Waffle Cabin Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Waffle Cabin is a distinctive fast-service franchise celebrated for its authentic Liège-style Belgian sugar waffles. Established in 1998 by Peter Creyf and Ingrid Heyrman, the venture began as a modest pushcart called “Leo’s Gaufres de Liège” at Boston’s Quincy Market.
Although the early days brought challenges, the brand discovered its niche at ski resorts, which eventually led to opening its first permanent location in December 1999. The business began franchising in 2012 and now operates from its headquarters in Rutland, Vermont.
Its menu is built around freshly crafted Liège waffles made with yeast-based dough and imported Belgian pearl sugar, giving each waffle a caramelized, crisp surface with a tender center.
Guests can enjoy their waffles plain or drizzled with semi-sweet dark Belgian chocolate, accompanied by hot beverages such as coffee, tea, or hot cocoa. The company prides itself on sourcing from trusted Vermont suppliers and operating a nut-free production facility to ensure quality and safety.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Waffle Cabin franchise? It costs on average between $90,000 – $188,000 to start a Waffle Cabin franchised shop.
This covers expenses such as construction, equipment, inventory, and initial operating costs. The total investment can vary based on several factors, including the size and setup of the location, its geographic area, and whether the franchisee opts to lease or buy the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $23,500 |
| Delayed Opening Fee | $0 to $15,000 |
| Vehicle | $35,000 to $90,000 |
| Equipment | $15,000 to $25,000 |
| Initial Inventory – Proprietary Items | $2,468 to $2,678 |
| Initial Inventory – Other | $1,532 to $2,922 |
| Point-of-Sale System | $1,000 to $1,500 |
| Travel, Lodging and Meals for Initial Training | $0 to $3,500 |
| Insurance – 3 Months | $500 |
| Grand Opening Advertising | $0 |
| Licenses and Permits | $250 to $1,000 |
| Professional Fees | $1,000 to $5,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 Months | $10,000 to $17,500 |
| Total | $90,250 to $188,100 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a Waffle Cabin franchise? A Waffle Cabin franchised store makes on average $122,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Waffle Cabin locations are there?
As of the most recent available data, Waffle Cabin operates approximately 52 locations, with 48 of them being franchise-owned.
What is the total investment required to open a Waffle Cabin franchise?
The total investment required to open a Waffle Cabin franchise ranges from $90,000 to $188,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Waffle Cabin franchise?
Waffle Cabin franchisees pay an ongoing royalty fee of 5% of their gross sales to the franchisor, which covers support services and brand use. However, there is no disclosed or publicly listed marketing or advertising fee; available data simply notes it as “not applicable” or omits it outright.
What are the financial requirements to become a Waffle Cabin franchisee?
To qualify for a Waffle Cabin franchise, potential franchisees must have a minimum liquid capital of $85,000 available and a personal net worth of at least $100,000.
How much can a Waffle Cabin franchise owner expect to earn?
The average gross sales for a Waffle Cabin franchise are approximately $0.12 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $0.12 million yearly revenue can result in $18,000 EBITDA annually.
Who owns Waffle Cabin?
The Waffle Cabin franchise is owned by its founder and CEO, Peter Creyf, who co‑founded the business alongside Ingrid Heyrman back in 1998.
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