Q&A: Does Baskin Robbins Franchise in the UK?

Baskin Robbins is the largest ice cream chain in the world. When you’re looking into franchising in the food service sector, there’s a thousand different opportunities out there. But this is, undeniably, one of the most exciting. Does Baskin Robbins franchise in the UK? Let’s find out.

Baskin Robbins has been growing for almost eighty years, and is now established in just under 50 countries. There’s no stopping the franchise giant, and though it might seem like an intimidating investment, the business model is proven and the quality of support is high. Why not guarantee your success with an investment in something so low-risk and high-reward?

Does Baskin Robbins franchise?

Yes, Baskin Robbins does franchise in the UK. The dessert chain is constantly on the lookout for new franchisees who are as passionate about ice cream as they are.

History of Baskin Robbins 

The ice cream franchise was founded back in 1945 by Burt Baskin and Irv Robbins, hence: Baskin and Robbins. To this day, the franchise headquarters are located in Massachusetts, USA, but now, the popularity of Baskin Robbins has spread across the globe. The leader in the ice cream industry is constantly innovating and developing new, exciting flavours to keep customers engaged.

The sweets franchise has become known for its hand-packed ice cream, unique flavour ribbon technique, mousse-textured ice creams and use of traditional desserts, such as apple pie and cheesecake. It’s not just your regular ice cream shop. At Baskin Robbins, you’ll also find its signature ice cream cakes and a growing line of tasty beverages, including fruit blasts and cappuccino blast frozen-blended coffee drinks.

Dessert and ice cream are two things that never go out of style in the UK, and that’s why Baskin Robbins now has over 150 stores across the pond from its place of founding. In 2012, the UK ice cream market reached a total value of £1 billion, and it only continues to thrive. With Baskin Robbins, customers can access affordable luxury with every scoop.

Part of the Dunkin’ Brands Group, along with sister brand Dunkin’ Donuts, Baskin Robbins is well-recognised and well-loved. The company even won a Guinness World Record for “World’s Largest Ice Cream Scoop Pyramid”!

On average, each person in the UK eats 9 litres of ice cream every year.
—Ice Cream Alliance

Starting a Baskin Robbins franchise 

When you’re franchising with a brand as respected and recognised as Baskin Robbins, you can expect a few more rules and regulations than you might have to contend with in a role with a smaller desserts franchise. As you get to grips with the guidelines, take comfort in the fact that though an investment in Baskin Robbins might be costly, it’s also incredibly low risk, and highly likely to be successful.

The Baskin Robbins development strategy focuses on opening units within high to mid-market residential populations, as well as high street locations within leisure and tourism heavy environments. This strategy ensures that there’s a sizable amount of foot traffic surrounding all Baskin Robbins locations.

As a franchisee, you won’t be able to conduct any non-standard business or activity at the restaurant without prior approval, and you’ll only be permitted to sell franchisor-approved products. Franchisees must offer the full Baskin Robbins menu at all franchise locations, which will be provided for them by the franchisor prior to launch.

Depending on the volume of sales that your unit experiences, you’ll be expected to work a full shift in the restaurant every day. However, if your sales and profits are good, the amount of flexibility available to you increases. Here’s what you need to know if you’re interested in franchising with Baskin Robbins...

Becoming a Baskin Robbins franchisee

To become a Baskin Robbins franchisee, you’ll need to meet a certain criteria. Some franchise operations don’t require franchisees to have previous experience in the industry, but unfortunately for the less seasoned, Baskin Robbins isn’t one of these. The ice cream franchise is looking for someone who:

• Is able to satisfy guests with various product lines

• Is willing to develop at least ten units in reasonable timing 

• Has multi-unit QSR, retail or food service experience 

• Is an expert at negotiating and sourcing real estate with support

• Has a long-term, strategic vision for developing the Baskin Robbins brand 

• Is passionate about their local community 

• Is passionate about ice cream 

• Is dedicated to operational excellence

If you tick these boxes, it’s more than likely that you’d be an excellent Baskin Robbins franchisee. While franchising can be difficult, it’s also very rewarding, and heading into a business venture with the confidence that you fit the criteria will make a huge difference.

How much do you need to invest?

To become a Baskin Robbins franchisee, you’ll need to make a minimum investment of £500,000. You’ll then need to pay a 2% advertising fee on a monthly basis. Though a Baskin Robbins investment is sizable, and out of reach for many people, it also comes with many perks, which have already been touched on, such as brand name recognition. 

If you don’t have all the money you need to invest, know that most UK banks are willing to lend between 50-70% of start-up costs to franchisees with good credit histories. Note, before you head into negotiations, that by signing a Baskin Robbins franchise agreement, you’ll be agreeing to a ten year contract period. 

What do you get for your investment?

• In return for your investment, you’ll be entitled to a wide range of training and support, including:

• Intensive training conducted by approved and certified professionals

• All the tools you need

• Quarterly franchisee meetings, during which you can network/learn best practices

• A property agent to assist in sourcing and securing suitable franchise locations

There’s no cooler opportunity than the chance to run an ice cream parlour

Running a franchise isn’t easy, but with the support of a well recognised brand, you can enter into the process with confidence in your ability to profit and secure future success. If you’re not sure Baskin Robbins is the right investment for you, take some time to explore a wide range of opportunities in the food sector and find the right fit.