Wetzel's Pretzels vs UCBC Bagels Franchise Comparison

Below is an in-depth analysis and side-by-side comparison of Wetzel's Pretzels vs UCBC Bagels including start-up costs and fees, business experience requirements, training & support and financing options.

Company Overviews

About Wetzel's Pretzels

Wetzel's Pretzels founded by Rick Wetzel & Bill Phelps, former marketing executives in 1994. 1st Wetzel's Pretzels located in South Bay Galleria in Southern California. First store was opened in 1995 Century City, Hollywood.
In 1996 Wetzel's Pretzels began franchising. Currently they have locations across United States (Universal City, Staples Center, Dodgers Stadium, Disneyland, Disney world) & internationally. Currently co-branding relationship with Cold Stone Creamery, Swensen's, Juice It Up and more.
Beginning of 2016 Wetzel's franchise fast food restaurants had 298 locations out of them 269 US locations; 2 in Canada; 19 worldwide; and 8 owned by the company itself.

1. A single Wetzel's Pretzels Bakery. The total investment necessary to begin operation of a Wetzel's Pretzels Bakery ranges from $164,950 to $405,850. This includes approximately between $42,350 and $50,750 that must be paid to the franchisor. If Wetzel's Pretzels grants you a license to operate a Remote Mobile Unit under a Remote Mobile Unit Addendum to your Franchise Agreement, you will also pay it a fee of $5,000 for a Remote Mobile Unit.
2. Multiple Wetzel's Pretzels Bakeries within a defined area pursuant to a Multi-Unit Development Agreement. There is an initial development fee of $15,000 multiplied by the number of Bakeries which you must open, plus the balance of the initial franchise fee ($20,000) for your first Franchise Agreement. You will pay an initial franchise fee of $35,000 for each Bakery ($22,500 for a second Bakery in the same mall). However, the franchisor will credit the development fee against the initial franchise fees (at the rate of $15,000 for the second and each subsequent Franchise Agreement).
3. A single Wetzel's Pretzels Concession Truck or Trailer. The total investment necessary to begin operation of a Wetzel's Pretzels Concession Truck or Trailer ranges from $126,600 to $275,850. This includes approximately between $9,000 and $14,750 that must be paid to the franchisor.

#497 in Franchise 500 for 2020.

About UCBC Bagels

In the crowded industry of bagel shops and delis, Upper Crust Bakery & Café’s 20 years of experience resulting in multiple awards, has become a leader amongst its competition. A cornerstone in its local community, each UCBC enjoys a diverse customer base.
As a franchisee, you will enjoy the opportunity to expand this base as you open your franchise.
As a franchisee you will have a personalized consultant who will work closely with you to help develop your own Upper Crust Bakery and Café.
An easy to run business with delicious bagels that appeal to everyone, you’ll be sure to see a fast return on your investment.
Owning an Upper Crust Bakery & Café will afford you the chance to be a part of a lucrative brand in a competitive industry.
UCBC, along with a team of business experts, will work with you to make the development of your franchise a rewarding experience. You will have access to our Operations Manual and develop a close rapport with the founder, allowing you to stay up to date with UCBC practices and industry trends. On-going support will be made available to you after your grand opening to answer any questions or concerns that you might have.If you are looking for an opportunity to run a business that will become a cornerstone of your community, an Upper Crust Bakery & Café franchise is the right choice for you.