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Cosi

Cosi is a restaurant chain that serves a nicer variety of soups, sandwiches, and salads. Each restaurant provides its diners with gourmet food made from fresh ingredients in a comfortable, sophisticated atmosphere. In addition to the usual fare, Cosi’s menu includes flatbread pizzas, breakfast dishes and the famous dessert s’mores. Beverages are also popular at Cosi’s. Many customers come just to have a cup of coffee, or perhaps the favorite sweet drink, frozen hot chocolate. Some Cosi locations are even licensed to serve alcohol. Cosi’s signature bread is prepared on an open flame oven, visible to the diners. Though many want to know how to make it, the company insists their bread is created from an old, secret recipe. The restaurant’s motto states the mission plainly: “Life should be delicious.”

Facts & figures
Liquid capital required
$450,000
Net worth required
$900,000
Investment
$751,500 - $1,246,900
Franchise fee
$40,000
Units in operation
143

Cosi continues to grow as a successful brand. The process from application to store opening generally takes about five months. Potential franchisees are expected to have at least 5 years of successful restaurant management experience. Franchisees who are looking to own just one restaurant need not apply – Cosi is only seeking franchisees who want to open multiple locations simultaneously.

Cosi Franchise Opportunities - History

Inspired by a café in Paris, France, Cosi was founded as an American chain in 1996. Three years later, the restaurant merged with the café chain XandO (formerly known as ZuZu) helping to expand the business to the nearly 150 locations in 16 states that exist today. The headquarters is situated in Deerfield, Illinois.

Cosi Franchise Cost / Initial Investment / Cosi Franchise Income

Cosi’s franchise fee is $40,000 (though each subsequent location is only $35,000.) The total investment for the franchise runs between $762,600 and $899,800. Franchisees must have a net worth of $900,000, with at least half of that available in liquid assets.

Cosi Business Opportunities: Other Information

For customers’ convenience, many Cosi restaurants provide delivery, call ahead ordering, and catering. However, most diners prefer to dine in, enjoying the relaxing environment that the restaurant provides.

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