If you are looking for information on the The Human Bean Drive Thru franchise business opportunity, The Human Bean coffee franchises or The Human Bean franchising, then you have come to the right place.
There are numerous key components to a successful double-sided espresso drive-thru. Specifics range from site selection, building design, and equipment layout to barista hiring and training to assure consistent quality products and facilitate the repetitive positive customer experience. The Human Bean franchise system delivers the experience and expertise to assist you from start to finish in opening your own The Human Bean Espresso Drive-Thru business.
Our system was designed by operators for operators. Most operational nuances only become apparent through successful operation of high volume double-sided drive-thrus. Unlike nearly all other franchises, we do not charge percentage-of-sales royalty fees or set monthly fees. The Human Bean realizes that as an independent business owner, franchisees should be able to enjoy the fruits of their labor while receiving the benefits of being part of The Human Bean franchise.
Franchisees can choose between our site-built or pre-fabricated 12'x36' building design. Total start-up costs vary by area. Site development fees, real-estate values, and the degree to which a site has been developed will determine the entry cost. Applicable engineering and permit fees also have a wide range of variability from region to region. In addition to the site specific development and real estate cost, hard costs also include expenses for building and building signage and dress, interior equipment, decking, menu boards, awnings, a freestanding pole or monument sign and the franchise fee.
A few of the most important factors in a successful drive-thru are: 1) superior and consistent product, 2) being located on the predominant morning drive pattern with great visibility, 3) easy ingress and egress, 4) high traffic volumes (at least 15,000 cars per day), 5) friendly and effective staff.
Many beginning and seasoned entrepreneurs find equipment leasing a valuable tool. Pre- fabricated drive-thru buildings are normally considered equipment. Often, the majority of the initial startup cost can be leased. Equipment leasing allows business owners to retain their cash, and saves them from the often-tedious experience of standard financial lending. The Human Bean does not offer equipment leasing or financial lending, but helps in locating the same for potential franchisees. For your convenience we are listed on the SBA Franchise Registry.
The information presented may have changed since first published. We recommend that you always verify fees, investment amounts and offers with the business opportunity directly prior to making a decision to invest.
1. What training and ongoing support do you provide?
You want to know what happens after you pay the initial fee. A strong franchisor provides comprehensive pre-opening training, site-selection help, operational playbooks, and continuous assistance with marketing, technology, and supply chains.
2. What is the total initial investment, and did actual startup costs match the estimates in Item 7 of the FDD?
The Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) lists estimated startup costs in Item 7, but real-world expenses can run higher. Asking how closely current owners tracked to these estimates reveals if you need extra working capital or if hidden fees exist.
3. How do royalties and local/national marketing fees impact profitability?
You need to understand ongoing financial obligations-such as monthly royalty percentages and ad fund contributions-and evaluate whether the brand value and support justify cutting into your profit margins.
4. What are the common challenges new franchisees face, and how do you help them overcome them?
Transparent franchisors will openly discuss real hurdles like local competition, tight labor markets, or supply chain bottlenecks, and show you the exact playbook or field support they offer to solve them as well as allowing you to speak with other franchisees.
5. How many franchise locations have closed or left the system in the past few years, and why?
High turnover, store closures, or quiet franchise exits are major red flags. This question measures system stability, territory health, and whether the corporate team addresses struggling owners or lets them fail.
Food and Beverage Franchises