Nothing Bundt Cakes Franchise in 2024: Costs, Fee & FDD

Discover the Sweet Success of Nothing Bundt Cakes. With over 500 locations, this popular franchise offers a unique investment opportunity. Discover the costs, benefits, and earnings potential in our latest analysis and see if it’s right for you!

Last updated 29 Aug 2024 Time 12 min read
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Nothing Bundt Cakes was born out of a sweet partnership between Dena Tripp and Debbie Shwetz in 1997. What started as a simple endeavor in their Las Vegas home kitchens quickly turned into a national sensation. Today, with over 500 locations across 40+ states and Canada, Nothing Bundt Cakes has established itself as the largest specialty cake company in the nation, offering a delightful modern twist on a classic treat. The brand’s success is a testament to the founders’ dedication to creating a joyful experience through their products.

At the heart of Nothing Bundt Cakes are their handcrafted Bundt cakes, available in a variety of flavors and sizes. From bite-sized Bundtinis to full-sized cakes perfect for any occasion, each cake is baked with care and topped with their signature cream cheese frosting. Beyond cakes, the bakeries also offer a wide range of party supplies, décor, and gifts, making it a one-stop celebration shop for customers looking to create memorable moments. Their core market includes families, event planners, and anyone looking to add a touch of sweetness to their special occasions.

Nothing Bundt Cakes has grown significantly over the years, boasting a strong presence with more than 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada. With this expansive network, the brand serves thousands of customers daily, delighting them with not only their cakes but also a unique retail experience that combines food with fun. Their reach continues to grow, solidifying their place in the dessert industry as a go-to destination for both everyday indulgence and special celebrations.

The franchise support system at Nothing Bundt Cakes is robust, offering comprehensive training programs to help franchisees succeed. From initial training to ongoing support, franchisees are equipped with the tools and knowledge they need to run their bakeries efficiently. Additionally, the brand provides marketing assistance, product development, and a strong community network, ensuring that franchisees are never alone in their journey. With a proven business model and a beloved product, Nothing Bundt Cakes offers a solid opportunity for potential franchisees looking to invest in a brand that brings joy to every customer.

Nothing Bundt Cakes Franchise Insights

  1. With over 500 locations across 40+ states and Canada, Nothing Bundt Cakes has become a dominant player in the specialty cake market, showing consistent growth and demand.
  2. Nothing Bundt Cakes stands out by specializing in Bundt cakes, a niche that has proven to be both popular and profitable, with each bakery selling thousands of cakes monthly.
  3. In addition to cakes, franchisees benefit from selling a variety of party supplies, décor, and gifts, creating multiple revenue streams within a single location.
  4. The brand serves a broad customer base, from families celebrating birthdays to corporate events, which ensures a steady flow of customers throughout the year.
  5. Nothing Bundt Cakes has been recognized as a top franchise by Entrepreneur magazine and Franchise Business Review, highlighting its strong reputation in the industry.
  6. Many franchisees find success by becoming deeply involved in their local communities, leveraging the brand’s appeal for fundraisers, events, and other community activities that drive customer loyalty.

Nothing Bundt Cakes Franchise Key indicators

Growth YOY (%)

18%

vs industry 1%


Total U.S. Franchised Units

537


3-Year Failure Rate

0%

vs industry 11%


Sales-to-Investment ratio

1.7:1

How much does it cost to open a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise?

Understanding the potential investment size and capital requirements is crucial when considering opening a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise. These financial commitments, including initial franchise fees, equipment costs, and ongoing operational expenses, impact the feasibility and profitability of the venture. Thoroughly evaluating these factors ensures that potential franchisees are prepared for the financial responsibilities and can make informed decisions about their ability to sustain and grow the business, ultimately contributing to long-term success.

Min & Max Investment

Opening a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise involves several key costs, which are outlined in Item 7 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). You can see a breakdown of the costs to open a Nothing Bundt Cakes below from the most recent Item 7 below:

Type of Expenditure  Minimum Investment  Maximum Investment 
Initial Franchise Fee  $45,000  $45,000 
Rent and Security Deposit  $6,500  $8,500 
Bakery Improvements  $191,950  $454,667 
Architect - Design  $7,663  $15,223 
Fixtures and Equipment - Front and Back of Bakery  $193,002  $367,811 
Exterior Signage  $10,700  $30,000 
Initial Inventory  $15,000  $23,000 
Point of Sale System  $6,000  $11,300 
Insurance  $2,800  $5,500 
Business License and Permits  $1,500  $4,500 
Professional Fees  $3,900  $11,200 
Opening Advertising Program  $4,000  $7,000 
Training Expenses  $3,500  $10,000 
Delivery Vehicle - Monthly Lease or Loan Payment  $18,500  $32,300 
Additional Funds - 3 months  $75,000  $75,000 
Total Estimated Initial Investment  $585,015  $1,101,001 

Item 7 in the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) is the “Estimated Initial Investment” section. It outlines the total costs a franchisee can expect to incur when starting a franchise, including the initial franchise fee, equipment, inventory, real estate, and other startup expenses. This section is crucial because it provides potential franchisees with a detailed understanding of the financial commitment required, helping them assess affordability and plan their investment strategy effectively.

Required Capital

To open a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise or a similar one in the specialty desserts industry, you’ll need to ensure you have the right financial resources. Here’s a breakdown of the required capital, liquid assets, and net worth you should consider:

  • Initial Capital The total investment for a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise ranges from $585,000 to $1.1 million, which includes costs such as equipment, leasehold improvements, inventory, and initial marketing expenses. Assuming that you will finance your franchise investment, you should plan to have 20% of the total investment amount in the form of equity (cash) for the investment.
  • Liquid Assets Requirement You will typically need liquid assets of at least $150,000 to $250,000 to cover operational costs and unforeseen expenses in the initial stages. This ensures you have enough cash flow to sustain the business until it becomes profitable.
  • Net Worth Requirement Franchisees should have a net worth of at least $600,000 to $1 million. This reflects your overall financial stability and ability to manage the financial demands of the business, including potential loans and ongoing operational costs.

How much does a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise owner make?

Calculating the salary of a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise owner involves analyzing gross sales to determine total revenue, assessing operational efficiency to understand profit margins, and accounting for franchisor fees and additional expenses such as rent, utilities, and payroll. Effective management of these factors can significantly impact the profitability and financial success of a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise owner. This comprehensive financial analysis helps estimate net profits, from which the owner’s salary can be derived. A clear understanding of these factors ensures accurate salary projections and financial planning for sustainable business operations.

Nothing Bundt Cakes Revenue & Gross Sales

Nothing Bundt Cakes has shown strong revenue performance in recent years, with a median gross sales figure of $1,404,118 across its franchise locations. This impressive figure reflects the brand’s popularity and steady customer demand. The combination of quality products, a loyal customer base, and effective franchisee support has contributed to these solid sales numbers, making it an attractive opportunity for potential investors.

Which key factors impact the average revenue performance of Nothing Bundt Cakes franchisees?

The strong performance of U.S. franchisee median gross sales for Nothing Bundt Cakes can likely be attributed to several key factors. The brand’s unique focus on Bundt cakes, combined with high-quality ingredients and consistent product offerings, creates a loyal customer base that values both taste and presentation. Additionally, the extensive franchise support system, which includes marketing, operational guidance, and community involvement strategies, helps franchisees effectively manage their businesses and attract customers. The integration of retail items like party supplies and gifts further enhances revenue streams, making Nothing Bundt Cakes a one-stop destination for celebrations. The brand’s solid reputation and widespread appeal contribute to sustained sales performance across its locations.

Nothing Bundt Cakes Franchise Operational Costs

When opening a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise, it’s essential to factor in the primary ongoing operational costs that will impact your profitability. These costs are crucial to the day-to-day functioning of your bakery and will need careful management to ensure financial success. Below are the key operational expenses to consider:

  • Rent and Utilities Your bakery location’s lease and associated utility costs will be a significant ongoing expense.
  • Employee Wages Labor costs, including salaries, benefits, and training for staff, will be a substantial part of your operational budget.
  • Inventory and Ingredients Regular purchases of high-quality ingredients and inventory items, such as baking supplies, will be necessary to maintain product consistency.
  • Equipment Maintenance Ongoing maintenance and potential repair costs for your kitchen and baking equipment are essential to keep operations running smoothly.
  • Marketing and Promotions Local marketing efforts, seasonal promotions, and community involvement will require regular investment to attract and retain customers.

By staying on top of these expenses, you can ensure your Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise runs efficiently and remains profitable in the long term.

Nothing Bundt Cakes Franchise Fees

When opening a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise, it’s important to be aware of the ongoing fees associated with being part of the franchise system. These fees cover royalties, marketing contributions, and other essential services provided by the franchisor, ensuring that your bakery benefits from the brand’s strong reputation and support network. Below are the key fees you should consider:

  • Royalty Fee As a franchisee, you’ll pay a royalty fee of 6% of your bakery’s weekly net revenues. This fee supports the continued development of the brand and provides you with access to ongoing operational support and resources.
  • Marketing Production Fund and Paid Media Fund To maintain brand visibility and drive customer traffic, you’ll contribute 5% of your weekly net revenues to combined marketing efforts. This includes both the Production Fund, which creates marketing materials, and the Paid Media Fund, which handles advertising across various platforms.
  • Additional Fees There are additional fees for training programs, technology, and other items provided by Nothing Bundt Cakes that may be applied.

By understanding and managing these fees, you can effectively budget for the ongoing costs of running your Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise while leveraging the benefits of being part of a well-established brand.

Nothing Bundt Cakes Franchise Earnings

The earnings potential for a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise owner can be quite lucrative, though it varies based on location, sales performance, and operational management. With median gross sales of approximately $1.4 million, an owner-operator can anticipate estimated earnings of around $210,000, reflecting a robust operating profit margin of 15%. This margin underscores the potential profitability of the business, particularly for those who actively manage their bakery.

As an owner-operator, your direct involvement in daily operations can significantly impact the franchise’s profitability. Effective management of costs, customer service, and product quality can enhance your earnings potential. These figures illustrate the rewarding financial opportunities available to dedicated franchisees who engage fully in their business operations, leveraging the strong brand and support provided by Nothing Bundt Cakes.

How to Open a Nothing Bundt Cakes Franchise

Becoming a franchisee with Nothing Bundt Cakes involves a structured process that ensures both the franchisee and the franchisor are a good fit. From the initial inquiry to the grand opening of your bakery, each step is designed to provide you with the knowledge and support needed for success. Below is an overview of the process:

  1. Initial Inquiry You or your franchise specialist submits an initial inquiry basic information about your interest and background. You should also conduct thorough research on the franchise, including seeing all of the information available on the Vetted Biz franchise intelligence platform, including access to the most recent Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).
  2. Franchise Application After your inquiry is reviewed, you’ll be asked to complete a formal application. This allows the franchisor to assess your financial qualifications and business background.
  3. Introductory Call Once your application is approved, you’ll have an introductory call with the franchise team to discuss the opportunity in more detail and answer any initial questions.
  4. Discovery Day Attend a Discovery Day event, where you’ll meet the corporate team, tour a bakery, and gain a deeper understanding of the business model and operations.
  5. Franchise Agreement If both parties are satisfied, you’ll sign the Franchise Agreement, officially becoming a franchisee. This step involves reviewing and finalizing legal documents.
  6. Site Selection and Lease Negotiation With the support of the franchisor, you’ll find and secure a location for your bakery. This includes negotiating lease terms and finalizing the site.
  7. Training Program Participate in a comprehensive training program, covering everything from baking techniques to business management. This training ensures you’re well-prepared for opening day.
  8. Bakery Build-Out The construction and design of your bakery will begin, following Nothing Bundt Cakes’ specifications and guidelines. This includes installing equipment, signage, and décor.
  9. Pre-Opening Marketing Prior to your grand opening, engage in local marketing efforts to build awareness and attract customers. This includes community outreach and promotional events.
  10. Grand Opening With all preparations complete, you’ll launch your bakery with a grand opening event, welcoming customers and starting operations. The franchisor continues to provide support as you grow your business.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Strong Brand Recognition: Nothing Bundt Cakes is a well-established brand with a loyal customer base, making it easier to attract customers.

Unique Product Offering: Specializing in Bundt cakes gives the franchise a distinctive edge in the dessert market, with a wide range of flavors and sizes.

Multiple Revenue Streams: In addition to cakes, the franchise offers retail items, which can boost overall sales and profitability.

Cons

Operational Intensity: Running a bakery, especially with perishable goods, requires careful inventory management and staffing, which can be demanding.

Limited Product Flexibility: While the brand’s focus on Bundt cakes is a strength, it also limits the ability to diversify the product offerings.

Competition in the Dessert Space: While Nothing Bundt Cakes has a unique niche, the dessert industry is competitive, and you may face challenges from local bakeries and other specialty dessert franchises.

FAQs

Who owns Nothing Bundt Cakes?

  • Nothing Bundt Cakes is owned by Roark Capital Group, a private equity firm that acquired the brand in 2021. Roark Capital specializes in franchise and multi-unit businesses, with a portfolio that includes various well-known brands in the food and retail sectors.
  • Yes, Nothing Bundt Cakes operates as a franchise. Since its founding in 1997, the brand has grown significantly, and today, franchisees operate over 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada, benefiting from strong brand recognition and a comprehensive support system.
  • Nothing Bundt Cakes’ biggest competitor is likely Gigi’s Cupcakes. Both brands operate in the specialty dessert space, focusing on high-quality, handcrafted cakes and baked goods for celebrations and events. Alternatives to Nothing Bundt Cakes include Sprinkles Cupcakes, Smallcakes, and local bakeries that offer custom cakes and desserts. These businesses provide a variety of specialty baked goods that appeal to similar customers looking for high-quality, unique desserts for events and celebrations.
  • Nothing Bundt Cakes is highly successful, boasting over 500 locations and strong financial performance. The franchise's focus on high-quality, handcrafted Bundt cakes and its established brand have made it a leader in the specialty dessert market, with franchisees reporting healthy profit margins and consistent customer demand.
  • With median gross sales per location exceeding $1.4 million, the total system-wide revenue is likely substantial, positioning Nothing Bundt Cakes as a strong performer in the dessert franchise industry.
  • As of 2024, Nothing Bundt Cakes has 554 locations in the U.S., of which 537 are franchised locations.
  • The most recent calculated 3-year failure rate of Nothing Bundt Cakes was 0% in the U.S.
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