U-Swirl offers a variety of self-serve frozen yogurt flavors and toppings, providing a customizable and delicious dessert experience for customers of all ages.
KEY FRANCHISE STATS
Franchisees
?
57
+
-20%
-20%
Franchise fee
?
$25,000
Investment
?
$419,000 - $630,000
Revenue (AUV)
?
Undisclosed
$0
+
n.a.
n.a.
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Founded in 2008, U-Swirlis a self-serve frozen yogurt franchise that began in Las Vegas, Nevada. The company is headquartered in Durango, Colorado, and started franchising the same year it was established.
U-Swirl operates under U-Swirl International, Inc., offering franchise opportunities across the United States.
U-Swirl specializes in premium frozen yogurt, providing customers with a variety of 10–16 flavors and over 20 toppings. Customers can customize their desserts and pay by weight, enhancing the interactive experience.
The brand also offers beverages and other frozen dessert products.
What sets U-Swirl apart is its co-branding strategy, integrating its frozen yogurt offerings with products from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory in select locations. This approach broadens the product range and appeals to a wider customer base.
Initial investment
The initial investment required for a U-Swirl franchise is
$419,000 - $630,000.
That is the total cost you would need to finance 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
$25,000
Furniture, Equipment, and Fixtures
$194,000 – $278,000
Computer System
$5,000 – $12,000
Pre-Opening Rent, Deposits, Architectural Fees and Leasehold Improvements
$131,000 – $185,920
Signage
$10,000 – $25,000
Opening Inventory
$5,000 – $10,000
Training
$3,500 – $7,500
Grand Opening Program
$5,000
Licenses and Permits
$500 – $1,500
Insurance
$2,000 – $4,000
Professional Fees
$2,500 – $5,000
Additional Funds – 3 Months
$35,000 – $71,000
Total Estimated Initial Investment
$418,500 – $630,320
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Type of Expenditure
Amount
Initial Franchise Fee
$25,000
Furniture, Equipment, and Fixtures
$194,000 – $278,000
Computer System
$5,000 – $12,000
Pre-Opening Rent, Deposits, Architectural Fees and Leasehold Improvements
$131,000 – $185,920
Signage
$10,000 – $25,000
Opening Inventory
$5,000 – $10,000
Training
$3,500 – $7,500
Grand Opening Program
$5,000
Licenses and Permits
$500 – $1,500
Insurance
$2,000 – $4,000
Professional Fees
$2,500 – $5,000
Additional Funds – 3 Months
$35,000 – $71,000
Total Estimated Initial Investment
$418,500 – $630,320
Franchise Disclosure Document
Below is U-Swirl's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document. Upgrade to Pro or purchase the FDD to view and download the document.
Number of units
U-Swirl had 57 total units in 2024, of which 57 were franchised-owned and 0 company-owned.
U-Swirl provides a comprehensive training structure to prepare franchisees for effective business operations. The following are the main training programs offered:
Initial Training Program: This is mandatory for the Responsible Owner and Franchise Manager. It includes system-wide instruction delivered either at a designated training facility or at the franchisee’s business. A $2,500 fee covers training for up to two people if attended simultaneously.
Remedial Training: If U-Swirl determines that the franchise is not operating in compliance with standards, they may require the Responsible Owner or staff to attend remedial training. This is subject to the then-current training fee.
Ongoing and Refresher Courses: U-Swirl may require attendance at national or regional meetings and refresher courses. Some may be optional, while others are mandatory, and attendees must cover all related expenses.
Franchise Manager Training: If a new Franchise Manager is appointed, they must complete the initial training program before taking on management duties. In certain cases, they may also need to hold an ownership stake in the franchise.
Training Store Option: Multi-unit franchisees can apply to operate a training store. If approved, they can train new managers at their location and host trainees from other franchises.
Territory Protection
U-Swirl provides a defined territory to its franchisees based on the location and demographics of the business area. While the franchisor typically agrees not to establish or license another U-Swirl location within the franchisee’s designated territory, this protection is not exclusive and is subject to several limitations.
If the franchise is located in a non-traditional setting such as an airport or hotel, the franchisee may not receive a protected territory at all. Despite the territorial assignment, U-Swirl retains extensive rights to operate or license others to sell products or services through alternate distribution channels, even within the assigned territory.
This includes online sales, mobile services, and other marketing methods that may reach into the franchisee’s area. Franchisees are not compensated for any overlap, and the franchisor is not restricted from engaging in activities that could affect the franchisee’s business.
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