In 1989, founding directors, Emmanuel Kokoris and Emmanuel Drivas, were out searching for a late night cup of coffee in Brisbane, Australia, and not just a coffee, an excellent coffee. After an unsuccessful journey and hours of chatting, the pair planned a new business venture: The Coffee Club.
Their idea was to create more than just a place where people could meet for coffee. It was to provide a relaxed meeting place that is casual yet sophisticated, stylish yet affordable. In short, their plan was to meet an untapped need in the Australian hospitality market.
The Coffee Club first opened in 1989 in Brisbane's magnificent Eagle Street Pier complex on the banks of the Brisbane River. The founding Directors' hard work paid off because it met with instant success. Today, The Coffee Club has expanded its presence to a franchise chain of almost 220 outlets throughout Australia & New Zealand, all working towards one mission: to provide good food, great service and excellent coffee! The Coffee Club offers two types of experiences - the 'Club' and the 'Café Bar Restaurant'.
All Club stores are predominantly located in shopping centres and strip locations providing an extensive menu and excellent coffee, whilst the Café Bar Restaurants are open for dinner, offering table service, a wider selection of alcohol and 'Chef's Choices' - an extension of The Coffee Club menu that is ever-changing and provides new tastes and flavours to tempt you.
The Coffee Club Franchise System
It's a well-documented fact that franchise businesses are far more likely to succeed than stand-alone ventures. But what makes The Coffee Club franchise system better than others?
We are constantly refining the way we go about our business. To us, the days of the 'Big Brother' head office are over. We have developed a business model where Franchisor and Franchisees work together to create, wherever possible, an even better enterprise. It's a comprehensive system that is firmly grounded in the principles of contemporary business planning. As we strive for 'best practice' in the retail hospitality sector, we focus on what we call The Six Building Blocks of The
Coffee Club Franchise System:
- Mission & Core Values
- People
- Marketing
- Operations
- Property
- Financial Management
Franchisees are trained in each of these areas using teaching methods which emphasise 'learning by doing' and detailed manuals developed by the company. New Franchisees are provided with a minimum of six weeks initial training including contemporary business practice and hands on in-store experience.
As a Franchisee, you will be allocated a dedicated Franchise Consultant to support all of your business and development needs, from the beginning and ongoing.
The Coffee Club franchise system is really all about the benefits that flow when like-minded people work together to achieve favourable outcomes. While our key responsibility as franchisor is to build The Coffee Club brand, we are committed to considering Franchisees' needs.
Ultimately, however, everything we do, we do in our customers' interests. That's why they choose to meet at The Coffee Club in the first place.
FAQ’S
Is investing in a franchise risk free?
The risk involved in participating in any reputable franchise system should be significantly less than the risk involved in proceeding in a similar business on your own account. Any retail business involves risk and The Coffee Club cannot guarantee the sales of a particular café or its profitability.
Should I seek independent advice before entering The Coffee Club's franchise system?
The Coffee Club requires that its franchisees obtain competent legal advice before entering into the franchise documentation to ensure that franchisees fully understand their obligations.
In addition it is recommended by The Coffee Club that franchisees retain the services of a competent accountant and commercial business advisor.
Do I need prior experience in the retail coffee business?
No. Previous experience managing a retail business is a great advantage and the preferred way to becoming a franchisee with The Coffee Club. However, our extensive training program and years of experience will help you to operate your own store.
Is there a standardised procedure that I am required to follow?
Yes, however the procedures are simple. The Coffee Club's systems for diversified matters such as reporting, insurance, accounting practices, purchasing, hiring and training new staff, cost control, marketing, merchandising and other essential functions contribute to the efficient operation of your store.
Why do you charge an initial franchise fee and a training and project management fee?
The initial franchise and training fee is in consideration of The Coffee Club establishing the business and in particular compensates for:
- Selection of a location and lease terms using the negotiating strength of The Coffee Club group.
- Supervision by The Coffee Club of the complete design, construction and fit-out of the cafe.
- Provision of training and assistance prior to and at the initial opening of the cafe.
- The initial right to use The Coffee Club's intellectual property.
What services do the ongoing franchise fees cover?
These fees entitle you to continue to be part of The Coffee Club system, as well as benefit from the following services:
- Supplier selection and volume buying arrangements.
- Standardised accounting and reporting.
- Research of new and varied products.
- Staff training and management assistance.
The Franchise Fee (6%) is set as a percentage of your weekly sales so that we only benefit as you do.
What is the Marketing Fee?
The purpose of the Marketing Fee is to pool the marketing contributions in a fund for all franchisees to maximise any possible benefits. This fee is set at 2 percent of your weekly sales.
Where do I purchase my supplies?
Most required materials will be delivered to you by local suppliers organised by The Coffee Club. The Coffee Club has made arrangements with various suppliers to ensure that stores receive a continuing supply of high quality materials at an agreed national price.
How do I obtain financing?
If required, The Coffee Club will assist you in submitting an application to a lending institution. Similarly to buying a house, you will need a deposit and sufficient security.
What is the investment required to open a franchise with The Coffee Club?
The estimated initial investment for a store ranges from $400,000 - $550,000 depending on the site and style of the store.
What will be my Return on Investment?
This relies on the growth and profitability of the business under your ownership. We would hope that your investment pays you handsome returns; however we cannot predict or guarantee what this return may be.
What is the length of my franchise agreement?
The initial term of the franchise agreement will match the term of your lease.
How soon after approval can I expect to open my store?
Location is the biggest determining factor, and site selection requires a tremendous commitment, talent and expertise. After site identification and The Coffee Club's site approval, next are lease negotiation, design, layout and construction. This process can take 6 to 12 months.
Do you have opportunities for multi-location development?
Yes. For qualified individuals, we have multi-location development opportunities. This will be assessed on an individual basis.
Will I be able to sell the business in the future?
Yes. The franchise is yours to sell under certain guidelines and conditions. The Coffee Club will need to give approval on the selection of new franchisees in the same way that you have been approved. The purchaser will continue the operation of the franchise.
I am definitely interested in The Coffee Club as a franchise opportunity. What do I do next?
Complete the online form below, upon receipt of your details, one of our representatives will contact you.
