Risk Score
Pending analysis
Investment Range
$886,028 - $1,444,038
Franchise Fee
$54,900
Min Cash Required
$50,000
Total US Locations
46
Business Summary
Crisp & Green operates a wellness-driven restaurant chain that offers a selection of signature and seasonal salads, grain bowls, smoothies, and other healthy items. All menu items are made in-house from scratch with premium ingredients. Beyond its food offerings, Crisp & Green restaurants also host free community fitness and wellness events to promote a healthy lifestyle. The franchise offers an optional 'Crisp & Go' designated pickup area, which is an offsite location where customers can retrieve mobile orders prepared at the main restaurant.
Corporate History
Crisp & Green LLC, the parent company, was organized in Minnesota on April 26, 2016, and the first Crisp & Green restaurant opened in November 2016. Crisp & Green Franchising LLC, the franchising entity, was organized in Minnesota on February 22, 2018, specifically to sell franchises for CRISP & GREEN® restaurants. The company began offering franchises on April 17, 2018.
Financial Overview
Investment Range
$886,028 - $1,444,038
Franchise Fee (Low)
$54,900
Franchise Fee (High)
$64,500
Minimum Cash Required
$50,000
Royalty %
7%
Marketing %
2%
Equipment Costs (Low)
$654,000
Equipment Costs (High)
$1,010,000
Working Capital
$62,500
Audited Financials
Yes
Offers Financing
No
Audit Opinion
Unqualified opinion
Financial Health Notes
Crisp & Green Franchising LLC's financial statements for 2023, 2022, and 2021 have received an unqualified opinion from independent auditors, indicating fair presentation in all material respects. The company has shown consistent profitability with net income of over $4.4 million in 2023. However, Crisp & Green maintains a very low cash balance, reporting only $100 as of December 31, 2023, and similarly low amounts in prior years. A significant asset on its balance sheet is 'Due from Parent', amounting to over $6.6 million in 2023, indicating substantial advances to its parent company. Despite these advances, the auditors did not express a going concern qualification, suggesting confidence in the company's ability to continue operations.
Financing Details
Crisp & Green does not offer any direct or indirect financing to its franchisees. Additionally, it does not guarantee any obligations of its franchisees.
Performance Metrics
Total US Locations
46
Franchised Units
45
Corporate Units
1
Avg Square Footage
2,250
Franchising Since
2018
Legal & Compliance Analysis
Recent Litigation
No
Bankruptcy
No
Litigation Summary
Crisp & Green has no litigation history to report. Item 3 of the FDD states that no litigation is required to be disclosed for the franchisor or its management.
Bankruptcy History
Crisp & Green has no bankruptcy history to report for the franchisor or its principal officers. Item 4 of the FDD states that no bankruptcy information is required to be disclosed.
Agreement Terms
Initial Term
10 years
Renewal Term
10 years
Renewal Conditions
To renew, Crisp & Green franchisees must be in good standing with the company and all agreements. They are required to sign the then-current franchise agreement, which may have different terms and conditions. A renewal fee, equivalent to 50% of the then-current initial franchise fee, must be paid. Additionally, franchisees must remodel or upgrade their restaurant to meet Crisp & Green's current standards for new locations and their Principal Owners must sign general releases in favor of Crisp & Green and its affiliates. Franchisees must provide written notice of their desire not to renew at least 180 days before the agreement expires.
Training & Support Program
Franchisor Assistance
Crisp & Green offers comprehensive support to its franchisees. Before opening, Crisp & Green assists with preliminary designated area description, site approval, and review of lease/purchase agreements. Franchisees receive sample floor plans, access to a confidential Operations Manual, and initial training called 'Crisp Academy' for up to four management-level employees (including the General Manager/Operating Partner for the first week). Seven days of on-site assistance are provided during the grand opening. Ongoing support includes advice on operations, continued access to the Operations Manual, maintenance and modification of operating standards, and the right to use Crisp & Green's trademarks. The company also manages national marketing efforts through a National Marketing Fee and maintains a System Website and mobile application. Franchisees are required to use specific computer systems (POS and inventory) and ensure their managers are ServSafe certified. Crisp & Green also provides an approved supplier for insurance.
Initial Training Hours
120
Training Location
Wayzata, MN
Ongoing Support
After opening, Crisp & Green provides ongoing operational advice and continued access to its Operations Manual, which includes updated standards and procedures. The company maintains and modifies these system-wide standards, which may require franchisees to invest additional capital for compliance. Crisp & Green directs national marketing and promotional efforts, including maintaining a System Website and a mobile application, funded by a National Marketing Fee. Franchisees are required to participate in local marketing programs and annual conferences or conventions, with a mandatory attendance for the person holding a controlling interest in the business. The company may also offer additional training programs for a fee and conducts periodic inspections and audits to ensure compliance with its systems and procedures.
Franchise Requirements
Ideal Candidate Profile
Crisp & Green seeks franchisees who possess vital prior business ownership and management experience, with prior restaurant experience being highly desirable. Ideal candidates must demonstrate strong people management skills, business acumen, and financial management strength, coupled with a passion for operating a Crisp & Green restaurant. If the franchisee is an entity, it must designate an Operating Partner who maintains a substantial ownership interest (generally at least 5%) and who will either serve as the General Manager or designate an approved General Manager. For multi-unit developers, an Approved Operator is required to oversee the day-to-day development and operations of multiple locations, ensuring full-time effort and adherence to Crisp & Green's standards and training programs.
Industry Experience Required
No
Management Experience Required
Yes
Sales Experience Required
No
Technical Skills Required
No
Operational Details
Location Type
retail
Owner Participation
full-time
Territory Type
limited
Territory Size Requirements
Crisp & Green defines a franchisee's Designated Area, which typically consists of a one- to three-mile radius around the approved restaurant site. The exact size and shape of this area are determined based on Crisp & Green's criteria for size, demographics, and topographical features. This radius may be smaller in densely populated areas. For Area Development Agreements, the specific geographic area and the number of required locations are negotiated.
Staffing Notes
Crisp & Green requires that its franchised restaurants are managed and supervised by a General Manager. This manager, who could be the Operating Partner or another approved individual, must be a full-time employee dedicated solely to the restaurant's operations. The General Manager is responsible for all day-to-day operational decisions and must successfully complete Crisp Academy and all other required training programs. For multi-unit franchisees, an Approved Operator is needed to oversee the development and operations of multiple locations, ensuring compliance with standards and managing the individual General Managers. All managers and designated employees must obtain ServSafe certification or an approved equivalent. Franchisees are responsible for hiring, training, and managing their employees, adhering to Crisp & Green's systems and procedures, which are subject to audits.