Franchising since 1996 · 21 locations
The total investment to open a Filtafry franchise ranges from $25,000 - $144,750. The initial franchise fee is $35,275. Ongoing royalties are 6.5% plus a 1% advertising fee. Filtafry currently operates 21 locations (21 franchised). PeerSense FPI health score: 29/100. Data sourced from the 2023 Franchise Disclosure Document.
$25,000 - $144,750
$35,275
21
21 franchised
Proprietary PeerSense metric
LimitedActive capital sources verified for Filtafry financing
SBA
7(a) Eligible
21d
Avg Funding
P+2.25%
Best Rate
No retainers · Referral fee at closing
Established (25-99 loans)
SBA Default Rate
15.4%
4 of 26 loans charged off
SBA Loans
26
Total Volume
$2.0M
Active Lenders
21
States
20
Filtafry franchise presents a distinctive opportunity within the expansive and essential food service contractor sector, anchored in the critical operational needs of commercial kitchens across North America. Founded with a clear vision to revolutionize kitchen efficiency and sustainability, the Filtafry franchise operates from its strategic home office in Jacksonville, Florida, a hub that supports its growing network. This brand has carved a specialized niche by focusing on the often-overlooked yet profoundly impactful service of fryer oil management and kitchen exhaust cleaning. The core service provided by the Filtafry franchise system extends beyond simple oil changes, encompassing a comprehensive, on-site filtration process that significantly prolongs the life of cooking oil, thereby reducing operational costs for clients and contributing to environmental stewardship through responsible oil disposal and recycling. This dual benefit of cost savings and ecological responsibility positions the Filtafry franchise as a forward-thinking business model appealing to a broad spectrum of food service establishments, from bustling restaurants and hotels to institutional kitchens and catering facilities. The brand’s commitment to operational excellence and client satisfaction is central to its market position, offering a vital service that directly impacts food quality, kitchen safety, and environmental compliance. The ongoing demand for such services underscores the inherent stability and recurring revenue potential within the Filtafry franchise system, making it an intriguing proposition for prospective investors seeking a robust business in a non-cyclical industry segment.
The industry landscape for food service contractors, particularly those specializing in kitchen maintenance and oil management, demonstrates significant and consistent demand. The broader food service market, valued at hundreds of billions annually in the United States, inherently relies on efficient and safe kitchen operations. Within this massive sector, the niche for specialized services like those offered by the Filtafry franchise is expanding due to increasing regulatory scrutiny regarding food safety and environmental practices, coupled with a constant drive by businesses to optimize costs. For instance, the average restaurant operating margin can be thin, often ranging between 3-9%, making any service that can reduce raw material costs, such as cooking oil, highly valuable. The cost of commercial cooking oil has seen fluctuations, but consistently represents a substantial expenditure for high-volume kitchens. Moreover, the proper disposal of used cooking oil is a growing environmental concern, with regulations tightening globally. Services that ensure compliance and facilitate recycling, like those offered by the Filtafry franchise, are therefore becoming indispensable. The market for kitchen maintenance services, including exhaust cleaning and equipment upkeep, is also a multi-billion-dollar segment, driven by health codes, fire safety regulations, and the need to extend the lifespan of expensive kitchen equipment. The food service sector continues its expansion, with new establishments opening regularly, each representing a potential client for the specialized, recurring services provided by the Filtafry franchise. This consistent growth, combined with the essential nature of the service, forms a resilient foundation for franchise development.
Investing in a Filtafry franchise involves a transparent financial commitment, with an initial franchise fee set at $35,275. This fee falls within the typical industry range for specialized service franchises, which often see fees between $20,000 and $50,000, though some can vary significantly. The total investment required to launch a Filtafry franchise ranges from $25,000 to $144,750. This comprehensive range typically covers various initial expenses, including the initial franchise fee, necessary equipment purchases such as specialized oil filtration units and service vehicles, initial marketing and advertising efforts to establish a local presence, business licenses and permits, insurance, and crucial working capital to support operations during the initial ramp-up period. The comparatively broad range for total investment reflects the flexibility inherent in a service-based model, potentially allowing for varying scales of initial operations or market entry strategies. For instance, an entrepreneur might start with a smaller operational footprint and fewer service vehicles, scaling up as the client base expands. Unlike many traditional retail or restaurant franchises that demand significant build-out costs for physical storefronts, the Filtafry franchise model typically operates on a mobile or home-based structure, which can contribute to a lower initial overhead. The FPI Score of 29, while specific details of its calculation for Filtafry are not provided, is an indicator used to assess the overall health and potential of a franchise system, taking into account various factors like growth, financial stability, and franchisee satisfaction. This score provides a quantitative snapshot for prospective investors evaluating the Filtafry franchise opportunity against broader market benchmarks.
The operating model of a Filtafry franchise is designed for efficiency and scalability, primarily functioning as a mobile, service-based business catering to commercial clients. Franchisees typically manage a roster of food service establishments within their designated territory, scheduling regular on-site visits for fryer oil filtration and kitchen exhaust cleaning. This model eliminates the need for a costly retail storefront, allowing for a lower overhead and greater operational flexibility. The recurring nature of these essential services—fryer oil needs regular filtration, and kitchen exhaust systems require periodic cleaning—provides a stable revenue stream for the Filtafry franchise owner. Franchisees utilize specialized equipment for oil filtration, which is brought directly to the client's kitchen, performing the service quickly and efficiently, often outside peak operational hours to minimize disruption. The business model emphasizes direct client relationships and superior service delivery, building loyalty and repeat business. While specific details on the support structure for the Filtafry franchise are not extensively detailed, typical franchise systems provide comprehensive initial training covering operational procedures, equipment usage, sales and marketing strategies, and administrative functions. Ongoing support in a well-structured franchise often includes continuous training updates, access to proprietary software for scheduling and client management, marketing materials and campaigns, and a dedicated support team to assist with operational challenges. The simplicity of not carrying inventory, a characteristic of many service-based franchises, streamlines operations and reduces capital tied up in stock, allowing Filtafry franchise owners to focus on service delivery and client acquisition within their defined market.
While specific financial performance representations, such as average revenue per unit or median revenue, for the Filtafry franchise are not publicly disclosed, understanding the underlying economics of the food service contractor industry provides valuable context for potential earnings. The recurring nature of fryer oil filtration and kitchen exhaust cleaning services is a key driver of consistent revenue. Food service establishments, from quick-service restaurants to fine dining and institutional kitchens, require these services on a regular, often weekly or bi-weekly, basis to maintain food quality, adhere to health and safety regulations, and reduce their own operational costs. For instance, extending the life of cooking oil through advanced filtration can save a typical restaurant thousands of dollars annually on oil purchases, making the Filtafry franchise service a clear value proposition. The profit margins in service-based businesses can often be robust, especially where specialized equipment and expertise are involved, as direct material costs are often low relative to the service fee. Furthermore, the operational efficiencies gained from a mobile, home-based model, which avoids significant retail overheads, can contribute positively to profitability. The FPI Score of 29, although not explicitly detailing financial outcomes, broadly indicates aspects of the franchise system's overall financial health and operational viability. While many franchisors now provide Item 19 financial performance representations in their Franchise Disclosure Documents—with approximately 66% of franchisors including such data—the absence of specific disclosures means that prospective investors must rely on their own due diligence, market research, and potentially discussions with existing franchisees to project financial performance for a Filtafry franchise. The potential for strong unit economics in this segment is often linked to building a dense client route and maintaining high customer retention rates, leveraging the essential and recurring demand for the services provided by the Filtafry franchise.
The Filtafry franchise system, with a current total of 24 units, represents an established yet still growing network, poised for significant expansion within the vast food service market. This unit count indicates a proven business model that has successfully replicated across multiple locations since its inception. The growth trajectory for a specialized service like the Filtafry franchise is inherently tied to the continuous growth and operational needs of the food service industry. As new restaurants, hotels, and institutional kitchens open, and existing ones seek greater operational efficiencies and sustainability solutions, the demand for Filtafry's core services naturally expands. Key competitive advantages for the Filtafry franchise stem from its proprietary filtration technology and its comprehensive service offering. By providing on-site, regular oil filtration, the system offers a superior alternative to manual oil changes or less efficient filtration methods, which saves clients money on oil purchases and labor, while also improving food quality. Furthermore, the emphasis on environmentally responsible disposal and recycling of used cooking oil positions the Filtafry franchise favorably with clients increasingly focused on green initiatives and corporate social responsibility. The convenience of a mobile, scheduled service that minimizes disruption to kitchen operations is another significant differentiator. Unlike general maintenance companies, the Filtafry franchise specializes in a crucial, high-frequency service, building deep expertise and client relationships. This specialization, combined with a focus on cost savings and environmental benefits, provides a strong foundation for sustained growth and market leadership for the Filtafry franchise in its niche.
The ideal franchisee for a Filtafry franchise is typically an individual with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, excellent communication and relationship-building skills, and a dedication to operational excellence. While direct experience in the food service industry is not a prerequisite, a background in sales, business management, or even a service-oriented field can be highly beneficial for building and maintaining client relationships with commercial kitchens. Prospective Filtafry franchise owners should be proactive in their approach to business development, comfortable with a mobile operational model, and capable of managing a service schedule and potentially a small team of technicians as the business grows. Individuals who appreciate a business model focused on recurring revenue and who are committed to delivering high-quality, essential services will find the Filtafry franchise particularly appealing. The system often attracts those looking for a business that allows for greater flexibility than traditional brick-and-mortar operations, potentially appealing to semi-retired individuals or those seeking to transition from corporate careers into business ownership. Territory allocation for a Filtafry franchise typically involves defining an exclusive or protected geographical area for each franchisee. This ensures that franchisees have ample opportunity to develop a robust client base without direct competition from other franchisees of the same brand. The size and density of a territory are carefully considered to support the projected number of commercial kitchens that would benefit from the specialized services offered by the Filtafry franchise, providing a clear path to market penetration and sustained growth within their operational zone.
The Filtafry franchise presents a compelling investor opportunity within the resilient and ever-growing food service sector, characterized by its essential, recurring services and an efficient, mobile operating model. With an initial franchise fee of $35,275 and a total investment range from $25,000 to $144,750, the system offers an accessible entry point into franchising compared to many other industries. The focus on cost savings for clients through extended oil life and proper kitchen maintenance ensures a perpetual demand for the services provided by a Filtafry franchise, establishing a stable revenue foundation. The FPI Score of 29 indicates a system with defined operational characteristics, providing a benchmark for potential investors. The absence of specific revenue disclosures necessitates diligent market research and direct engagement during the due diligence process to fully assess the financial potential of a Filtafry franchise. However, the inherent value proposition—saving commercial kitchens money, improving food quality, and promoting environmental responsibility—positions this business favorably for long-term success and scalability. With its home office in Jacksonville, Florida, the Filtafry franchise continues to grow its 24-unit network, offering a chance to participate in a specialized, high-demand segment of the broader food service industry. Explore the complete Filtafry franchise profile on PeerSense to access the full suite of independent franchise intelligence data.The Filtafry franchise presents a distinctive opportunity within the expansive and essential food service contractor sector, anchored in the critical operational needs of commercial kitchens across North America. Founded with a clear vision to revolutionize kitchen efficiency and sustainability, the Filtafry franchise operates from its strategic home office in Jacksonville, Florida, a hub that supports its growing network. This brand has carved a specialized niche by focusing on the often-overlooked yet profoundly impactful service of fryer oil management and kitchen exhaust cleaning. The core service provided by the Filtafry franchise system extends beyond simple oil changes, encompassing a comprehensive, on-site filtration process that significantly prolongs the life of cooking oil, thereby reducing operational costs for clients and contributing to environmental stewardship through responsible oil disposal and recycling. This dual benefit of cost savings and ecological responsibility positions the Filtafry franchise as a forward-thinking business model appealing to a broad spectrum of food service establishments, from bustling restaurants and hotels to institutional kitchens and catering facilities. The ongoing demand for such services underscores the inherent stability and recurring revenue potential within the Filtafry franchise system, making it an intriguing proposition for prospective investors seeking a robust business in a non-cyclical industry segment.
The industry landscape for food service contractors, particularly those specializing in kitchen maintenance and oil management, demonstrates significant and consistent demand. The broader food service market, valued at hundreds of billions annually in the United States, inherently relies on efficient and safe kitchen operations. Within this massive sector, the niche for specialized services like those offered by the Filtafry franchise is expanding due to increasing regulatory scrutiny regarding food safety and environmental practices, coupled with a constant drive by businesses to optimize costs. For instance, the average restaurant operating margin can be thin, often ranging between 3-9%, making any service that can reduce raw material costs, such as cooking oil, highly valuable. The cost of commercial cooking oil has seen fluctuations, but consistently represents a substantial expenditure for high-volume kitchens. Moreover, the proper disposal of used cooking oil is a growing environmental concern, with regulations tightening globally. Services that ensure compliance and facilitate recycling, like those offered by the Filtafry franchise, are therefore becoming indispensable. The market for kitchen maintenance services, including exhaust cleaning and equipment upkeep, is also a multi-billion-dollar segment, driven by health codes, fire safety regulations, and the need to extend the lifespan of expensive kitchen equipment. The food service sector continues its expansion, with new establishments opening regularly, each representing a potential client for the specialized, recurring services provided by the Filtafry franchise. This consistent growth, combined with the essential nature of the service, forms a resilient foundation for franchise development.
Investing in a Filtafry franchise involves a transparent financial commitment, with an initial franchise fee set at $35,275. This fee falls within the typical industry range for specialized service franchises, which often see fees between $20,000 and $50,000, though some can vary significantly. The total investment required to launch a Filtafry franchise ranges from $25,000 to $144,750. This comprehensive range typically covers various initial expenses, including the initial franchise fee, necessary equipment purchases such as specialized oil filtration units and service vehicles, initial marketing and advertising efforts to establish a local presence, business licenses and permits, insurance, and crucial working capital to support operations during the initial ramp-up period. The comparatively broad range for total investment reflects the flexibility inherent in a service-based model, potentially allowing for varying scales of initial operations or market entry strategies. For instance, an entrepreneur might start with a smaller operational footprint and fewer service vehicles, scaling up as the client base expands. Unlike many traditional retail or restaurant franchises that demand significant build-out costs for physical storefronts, the Filtafry franchise model typically operates on a mobile or home-based structure, which can contribute to a lower initial overhead. The FPI Score of 29, while specific details of its calculation for Filtafry are not provided, is an indicator used to assess the overall health and potential of a franchise system, taking into account various factors like growth, financial stability, and franchisee satisfaction. This score provides a quantitative snapshot for prospective investors evaluating the Filtafry franchise opportunity against broader market benchmarks.
The operating model of a Filtafry franchise is designed for efficiency and scalability, primarily functioning as a mobile, service-based business catering to commercial clients. Franchisees typically manage a roster of food service establishments within their designated territory, scheduling regular on-site visits for fryer oil filtration and kitchen exhaust cleaning. This model eliminates the need for a costly retail storefront, allowing for a lower overhead and greater operational flexibility. The recurring nature of these essential services—fryer oil needs regular filtration, and kitchen exhaust systems require periodic cleaning—provides a stable revenue stream for the Filtafry franchise owner. Franchisees utilize specialized equipment for oil filtration, which is brought directly to the client's kitchen, performing the service quickly and efficiently, often outside peak operational hours to minimize disruption. The business model emphasizes direct client relationships and superior service delivery, building loyalty and repeat business. While specific details on the support structure for the Filtafry franchise are not extensively detailed, typical franchise systems provide comprehensive initial training covering operational procedures, equipment usage, sales and marketing strategies, and administrative functions. Ongoing support in a well-structured franchise often includes continuous training updates, access to proprietary software for scheduling and client management, marketing materials and campaigns, and a dedicated support team to assist with operational challenges. The simplicity of not carrying inventory, a characteristic of many service-based franchises, streamlines operations and reduces capital tied up in stock, allowing Filtafry franchise owners to focus on service delivery and client acquisition within their defined market.
While specific financial performance representations, such as average revenue per unit or median revenue, for the Filtafry franchise are not publicly disclosed, understanding the underlying economics of the food service contractor industry provides valuable context for potential earnings. The recurring nature of fryer oil filtration and kitchen exhaust cleaning services is a key driver of consistent revenue. Food service establishments, from quick-service restaurants to fine dining and institutional kitchens, require these services on a regular, often weekly or bi-weekly, basis to maintain food quality, adhere to health and safety regulations, and reduce their own operational costs. For instance, extending the life of cooking oil through advanced filtration can save a typical restaurant thousands of dollars annually on oil purchases, making the Filtafry franchise service a clear value proposition. The profit margins in service-based businesses can often be robust, especially where specialized equipment and expertise are involved, as direct material costs are often low relative to the service fee. Furthermore, the operational efficiencies gained from a mobile, home-based model, which avoids significant retail overheads, can contribute positively to profitability. The FPI Score of 29, although not explicitly detailing financial outcomes, broadly indicates aspects of the franchise system's overall financial health and operational viability. While many franchisors now provide Item 19 financial performance representations in their Franchise Disclosure Documents—with approximately 66% of franchisors including such data—the absence of specific disclosures means that prospective investors must rely on their own due diligence, market research, and potentially discussions with existing franchisees to project financial performance for a Filtafry franchise. The potential for strong unit economics in this segment is often linked to building a dense client route and maintaining high customer retention rates, leveraging the essential and recurring demand for the services provided by the Filtafry franchise.
The Filtafry franchise system, with a current total of 24 units, represents an established yet still growing network, poised for significant expansion within the vast food service market. This unit count indicates a proven business model that has successfully replicated across multiple locations since its inception. The growth trajectory for a specialized service like the Filtafry franchise is inherently tied to the continuous growth and operational needs of the food service industry. As new restaurants, hotels, and institutional kitchens open, and existing ones seek greater operational efficiencies and sustainability solutions, the demand for Filtafry's core services naturally expands. Key competitive advantages for the Filtafry franchise stem from its proprietary filtration technology and its comprehensive service offering. By providing on-site, regular oil filtration, the system offers a superior alternative to manual oil changes or less efficient filtration methods, which saves clients money on oil purchases and labor, while also improving food quality. Furthermore, the emphasis on environmentally responsible disposal and recycling of used cooking oil positions the Filtafry franchise favorably with clients increasingly focused on green initiatives and corporate social responsibility. The convenience of a mobile, scheduled service that minimizes disruption to kitchen operations is another significant differentiator. Unlike general maintenance companies, the Filtafry franchise specializes in a crucial, high-frequency service, building deep expertise and client relationships. This specialization, combined with a focus on cost savings and environmental benefits, provides a strong foundation for sustained growth and market leadership for the Filtafry franchise in its niche.
The ideal franchisee for a Filtafry franchise is typically an individual with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, excellent communication and relationship-building skills, and a dedication to operational excellence. While direct experience in the food service industry is not a prerequisite, a background in sales, business management, or even a service-oriented field can be highly beneficial for building and maintaining client relationships with commercial kitchens. Prospective Filtafry franchise owners should be proactive in their approach to business development, comfortable with a mobile operational model, and capable of managing a service schedule and potentially a small team of technicians as the business grows. Individuals who appreciate a business model focused on recurring revenue and who are committed to delivering high-quality, essential services will find the Filtafry franchise particularly appealing. The system often attracts those looking for a business that allows for greater flexibility than traditional brick-and-mortar operations, potentially appealing to semi-retired individuals or those seeking to transition from corporate careers into business ownership. Territory allocation for a Filtafry franchise typically involves defining an exclusive or protected geographical area for each franchisee. This ensures that franchisees have ample opportunity to develop a robust client base without direct competition from other franchisees of the same brand. The size and density of a territory are carefully considered to support the projected number of commercial kitchens that would benefit from the specialized services offered by the Filtafry franchise, providing a clear path to market penetration and sustained growth within their operational zone.
The Filtafry franchise presents a compelling investor opportunity within the resilient and ever-growing food service sector, characterized by its essential, recurring services and an efficient, mobile operating model. With an initial franchise fee of $35,275 and a total investment range from $25,000 to $144,750, the system offers an accessible entry point into franchising compared to many other industries. The focus on cost savings for clients through extended oil life and proper kitchen maintenance ensures a perpetual demand for the services provided by a Filtafry franchise, establishing a stable revenue foundation. The FPI Score of 29 indicates a system with defined operational characteristics, providing a benchmark for potential investors. The absence of specific revenue disclosures necessitates diligent market research and direct engagement during the due diligence process to fully assess the financial potential of a Filtafry franchise. However, the inherent value proposition—saving commercial kitchens money, improving food quality, and promoting environmental responsibility—positions this business favorably for long-term success and scalability. With its home office in Jacksonville, Florida, the Filtafry franchise continues to grow its 24-unit network, offering a chance to participate in a specialized, high-demand segment of the broader food service industry. Explore the complete Filtafry franchise profile on PeerSense to access the full suite of independent franchise intelligence data.
FPI Score
29/100
SBA Default Rate
15.4%
Active Lenders
21
Key performance metrics for Filtafry based on SBA lending data
SBA Default Rate
15.4%
4 of 26 loans charged off
SBA Loan Volume
26 loans
Across 21 lenders
Lender Diversity
21 lenders
Avg 1.2 loans per lender
Investment Tier
Low-cost entry
$25,000 – $144,750 total
Estimated Monthly Payment
$259
Principal & Interest only
Filtafry — unit breakdown
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