Franchising FAQs

So, you’re interested in joining one of the top coffee franchises in the UK? That’s great! We’ve been franchising for many years and have helped numerous entrepreneurs realise the dream of opening their very own coffee shop.

As a result, we are well equipped to answer the most frequently asked questions we receive about franchising to make the decision-making process a little more clear cut.

Who are Esquires Coffee looking for as a potential franchise partner?

Franchising is a unique business relationship that can provide incredible success to the right people. However, there are certain traits that an entrepreneur needs for the franchise relationship to become a success.

So, what makes a good franchise owner?

Esquires Coffee are looking for people who love working with and motivating a team, have a strong work ethic, a track record of success, entrepreneurial enthusiasm and the necessary financial qualifications, all of which go into making a business successful.

We want to build a relationship with franchise partners who embrace the Esquires’ community ethos and strive to put their coffee house at the centre of their neighbourhood!

What kind of franchise business training programme can I expect?

All new Esquires franchise partners participate in our dedicated pre-store opening training program, which will have you fully prepared to open a successful coffee shop. This programme involves initial classroom training on all things Esquires Coffee with our Operations Team, who will help you understand our ethical, community-focused coffee shop ethos.

You will also spend time at our Head Office with key members of the management team discussing marketing, accounting and the overall Esquires Coffee philosophy.

How long is the Esquires Coffee Franchise Agreement?

The length of the Franchise Agreement depends on the length of the lease term of the property in which your Esquires Coffee is based.

Is the Franchise Agreement renewable?

As long as the franchise owner is in good standing with payments and the lease is renewable with the property landlord, the franchise agreement will be eligible for renewal.

Esquires typically enter a lease for an initial period of 10-15 years.

Will Esquires help me find a suitable property?

Yes. At Esquires, we have a team of people committed to sourcing and identifying successful properties.

From researchers to commercial property agents and solicitors, Esquires work with our partners to negotiate, review and prepare all the necessary documents.

How much does it cost to open a Esquires Coffee franchise?

The cost of a UK franchise can vary considerably and is dependent on format, size, location and lease costs. Esquires Coffee setup costs typically come in at around £250,000-£300,000, depending on the size and condition of the site or building.

Inventory, new store marketing and working capital are not included.

How much is the franchise fee?

The cost of the Esquires Coffee franchise fee is £19,500. However, it should be noted that there are other costs associated with opening a UK franchise.

How much is the franchise royalty payment and how is it collected?

The royalty fee is 6% of gross sales (Sales net of VAT) payable weekly via Direct Debit. The franchise owner must use the EPOS system we designate. The POS system will be polled to keep track of sales.

What is the franchise marketing fee?

The marketing fee is 2% of gross sales (Sales net of VAT) and is collected on a weekly basis via Direct Debit, along with your weekly royalty fee.

The marketing fee is used for the creation, production and placement of national promotional materials, public relations, market research, brand recognition, and in-house staff coordinating these efforts.

How much capital will I need to open a Esquires Coffee franchise?

At Esquires Coffee, you will be required to have a minimum capital investment of £100,000.

How long does it typically take to open a franchise with Esquires Coffee?

The total length of the process from signing the Esquires Coffee franchise agreement to opening your store is largely dependent on how long it takes to find and acquire suitable premises.

Typically, the process can take anywhere from 6-8 months, including signing the franchise agreement, securing the premises, ensuring all of the legal documents are in order, designing the store, tendering, store fit-out, training and opening the store.

Here at Esquires, we will support you every step of the way, ensuring you are ready to achieve success when that opening day comes.

What does the Esquires Coffee franchise system include?

Our system includes the owning and operating of an Esquires Coffee franchise. Included in this is the use of our brand name, trademarks, recipes, operational systems and methods, and décor. You will also receive support in the following areas:

  • Facility planning, on-site location and architectural design.
  • Specifications for fixtures, equipment and leasehold improvements.
  • Site selection and lease negotiation.
  • Corporate training for Owner/Operator and team.
  • Ongoing support from members of the Training and Operations Team.
  • Ongoing updates for increasing profitability.
  • Efficiency in all systems.
  • Favourable contracts with suppliers of goods and services.
  • Operations manuals, policies, procedures and business management systems.
  • Marketing promotions and support.

I am interested in opening a coffee shop with Esquires. What should I do next?

Please fill out our application form to begin your journey. We’ll get back to you with more information about your application and potential Esquires Coffee franchise opportunities.