Erik’s Delicafe Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Erik’s DeliCafé traces its roots back to 1973, when Erik Johnson opened the first location in a modest 600-square-foot space in Scotts Valley, California. What started as a small delicatessen and bakery soon grew into a beloved regional brand.
Now headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, Erik’s DeliCafé has steadily expanded across Northern California and nearby areas. The company began franchising in 1986 under Erik’s DeliCafé Franchises, Inc., created to fuel its expansion through dedicated franchise partnerships.
Today, Erik’s DeliCafé operates as a quick-service café brand celebrated for its signature “Sandwiches with Character®,” alongside hearty, homemade-style soups and fresh salads. Each location maintains a welcoming, community-centered atmosphere that reflects the brand’s friendly and down-to-earth roots.
The menu emphasizes freshness and quality, offering premium meats, artisan cheeses, signature breads, and soups made from time-honored family recipes. This focus on wholesome ingredients and craftsmanship has helped Erik’s DeliCafé earn a reputation as a trusted name among fast-casual sandwich cafés.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Erik’s Delicafe franchise? It costs on average between $199,000 – $407,000 to start a Erik’s Delicafe franchised restaurant.
This covers expenses related to construction, equipment, inventory, and initial operating costs. The total investment for an Erik’s DeliCafé franchise can vary based on several factors, such as the restaurant’s size and format, its location, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or buy the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $20,000 |
| Décor and Equipment Deposit | $5,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $50,000 to $150,000 |
| Architect Drawings | $5,000 to $20,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures, Equipment | $50,000 to $90,000 |
| Exterior Sign Package | $5,000 to $10,000 |
| Initial Inventory | $8,000 to $12,000 |
| Computer System | $1,000 to $2,000 |
| POS System and Wiring | $5,000 to $10,000 |
| 1st Month’s Rent & Deposits | $10,000 to $32,000 |
| Grand Opening Advertising Deposit | $5,000 |
| Miscellaneous | $3,000 to $5,000 |
| Additional Funds (3 Months) | $31,500 to $45,600 |
| Total | $198,500 to $406,600 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Erik’s Delicafe locations are there?
As of the most recent data, the Erik’s DeliCafé system has 28 locations in total in Northern California.
What is the total investment required to open a Erik’s Delicafe franchise?
The total investment required to open a Erik’s Delicafe franchise ranges from $199,000 to $407,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Erik’s Delicafe franchise?
The Erik’s DeliCafé franchise has ongoing fees that include a royalty fee of 5% of gross sales and a marketing or advertising fee of 2% of gross sales. These recurring payments support continued brand development, national and local marketing initiatives, and the franchisor’s ongoing operational support.
Who owns Erik’s Delicafe?
Erik’s DeliCafé” franchise is owned by founder Erik Johnson through the franchisor entity Erik’s DeliCafé Franchises, Inc.
Disclaimer
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