Moe's Southwest Grill vs The Coffee Bean & Tea LeafFranchise Comparison 2026
Moe's Southwest Grill 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 | Moe's Southwest Grill | The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $30,000 | $35,000 | -14% |
| Total Investment (Low) | $350,000 | $250,000 | +40% |
| Total Investment (High) | $710,000 | $550,000 | +29% |
| Cash Required | $250,000 | $200,000 | +25% |
| Royalty Rate | 5.0% | 6.0% | Lower |
| Advertising Fee | 3.0% | 2.0% | Higher |
| Estimated Revenue | $920,000 | $720,000 | +28% |
| Number of Locations | 720 | 1,100 | Fewer |
| Year Founded | 2000 | 1963 | Newer |
| 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 Moe's Southwest Grill
Fresh Tex-Mex with free chips and salsa. Part of Focus Brands. Strong unit economics and operational simplicity.
About The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
Specialty coffee and tea with global locations. Premium positioning and diverse beverage menu.
Investment Comparison
The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf requires a lower initial investment (avg $400,000) compared to Moe's Southwest Grill(avg $530,000), making it more accessible for first-time franchisees. However, Moe's Southwest Grill may offer higher revenue potential.
Fee Structure
Both brands have similar ongoing fee structures (8.0% total), so the difference in profitability will primarily come from top-line revenue, operating efficiency, and local market conditions.
Market Position
The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf has a significantly larger footprint with 1,100 locations compared to Moe's Southwest Grill's 720. 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 Moe's Southwest Grill vs The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf franchise?
Moe's Southwest Grill requires an initial investment of $350,000 to $710,000, while The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf requires $250,000 to $550,000. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf has the lower average investment at $400,000.
What are the ongoing fees for Moe's Southwest Grill vs The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf?
Moe's Southwest Grill charges a 5.0% royalty plus 3.0% advertising fee (8.0% 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: Moe's Southwest Grill or The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf?
Based on estimated average unit revenue, Moe's Southwest Grill generates $920,000 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 Moe's Southwest Grill have vs The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf?
Moe's Southwest Grill has 720 locations, while The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf has 1,100 locations. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf has the larger footprint, which typically means stronger brand recognition and supply chain advantages.
Is Moe's Southwest Grill or The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf a better franchise investment in 2026?
Both Moe's Southwest Grill and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf are established QSR brands with proven models. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf offers a lower entry point, while Moe's Southwest Grill 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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