Buff City Soap Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Buff City Soap was founded in 2013 by Brad Kellum and Jennifer Ziemianin because they were dissatisfied with the chemicals and animal fats in commercial soaps. They started creating plant-based alternatives in their garage, which quickly grew into a business, opening its first physical store in Bartlett in 2014.
The company, headquartered in Dallas, Texas, began offering franchise opportunities in 2018. Buff City Soap is distinct for its Makeries, where soaps and personal care products are made in front of customers.
Buff City Soap’s product range includes fresh, hand-made soaps, bath bombs, body butter, and facial products, all crafted using simple, natural ingredients without harsh chemicals. This commitment to quality and customization is central to the brand’s philosophy and market appeal.
The most profitable franchises to own in 2025
We have compiled the list of the top 400 franchises across 9 industries. Download the report below.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Buff City Soap franchise? It costs on average between $428,000 – $1,078,000 to start a Buff City Soap franchised shop.
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.
| Nature of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $50,000 |
| Construction and Leasehold Improvements | $110,000 – $310,000 |
| Furniture and Fixtures | $62,500 – $150,000 |
| Equipment | $6,844 – $50,000 |
| Smallwares | $1,800 – $3,500 |
| Architects and Engineering | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Other Professional Fees | $1,000 – $20,000 |
| Opening Inventory | $20,000 – $120,000 |
| Opening Supplies | $9,000 – $15,000 |
| Computers, software, Telecommunication, networking, security | $6,741 – $20,000 |
| Interior and Exterior Signs | $18,000 – $30,000 |
| Training and Pre-Opening Expenses | $21,274 – $33,591 |
| Pre-Opening Labor | $18,992 – $26,194 |
| Market Introduction Budget | $15,000 – $40,000 |
| Insurance | $8,132 – $9,139 |
| Utility Deposits | $0 – $5,000 |
| Deposits and Permits | $2,000 – $25,000 |
| Security System | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Lease Deposit | $1,500 – $25,000 |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | $1,000 – $25,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 Months | $63,000 – $96,000 |
| Total | $428,000 – $1,078,000 |
The most profitable franchises to own in 2025
We have compiled the list of the top 400 franchises across 9 industries. Download the report below.
Buff City Soap Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Buff City Soap locations are there?
As of 2023, Buff City Soap operates over 250 locations across the United States, a significant portion are franchise-owned, while others remain under corporate ownership. The franchise has been rapidly expanding, capitalizing on the growing demand for handmade, plant-based soap products.
What is the total investment required to open a Buff City Soap franchise?
The total investment required to open a Buff City Soap franchise ranges from $428,000 to $1,078,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Buff City Soap franchise?
Buff City Soap franchisees are required to pay a 6% royalty fee on gross sales. Additionally, there is a 3% marketing fee on gross sales, which covers national advertising efforts and brand marketing initiatives. These fees ensure franchisees benefit from ongoing support and help maintain consistent brand visibility across all locations.
What are the financial requirements to become a Buff City Soap franchisee?
To qualify as a Buff City Soap franchisee, you need a minimum net worth of $750,000 and at least $250,000 in liquid assets. These financial requirements ensure that franchisees have the resources necessary to operate their business successfully and cover initial startup costs.
Who owns Buff City Soap?
Buff City Soap is currently owned by Crux Capital and General Atlantic, two private equity firms that have supported the brand’s growth and expansion.
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: This content has been made for informational and educational purposes only. We do not make any representation or warranties with respect to the accuracy, applicability, fitness, or completeness of the information presented in the article. You should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other professional advice. Nothing contained in this article constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, advertisement, or offer to buy or sell any franchises, securities, or other financial instruments in this or in any other jurisdiction in which such solicitation or offer would be unlawful under the franchise and/or securities laws of such jurisdiction.
All content in this article is information of a general nature and does not address the detailed circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Nothing in the article constitutes professional and/or financial and/or legal advice, nor does any information in the article constitute a comprehensive or complete statement of the matters discussed or the law relating thereto. You alone assume the sole responsibility of evaluating the merits and risks associated with the use of any information or other content in this article before making any decisions based on such information or other content.
