SoBol

In an increasingly health-conscious world, where consumers constantly seek convenient yet nutritious dining options, the challenge for discerning franchise investors is identifying a brand that not only meets this growing demand but also offers a robust, scalable business model. The Sobol franchise opportunity addresses this precise market need, providing a proven framework for delivering fresh acai bowls and smoothies to a dedicated customer base. Sobol was initially conceptualized in 2012 by co-founder Jason Mazzarone as an "Acai Café," drawing inspiration from the established success of his family's ice house. This concept officially blossomed into Sobol in 2014, with its founding in Sayville, New York. Jason Mazzarone, who also serves as the Co-Founder, CEO, and President of Sobol, partnered with Jim Kalomiris, a family friend who brought over two decades of invaluable experience in restaurant management, real estate, and construction to the venture, solidifying the operational backbone of the nascent brand.

The corporate entity overseeing the Sobol franchise network is Acai Industries, Inc., which was formally established on February 23, 2016, under the legal framework of the State of New York. This corporation operates both under its official name and the widely recognized Sobol trade name, with its headquarters situated in Patchogue, New York, and its principal business operations conducted from 1593 Locust Avenue, Bohemia, NY 11716. The leadership team, as of December 2023, comprises a formidable group of industry veterans, including Jason Mazzarone as Co-Founder and CEO, Paul Gucciardo as Brand President and Director of Operations, Nick Pesko as Director of Marketing, Kryssa Baldi overseeing Administration, Michael Quinn as Technology Specialist, Joe Thompson as Director of Operations, Dee Laskowitz as Chief Financial Officer, Tony Ozelis as Director of Development, and operations advisors Christopher Nicols and Diego Abarca, alongside Marketing Specialist Ryan McArthur. This robust corporate structure underpins the Sobol brand's ambitious growth.

As of 2024, the Sobol network encompasses 65 total units, with a significant majority of 63 locations being franchised-owned, complemented by 2 company-owned stores, demonstrating a strong commitment to the franchise model. Another report from December 2023 indicated 59 locations according to Entrepreneur, while the system concluded 2023 with 63 units, showing growth from 55 units at the start of 2022. The brand initiated its franchising efforts in 2016, swiftly expanding its footprint beyond its Long Island origins. By 2020, there were 34 franchised Sobol locations across the USA, predominantly concentrated in 5 states, with 33 of these units located within the Northeast region, underscoring a strategic regional market penetration. The Sobol brand has since expanded to "dozens of locations across 11 states" and boasts "more than 50 locations across the United States," operating exclusively within the domestic market. This consistent expansion positions Sobol as a dynamic and growing player in the healthy fast-casual segment, appealing to investors seeking a stake in a market driven by enduring consumer trends.

The industry landscape for limited-service restaurants, particularly within the healthy fast-casual segment that the Sobol franchise occupies, is characterized by robust growth and significant consumer demand. The total addressable market for quick-service and fast-casual dining in the United States alone represents hundreds of billions of dollars annually, with the healthy food sector demonstrating above-average growth rates as consumers increasingly prioritize wellness. Key consumer trends driving this demand include a heightened awareness of health and nutrition, a preference for fresh, natural ingredients, and the growing popularity of plant-based and whole-food options. Busy lifestyles further fuel the need for convenient, on-the-go meal solutions that don't compromise on quality or nutritional value, a niche perfectly served by the Sobol menu of acai bowls and smoothies.

Secular tailwinds benefiting the Sobol brand specifically include the sustained rise in disposable income among health-conscious demographics, the pervasive influence of social media in popularizing food trends, and an increasing willingness among consumers to spend more for premium, health-oriented products. This industry category attracts franchise investment due to its relatively lower operational complexity compared to full-service restaurants, the strong demand for its product offerings, and the inherent scalability of a well-defined quick-service model. While the healthy fast-casual market remains somewhat fragmented with numerous regional and independent players, national brands like Sobol are strategically consolidating market share through consistent branding, operational excellence, and a focused menu. Macro forces such as the continued emphasis on personal wellness, the integration of digital ordering and third-party delivery platforms, and an ongoing shift towards transparent ingredient sourcing create significant opportunities for agile and well-managed brands like Sobol to thrive and expand their market presence.

Investing in a Sobol franchise involves a clear financial commitment, which has seen some adjustments over time as the brand matured and expanded. The initial franchise fee for a Sobol unit is $35,000, according to both 2025/2026 FDD data and December 2023 reports, a figure typically paid upfront upon signing the Franchise Agreement. This fee has evolved from earlier rates, which included $15,000 in January 2025 data, up to $25,000 in 2020 FDD data, and $20,000 in September 2018 data, reflecting the brand's increasing value and market position. To incentivize veteran ownership, Sobol offers a 10% discount off the initial franchise fee, reducing it to $30,000 for qualifying individuals.

The total initial investment range, which covers all costs to establish and launch a Sobol franchise—including construction, equipment, inventory, and initial operating expenses—is reported between $196,000 and $453,000, according to 2025/2026 FDD data. Other reported ranges include $189,800 to $264,500 in January 2025, $195,600 to $470,700 in 2025, $246,800 to $456,600 in 2026, $240,800 to $450,600 in December 2023, $187,200 to $390,000 in the 2020 FDD, and $174,800 to $249,500 in September 2018, illustrating the variability based on location, build-out specifics, and time of disclosure. A detailed breakdown of the initial investment costs, based on December 2023 data for the range of $240,800 to $450,600, includes the $35,000 initial franchise fee, construction and leasehold improvements estimated between $85,000 and $150,000, and construction management fees from $5,000 to $30,000. Lease deposits for three months typically range from $5,000 to $14,000, while furniture, fixtures, and equipment represent a significant outlay of $45,900 to $99,500. Signage costs are estimated between $7,000 and $10,000, and computer, software, and point of sale systems require $3,000 to $4,000. A grand opening marketing budget of $5,000 is allocated, alongside initial general inventory costs of $1,000 to $13,000 and initial product inventory of $4,000 to $7,000. Utility deposits are typically $900 to $1,800, and three months of insurance deposits are $2,000 to $4,000. Travel for initial training is estimated from $700 to $4,400, professional fees from $5,500 to $15,000, and licenses and permits at $3,000. Printing, stationary, and office supplies account for $500 to $1,000, and crucial additional funds for the first three months of operation are estimated between $37,300 and $60,900.

The liquid capital required to cover these initial operating expenses, often referred to as working capital, is specified as $37,300 to $60,900 in the 2020 FDD data, consistent with the "Additional Funds — Three Months" category in more recent breakdowns. Ongoing fees for a Sobol franchise include a royalty rate, which is 5.00% of gross sales, though October 2025 data indicates 6% of gross sales. This royalty is paid to the franchisor for continued use of the Sobol brand name, access to proprietary systems, and ongoing operational support. Additionally, franchisees contribute to an advertising fund (Ad Fund), with a maximum rate of 2.00%. October 2025 data specifies 2% of gross sales to a national marketing fund, while the 2020 FDD indicated 1.0%. This advertising fee supports system-wide marketing and brand development initiatives. Considering these financial parameters, a Sobol franchise investment is generally positioned as an accessible to mid-tier opportunity within the broader franchise market, suitable for individuals seeking a manageable entry point into the limited-service restaurant sector with the backing of a structured corporate entity.

The operating model for a Sobol franchise is designed for efficiency and consistency, focusing on the preparation and serving of high-quality acai bowls, smoothies, and other healthy menu items. Daily operations for a franchisee revolve around maintaining fresh ingredient supplies, ensuring meticulous food preparation standards, and delivering exceptional customer service in a fast-casual setting. The staffing requirements for a Sobol unit are typically lean, often involving a dedicated manager and several part-time employees to handle peak hours and maintain efficient service, which helps in managing labor costs effectively. While specific format options like drive-thru or kiosk are not explicitly detailed, the "Limited-Service Restaurants" category implies a quick-service model, likely focusing on inline store formats within high-traffic areas or community centers to maximize customer access and throughput.

Sobol provides a comprehensive training program to equip new franchisees with the necessary skills and knowledge to operate their business successfully. The initial training involves travel costs estimated between $700 and $4,400, indicating an in-person, hands-on component designed to immerse franchisees in the operational intricacies of the Sobol system. Beyond initial training, the corporate team offers robust ongoing support, which is critical for sustained success. This includes continued access to the established Sobol brand name and its associated goodwill, ongoing operational guidance, and access to proprietary systems and recipes that define the brand's unique offering. Franchisees benefit from field consultants who provide on-site assistance and performance reviews, technology platforms for streamlined operations (including point of sale systems costing $3,000 to $4,000), and system-wide marketing programs supported by the advertising fund. The supply chain management is also centrally coordinated to ensure consistent quality and availability of the specialized ingredients required for Sobol products. While specific details on territory structure and exclusivity are not fully disclosed, the presence of "open territories and states of operation" suggests a structured approach to market allocation. The brand's consistent expansion plans imply an expectation for multi-unit development from qualified franchisees, indicating a long-term growth vision. Given the investment level and the nature of the business, the Sobol franchise model generally leans towards an owner-operator involvement, where franchisees are actively engaged in the daily management and growth of their locations, though capable management could facilitate semi-absentee ownership in a multi-unit scenario.

When evaluating the financial performance of a Sobol franchise, it is important to note that Item 19 financial performance data is not disclosed in the current Franchise Disclosure Document, meaning specific profit margins or detailed earnings claims are not provided directly by the franchisor. However, PeerSense can analyze publicly available revenue data, industry benchmarks, and the brand's growth trajectory to provide insights into potential unit-level performance. According to 2025 data, a Sobol franchised restaurant makes an average unit volume (AUV) of $612,000 in revenue per year. Another source indicates an even higher average store revenue for a Sobol franchisee at $675,000. In 2020, the average revenue per unit was reported as $516,685.

To put these figures into perspective, the average revenue during 2020 for Quick Service Restaurants generally ranged from an industry low of $226,435 to an industry high of $2,500,000. The average revenue figures for Sobol units, even the 2020 data of $516,685, fall squarely within the competitive mid-to-high range of this broader QSR industry benchmark, suggesting a solid revenue-generating capability for its footprint and operational model. While explicit profit margins are not disclosed, these strong revenue figures, combined with a relatively lean operational structure characteristic of limited-service restaurants, imply a favorable potential for profitability. The consistent growth in unit count, from 0 units in 2014 to 65 units in 2024, further signals the franchisor's confidence in the unit-level economics and the attractiveness of the Sobol concept to new and existing franchisees. The fact that Sobol opened 13 franchise locations and signed contracts for nearly 50 more in its first twelve months of franchising (around 2018) indicates early validation of its business model. CEO Jason Mazzarone's stated plans to open another 10 locations by the end of 2021 after reaching its 50th franchise in North Carolina also underscore the perceived strength of unit performance and the brand's capacity for sustained expansion. These data points, while not a guarantee of individual franchise profitability, collectively suggest a robust and attractive revenue profile for the Sobol franchise opportunity.

The growth trajectory of the Sobol franchise demonstrates a consistent expansion pattern, evolving from 0 units in 2014 to a significant network of 65 units by 2024. This represents a remarkable increase from 34 units in 2019 to 65 units in 2024, signifying an 85% growth in unit count over a five-year period. In 2020 alone, Sobol added 12 new franchised locations, ending the year with 46 units, up from 34 at the start. The system further expanded from 55 units at the start of 2022 to 63 units by the end of that year, adding 8 net new locations. Although 2023 saw a stabilization at 63 units, the overall trend reflects a brand committed to strategic expansion throughout the country, with open territories available in states like New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Virginia, California, Florida, North Carolina, and New Jersey.

Recent corporate developments, including the updated leadership team as of December 2023, signal an ongoing investment in strengthening the brand's operational and marketing capabilities. This leadership stability and expertise, particularly with key roles in operations, marketing, and development, are crucial for supporting future growth. Sobol's competitive moat is built upon several key pillars: its established brand recognition within the healthy fast-casual segment, particularly for its popular acai bowls; the deep operational experience brought by co-founder Jim Kalomiris; and the proprietary systems and recipes that ensure product consistency and quality across all locations. The brand's ability to source and manage fresh ingredients efficiently is also a critical advantage in a market segment where product quality is paramount. By focusing on a specialized, in-demand menu, Sobol has carved out a distinct identity. The brand is adapting to current market conditions by continually refining its offering to meet evolving consumer preferences for health-conscious and convenient food. While specific details on digital transformation, delivery integration, or sustainability initiatives are not provided, the general nature of limited-service restaurants often necessitates embracing these trends to maintain relevance and appeal in a competitive landscape, especially given the emphasis on quick service and a modern customer experience.

The ideal candidate for a Sobol franchise is typically an individual who possesses a strong entrepreneurial drive, a passion for health and wellness, and a commitment to operational excellence. While specific prior experience in the food service industry or management background is not explicitly stated as a requirement, these attributes would undoubtedly be beneficial for navigating the daily demands of a limited-service restaurant. The brand's consistent growth and plans for continued expansion across the country suggest that multi-unit operators, or those with the potential and desire to become multi-unit franchisees, are highly sought after. This approach allows for greater market penetration and efficiency in supply chain and operational management.

Available territories for Sobol include New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Virginia, California, Florida, North Carolina, and New Jersey, indicating a broad geographic focus for expansion. Historically, the Northeast region has been a strong market for Sobol, with 33 of its 34 franchised locations in 2020 situated there, which suggests robust market acceptance and performance in those states. While the specific timeline from signing a franchise agreement to opening a Sobol location is not available, the brand's established operational model and support infrastructure aim to streamline this process for new franchisees. The franchise agreement term length, as well as specific terms for renewal, transfer, and resale considerations, are not publicly available but would be detailed within the Franchise Disclosure Document, which is provided to prospective franchisees during the due diligence phase. These factors are crucial for an investor to understand the long-term commitment and potential exit strategies associated with a Sobol franchise.

In synthesizing the investment thesis for a Sobol franchise, it becomes clear that this opportunity warrants serious due diligence for prospective investors. The brand operates within the highly attractive and continuously expanding healthy fast-casual segment, capitalizing on enduring consumer demand for nutritious, convenient, and high-quality food options. With its origins dating back to Jason Mazzarone's concept in 2012 and formal founding in 2014, Sobol has demonstrated a consistent ability to grow its unit count, expanding from 0 units in 2014 to 65 units by 2024, with a significant majority being franchised locations. The brand's average unit revenue figures, ranging from $516,685 in 2020 to $675,000 according to a more recent source, are competitive within the broader quick-service restaurant industry, suggesting a strong revenue-generating potential despite the non-disclosure of Item 19 profit margins. The robust corporate leadership, structured support systems, and a clear vision for national expansion further solidify the Sobol franchise as a compelling opportunity within the broader industry context. PeerSense provides exclusive due diligence data including SBA lending history, FPI score, location maps with Google ratings, FDD financial data, and side-by-side comparison tools, offering a comprehensive suite of independent intelligence to help investors make informed decisions. Explore the complete Sobol franchise profile on PeerSense to access the full suite of independent franchise intelligence data.