Frequently Asked Questions

The total initial investment to open a single SoBoL franchise location ranges from $195,600 to $453,200, depending on factors like market conditions, geographic location, and the scope of construction needed for your build-out. The initial franchise fee is $40,000 for a single unit, with discounted options available for multi-unit development agreements. Active duty military and veterans receive 20% off the initial franchise fee. Full investment details are outlined in our Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).

SoBoL provides support at every stage of franchise ownership. Before you open, you receive comprehensive training covering operations, food prep, staffing, and brand standards, plus on-site support during your opening phase. After opening, you have access to ongoing operational coaching, regular performance reviews, national and local marketing support, a centralized supply chain, and technology tools for POS, reporting, and daily management. Our franchise support team works directly with owners to help optimize operations and profitability.

Yes. Each SoBoL franchise location is granted a defined territory as outlined in the Franchise Disclosure Document. This means no other SoBoL location will be placed within your designated area, giving you the ability to build a loyal local customer base without internal brand competition. Specific territory details and boundaries are discussed during the franchise evaluation process.

The typical timeline from signing your franchise agreement to opening day is approximately 4 to 6 months, depending on factors like real estate availability, permitting, and the scope of your build-out. SoBoL’s compact footprint and simplified build-out requirements help keep timelines shorter than many traditional restaurant franchise concepts. Our team supports you through site selection, lease negotiation, design, construction, and pre-opening preparation.

SoBoL has been recognized as an Entrepreneur Franchise 500 brand, a Franchise Times Top 400 company, and has earned a Top Franchises Satisfaction Award. With 100+ locations across 10+ states, strong unit economics (top-quartile locations averaging $817,729 in AUV per our 2023 FDD), and a simple operating model, SoBoL is one of the fastest-growing acai bowl and smoothie franchise brands in the country. Our franchise owners benefit from low food costs, a streamlined menu, and a dedicated support team.

SoBoL franchise owners pay a 5% royalty fee and a 1% brand development fund contribution based on gross sales. These fees support national brand marketing, operational infrastructure, technology platforms, and ongoing franchise owner support. There are no hidden fees beyond what is disclosed in the Franchise Disclosure Document.

Yes. SoBoL actively supports multi-unit franchise development. Many of our franchise owners operate two or more locations, and we offer discounted franchise fees for multi-unit development agreements. If you are interested in building a portfolio, our franchise development team can walk you through the multi-unit opportunity and available territories.

SoBoL’s operating model is designed for simplicity. A typical day involves overseeing food preparation, managing a small team, ensuring a consistent guest experience, and reviewing sales and operational metrics. Because the menu is focused and the processes are repeatable, many franchise owners find they can step back from daily operations as their team matures. SoBoL provides the systems and training so your staff can execute consistently, allowing you to focus on growth and community engagement.

While SoBoL does not directly finance franchise investments, our franchise development team can connect you with third-party lending partners and SBA loan resources that specialize in franchise funding. Many SoBoL franchise owners have successfully used SBA 7(a) loans, conventional business loans, or retirement fund rollovers (ROBS) to finance their investment. We are happy to discuss financing options during the evaluation process.

SoBoL locations typically range from 800 to 1,400 square feet, making them a compact and cost-effective option compared to full-service restaurant franchises. Ideal locations include suburban town centers, lifestyle and mixed-use developments, college campus areas, and high-traffic retail corridors. Our real estate team helps franchise owners evaluate sites, negotiate leases, and ensure every location meets SoBoL’s brand and performance criteria.

Yes. SoBoL offers a 20% discount on the initial franchise fee for active duty military, veterans, and first responders. This reflects our commitment to supporting those who serve our communities. Contact our franchise development team for full details on eligibility and how to apply the discount.

SoBoL stands apart in several key ways. We blend Grade A acai fresh in-store daily (never from pre-made mixes), offer proprietary homemade granola available exclusively at our locations, and keep our menu simple and focused to reduce waste and lower food costs. From an ownership perspective, SoBoL’s streamlined operations, compact footprint, and dedicated franchise support team make it one of the most manageable and scalable concepts in the category. The brand has also been recognized by Entrepreneur and Franchise Times as a top franchise system.

Getting started is simple. Fill out the inquiry form on our Get Started page, and a member of our franchise development team will reach out within 24 hours to schedule an introductory call. From there, the process includes a preliminary discussion, review of the Franchise Disclosure Document, a Discovery Day visit, and signing your franchise agreement. The entire evaluation process is designed to be informative and no-pressure, so you can make a confident decision.

Yes. SoBoL franchise locations can offer catering services for corporate events, parties, school functions, and community gatherings. Catering provides an additional revenue stream beyond in-store sales, helping franchise owners maximize the earning potential of each location. Our team provides catering menus, ordering systems, and operational guidance to make this service easy to execute.