Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Established in 1989 on the Big Island of Hawaii, Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii has built a strong reputation for offering high-quality Hawaiian coffee sourced from U.S. soil. The brand is well known for bringing the rich and diverse flavors of beans from Kauai, Waialua (Oahu), Maui, Moloka’i, Kona, and Ka’u to coffee enthusiasts worldwide.
With a deep-rooted passion for excellence and the spirit of Aloha, the business expanded from a beloved local shop into a thriving franchise. The franchising journey started in 1995 when B.J. Bilanzich, captivated by the brand’s bold identity and outstanding coffee, opened stores in Utah. Her involvement eventually led to acquiring Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii and introducing the franchise model to a broader market.
A new chapter began in 2019 when Royal Aloha Coffee, LLC took ownership, initiating a full-scale rebranding. This update featured a modernized logo, redesigned packaging, contemporary store aesthetics, and expanded product offerings—all while preserving the brand’s heritage and unwavering commitment to quality.
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Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii franchise? It costs on average between $454,000 – $921,000 to start a Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii franchised restaurant.
This covers expenses related to build-out, equipment, initial inventory, and early operational costs. The total investment varies based on multiple factors, including the café’s format, location, and whether the franchisee opts to lease or buy the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Development Fee | $100,000 |
| Architectural Services | $18,000 – $30,000 |
| Building and Tenant Improvements | $170,000 – $530,000 |
| Equipment & Furnishings | $152,000 – $220,000 |
| Signs | $9,000 – $25,000 |
| Point-of-Sale System, Software & Equipment | $1,200 – $4,500 |
| Opening Inventory | $10,000 |
| Security Deposits, Utility Deposits, Licenses | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Grand Opening Marketing Campaign | $15,000 |
| Initial Training: Travel & Living Expenses | $4,000 – $6,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 months | $30,000 |
| Total Estimated Initial Investment | $454,200 – $920,500 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii franchise? A Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii franchised restaurant makes on average $515,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
This compares to $608,000 yearly revenue for similar coffee & tea franchises. Below are a few Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii competitors as a comparison:
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We have compiled the list of the top 400 franchises across 9 industries. Download the report below.
Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii locations are there?
As of the latest data, Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii operates a total of 26 locations. Among these, 25 are franchised units, while only one is company-owned.
What is the total investment required to open a Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii franchise?
The total investment required to open a Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii franchise ranges from $454,000 to $921,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii franchise?
As a Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii franchisee, you are required to pay a royalty fee of 5% of your net revenue, which grants you continued access to the company’s established systems and support. Additionally, there is a 2% advertising fee, contributing to the national marketing fund aimed at promoting the brand and driving customer traffic to your location.
What are the financial requirements to become a Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii franchisee?
To qualify as a Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii franchisee, you should have a minimum net worth of $1,500,000 and at least $500,000 in liquid assets. These financial requirements ensure that potential franchisees possess the necessary resources to establish and operate a successful franchise location.
How much can a Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii franchise owner expect to earn?
The average gross sales for a Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii franchise are approximately $0.52 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $0.52 million yearly revenue can result in $78,000 EBITDA annually.
Who owns Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii?
Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii is owned by Royal Aloha Franchise Company, LLC. The company acquired the brand in 2019, implementing a strategic rebranding and expansion plan. Under its leadership, the franchise has grown its presence across the United States, with a focus on delivering premium Hawaiian coffee while preserving the brand’s heritage and Aloha spirit.
Disclaimer
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