Doc Popcorn Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Doc Popcorn, the world’s largest popcorn franchise retailer, was founded in 2003 outside of Boulder, Colorado. The company began franchising in 2009, rapidly expanding its presence both domestically and internationally. In 2014, Doc Popcorn was acquired by Dippin’ Dots, LLC, the iconic beaded ice cream company, facilitating a co-branding strategy that combined both beloved snack brands under one roof.
This collaboration contributed to the brand’s international popularity, leading to new locations across Chile and Oman. As of 2016, Doc Popcorn had surpassed the 100-location mark, with units operating in the United States, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and Japan.
The brand’s international expansion continued with the awarding of franchise master agreements in countries like Japan and Mexico, as well as the opening of new locations in Puerto Rico. In 2022, Doc Popcorn became part of J&J Snack Foods Corp., a leader and innovator in beverages and snack foods.
Doc Popcorn differentiates itself by offering a wide variety of fresh-popped specialty flavors made from high-quality ingredients. These flavors range from classics like Sweet Butter™ and Caramel Bliss® to more adventurous options like Hoppin’ Jalapeño and Cheesy Cheddar.
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Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Doc Popcorn franchise? It costs on average between $175,000 – $414,000 to start a Doc Popcorn franchised center.
This includes costs for store setup, equipment, initial inventory, and operational expenses. The total investment varies based on several factors, such as the kiosk or store size, location, and whether the franchisee opts to lease or buy equipment and fixtures. Doc Popcorn offers 2 types of franchises:
| Franchise Type | Initial Investment Range |
|---|---|
| Doc Popcorn® PopKiosk Franchised business | $175,000 to $376,050 |
| Doc Popcorn® PopShop Franchised business | $184,500 to $413,550 |
We are summarizing below the main costs associated with opening a Doc Popcorn® PopShop Franchised business. For more information on costs required to start a Doc Popcorn franchise, refer to the Franchise Disclosure Document (Item 7).
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $15,000 – $15,000 |
| Training Expenses | $1,000 – $3,550 |
| Real Estate Lease | $1,000 – $32,000 |
| Equipment/Décor | $65,000 – $100,000 |
| Construction | $63,500 – $130,000 |
| Architect’s Fees | $0 – $14,000 |
| Opening Inventory | $4,500 – $8,500 |
| Signage | $3,500 – $12,000 |
| Computer System | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Miscellaneous Opening Costs | $3,000 – $12,500 |
| Additional Funds – 3 Months | $5,000 – $40,000 |
| Payroll Expenses | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| Total Initial Investment | $184,500 – $413,550 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a Doc Popcorn franchise? A Doc Popcorn franchised shop makes on average $158,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
This compares to $1,113,000 yearly revenue for similar other food & beverage franchises. Below are a few Doc Popcorn competitors as a comparison:
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.
Doc Popcorn Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Doc Popcorn locations are there?
As of the latest data, Doc Popcorn operates a total of 76 locations, all of which are franchised. The company does not own any corporate locations, making its entire network franchise-operated.
What is the total investment required to open a Doc Popcorn franchise?
The total investment required to open a Doc Popcorn franchise ranges from $175,000 to $414,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Doc Popcorn franchise?
Doc Popcorn franchisees are required to pay a royalty fee of 6% of gross revenue, while the advertising fee is 1% of gross revenue. These fees contribute to the ongoing support and promotion of the Doc Popcorn brand.
What are the financial requirements to become a Doc Popcorn franchisee?
To become a Doc Popcorn franchisee, candidates are typically required to have a minimum net worth of $250,000 and liquid capital of $80,000. These financial prerequisites ensure that franchisees possess the necessary resources to establish and operate their Doc Popcorn business effectively.
How much can a Doc Popcorn franchise owner expect to earn?
The average gross sales for a Doc Popcorn franchise are approximately $0.16 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $0.16 million yearly revenue can result in $24,000 EBITDA annually.
Who owns Doc Popcorn?
Doc Popcorn is owned by Dippin’ Dots, LLC, which acquired the company in 2014. In 2022, J&J Snack Foods Corp. acquired Dippin’ Dots, thereby becoming the parent company of Doc Popcorn.
Disclaimer
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