McAlister's Deli vs Soul De Cuba Cafe Franchise Comparison

Below is an in-depth analysis and side-by-side comparison of McAlister's Deli vs Soul De Cuba Cafe including start-up costs and fees, business experience requirements, training & support and financing options.

Start-Up Costs and Fees

 
McAlister's Deli Franchise
Soul De Cuba Cafe Franchise
Investment $398,000 - $2,094,200$160,350 - $487,000
Franchise Fee $15,000 - $35,000$65,000
Royalty Fee 5%6%
Advertising Fee 3%-
Year Founded 19892005
Year Franchised 19942009
Term Of Agreement 10 years +5+5+5-
Term Of Agreement 10 years +5+5+5-
Renewal Fee --


Business Experience Requirements

 
McAlister's Deli Franchise
Soul De Cuba Cafe Franchise
Experience
  • General business experience
  • -

    Financing Options

     
    McAlister's Deli Franchise
    Soul De Cuba Cafe Franchise
      In-House/3rd PartyIn-House/3rd Party
    Franchise Fees No/Yes-/-
    Start-up Costs No/Yes-/-
    Equipment No/Yes-/-
    Inventory No/Yes-/-
    Receivables No/Yes-/-
    Payroll No/Yes-/-

    Training & Support

     
    McAlister's Deli Franchise
    Soul De Cuba Cafe Franchise
    Training On-The-Job Training: 206 hours Classroom Training: 45 hours -
    Support Purchasing Co-ops Newsletter Meetings/Conventions Toll-Free Line Grand Opening Online Support Security/Safety Procedures Field Operations Site Selection Proprietary Software Franchisee Intranet Platform-
    Marketing Co-op Advertising Ad Templates Regional Advertising Social media SEO Website development Email marketing Loyalty program/app-
    Operations Franchisees required to buy multiple units/master licenses; 95% of all franchisees own more than one unit

    Number of employees needed to run franchised unit: 40

    Absentee ownership of franchise is allowed. (66% of current franchisees are owner/operators)

    -

    Expansion Plans

     
    McAlister's Deli Franchise
    Soul De Cuba Cafe Franchise
    US Expansion YesYes
    Canada Expansion No-
    International Expansion No-

    Company Overviews

    About McAlister's Deli

    Founder Don Newcomb's goal when he launched McAlister's Deli in 1989 was to create a 'gourmet deli with Southern charm.' The restaurants serve more than 90 different menu items, including sandwiches, salads, super-stuffed baked potatoes, appetizers, desserts and kid's meals. Customers make their selections at the counter, receive their appetizers and drinks and then sit wherever they choose, while roving servers bring their food and drink refills. McAlister's has grown to more than 350 franchised units.

    The total investment necessary to begin operation of a franchised McAlister’s Deli Restaurant (“Traditional Restaurant”) ranges from $927,900 to $2,094,200. This includes $35,000 to $35,400 that must be paid to the franchisor or their affiliates.
    The total investment necessary to begin operation of a franchised McAlister’s Express Restaurant (“Express Restaurant”) is $398,000 to $607,850. This includes $15,000 to $15,400 that must be paid to the franchisor or their affiliates.
    Veteran Incentives  $5,000 off franchise fee
    "Entrepreneur
    #72 in Franchise 500 for 2020.
    #47 in Franchise 500 for 2021.



    About Soul De Cuba Cafe

    What makes the franchising way of doing business so attractive? For one, franchise owners can build on brand awareness as the franchise system expands. Not to mention, the Soul de Cuba Cafe is a distinctive concept that stands out among typical franchise restaurant offerings. While many people envision themselves owning their own restaurant, a large proportion of them lack the knowledge, skill, and operational experience offered by a franchise company. Following the established Soul de Cuba Cafe system of operation may help reduce your risk. Finally, as a member of the Soul de Cuba franchise family, you'll have the advantage of owning your own business, with the support of experienced restaurateurs behind you every step of the way. Owning a Soul de Cuba Cafe franchise entitles you to a broad spectrum of support services. We are here for you today and tomorrow. You'll receive in-depth training in every aspect of Soul de Cuba's business operations and procedures, including our original, authentic recipes and food preparation techniques. Classroom instruction will cover such areas as administration, sales/marketing and more, plus on-the-job training will provide you with hands-on exposure to day-to-day procedures. Just prior to the opening of your Cafe, we'll send an experienced trainer to assist you. An exceptional operational tool, your operations manual will contain well-organized, detailed information on everything related to the Soul de Cuba Cafe franchise. You'll rely on this comprehensive, "go-to" resource as you start out and in the years to come. We'll provide you with site selection guidelines to help you choose an appropriate location for your Soul de Cuba Cafe franchise. Our marketing support will consist of consumer marketing plans and materials for you to use in your area. We'll also show you how to make the best use of publicity, increase your visibility, and build interest in your Cafe. Plus, the beautiful Soul de Cuba Website serves as an additional marketing tool. We're dedicated to all the members of the Soul de Cuba franchise family and will do everything we can to help you build a strong business. You'll be periodically visited by a Soul de Cuba field representative, and you may also contact us, via phone or email, with any questions you may have. If you're looking for a franchise that speaks to your interest in cross-cultural concepts, Soul de Cuba Cafe may be the right opportunity for you. We're seeking well-traveled individuals who are intellectually curious about world cultures and passionate about serving interesting cuisine. You must possess strong sales and customer-service skills, as well as the ability to build relationships with customers. Soul de Cuba Cafe offers a fascinating journey into the culture, history, and religious influences of Cuba, while providing exquisite food in a fun atmosphere. To learn more about how you may become part of this exceptional concept, contact us at your earliest convenience. We're looking forward to talking with you! 978-886-7908