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TCBY

Information based on 2024 FDD
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Brand Highlights
  • Founded in 1981
  • Franchising Since 1982
  • 168 US Franchises
  • $486,630 - $697,467 Investment Range
  • $331,554 Average Gross Revenue
  • 6% Royalty Fee
  • $35,000 Franchise Fee
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Brand Description

TCBY (The Country's Best Yogurt) has been a pioneer in the frozen dessert industry since 1981, establishing itself as America's original frozen yogurt brand. With a legacy spanning over four decades, TCBY has consistently innovated to meet changing consumer preferences while maintaining its commitment to quality and taste.

The brand offers an extensive menu of premium frozen yogurt, including traditional favorites, no-sugar-added options, and dairy-free alternatives made with almond and oat milk, catering to various dietary preferences and restrictions. What sets TCBY apart is its self-serve model that empowers customers to create their perfect dessert experience, featuring an impressive selection of over 50 toppings ranging from fresh fruits to decadent treats.

Beyond traditional cups and cones, TCBY has expanded its offerings to include specialty items such as smoothies, shakes, and custom-made frozen yogurt cakes perfect for special occasions. The brand is particularly known for its signature White Chocolate Mousse flavor and innovative seasonal offerings that keep customers coming back.

TCBY locations are designed to be welcoming community gathering spots, with many featuring comfortable seating areas and family-friendly amenities. The brand's commitment to customer service is evident in its consistently positive reviews, with customers frequently praising the friendly staff, clean environments, and convenient features like drive-through service at select locations.

As a franchise opportunity, TCBY combines a beloved brand name with a proven business model, comprehensive training programs, and ongoing operational support. The brand continues to adapt to modern consumer preferences while maintaining its position as a trusted name in the frozen dessert industry.

DID YOU KNOW?

How much does it cost to start a franchise with TCBY?

$486,630
$697,467
Did you know that bringing the beloved frozen yogurt experience of TCBY to your community requires a total investment between $486,630 and $697,467, which covers everything from the $35,000 franchise fee to equipment, build-out costs, and working capital needed to serve up those signature swirls and toppings that have made TCBY a household name for over four decades?
Financial Summary
Franchise Fee
$35,000
Investment Range
$486,630 - $697,467
Investment Midpoint
$592,049
Minimum Cash Required
$486,630
Royalty Fees
6%
Brand Fund
3%
Brand Bragging Rights
43-year established frozen yogurt heritage since 1981
Health-focused positioning with nutritional benefits focus
Dietary-inclusive product offerings for diverse consumers
Premium frozen yogurt brand with proprietary products
Nationwide presence with multi-state territory availability
Proven longevity in the competitive dessert market
Financial Analysis
TCBY requires an investment range of $486,630 to $697,467, positioning it significantly above the dessert franchise market averages. Both the minimum and maximum investment levels exceed the sub-sector averages of $296,855 and $591,723 respectively, reflecting TCBY's premium positioning within the frozen yogurt category.

The frozen yogurt segment benefits from growing health-conscious consumer trends, with TCBY's emphasis on nutritional benefits aligning with demographic shifts toward better-for-you dessert alternatives. However, the reported gross revenue of $331,554 falls below the sub-sector average of $414,337, indicating performance challenges relative to investment requirements in the competitive dessert landscape.

With 43 years of operation since 1981 and 168 current units, TCBY demonstrates operational longevity in the frozen yogurt market. The franchise maintains a health-focused brand positioning with dietary-inclusive product offerings that differentiate it from traditional ice cream concepts.

The business model suits investors seeking opportunities in the health-conscious dessert segment with established brand recognition. Prospective franchisees should carefully evaluate the investment-to-revenue ratio and conduct thorough market analysis given the higher-than-average capital requirements and below-average revenue performance in the competitive dessert franchise landscape.
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 TCBY. 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
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CRF USA

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First Bank of the Lake

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Golden Capital Solutions

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Location Analysis
TCBY maintains a strategic presence across multiple states, with notable concentrations in the Southeast and Midwest regions. The brand shows particularly strong representation in North Carolina, with established presence across Illinois, South Carolina, Virginia, and Texas. This regional clustering suggests successful market penetration in areas with favorable demographics for frozen yogurt consumption.

Customer satisfaction metrics are solid, with positive consumer ratings across numerous reviews, indicating consistent service quality and brand performance. The strong presence in southeastern states suggests successful adaptation to warm-weather markets where frozen dessert demand remains high year-round.

Key expansion opportunities exist in underserved markets, particularly in the Northeast and Western regions where TCBY's footprint is less established. Ideal locations typically include suburban areas with high foot traffic, proximity to retail centers or entertainment venues, and demographics skewing toward families and health-conscious consumers with disposable income.

Successful TCBY locations often feature accessibility to major thoroughfares, ample parking, and co-tenancy with complementary retailers. The moderate market presence suggests room for strategic growth, particularly in regions with proven success metrics and similar demographic profiles to existing high-performing markets.
Total US Locations168
Open Franchises168
Corporate Locations0
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 TCBY. Learn about the experience and expertise of the executive team guiding TCBY's success. For more details, refer to Item 2 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).

Litigation

Review any legal actions or pending litigation involving TCBY. 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 TCBY'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 TCBY'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 2024. 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.

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