Popbar Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Popbar is a dessert franchise known for its handcrafted gelato, sorbetto, and frozen yogurt served in an innovative way—on a stick. The brand was created in 2010 by Reuben BenJehuda and Daniel Yaghoubi, with the very first shop opening in New York City’s West Village.
The company’s headquarters are located at 5 Carmine Street in New York, and it began offering franchise opportunities in 2013. Since then, Popbar has grown steadily, establishing locations across the United States and in international markets.
The menu features more than 60 flavors, all of which can be customized with a choice of dips and toppings. Popular specialty items include gelatoShakes, Hot Chocolate on a Stick, and wafflePops. The brand also appeals to a wide audience by offering vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, and Kosher selections.
What makes Popbar stand out is its emphasis on freshness and quality. Every shop produces its pops on-site each day, ensuring that customers enjoy desserts with the best flavor and texture possible.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Popbar franchise? It costs on average between $217,000 – $461,000 to start a Popbar franchised restaurant.
This covers expenses such as build-out and construction, equipment, initial inventory, and early operating costs. The total investment for a Popbar franchise will vary based on several factors, including the store’s size and format, its location, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or purchase the space.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $35,000 |
| Rent – 3 Months | $9,000 to $30,000 |
| Security Deposits | $6,000 to $30,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements, Furniture | $60,000 to $120,000 |
| Equipment | $70,000 to $100,000 |
| POS Computer System | $1,000 to $3,000 |
| Insurance – Three Months | $1,500 to $4,500 |
| Permits and Licenses | $1,000 to $5,000 |
| Initial Inventory | $10,000 to $30,000 |
| Shipping Costs for Proprietary Product Mixes | $1,000 to $5,000 |
| Signage, Facade | $3,000 to $20,000 |
| Grand Opening Advertising | $2,500 to $5,000 |
| Layouts | $3,000 to $13,000 |
| Layout Review Fee | $1,000 to $1,500 |
| Travel Expenses for Training | $1,000 to $4,000 |
| Professional Fees | $2,000 to $5,000 |
| Additional Funds | $10,000 to $50,000 |
| Total | $217,000 to $461,000 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Popbar locations are there?
As of the latest data, Popbar operates approximately 21 locations in total. Of these, 20 are franchise-owned, while 1 is company-owned.
What is the total investment required to open a Popbar franchise?
The total investment required to open a Popbar franchise ranges from $217,000 to $461,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Popbar franchise?
The ongoing fees for a Popbar franchise include a royalty fee of 6% of gross sales and a marketing and advertising fee of 2% of gross sales.
What are the financial requirements to become a Popbar franchisee?
To qualify as a Popbar franchisee, candidates must have a minimum net worth of approximately $300,000, ensuring they possess sufficient long-term financial stability.
In addition, franchisees are required to maintain at least $80,000 in liquid capital, meaning readily available funds such as cash or assets that can easily be converted to cash; this ensures they can cover initial costs and maintain smooth operations.
Who owns Popbar?
The Popbar franchise is owned by its co-founders, Reuben BenJehuda and Daniel Yaghoubi, who launched the concept in 2010 and continue to lead its growth and franchising efforts.
Disclaimer
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