Buy a Seattle’s Best Coffee Franchise

Seattle’s Best Coffee is a well-established coffee brand founded in 1970 by brothers Jim and Dave Stewart, beginning as a combination ice cream and coffee shop called the Wet Whisker on Whidbey Island near Seattle. The brand grew by perfecting its smooth, bold coffee blends, winning a local competition in 1991 that led to its renaming as Seattle’s Best Coffee. Known for its signature smooth roasting process and blends such as Henry’s Blend®, the company expanded nationally and internationally, focusing on delivering quality coffee that is bolder yet smooth, appealing to a broad consumer base. Currently owned by Nestlé, Seattle’s Best Coffee primarily sells wholesale coffee products, ground coffee, and K-cups, with franchising rights for international markets and military bases held by GoTo Foods. Unlike Starbucks, its former parent, Seattle’s Best is positioned as a more affordable, working-class coffee brand.

Latest Resales

  • There are currently no Seattle’s Best Coffee resales available

Why buy a Seattle’s Best Coffee Franchise?

Investing in Seattle’s Best Coffee offers access to a globally recognized brand with a rich heritage and proven product quality. Franchisees benefit from Nestlé’s backing and GoTo Foods’ franchising expertise in international markets, tapping into the growing demand for affordable, smooth coffee. The brand’s established reputation and scalable wholesale and retail models provide a solid foundation for sustainable growth.

Seattle’s Best Coffee Franchise Costs & Information

  • Minimum Qualifications

    • Initial Franchise Fee

      $25,000

    • Initial Investment

      $181,835 – $445,035

  • Royalty

    • Royalty Fee

      4%–10%

  • Training & Support

    • Comprehensive training

    • Ongoing support

    • Marketing support

Seattle’s Best Coffee – Additional  Information

  1. Franchisee Support

    Franchise rights for Seattle's Best Coffee coffeehouses in international markets and military bases are managed by GoTo Foods, which provides support in training, marketing, and operational guidance to maintain brand standards and growth abroad.

  2. Accolades & Awards

    Seattle's Best Coffee earned local acclaim early on by winning Seattle’s best coffee competition in 1991, establishing its reputation for smooth, quality coffee. Over 50 years, it has maintained a loyal following and expanded globally, recognized for its consistent roasting excellence.

  3. Industry / Market

    The global coffee market continues to grow steadily, driven by rising consumer demand for specialty and premium coffee. Seattle’s Best Coffee leverages its smooth roast profile and affordability to capture a segment of the market seeking quality coffee at accessible prices, particularly in international and wholesale channels.

  4. Ideal Owner

    Ideal franchisees or licensees are those interested in operating coffeehouses or retail outlets in international markets or military bases, with a focus on delivering consistent quality and customer experience. Experience in food and beverage retail is beneficial but not mandatory given the brand’s support infrastructure.

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