Bubble Bus Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Bubble Bus is a one-of-a-kind mobile entertainment franchise that brings dazzling, bubble-filled excitement to a wide variety of events. Established in 2014 by John and Beth Reider in St. Louis, Missouri—where the brand still operates its headquarters—the concept quickly captured attention with its playful and memorable approach to fun.
In 2015, the company expanded through franchising, giving entrepreneurs the chance to share this imaginative idea in their own communities. Each Bubble Bus is a colorful, eye-catching vehicle designed to generate thousands of bubbles per minute, making it a highlight at birthdays, school celebrations, community festivals, and even corporate functions.
A major differentiator is its exclusive Tekno Bubbles™, a patented innovation that glows under blacklight. This feature transforms nighttime gatherings into magical spectacles, adding a layer of wonder that traditional entertainment options can’t match.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Bubble Bus franchise? It costs on average between $121,000 – $147,000 to start a Bubble Bus franchised facility.
This includes expenses for the vehicle, bubble-producing equipment, supplies, and initial operating costs. The total investment varies based on several factors, such as the territory selected, local market conditions, and whether the franchisee acquires a new or pre-owned vehicle.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $18,000 |
| Vehicle | $36,000 – $40,000 |
| Optional Garage Expense | $0 – $900 |
| Vehicle Wrap, Interior Build-out and Shipping | $13,100 – $15,000 |
| Office Equipment, Supplies and Computer Hardware and Software | $2,000 – $2,500 |
| Initial Equipment, Product Inventory and Branded Merchandise | $46,000 – $49,500 |
| Business Licenses and Permits, Vehicle Tax, License and Title | $500 – $2,500 |
| Professional Fees | $1,000 – $4,000 |
| Insurance – quarterly | $900 – $1,200 |
| Initial Training Expenses | $500 – $1,000 |
| Grand Opening Advertising | $1,500 – $2,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 months | $1,500 – $2,000 |
| Custom Bubble Cart with Truss System (Optional) | $0 – $8,650 |
| Total | $121,000 – $147,250 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Bubble Bus locations are there?
As of the latest information, Bubble Bus operates a total of around nine units, of which 4 are franchise-owned.
What is the total investment required to open a Bubble Bus franchise?
The total investment required to open a Bubble Bus franchise ranges from $121,000 to $147,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Bubble Bus franchise?
A Bubble Bus franchise requires franchisees to pay ongoing royalty fees that begin six months after signing the agreement. The royalty is $750 per quarter for the remainder of the first year, $825 per quarter in the second year, and $900 per quarter from the third through the fifth year.
Upon renewal, the fee remains $900 per quarter for the first two years and increases to $1,000 per quarter for years three through five. In addition, franchisees must contribute $150 per month to advertising if a National Advertising Fund is active, with payments due by the 10th of each month.
What are the financial requirements to become a Bubble Bus franchisee?
To become a Bubble Bus franchisee, you need a minimum liquid capital of $35,000 to $50,000 and a net worth of $225,000 to $250,000.
Who owns Bubble Bus?
The Bubble Bus franchise is owned by its founders, John and Beth Reider, who started the concept in 2014 in St. Louis, Missouri, where the business remains headquartered.
Disclaimer
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