The UK dessert and sweet treat market continues to grow as consumers increasingly seek indulgent, social experiences and high-quality products that go beyond traditional takeaway options. One brand that has become synonymous with fun, flavour, and variety is Baskin‑Robbins, known internationally for its “31 flavours” concept and vibrant parlour experience. With a menu that includes ice cream scoops, sundaes, shakes, cakes, and frozen treats, this iconic name has broad appeal among families, students, and anyone with a sweet tooth. For aspiring entrepreneurs looking to enter the hospitality and foodservice industry, exploring how much a Baskin-Robbins franchise costs in the UK is a critical first step.
Overview of the Baskin-Robbins Franchise Model
Baskin-Robbins operates within the quick-service dessert and ice cream category, offering a wide range of flavours and treats that are often tailored to local tastes and seasonal demand. Franchisees operate branded parlours that provide sit-down and takeaway service, creating environments that encourage repeat visits and impulse purchases.
The brand combines strong visual identity with established product systems, enabling franchise partners to benefit from central support in training, menu development, marketing and supply chain logistics. This support system is particularly valuable for new operators entering the foodservice space.
Baskin-Robbins outlets are typically located in high-footfall areas such as shopping centres, retail parks, high streets, tourist locations, and leisure hubs, where both footfall and family traffic are strong. The attractive and colourful design of the parlours helps draw in customers and supports cross-selling of additional items like sundaes, cakes and seasonal specials.
Franchise Investment in the UK
For prospective franchisees interested in opening a Baskin-Robbins location in the United Kingdom, the franchise typically costs from £100,000 to £150,000 total investment per franchise unit. This range represents the estimated capital required to establish, launch and operate a franchise location in line with the brand’s standards.
The lower end of the investment range may apply to smaller parlours in secondary locations or units requiring minimal refurbishment. The higher end of the range generally reflects larger sites in prime retail or leisure locations, where fit-out costs, rental rates, and design enhancements are greater.
It’s important to note that while the £100,000 to £150,000 range provides a useful benchmark, actual costs can vary depending on a number of factors including store size, property condition, lease terms and regional pricing differences.
What the Investment Covers
A significant portion of the initial investment goes toward store fit-out and development. This includes interior design, branded signage, counters, seating, lighting, flooring, décor and any necessary renovations to make the site customer ready. Creating an environment that aligns with the Baskin-Robbins brand and appeals to visitors is key to driving footfall and repeat business.
Commercial equipment is another major cost component. Ice cream freezers, display cabinets, refrigeration units, point-of-sale systems, preparation counters, and storage systems are all essential to daily operations. Investing in quality equipment helps ensure consistent product presentation, efficient service and compliance with food safety standards.
The franchise fee itself grants the right to operate under the Baskin-Robbins name and provides access to the company’s support systems. Initial training is usually provided to new franchisees and their staff, covering areas such as product preparation, customer service, store management, health and safety compliance, and inventory control.
Additional upfront costs can include initial stock purchases, recruitment and training of staff, insurance, licences, professional fees, and pre-opening marketing. Working capital is also important to cover operational expenses such as wages, utilities and supplier payments during the first few months of trading.
Factors That Influence Total Costs
Several factors can influence where a particular Baskin-Robbins franchise falls within the £100,000 to £150,000 investment range. Location is one of the most significant variables, as high-traffic retail centres and urban sites command higher rents and have greater fit-out costs. These sites also often offer stronger potential sales volumes, which may justify the higher investment.
Store size and layout also play a key role. Larger sites with more seating and enhanced customer amenities will require more extensive fit-out and higher equipment costs. The condition of the premises prior to development can further influence expenditure — a shell unit may require more construction work than a former food outlet.
Local regulations, planning permissions and health and safety requirements may also impact timeline and cost. Franchisees should work closely with landlords, architects and franchise support teams to ensure compliance and efficient execution.
Conclusion
Opening a Baskin-Robbins franchise in the UK offers entrepreneurs a chance to operate a well-recognised dessert brand with broad consumer appeal. The franchise typically costs from £100,000 to £150,000 total investment per franchise unit, covering store fit-out, equipment, training and initial operational needs. While this represents a significant financial commitment, franchisees benefit from established brand support, supplier networks and marketing systems that help drive customer traffic and long-term performance. For those passionate about dessert, hospitality and customer engagement, a Baskin-Robbins franchise can represent an exciting and rewarding business opportunity in the UK market.
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