Domino's vs The Coffee Bean & Tea LeafFranchise Comparison 2026
Domino's and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf represent two different approaches in the QSR space. Here's how they compare on investment costs, fees, revenue potential, and market presence.
Quick Comparison
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Domino's | The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $25,000 | $35,000 | -29% |
| Total Investment (Low) | $178,000 | $250,000 | -29% |
| Total Investment (High) | $563,000 | $550,000 | +2% |
| Cash Required | $80,000 | $200,000 | -60% |
| Royalty Rate | 5.5% | 6.0% | Lower |
| Advertising Fee | 4.0% | 2.0% | Higher |
| Estimated Revenue | $1.1M | $720,000 | +53% |
| Number of Locations | 6,929 | 1,100 | More |
| Year Founded | 1960 | 1963 | Older |
| Training Duration | 4 weeks | 3 weeks | Longer |
Note: Data sourced from public FDD filings and industry reports. Actual costs vary by location, real estate, and format. Always review current FDD Item 7 and Item 19 disclosures before making investment decisions.
Detailed Analysis
About Domino's
Delivery-focused pizza leader with strong technology platform. Lower investment than dine-in pizza concepts.
About The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
Specialty coffee and tea with global locations. Premium positioning and diverse beverage menu.
Investment Comparison
Domino's requires a lower initial investment (avg $370,500) compared to The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf(avg $400,000), making it more accessible for first-time franchisees. However, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf may offer similar revenue potential.
Fee Structure
The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf has lower ongoing fees (8.0% total) compared to Domino's(9.5% total), which means more of each sales dollar stays with the franchisee. Over time, this can significantly impact profitability.
Market Position
Domino's has a significantly larger footprint with 6,929 locations compared to The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf's 1,100. This larger network typically means better brand recognition, more purchasing power, and stronger operational support.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to open a Domino's vs The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf franchise?
Domino's requires an initial investment of $178,000 to $563,000, while The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf requires $250,000 to $550,000. Domino's has the lower average investment at $370,500.
What are the ongoing fees for Domino's vs The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf?
Domino's charges a 5.5% royalty plus 4.0% advertising fee (9.5% total). The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf charges 6.0% royalty plus 2.0% advertising fee (8.0% total). The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf has lower total ongoing fees.
Which franchise makes more money: Domino's or The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf?
Based on estimated average unit revenue, Domino's generates $1.1M per location compared to $720,000 for The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. However, profitability depends on many factors including local market, operating costs, and management.
How many locations does Domino's have vs The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf?
Domino's has 6,929 locations, while The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf has 1,100 locations. Domino's has the larger footprint, which typically means stronger brand recognition and supply chain advantages.
Is Domino's or The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf a better franchise investment in 2026?
Both Domino's and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf are established QSR brands with proven models. Domino's offers a lower entry point, while Domino's shows higher average revenue. The best choice depends on your available capital, local market conditions, and personal goals. Always review the current FDD before making investment decisions.
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