Sugar Llamas is a fast-growing dessert and coffee franchise that combines mini donuts, premium coffee, ice cream, frappes, and specialty drinks under one playful café concept.

The brand was founded in 2021 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, by Dallas and Robyn Jones, experienced restaurant operators with a background in franchising. Sugar Llamas is headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where the brand continues to develop its menu and operational systems.

Sugar Llamas began franchising in 2024, opening its concept to entrepreneurs seeking entry into the dessert and specialty beverage space.

Sugar Llamas focuses on being a one-stop dessert destination rather than a single-product concept. Customers can order hot mini donuts, specialty coffee, and ice cream in one visit, increasing average ticket size and day-part versatility.

Training

Sugar Llamas provides a comprehensive and multi-phase training program to prepare franchisees and their teams:

1. Initial Training Program: Franchisees, the Operating Principal, and General Manager must complete a mandatory five-day initial training at corporate headquarters or a designated site. This includes 20 hours of classroom training and 30 hours of on-the-job training, covering operational procedures, use of manuals, marketing, and promotions.
2. On-Site Opening Training: One representative from Sugar Llamas will provide up to seven days of on-site training around the opening of the restaurant. Additional days of support are available at the franchisee’s cost, covering per diem fees and related expenses.
3. Supplemental and Remedial Training: Sugar Llamas may require or offer refresher courses, seminars, or other follow-up training, which may be mandatory. Franchisees must pay for all associated expenses, including travel and lodging.
4. Certification Requirements: All required personnel must be ServSafe certified or hold a similar qualification. This certification is separate from the training program and is not covered by the initial franchise fee.

Territory Protection

Sugar Llamas offers franchisees a Designated Territory with a protected radius typically ranging from one to three miles and including at least 30,000 in population. Within this protected area, Sugar Llamas agrees not to authorize any other Sugar Llamas Restaurants during the franchise term, provided the franchisee complies with the agreement. In rural areas, the territory may be expanded at the franchisor’s discretion.

However, this protection does not extend to non-traditional sites such as airports, stadiums, military bases, and campuses—even if located within the franchisee’s designated territory. Sugar Llamas retains the right to sell products through other channels, including online, grocery stores, and unrelated foodservice venues. The franchisor also reserves broad rights to operate or license others to operate similar or competing businesses under different trademarks within or outside the protected area.