Cousins Maine Lobster offers lobster-based dishes, including lobster rolls, soups, and tacos. The franchise provides a fresh, authentic seafood dining experience, with a focus on high-quality lobster.

Key Insights
- Cousins Maine Lobster originated from a shared passion for authentic Maine lobster rolls, building a brand recognized for its commitment to quality and delivering a taste of coastal Maine. The business has grown through a strategic franchise model, expanding its reach across various markets.
- The franchise operates primarily as a mobile food truck, bringing fresh, high-quality lobster to diverse locations. This flexible model allows for accessibility and a direct connection with customers, while also offering catering services for events and private gatherings.
- The business operates within the bustling food truck and quick-service restaurant industry. This sector is characterized by evolving consumer preferences for convenience and unique culinary experiences, with a growing demand for seafood specialties like lobster.

Franchise Fee and Costs to Open
Exploring the financial picture of Cousins Maine Lobster gives insight into both the upfront commitment and the potential revenue opportunity. According to FDD Item 7, opening this franchise typically involves an investment in the range of $267,000 - $969,300, along with a franchise fee of $40,000 - $40,000.
Financial Performance and Revenue
Yearly gross sales of $635,955 and estimated earnings of $76,315 - $95,394 show the potential financial performance of this franchise. These figures are crucial for prospective franchisees as they help to project revenue and profitability. They offer insight into the business's ability to generate income and can be used to compare its performance against other investment opportunities. The Franchise Payback Period of 7.7-9.7 provides an estimation of the time it might take for an owner to recover their initial investment. This metric is a key consideration for anyone evaluating the financial viability of a franchise, as it relates directly to the speed at which the business can become profitable. A shorter payback period can indicate a faster return on capital, which is a significant factor in making an informed decision about a franchise investment.
Training and Resources
Cousins Maine Lobster provides comprehensive training and resources for new franchisees. Initial training, lasting approximately two weeks, is conducted at their headquarters in Tampa, Florida. This program offers hands-on experience in all aspects of operating a Cousins Maine Lobster truck. The franchisor also provides access to operational manuals and ongoing support.
Legal Considerations
Legal considerations for a Cousins Maine Lobster franchisee are defined by the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and the Franchise Agreement. This franchise does not disclose lawsuits or bankruptcy information in its FDD, but prospective franchisees should still review all terms thoroughly. Consultation with a qualified attorney is essential before making commitments.
Challenges and Risks
A franchisee might encounter challenges in identifying and securing prime locations that ensure consistent foot traffic. Navigating local regulations for food trucks and outdoor dining spaces requires attention. Ensuring a steady supply of high-quality lobster, a core product, can involve logistical considerations and managing seasonal availability. Understanding and catering to local taste preferences within a broader menu strategy is also a factor.
Franchise Datasheet
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