Coffee News Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Coffee News is a franchise-based weekly publication that combines light, entertaining content with community-driven advertising, typically distributed in local restaurants, cafés, and other places where people wait.
The concept was launched in 1988 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, by Jean Daum, with the goal of offering a cheerful, easy-to-digest paper that entertains readers while spotlighting neighborhood businesses. Its playful tone, quirky facts, and focus on local engagement quickly made it a hit.
Today, Coffee News is headquartered in Bangor, Maine, and has expanded to become one of the most widely circulated restaurant publications worldwide, with editions available across multiple countries.
Through its franchise system, local operators can publish regional editions, giving businesses an affordable platform to advertise directly to their community.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Coffee News franchise? It costs on average between $11,000 – $12,000 to start a Coffee News franchised business.
This includes expenses such as licensing fees, printing, marketing materials, and start-up operating costs. The total investment varies depending on factors like the size of the territory, local advertising rates, and the franchisee’s approach to distribution and community engagement.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $9,900 |
| Coffee News Online Enrollment Fees | $0 – $100 |
| Postponement of Opening Date | $0 – $1,000 |
| Travel and Living Expenses in Training | $500 |
| Real Estate and Improvements | N/A |
| Equipment | N/A |
| Stands | $500 |
| Security Deposits, Utility Deposits, Business Licenses | N/A |
| Miscellaneous Opening Costs | $250 |
| Opening Inventory | N/A |
| Advertising | N/A |
| Additional Funds (initial period) | N/A |
| Total | $11,150 – $12,250 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Coffee News locations are there?
As of the most recent data, Coffee News operates a total of about 194 locations. Of these, approximately 191 are franchise-owned while 3 are company-owned.
What is the total investment required to open a Coffee News franchise?
The total investment required to open a Coffee News franchise ranges from $11,000 to $12,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Coffee News franchise?
Coffee News franchisees pay a weekly royalty fee that typically ranges from $25 to $80, depending on the territory. They also contribute to a marketing and advertising fund, usually set at 1% to 3% of sales.
What are the financial requirements to become a Coffee News franchisee?
To qualify as a Coffee News franchisee, candidates are generally expected to have a minimum net worth of around $50,000 and at least $20,000 in liquid capital. These requirements ensure that franchisees have sufficient financial resources to cover the initial franchise fee, early operating expenses, and the working capital needed to establish and sustain their local publication.
Who owns Coffee News?
Coffee News franchise is owned by Bill Buckley, who acquired the brand in 2008 and relocated its headquarters to Bangor, Maine.
Disclaimer
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