage franchise specializing in bubble tea and other specialty drinks. With a diverse menu and a focus on high-quality ingredients, it caters to a wide customer base seeking unique and flavorful beverages.

Franchisees

?

76
+
62%
62%
Investment

?

$466,000 - $597,000

7 Leaves

7 Leaves Cafe is a beverage franchise offering a variety of teas, coffees, and specialty drinks. It focuses on using fresh ingredients and traditional brewing methods to create authentic flavors.

Franchisees

?

14
+
17%
17%
Investment

?

$244,000 - $490,000

Junbi

Junbi is a fast-casual beverage franchise specializing in matcha-based drinks. It combines traditional Japanese tea culture with modern flavors, aiming to provide health-conscious options in a contemporary setting.

Franchisees

?

5
+
150%
150%
Investment

?

$269,000 - $576,000

Black Rifle Coffee

Black Rifle Coffee Company is a veteran-owned coffee franchise that offers premium coffee blends. It targets customers who appreciate a patriotic brand identity and supports veteran causes through its business operations.

Franchisees

?

18
+
125%
125%
Investment

?

$1,594,000 - $3,314,000

Qargo Coffee

Qargo Coffee is a specialty coffee franchise focused on premium beverages and a modern, inviting café atmosphere, aiming to deliver high-quality coffee experiences.

Franchisees

?

2
+
n.a.
n.a.
Investment

?

$155,000 - $299,000