Cousins Subs, established in 1972, has grown into a beloved Midwest sandwich institution known for its exceptional quality and authentic Wisconsin flavor. With a strong presence primarily in Wisconsin, this quick-service restaurant chain has built its reputation on delivering premium deli-style submarines that stand apart from national competitors.

What sets Cousins Subs apart is their commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients and their signature bread, baked daily in-store. Their menu features both hot and cold subs, with standout options like their famous Wisconsin Cheese Steak and Italian Special. The brand has successfully maintained its local charm while offering modern conveniences like online ordering and a loyalty program.

Beyond their core sandwich offerings, Cousins Subs has distinguished itself with uniquely Wisconsin touches, including their renowned cheese curds and hand-dipped shakes. Their fries, often praised by customers, provide a perfect complement to their signature subs. The brand is particularly celebrated for its grilled-to-order sandwiches, setting them apart from traditional cold-cut sub shops.

Customer service is a cornerstone of the Cousins Subs experience, with locations consistently receiving praise for their friendly staff, clean environments, and efficient operations. Their commitment to community involvement and maintaining high standards has helped build a loyal customer base that spans generations.

For potential franchisees, Cousins Subs offers the opportunity to join a well-established brand with strong regional recognition, proven operational systems, and a dedicated support structure. Their business model combines time-tested recipes with modern operational efficiency, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs seeking to enter the food service industry.

Financial Summary

Franchise Fee: $25,000
Investment Range: $464,700 - $1,164,500
Investment Midpoint: $814,600
Minimum Cash Required: $464,700
Royalty Fees: 6%
Brand Fund: $300/mo - $800/mo

Brand Bragging Rights

50+ years operational experience

Above-average sector revenue performance

Comprehensive employee development programs

Established counter-service operational model

Strong community partnership initiatives

Proven multi-unit franchise opportunities

Financial Analysis

Cousins Subs requires an investment range of $464,700 to $1,164,500, positioning it in the mid-tier franchise category within the sub sandwich sector. The investment sits above the sub-sector average minimum of $419,677 but significantly exceeds the average maximum of $864,432, indicating a premium positioning that likely reflects comprehensive build-out requirements and equipment specifications for their counter-service model.

The sub sandwich industry benefits from consistent consumer demand for quick-service dining, though faces intensifying competition from established players and emerging fast-casual concepts. The sector's resilience during economic fluctuations makes it attractive to investors seeking stable business models with proven operational frameworks.

With 91 units and operations since 1972, Cousins Subs demonstrates substantial operational maturity and five decades of system refinement. However, the relatively modest unit count suggests limited market penetration compared to major competitors, potentially offering expansion opportunities in underserved markets while raising questions about growth trajectory and brand recognition outside core territories.

The reported gross revenue of $814,740 exceeds the sub-sector average of $608,302, though investors should carefully analyze unit-level economics and market variables affecting performance. The franchise's emphasis on employee development and operational systems suggests comprehensive support infrastructure, though prospective franchisees should evaluate territory availability and demographic alignment with their target markets. Qualified investors should possess substantial liquid capital and restaurant industry experience to navigate the competitive landscape effectively.

Expected Investment Range

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Average Gross Sales

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Financing

Financing Details

Franzy connects you with top-tier financing partners to help secure the funds to invest in a franchise like Cousins Subs. Whether you're looking for a loan or exploring other financial products, our partners provide expert guidance to ensure you obtain the necessary capital. They specialize in offering solutions tailored to the needs of franchisees, making the process of securing financing smooth and straightforward.

Why Financing with Franzy Partners?

Choosing to finance through Franzy's partners ensures you get the best terms and support for your franchise investment. Our partners have extensive experience in the franchising industry and offer specialized financial solutions tailored to your needs. With competitive interest rates and flexible repayment options, you can find the right financing plan that fits your budget and goals. Our partners are committed to providing personalized guidance throughout the financing process, making it easier for you to secure the necessary funds and confidently move forward with your franchise venture.

Finance Partners

FranFund

Financing Partner

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CRF USA

Financing Partner

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Location Analysis

Founded in 1972, Cousins Subs operates numerous franchise locations across multiple states, demonstrating a strong regional presence primarily in the Upper Midwest. The franchise shows particular market dominance in Michigan and Wisconsin, with an emerging presence in Illinois, Minnesota, and Arizona. This geographic distribution reflects a strategic approach focused on building market density in core territories rather than pursuing rapid nationwide expansion.

The brand's concentrated presence in the Upper Midwest indicates successful market adaptation to Midwestern consumer preferences and robust regional brand recognition. This focused approach enables efficient supply chain management and targeted marketing initiatives. After five decades of operation, Cousins Subs has established a reliable operational model in its core markets.

Potential franchisees should consider opportunities in untapped markets within neighboring Midwestern states, particularly in areas with similar demographics to successful Michigan and Wisconsin locations. Strategic growth potential exists in strengthening the brand's presence in Illinois and Minnesota, where the company has already established initial operations. Ideal locations typically include suburban areas with strong daytime population, proximity to business districts, and demographics aligned with fast-casual dining preferences.

While current customer rating data is not available, the brand's longevity and consistent regional growth since 1972 suggest a stable market position and proven business model.

Total US Locations91

Open Franchises41

Corporate Locations50

Average Sq. FootN/A

Territory Map

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Franchise Net Unit Growth

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Additional Information

Executive Team

Get to know the leadership behind Cousins Subs. Learn about the experience and expertise of the executive team guiding Cousins Subs's success. For more details, refer to Item 2 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).

Litigation

Review any legal actions or pending litigation involving Cousins Subs. Understanding the legal history helps assess potential risks and the brand's business practices. For more details, refer to Item 3 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).

Bankruptcy

Review Cousins Subs's bankruptcy history and any filings by key personnel or affiliates. This critical information provides transparency about the brand's financial stability and management. For more details, refer to Item 4 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).

Franchisor Assistance

Learn about Cousins Subs's comprehensive support system for franchisees, including initial training programs and continuous operational assistance. Understanding the available resources and support structure is crucial for franchise success. For more details, refer to Item 11 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).

Frequently Asked Questions

Disclaimer

The information provided on this page is based on the latest Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) that is publicly available and that we have on record, which was issued in 2023. This information is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal, financial, or business advice. We make no guarantees or claims regarding the completeness or accuracy. For the most current and detailed information, we recommend consulting the franchisor directly for the most recent FDD and regarding any questions that you may have about the information provided.

Brand Highlights