Bahama Buck's Original Shaved Ice Company vs Carvel Franchise Comparison

In the Summer of 1990, Blake Buchanan opened the first Bahama Buck's. He started with one ice shaver and the hope of a college job that didn't involve mowing grass or flipping burgers. Constructing the original store by hand, he enlisted volunteer help from three generations of his family, staffed it with friends and college students and opened the doors. The tropical sensation caught on and with the help of his now partner, Eric Lee, and his wife, Kippi Buchanan, that summer job turned into a full time vocation. Blake has worked to keep the spirit of the original Bahama Buck's alive, making sure that each franchise is operated with the same enthusiasm of the first Buck's. His team strives to ensure that each flavor becomes a favorite and each visit is a great time - every time.

The total investment necessary to begin operation of a Bahama Buck’s franchised business ranges from $303,700 to $957,838. This includes $144,000 to $223,000 that must be paid to the franchisor or their affiliate. If you elect to enter into a Multi-Store Amendment, you will pay the franchisor a development fee equal to 50% of the initial franchise fee for each additional Bahama Buck’s Store to be opened upon signing the Multi-Store Amendment (excluding your first store). This fee is not refundable, but is credited fully against the initial franchise fee for each store when the franchise agreement is executed for that store (except the first store).

In 1934 Tom Carvel opened his first ice cream shop in Hartsdale, New York. Over the years, he developed formulas and equipment for creating and serving his ice cream. The company started franchising in 1947, and by 1951 had opened 100 stores. Today the company distributes its line of ice cream, cakes, pies and other treats in its own locations and in stadiums, club stores and supermarkets.

The total investment necessary to begin operation of a Shoppe selling a full range of Carvel® products (a “Full Shoppe”) ranges from $250,600 to $415,500. This includes $30,000 to $32,000 that must be paid to the franchisor or their affiliates.

The total investment necessary to begin operation of a Shoppe selling selected Carvel® products (an “Express Shoppe”) ranges from $39,600 to $148,400.

The total investment necessary to begin operation of an Express Shoppe within the space of another restaurant, food service facility, or business approved by the franchisor (a “Hosted Express Shoppe”) ranges from $33,100 to $66,500. These total investment estimates for Express Shoppes and Hosted Express Shoppes include $10,000 to $12,000 that must be paid to the franchisor or their affiliates.

The total investment necessary to begin operation of a Shoppe in an ice cream truck (an “Ice Cream Truck”) is $95,050 to $195,000. This includes $5,000 to $7,000 that must be paid to the franchisor or their affiliates.