Dutch Bros Franchise: Cost, Can You Open One & Alternatives (2027)

"How much does a Dutch Bros franchise cost?" is one of the most common questions about the chain, and the answer surprises many people: you cannot buy one. Dutch Bros says plainly that it no longer offers the option to franchise. This guide explains the history of the franchise program, why it ended, how new shops open now, and what you can do instead if you want to run a Dutch Bros or open a drive-thru coffee business.

This is general information, not financial or legal advice.

Can you franchise a Dutch Bros?

No. According to Dutch Bros, it no longer offers franchises. The company stopped selling new franchises in 2017 and now grows only through company-operated shops.

The history of Dutch Bros franchising

Dutch Bros began franchising in 1999, which helped it spread through Oregon and the West. Many early franchisees were friends of the founders or people from the community. By June 2021, around the IPO, Dutch Bros had 264 franchised shops and 207 company-operated shops. Since then, nearly all growth has been company-operated, so franchised shops are now a small share of the roughly 1,311 total.

Why did Dutch Bros stop franchising?

Dutch Bros has said it wants to give growth opportunities to its own people. Instead of selling shops to outside investors, it promotes experienced employees to regional operators, who open and run new shops. Company ownership also gives Dutch Bros tighter control of the customer experience and more of each shop's profit.

How to become a Dutch Bros regional operator

The only way to run Dutch Bros shops today is from the inside: start as a broista and work up through shift lead, shop lead, manager and regional roles. Regional operators come from current employees. See Dutch Bros hiring for the career path.

Investing instead of franchising

Because Dutch Bros is a public company, anyone can buy shares through a brokerage. That is ownership in the company, not a shop. Stocks carry risk; consider speaking with a financial adviser.

What a Dutch Bros shop sells

If you are interested in the business, it helps to know the menu. The highest-priced drinks are Freezes, protein lattes and blended Rebels, and add-ons such as Soft Top and boba raise the average ticket.

Related What Is Dutch Bros? History, Menu, Prices & How It Works (2027)

What it costs to open a drive-thru coffee shop

If you want to run a drive-thru coffee business, you would have to start your own brand. Costs vary widely by location, but these are the main categories to plan for.

This is general information only; speak with a qualified business adviser before investing.

Why Dutch Bros stays company-run

Running shops directly lets Dutch Bros keep the same culture everywhere, from the way broistas talk to customers to the speed of service. It also lets the company move quickly on new products like Myst, matcha and hot food, without negotiating with many independent owners. And it keeps the growth path open for employees, which is a big part of how Dutch Bros recruits.

Dutch Bros growth plans

Dutch Bros has said it aims for about 2,029 shops by 2029. That growth comes from company-operated shops in new and existing states. See Dutch Bros locations for where shops are today.

Franchise alternatives in coffee

Some other coffee brands do sell franchises. If franchising is your goal, compare franchise disclosure documents carefully, including fees, royalties and territory rights. Dutch Bros, though, is not an option.

Summary

Dutch Bros franchises are not for sale, and they have not been since 2017. The only routes into Dutch Bros as a business are working your way up to regional operator or buying the company's publicly traded stock. If you simply love the drinks, the story of Dutch Bros and our menu price guide are a good place to start.

Key facts at a glance

Common misconceptions

Some websites still list a Dutch Bros "franchise fee" or "initial investment." Those figures are outdated or invented, because Dutch Bros does not sell franchises. If a website or person offers you a Dutch Bros franchise, treat it as a red flag and verify directly with the company.

Frequently Asked Questions