Top
Frequently Asked Questions

What You Need To Know Before You Invest-FAQ'sPJ's Coffee Franchise 

Answers to Your Top Coffee Franchise Questions—So You Can Move Forward with Confidence

Investing in a coffee franchise is a big decision, and it’s natural to have questions about costs, support, training, and long-term potential. At PJ’s Coffee, we believe in giving prospective franchise owners the clarity and transparency they need to make informed decisions.

Below, you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about starting a coffee business and owning a PJ’s Coffee franchise—from startup timelines and operational support to multi-unit opportunities and market availability. Our goal is to help you understand not just how the process works, but how we support you every step of the way.

Whether you’re exploring your first business or expanding your portfolio, this information is designed to guide you toward the next step in your franchise journey.

  • The total investment to open a PJ’s Coffee franchise typically ranges from approximately $280,500 - $1,680,000**, depending on location, store format, and buildout requirements. We provide detailed investment breakdowns and support throughout the development process. Non-traditional locations fall on the lower end, while free-standing drive-thru models represent the higher end of the investment range. Detailed information can be found here

  • The requirements to open a PJ's Coffee franchise include a minimum of $175,000 in liquid capital and at least $500,000 in net worth. Beyond financial requirements, PJ’s looks for owners who are committed to being actively involved in their business, especially during the early stages, and who are motivated to grow within a structured franchise system. Additional information on the initial investment can be found here.

  • PJ’s Coffee franchise owners have the opportunity to generate strong top-line revenue, depending on location, format, and operational performance. According to our Franchise Disclosure Document (Item 19), the top 25% of traditional drive-thru locations reported average annual net sales of $996,706*

    Performance can vary based on factors like site selection, local market conditions, and owner involvement. We encourage all candidates to review Item 19 of the FDD for detailed financial performance representations.

    Additional information can be found here.

  • The ongoing fees for owning a PJ’s Coffee franchise including a 5% royalty fee** and contribute 2% of net sales toward national marketing**. These fees support ongoing brand development, marketing initiatives, and operational support across the system.

  • PJ’s Coffee business ownership is different from the competition as we focus on combining premium product quality with a proven franchise system. PJ’s Coffee sources only the top 2% of Arabica beans and roasts in small batches of 300 pounds or less, ensuring consistency and quality. For franchise owners, this translates into strong customer loyalty, repeat business, and a differentiated position in the coffee segment supported by a system built for multi-unit growth. Contact us to learn about our coffee bar franchise. 

  • PJ's Coffee was founded in 1978 by Phyllis Jordan where she opened her very first PJ’s on Maple Street in the Uptown district of New Orleans, Louisiana.
  • The initial term of the PJ's Coffee franchise agreement is 10 years. However, there are three additional renewal terms of 10 years each.
  • The initial franchise fee to own a coffee shop with PJ’s Coffee franchise is $40,000**, with discounts available for multi-unit development, non-traditional models, and qualified military candidates. This fee includes access to the PJ’s brand, proprietary products, operating systems, comprehensive training, and site selection and development support.

  • PJ’s Coffee franchise owners are expected to be actively involved in the day-to-day operations of their business, particularly during the first year. Hands-on ownership helps ensure strong team leadership, consistent customer experience, and successful execution during the critical early stages. To learn more about our PJ's Franchise owner, click here to read our ideal candidate overview. 

  • PJ’s Coffee provides comprehensive, hands-on training and ongoing support to help franchisees succeed from day one. New owners participate in an initial training program covering operations, staffing, marketing, and financial management, followed by on-site support during store opening.

    After launch, franchisees receive ongoing guidance including operational consulting, marketing campaigns, product rollouts, and performance coaching—so you’re never operating your business alone. When you start a coffee business with PJ's, you're not alone. Check out more details on our training and support on this page

  • No prior coffee or restaurant experience is required to start a coffee business. PJ’s Coffee provides comprehensive training and ongoing support to equip franchisees with the tools and knowledge needed to operate successfully.

    We look for motivated owners with strong leadership skills, a commitment to following systems, and a passion for delivering a great customer experience. Click here for our ideal candidate insight. 

  • Yes, you can own multiple coffee shops in your community. More than half of our PJ's Coffee franchisees have committed to multi-unit location development.

  • The timeline to open a PJ’s Coffee location typically ranges from several months to over a year, depending on site selection, permitting, and construction. Our team supports you through each phase to help streamline the process.
  • PJ’s Coffee’s development strategy is focused on several states that you can find by visiting this page. If you are looking to start a coffee business in your community, we can't wait to connect with you. 

  • PJ’s Coffee does not provide exclusive territories. However, you will be assigned a Designated Market Area for development when you start your coffee business. 

  • Yes—PJ’s Coffee provides support with site selection and development. When you start your coffee business, our team helps identify high-potential trade areas, evaluate real estate opportunities, and guide lease negotiations.

    We also assist with store design, layout, and buildout to ensure your location is optimized for efficiency, customer experience, and long-term performance.

    Learn more about our location development support here.

  • PJ’s Coffee does not offer any in-house financing, but we do have relationships with third party lenders. Please contact us to learn more. 

  • Most PJ’s Coffee locations operate with approximately 12–15 part time employees and approximately 2-4 employees per shift.  This will depend on store format, hours of operation, and sales volume. This typically includes a mix of full-time and part-time team members.

    Our team provides guidance on staffing models, hiring, and training to help you build an efficient, customer-focused team.

  • Most PJ’s Coffee locations operate between approximately 6:00 AM and 8:00 PM, though hours may vary based on location, format, and local demand.

    Franchisees receive guidance on optimizing operating hours to maximize sales while meeting customer demand in their specific market.

  • Getting started is simple. First, submit an inquiry through our website to connect with our franchise development team. From there, you’ll go through a structured process that includes initial conversations, financial review, and discovery.

    Our team will guide you through each step—from learning more about the opportunity to signing your franchise agreement and preparing to open your location.

    Inquire Now

Ready to Turn Your Interest Into Ownership?
Speak with our franchise development team and get personalized guidance on launching your PJ’s Coffee location. Contact us today.