Sambazon Acai Bowls
Sambazon Acai Bowls offers quick-service retail stores featuring açaí bowls and other fruit-based products. Known for healthy, on-the-go options, this franchise operates in the fast-casual food service industry.
Sambazon Acai Bowls franchise FAQ
How much does it cost to open one — the total initial investment?
The total initial investment to open one SAMBAZON franchise store is estimated between $380,000 and $630,000. This includes a fixed initial franchise fee of $30,000 for the first store, with additional costs varying based on factors such as location and whether you lease or own the space. [p.24, p.27]
What is the initial franchise fee?
The Initial Franchise Fee is $30,000. It is a nonrefundable lump sum payment due upon signing the Franchise Agreement [p.15, p.96].
What are the ongoing royalty and advertising fees?
The ongoing royalty fee is a weekly payment equal to 5% of Gross Sales during both the initial term and any renewal terms [p.96]. Additionally, there is a Brand Development Fee of 2% of Gross Sales, which also becomes due at the same time as the Royalty Fee [p.93, p.34]. These fees are not held in trust but become the property of the company to be spent according to their discretion [p.93].
How long is the initial franchise agreement, and can I renew it?
The initial term of the franchise agreement is not specified in the excerpts. However, you may renew your license for one ten-year renewal term, provided certain conditions are met [p.79].
Can I sell or transfer my franchise, and what does that require?
According to the FDD, you can generally transfer your franchise ownership to immediate family members without the franchisor's consent, provided certain conditions are met. Specifically, a $1,000 fee is required, and the assignee must be approved in writing by the franchisor [p.105]. For transfers to other parties, the franchisor can refuse unless there is good cause, which includes but is not limited to specific reasons [p.6].
On what grounds can the franchisor terminate the agreement?
The franchisor can terminate the agreement on several grounds, including failure by the franchisee to exercise options to enter into Franchise Agreements within designated periods, non-compliance with terms and conditions that is not cured within 30 days, insolvency of the franchisee, or other specified financial issues [p.42]. Additionally, the franchisor can terminate for good cause, which includes failure to comply with lawful provisions of the franchise agreement after being given notice and a reasonable opportunity to cure [p.6].
What financial requirements — net worth and liquid capital — do I need to qualify?
This isn't specified in the excerpts. The FDD does not provide specific net worth or liquid capital requirements for qualifying as a franchisee. However, it does caution that you should have additional sums available to cover personal living expenses and operating losses after the initial three-month phase [p.26].
Do I get an exclusive or protected territory?
No, you do not receive an exclusive territory. Your Development Territory is not protected from competition by other franchisees, outlets owned by the company, or other competitive brands controlled by the franchisor [p.42]. The only protection provided is that no additional SAMBAZON Stores will be established within your Designated Area during the term of your Franchise Agreement, except as specifically described in Item 12 and noted in the Franchise Agreement [p.39].
What training and ongoing support does the franchisor provide?
The franchisor provides initial training for you or your Control Person, Brand Champion, store leader, and assistant store leader at no additional fee [p.37]. This includes instructors and training materials for the initial training program [p.5]. Additionally, the franchisor may offer ongoing training programs, annual franchise conventions, or other meetings on various topics such as new products, operational procedures, store management, sales, or sales promotion [p.38]. You are required to pay for travel, lodging, meals, and wages of your trainees/attendees for these sessions [p.38]. The franchisor may also require attendance at specific training programs or meetings under certain circumstances [p.38].
How many franchised outlets are there, and how many have closed or been terminated?
This isn't specified in the excerpts.
Does the franchisor share any financial performance or earnings information?
The franchisor shares unaudited actual financial results for one of its affiliate stores during a specific reporting period. However, it does not make any financial performance representations beyond this historical representation and does not authorize anyone to provide additional financial projections or guarantees [p.52, p.134].
What am I restricted to selling, and where must I buy supplies?
You are restricted to selling only the Menu Items and other food and beverage products that the franchisor designates and approves in writing. This includes offering the full Authorized Menu during all hours of operation [p.84]. Additionally, you may have to purchase or lease items from the franchisor or a limited group of suppliers designated by them, which might be more expensive than alternatives [p.4]. This isn't specified in the excerpts for the exact location where supplies must be bought, but it implies that you should buy from the designated sources.