Protein Bar and Kitchen logo

Protein Bar and Kitchen Franchise

Audited Financials
Food and BeverageEst. 2023Chicago, IL
www.theproteinbar.com

Risk Score

Pending analysis

Investment Range

$369,500 - $685,000

Franchise Fee

$12,000

Min Cash Required

$15,000

Total US Locations

16

Business Summary

Protein Bar & Kitchen operates businesses that offer customers healthy food choices, specializing in customizable high-protein salads, wraps, bowls, shakes, and smoothies, along with other related products. The traditional Protein Bar & Kitchen business model includes dine-in, takeout, delivery, and catering services, with order options available through counter service, mobile apps, and online platforms.

Corporate History

Protein Bar & Kitchen Franchising, LLC was formed in Delaware on January 24, 2023. The company began offering franchises for Protein Bar & Kitchen Businesses on May 15, 2023. While the franchisor itself has never owned or operated Protein Bar & Kitchen Businesses, its affiliate, PB Restaurants, LLC, owns and operates these businesses. PB Restaurants, LLC also holds the trademarks and intellectual property used in the Protein Bar & Kitchen System.

Financial Overview

Investment Range

$369,500 - $685,000

Franchise Fee (Low)

$12,000

Franchise Fee (High)

$40,000

Minimum Cash Required

$15,000

Royalty %

6%

Marketing %

3%

Equipment Costs (Low)

$210,000

Equipment Costs (High)

$410,000

Working Capital

$20,000

Audited Financials

Yes

Offers Financing

No

Audit Opinion

Unqualified opinion

Financial Health Notes

The FDD highlights a special risk regarding Protein Bar & Kitchen Franchising, LLC's financial condition, stating that it 'calls into question the franchisor's financial ability to provide services and support.' The franchisor had a member's deficit equity of $(171,893) as of December 29, 2024. The company is reliant on its affiliate, PB Restaurants, LLC, for funding, with expenses paid on its behalf by the affiliate amounting to approximately $95,500 in 2024 and $68,000 in 2023. Amounts due to PB Restaurants, LLC were $170,389 as of December 29, 2024. While the independent auditor issued an unqualified opinion on the financial statements, this does not override the franchisor's explicit statement about its financial ability to provide support.

Financing Details

Protein Bar & Kitchen Franchising, LLC does not offer any direct or indirect financing to its franchisees. Additionally, the franchisor does not guarantee any notes, leases, or other obligations that franchisees might incur.

Performance Metrics

Total US Locations

16

Franchised Units

3

Corporate Units

13

Avg Square Footage

1,875

Franchising Since

2023

Agreement Terms

Initial Term

10 years

Renewal Term

5 years

Renewal Conditions

To renew their franchise agreement, Protein Bar & Kitchen franchisees must provide written notice between 90 days and 12 months before their current term ends. They must be in full compliance with the franchise agreement and System Standards, not be in breach of any other agreements with Protein Bar & Kitchen Franchising, LLC or its affiliates, and satisfy all financial obligations. Franchisees must also have the right to remain in possession of their premises, pay the then-current successor franchise fee, and remodel or redesign their business to meet current System Standards, regardless of the cost. Additionally, they must sign a new, then-current franchise agreement and a general release of claims (if permitted by law), and meet all current qualifications and training requirements. Protein Bar & Kitchen Franchising, LLC must also be offering franchises in the franchisee's state at the time of the renewal notice.

Training & Support Program

Franchisor Assistance

Before a Protein Bar & Kitchen business opens, the franchisor provides guidance during site selection, general oversight of the construction process, and reviews and approves the proposed premises and lease. Protein Bar & Kitchen Franchising, LLC loans prototypical plans for the layout and equipment, and provides written confirmation that the business meets standards and is ready to open. It also assists with purchasing necessary equipment, signs, fixtures, and initial inventory by providing lists of approved or designated vendors and specifications for other items. Initial training is provided to at least two required trainees (including the Managing Owner and Designated Manager) in Chicago, IL, and grand opening assistance is offered for the first Protein Bar & Kitchen business. Franchisees also receive access to the Operations Manual. During operation, Protein Bar & Kitchen Franchising, LLC allows franchisees to use its confidential information and trademarks, and may offer additional or refresher training if needed. It periodically advises franchisees on operations based on reports and inspections, provides lists of authorized vendors, and offers System Standards and procedures. The franchisor also reviews and approves advertising and marketing materials and programs that franchisees propose to use. While not obligated, Protein Bar & Kitchen Franchising, LLC may determine maximum or minimum prices for menu items. Franchisees are required to contribute to a Brand Fund and engage in local advertising, which the franchisor controls or directs.

Initial Training Hours

240

Training Location

A designated training facility in Chicago, IL

Ongoing Support

After opening, Protein Bar & Kitchen franchisees are allowed to use the franchisor's confidential information, including the Operations Manual, and its trademarks. Protein Bar & Kitchen Franchising, LLC may provide additional or refresher training if deemed necessary, and periodically offers advice regarding business operations based on franchisee reports or franchisor inspections. Franchisees receive lists of authorized vendors for various supplies and services, as well as System Standards and suggested procedures for their business. Protein Bar & Kitchen Franchising, LLC also reviews and approves advertising and marketing materials. The franchisor may require managing owners and other personnel to attend an annual franchisee conference and additional periodic or refresher training courses at designated times and locations. If requested and agreed, additional special guidance, assistance, or training may be provided for a fee.

Franchise Requirements

Industry Experience Required

No

Management Experience Required

No

Sales Experience Required

No

Technical Skills Required

No

Operational Details

Location Type

retail

Owner Participation

supervisory

Territory Type

protected

Staffing Notes

Protein Bar & Kitchen franchisees are required to appoint a 'Designated Manager' who must supervise the day-to-day operations of the business on a full-time basis and remain on-site during all operating hours. This Designated Manager must be fully trained, certified, and approved by Protein Bar & Kitchen Franchising, LLC, meeting their educational and business experience criteria. The franchisee's 'Managing Owner' (a natural person with at least a 10% ownership interest) is responsible for the overall management, direction, and control of the business. Franchisees are responsible for implementing an approved training program for all employees to ensure they are properly trained and qualified to perform their duties according to the System and System Standards. At least two 'Required Trainees,' including the Managing Owner and Designated Manager, must complete the initial training program.