Watermill Express Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Watermill Express, founded in 1984 and headquartered in Brighton, Colorado, is a leader in the water vending industry. The company began offering franchise opportunities in 1989 and has grown to more than 1,300 locations across the United States, making it the largest drive-up pure drinking water provider nationwide.
Its stations operate 24/7, dispensing water and ice purified through a 12-step process, including reverse osmosis, to ensure safety and quality.
The franchise differentiates itself by providing an eco-friendly alternative to bottled water, aimed at reducing plastic waste while delivering affordable hydration.
Its patented technology includes self-cleaning water dispensers with ultraviolet disinfection, and the stations are monitored continuously for quality control. Watermill Express continues to expand within the U.S., without current plans for international franchising.
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Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Watermill Express franchise? It costs on average between $599,000 – $821,000 to start a Watermill Express franchised business.
This includes costs for construction, equipment, inventory, and initial operating expenses. The exact amount depends on various factors, including the type of facility you choose, the location, and whether the franchisee chooses to lease or purchase the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount (Low – High) |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $75,000 – $75,000 |
| Construction Costs | $69,600 – $184,500 |
| Watermill Express Stations | $375,000 – $375,000 |
| Watermill Express Station Sales Tax | $30,900 – $30,900 |
| Watermill Express Station Shipping | $7,575 – $27,825 |
| Watermill Express Station Unloading Crane | $1,305 – $10,359 |
| Opening Supplies Inventory | $14,000 – $30,000 |
| Office Equipment and Tools | $1,500 – $6,000 |
| Grand Opening Marketing Costs | $5,700 – $6,000 |
| Deposits, Licenses, and Bonds | $900 – $11,100 |
| Training | $600 – $3,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 Months | $9,000 – $18,000 |
| TOTAL ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT | $591,080 – $777,684 |
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Watermill Express Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Watermill Express locations are there?
As of the latest available information, Watermill Express has approximately 1,300 locations across the U.S. The network includes around 310 franchise-owned stations, while the majority are company-owned. This mix allows the company to maintain a significant number of proprietary units while expanding through franchising.
What is the total investment required to open a Watermill Express franchise?
The total investment required to open a Watermill Express franchise ranges from $591,000 to $778,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Watermill Express franchise?
Watermill Express franchisees pay a royalty fee that starts at 0% for the first 12 months. It then increases to 3% from months 13 to 24 and rises to 7% thereafter. The marketing fee is up to 2% of gross sales, supporting brand fund marketing efforts.
What are the financial requirements to become a Watermill Express franchisee?
To become a Watermill Express franchisee, candidates must meet certain financial requirements. The minimum net worth required is $500,000, ensuring that potential franchisees have a solid financial foundation.
Additionally, applicants need at least $250,000 in liquid capital to cover initial costs and support early operations.
Disclaimer
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