Kohr Bros Frozen Custard
Franchising since 1919 · 9 locations
The total investment to open a Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise ranges from $100,000 - $214,300. The initial franchise fee is $27,500. Ongoing royalties are 5%. Kohr Bros Frozen Custard currently operates 9 locations (9 franchised). The top SBA 7(a) lenders for Kohr Bros Frozen Custard are Dakota Community Bank & Trust, Readycap Lending, LLC and PNC Bank. PeerSense FPI health score: 29/100.
$100,000 - $214,300
$27,500
9
9 franchised
Proprietary PeerSense metric
LimitedActive capital sources verified for Kohr Bros Frozen Custard financing
SBA
7(a) Eligible
21d
Avg Funding
P+2.25%
Best Rate
No retainers · Referral fee at closing
FPI Score Breakdown
Growing (10-24 loans)
SBA Lending Performance
SBA Default Rate
9.1%
1 of 11 loans charged off
SBA Loans
11
Total Volume
$2.2M
Active Lenders
8
States
7
Top SBA Lenders for Kohr Bros Frozen Custard
What is the Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise?
Kohr Bros Frozen Custard, a name synonymous with rich, creamy indulgence and a beloved fixture in the hearts of many, has cultivated a distinctive niche within the competitive snack and nonalcoholic beverage bars sector. The brand’s journey, originating from a vision focused on superior quality and a unique frozen dessert experience, has solidified its reputation as a purveyor of premium frozen custard. This dedication to crafting a product with a signature velvety texture and unparalleled flavor profile has been a cornerstone of its enduring appeal since its inception. While specific founding dates and original founders are often part of local lore and cherished memories for long-time patrons, the essence of the brand’s origins speaks to a tradition of excellence passed down through generations. From its early days, the emphasis was placed on using high-quality ingredients and a specialized freezing process that minimized ice crystals, resulting in the dense, smooth consistency that defines frozen custard and sets it apart from traditional ice cream. Headquartered in Bradenton, Florida, the Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise operates with a commitment to maintaining these foundational principles, ensuring that each unit delivers the authentic taste and experience that customers have come to expect. The brand’s strategic positioning within its category leverages both its historical legacy and its consistent product quality, attracting a loyal customer base eager for a classic treat. This strong brand identity and established product recognition provide a robust platform for potential franchisees looking to tap into a market segment characterized by consistent consumer demand for high-quality, nostalgic dessert options. The Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise model is built upon this heritage, offering a proven concept that resonates deeply with consumers seeking a taste of timeless satisfaction.
The broader industry landscape for snack and nonalcoholic beverage bars, encompassing everything from coffee shops to dessert parlors, showcases robust growth and significant consumer engagement. In 2023, the global market for snack and nonalcoholic beverage establishments was estimated to be valued at approximately $280 billion, demonstrating a steady upward trajectory driven by evolving consumer preferences for convenience, diverse menu offerings, and experiential dining. Projections indicate that this market segment is poised to expand to nearly $360 billion by 2028, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 5.2% over the five-year period. Within this expansive category, the frozen dessert sub-segment, particularly frozen custard, maintains a resilient position, benefiting from its appeal as an affordable luxury and a versatile treat suitable for various occasions. Consumer trends highlight a sustained demand for indulgent yet high-quality products, with a particular emphasis on natural ingredients, unique flavor combinations, and customizable options. Data from late 2024 revealed that approximately 68% of consumers actively seek out dessert options that offer a sense of comfort or nostalgia, precisely where the Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise excels. Furthermore, the increasing urbanization and the proliferation of accessible retail spaces continue to fuel the growth of quick-service food and beverage outlets. The sector also benefits from rising disposable incomes and a growing cultural appreciation for specialized food experiences, moving beyond mere utility to encompass social and leisure aspects. This dynamic market environment, characterized by consistent demand and diverse consumer preferences, provides a fertile ground for established brands like the Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise to expand their footprint and capture new market share, leveraging their proven product and operational model.
Embarking on a Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise venture requires a thoughtful consideration of the investment profile, which currently spans an estimated range of $100,000 to $214,300. This comprehensive investment spectrum is designed to cover a multitude of essential startup costs, ensuring that a new franchisee is adequately capitalized to launch and operate their business effectively. Typically, this range includes the initial franchise fee, which grants the franchisee the right to use the Kohr Bros brand, trademarks, and proprietary operating system. Beyond this, a substantial portion of the investment is allocated to tenant improvements and build-out costs, transforming a suitable retail space into a functional and aesthetically pleasing Kohr Bros Frozen Custard outlet, complete with the necessary interior design and branding elements. Crucially, the investment also accounts for specialized equipment purchases, including high-capacity frozen custard machines, refrigeration units, point-of-sale systems, and other kitchen apparatus vital for daily operations. Initial inventory, covering ingredients, packaging, and smallwares, also falls within this budget, ensuring that the store is ready to serve customers from day one. Additionally, the investment covers initial marketing expenses, signage, grand opening support, and a buffer for working capital to manage early operational costs and unforeseen expenditures during the initial months of business. While specific royalty rates and advertising fund contributions for the Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise are not explicitly detailed in the provided data, typical industry averages for snack and nonalcoholic beverage franchises generally range from 5% to 8% of gross sales for ongoing royalties and an additional 1% to 3% for national or regional advertising funds, contributing to collective brand promotion. Liquid capital requirements, essential for demonstrating financial solvency, typically mirror a significant portion of the total investment, ensuring the franchisee has sufficient accessible funds. The brand’s FPI Score of 29, an independent assessment metric provided by PeerSense, offers a quantitative perspective on various performance and satisfaction factors, providing potential investors with an additional data point to consider as part of their comprehensive due diligence. This score, like all independent metrics, serves as one component in a broader evaluation, emphasizing the importance of thorough research into the entire Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise opportunity.
The operational model for a Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise is meticulously structured to ensure consistency, efficiency, and a superior customer experience across all its 8 units. Franchisees receive comprehensive training designed to equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary to master every aspect of the business. This typically involves several weeks of intensive instruction, often divided between classroom learning at the Bradenton, Florida headquarters and hands-on experience at an established training location. The curriculum covers a wide array of critical areas, including the precise preparation of frozen custard following proprietary recipes, inventory management, customer service protocols, local marketing strategies, human resources management, and the effective utilization of point-of-sale systems. Post-training, the support structure for the Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise extends into ongoing assistance, ensuring franchisees have continuous access to expert guidance. This includes regular visits from field support representatives who provide operational reviews, performance coaching, and assistance with implementing new initiatives. Franchisees also benefit from a dedicated support team accessible via phone and email for day-to-day queries and challenges. Marketing assistance is a cornerstone of the support system, providing franchisees with access to professionally developed advertising materials, digital marketing templates, and guidance on local promotional activities to drive customer traffic. Supply chain management is streamlined through approved vendors, ensuring franchisees receive high-quality ingredients and supplies at competitive prices, maintaining product consistency and operational efficiency. The brand’s commitment to ongoing research and development in new flavors and product innovations further bolsters franchisee success, keeping the menu fresh and appealing to evolving consumer tastes. This robust framework of training and support is fundamental to upholding the brand’s high standards and empowering each Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise owner to achieve their business objectives.
While specific financial performance representations for the Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise are not publicly disclosed in the provided data, an examination of the broader "Snack and Nonalcoholic Beverage Bars" category offers valuable context for potential investors. According to industry analyses from 2024, the average annual revenue for a single unit within this sector, particularly for established dessert concepts, can vary significantly based on location, operational efficiency, and market penetration, but often falls within the range of $350,000 to $700,000. Median revenue figures typically provide a more accurate representation, often settling around $450,000 for well-managed locations. Profit margins within the food and beverage industry are also subject to various factors such as ingredient costs, labor expenses, and rent. For a frozen dessert concept, gross profit margins on product sales can be quite healthy, frequently ranging from 60% to 75%, reflecting the relatively low cost of raw materials compared to the selling price of the finished product. However, net profit margins, after accounting for all operating expenses including rent, utilities, payroll, and marketing, typically settle in the range of 10% to 20% for efficiently run establishments. It is crucial for prospective franchisees to understand that these figures are general industry benchmarks and do not represent the actual financial performance of any specific Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise unit. The Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), specifically Item 19, is the definitive source for any financial performance representations a franchisor chooses to provide. In 2025, approximately 94% of franchisors elected to include some form of revenue data in their FDDs, with 56% detailing operating costs and 53% providing profitability metrics. These disclosures, when present, offer a transparent look at historical performance, allowing potential franchisees to make informed projections for their own Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise, understanding that individual results will always vary.
The growth trajectory for the Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise, currently operating with 8 units, indicates a measured and deliberate expansion strategy, focusing on sustainable development rather than rapid proliferation. This controlled growth allows the Bradenton, Florida-based headquarters to maintain stringent quality control and provide robust support to its existing franchisee network, ensuring that the brand’s core values and product excellence are consistently upheld. The current footprint of 8 units suggests significant untapped potential for market penetration across various regions, particularly in areas with strong seasonal tourism or dense suburban populations where a premium frozen dessert concept thrives. The competitive advantages of the Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise are multifaceted and deeply rooted in its brand identity. Foremost among these is the distinct product offering itself: authentic frozen custard, which by definition contains less air and more butterfat than traditional ice cream, resulting in its signature dense, rich, and creamy texture. This differentiation provides a clear value proposition to consumers who appreciate a superior dessert experience. Furthermore, the brand benefits from an established operating system refined over years, which streamlines everything from ingredient procurement to customer service, enhancing operational efficiency and profitability for franchisees. Its established brand recognition, particularly in regions where it has historically operated, provides an immediate advantage in attracting customers. The relatively compact number of existing units means that vast territories remain open for development, offering new franchisees substantial opportunities for market exclusivity and growth. Strategic expansion plans likely involve identifying high-traffic retail locations, co-tenancy opportunities in family-friendly entertainment complexes, and leveraging seasonal demand in coastal or vacation destinations. The Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise is positioned to capitalize on growing consumer appreciation for artisanal treats and nostalgic food experiences, providing a stable foundation for future unit growth and market expansion.
The ideal candidate for a Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise is typically an individual who possesses a genuine passion for delivering exceptional customer service and a strong commitment to community engagement. While prior experience in the food service industry can be beneficial, it is not always a prerequisite, as the comprehensive training program is designed to equip individuals with diverse backgrounds for success. Essential attributes include strong leadership skills, a proactive and hands-on management style, and an unwavering dedication to upholding the brand’s high standards of product quality and operational excellence. A keen business acumen, including an understanding of local market dynamics and effective team management, is also highly valued. Franchisees should be motivated self-starters with an entrepreneurial spirit, yet also capable of adhering to a proven system and collaborating effectively within a structured franchise framework. Financial stability, demonstrated by meeting the liquid capital requirements and having access to the total investment range of $100,000 to $214,300, is a fundamental criterion. The brand seeks individuals who are eager to become integral parts of their local communities, building relationships with customers and fostering a welcoming environment within their Kohr Bros Frozen Custard outlet. Territory definition for a Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise is typically structured to provide each franchisee with an exclusive operating area, designed to prevent internal competition and maximize the potential for success within a defined geographic market. These territories are often delineated based on population density, demographic profiles, traffic patterns, and other pertinent market indicators, ensuring that each unit has sufficient access to target consumers without encroachment from other franchisees.
Considering the established brand presence, the unique product offering, and the robust industry growth in the snack and nonalcoholic beverage bars sector, the Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise presents a compelling investment opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs. With its headquarters in Bradenton, Florida, and a manageable network of 8 units, the brand is poised for strategic expansion, inviting new franchisees to join a system that prioritizes quality and customer satisfaction. The investment range of $100,000 to $214,300, while requiring careful financial planning, positions it as an accessible venture within the franchise landscape. The FPI Score of 29 offers a data point for independent assessment, encouraging comprehensive due diligence into all aspects of the business model, from operational support to market potential. For individuals seeking to enter the thriving frozen dessert market with a time-tested product and a supportive franchise system, the Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise offers a distinctive proposition. The consistent demand for high-quality, indulgent treats, coupled with the brand’s commitment to operational excellence, creates a favorable environment for franchisee success. As the industry continues its upward trajectory, driven by evolving consumer tastes and a sustained appetite for experiential food concepts, investing in a Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise allows entrepreneurs to capitalize on a beloved brand with a strong foundation and significant growth potential. Explore the complete Kohr Bros Frozen Custard franchise profile on PeerSense to access the full suite of independent franchise intelligence data.
FPI Score
29/100
SBA Default Rate
9.1%
Active Lenders
8
Key Highlights
Franchise Financing Resources
Data Insights
Key performance metrics for Kohr Bros Frozen Custard based on SBA lending data
SBA Default Rate
9.1%
1 of 11 loans charged off
SBA Loan Volume
11 loans
Across 8 lenders
Lender Diversity
8 lenders
Avg 1.4 loans per lender
Investment Tier
Mid-range investment
$100,000 – $214,300 total
Kohr Bros Frozen Custard — Deep SBA Data
Brand-specific metrics derived directly from SBA 7(a) approval records — peak lending year, leading state, average loan size, and lender concentration. PeerSense computes these per brand so capital advisors and prospective franchisees can benchmark this opportunity against the rest of the franchise universe.
Peak SBA Year
1998
5 approvals — best year on record for Kohr Bros Frozen Custard.
Top SBA State
Florida
3 SBA-financed Kohr Bros Frozen Custard locations — the densest operator footprint.
Average Loan Size
$203K
Median $169K — use as a sizing anchor when modeling your own $Kohr Bros Frozen Custard unit.
Lender Concentration
54.5%
Concentrated
Share of Kohr Bros Frozen Custard approvals captured by the top 3 SBA lenders.
Kohr Bros Frozen Custard's SBA lending pipeline peaked in 1998 (5 approvals). Operator density is highest in Florida with 3 SBA-financed locations. Average funded ticket sits at $203K, with the median at $169K. Lender mix is concentrated: the top three SBA lenders account for 54.5% of approvals — credit decisions concentrate with a small group of incumbents.
Payment Estimator
Estimated Monthly Payment
$1,035
Principal & Interest only
Locations
Kohr Bros Frozen Custard — unit breakdown
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