Culligan Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Culligan International is a leading global franchise specializing in water treatment solutions. Established in 1986 by Emmett J. Culligan in Northbrook, Illinois, the company has grown into one of the most recognized names in the water industry.
Its headquarters are located in Rosemont, Illinois, and its expansive network now spans more than 90 countries with over 1,000 independently operated dealers.
The brand began offering franchise opportunities in the same year it was founded, launching its first dealership in Wheaton, Illinois.
Culligan provides a wide range of products, including water softeners, whole-home filtration systems, reverse osmosis units, and both bottled and bottleless water dispensers. It also serves commercial and industrial clients with large-scale water treatment solutions.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Culligan franchise? It costs on average between $130,000 – $814,000 to start a Culligan franchised business.
This includes expenses related to equipment, installation, inventory, and initial operating costs. The total investment varies depending on several factors, such as the size of the service territory, the scope of operations, and whether the franchisee opts to lease or purchase facilities and vehicles.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $0 – $38,515.37 |
| Lease and Deposit | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Opening Inventory | $15,000 – $75,000 |
| Bottled Water Production Plant Add-on (if authorized) | $200,000 – $350,000 |
| Deionization Plant Add-on (if authorized) | $35,000 – $150,000 |
| Basic Equipment | $35,000 – $150,000 |
| Bottled Water Distribution (if authorized) | $0 – $250,000 |
| Initial Training | $3,000 – $30,000 |
| Office Equipment | $10,000 – $50,000 |
| Advertising | $2,500 – $25,000 |
| Computer Equipment | $3,500 – $25,000 |
| Signs | $1,000 – $10,000 |
| Additional Funds | $55,000 – $150,000 |
| Total | $130,000 – $813,515 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Culligan locations are there?
As of the most recent data, Culligan International operates 553 locations across over 90 countries.
What is the total investment required to open a Culligan franchise?
The total investment required to open a Culligan franchise ranges from $130,000 to $814,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Culligan franchise?
Culligan franchisees pay a royalty fee of 5% of gross sales. In addition, they contribute up to 3% of gross sales toward marketing and advertising efforts. These fees support ongoing brand promotion, national advertising campaigns, and other initiatives designed to strengthen market presence and drive customer growth.
Who owns Culligan?
The franchise is owned by Culligan International Company, which operates under the ownership of BDT Capital Partners, a Chicago-based investment firm that acquired the brand in 2021.
Disclaimer
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