BREW CONNECTIONS THAT LAST
Own a café. Build a legacy. Serve joy by the cup.
Becoming a Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea® franchisee isn’t just a smart business move. It’s an invitation to create something meaningful, flavorful, and lasting. You’ll pour your energy into your community, and we’ll pour over 30 years of experience into supporting you.
Because when you join Sweetwaters, you’re not just opening a café. You’re joining a community of passionate owners, all guided by the same purpose to deliver hospitality with heart, and flavor with soul.
FROM ANN ARBOR, WITH LOVE (AND A LOT OF COFFEE)
The global café with humble beginnings.
It all started in 1993, when co-founders Lisa and Wei opened the first Sweetwaters in Ann Arbor, Michigan, just blocks from the University of Michigan, their alma mater. Their dream? Create a space that serves globally inspired drinks, real ingredients, and a generous helping of community.
That dream caught on. And flourished.
Today, Sweetwaters cafes across the country continue that mission. And thanks to the largest university alumni network in the world (Go Blue!), our name travels far and wide, giving our brand a loyal, built-in audience from day one.
THIS ISN’T A SIDE HUSTLE. IT’S A FULL-HEART HUSTLE.
Hands-on. All-in. No shortcuts. No absentee owners.
Let’s be real. Running a Sweetwaters isn’t for everyone. It’s heart-led and hustle-fed. The entrepreneurial spirits. The early risers and community builders. People who like to work, roll up their sleeves, lead a team of energetic young baristas, and take pride in making guests feel like regulars, even on their first visit.
If you’re looking to clock in from the beach, this isn’t it. But if you want to be a part of the community and build something meaningful, we’d love to meet you and start that journey together.
ARE YOU STEEPED IN WHAT IT TAKES?
Here’s what we’re looking for in our next franchisee.
While meeting the minimum requirements is an important step, it does not guarantee selection as a Franchisee. Our selection process is highly competitive, and we thoughtfully consider each application to ensure the best fit for you and us.
Ownership Commitment
- Full-time, day-to-day operational leadership
- Passion for craft beverages, food, and hospitality
- A love for your local community (and caffeine)
People Skills
- Experience building and leading teams
- Enjoy mentoring young, high-energy staff
- Gets joy from delivering exceptional guest experiences
Experience & Drive
- 5+ years of professional work experience
- Retail and/ or customer service experience
- Hospitality background is a bonus but hustle counts more than a résumé
Initial Investment & Ongoing Fees
- Franchise Fee: $37,000 (non-borrowed funds)
- Grand Opening Advertising: $10,000
- Initial Training Fee: $5,000
- Estimated Initial Investment (including the above fees): $441,467 – $730,352*
*Detailed in our current Franchise Disclosure Document - Royalty: 6%
- Brand Fund Contribution: 3%
- Local Advertising Requirements: 2%
Financial & Legal Qualifications
- Liquid Capital: $250,000
- Net Worth: $500,000
- No history of bankruptcy or lawsuits
- Legal right to operate a business in the U.S.
WHAT YOU GET (BESIDES A DAILY SUPPLY OF ESPRESSO)
A brand that’s proven. A team that’s with you. A playbook that works.
You gain more than just the brand when you become a Sweetwaters franchisee. You get 30+ years of real-world experience in café operations, marketing, and product development. And it’s all wrapped in a system that’s been pressure-tested by owners just like you.
Our team will walk with you every step of the way, from your first inquiry to your grand opening and beyond. This is a brand built on consistency, culture, community, and genuine connection. And we’re here to make sure you thrive in it.
Sweetwaters is not a trend. It’s a trusted, recognizable brand with a loyal customer base, powerful cultural cachet, and a story that resonates across generations.
LET’S STIR THINGS UP
If you’re ready to lead with heart. And probably smell like coffee forever.
Click below to apply, learn more, and see if Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea is the right blend for your future.
