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Milkshake Factory Franchise Opportunity Overview
Founded: 1914 (chocolate roots) | 2003 (milkshake concept)
Franchising Since: 2023
Corporate Units: 11
Franchise Units Awarded: 84+
Protected Territory: 2-mile radius or 75,000 population
Headquarters: 106 E. Liberty Street, Suite 310, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Website: www.milkshakefactory.com
A Heritage of Happiness
The Milkshake Factory brings a century-old tradition of craftsmanship to today’s dessert market. Founded from a fourth-generation family of chocolatiers in 1914 and reimagined as a milkshake concept in 2003, the brand began franchising in 2023. Each shop combines the nostalgia of classic hand-spun milkshakes with premium house-made chocolate confections, blending old-world quality with modern efficiency. Backed by franchise powerhouse FranWorth, The Milkshake Factory is emerging as one of the most scalable and exciting brands in the fast-growing dessert sector.
A Modern Twist on a Classic Treat
Every Milkshake Factory location offers 14 signature milkshakes made from proprietary, house-crafted vanilla ice cream, alongside gourmet chocolates, sundaes, and chocolate-dipped specialties. Four vegan options are always available, and limited-time offerings debut every 7–8 weeks to keep guests coming back.
The concept operates with a “food-service-light” model—no full kitchen, low ingredient costs, minimal waste, and exceptionally long product shelf life. With simple systems and strong branding, the experience delivers smiles for both guests and owners alike.
Proven, Scalable Model
The Milkshake Factory offers franchisees a turnkey model built on simplicity, guest engagement, and brand integrity. Franchise partners receive comprehensive support across all key areas of the business:
- Site Selection & Buildout: Assistance through REP’M’s national real estate and project management network.
- Training & Opening Support: Robust onboarding, including hands-on operations training in Pittsburgh, business training in Ann Arbor, and up to five days of on-site launch assistance.
- Marketing & Promotions: Grand opening events, seasonal marketing campaigns, sponsorships, and local community engagement.
- Ongoing R&D: Continuous product innovation, limited-time flavors, and marketing resources to drive customer excitement.
Investment Snapshot
| Cost Category | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $60,000 (single unit) |
| Multi-Unit Pricing | $110K (2 units); $135K (3 units); $40K–$35K per unit (6+ units) |
| Estimated Initial Investment | $510,492 – $772,548 |
| Royalty Fee | 6% of gross sales |
| Brand Fund Contribution | 2% of gross sales (up to 3%) |
| Required Liquid Capital | $200,000 |
| Minimum Net Worth | $750,000 |
| Location Size | 1,000 – 1,600 sq. ft. |
| Hours of Operation | 12 PM – 10 PM, seven days a week |
Performance Highlights
Milkshake Factory’s strong corporate performance offers a compelling benchmark for franchise owners:
- Average Unit Volume (AUV): $793,000*
- Net Operating Income (NOI): $146,000*
(*Based on 2024 corporate locations open all year; excluding one underperforming store: AUV $833K / NOI $165K)
These results, combined with efficient operations, make the concept accessible, profitable, and positioned for growth across diverse markets.
Ideal Franchise Partner
The Milkshake Factory attracts entrepreneurs who are:
- Community-focused and guest-oriented
- Strong team leaders and culture builders
- Excited to make an impact through hospitality and local engagement
- Seeking a simple, high-margin, people-first business model
Owner-operators act as the face of their shop and community ambassador, while investor or executive owners manage through KPIs and strong local teams.
Territory & Growth
Each franchise is awarded a protected territory of approximately two miles or 75,000 in population. Key U.S. markets are actively expanding, with several territories already sold out—including metro Detroit (MI), metro Indianapolis (IN), Pittsburgh (PA), and select North Carolina cities.
Why Milkshake Factory
- Over 100 years of heritage and brand trust
- Streamlined operations with low food waste and no full kitchen
- Proprietary recipes and house-made ice cream that set the brand apart
- Backed by FranWorth, providing world-class franchise support
- Proven profitability and national scalability
Leadership Team
- Dana Edwards Manatos, Founder & CEO – Fourth-generation chocolatier and visionary leader behind The Milkshake Factory’s expansion.
- Dan Reese, President – Former Kraft Heinz executive with deep expertise in franchise finance and strategy.
- Shawn Smith, VP of Operations – Seasoned hospitality leader with 30+ years of experience in operations excellence.
Join a Legacy Built on Sweet Success
The Milkshake Factory isn’t just a dessert shop—it’s a century-old story of craftsmanship, family, and community. With a proven system, a powerful leadership team, and a brand that inspires joy, this franchise opportunity offers a rare blend of tradition and growth potential in one irresistible package.
🗺 Learn More: Contact your Milkshake Factory Franchise Consultant Specialist
