Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after business opportunities in America’s booming bakery sector. With over 500 locations and counting, it is not just about baking cakes; it is about serving nostalgia, celebration, and consistency, wrapped in a simple, scalable model.
Food franchises are often seen as high-pressure ventures, but this brand breaks the mold. It is positioned as a low-risk, high-reward concept, thanks to its focused menu, strong customer loyalty, and streamlined operations.
Unlike full-service restaurants, franchisees benefit from a clean, efficient system with fewer moving parts. This makes it an ideal option for first-time investors or seasoned entrepreneurs looking for a proven addition to their portfolio.
In this guide, you will learn exactly what it costs to start a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise, how much it makes, who qualifies, and the step-by-step process to own one. If you are weighing your options in the food business space or simply exploring where the best margins are in franchising, this guide will give you clarity and direction.
See also: CAVA Franchise Alternatives: Best Mediterranean Restaurant Franchises to Invest In
Key Takeaways
- The Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise offers a proven, focused bakery model with strong national branding and growing consumer demand.
- Startup costs range between $551,300 and $978,210, with an average franchise generating $1.4 million in annual revenue and up to 25 per cent net profit margins.
- Ideal franchisees have a net worth of $600,000 or more, are community-driven, and are ready to be hands-on in daily operations.
- With structured training, multi-channel revenue potential, and loyal customers, it is a solid franchise opportunity for U.S. entrepreneurs seeking a scalable food business.
See also: Baskin Robbins Franchise Cost: Fees, Investment Breakdown & Profit Potential
What Is Nothing Bundt Cakes?
Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise began in 1997 with a simple concept: bundt cakes that combine the warmth of home baking with the professionalism of a gourmet dessert shop.
What started as a small kitchen operation in Las Vegas quickly scaled into a nationally recognised brand that has become a staple for birthdays, anniversaries, corporate gifts, and just-because moments across the United States.
The franchise is built around one product – the bundt cake, but that focus is exactly what sets it apart. The cakes come in a variety of sizes and flavours, with signature cream cheese frosting and seasonal options that keep customers coming back.
This niche product line allows franchisees to streamline operations, manage inventory more efficiently, and offer a consistent experience across all locations.
Today, Nothing Bundt Cakes operates in more than 40 states, with over 500 bakery franchises and growing. The brand benefits from a strong national presence, a loyal customer base, and a turnkey business model.
This makes the Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise one of the most attractive investments in the food service space for entrepreneurs looking to start or expand a business with a recognised and respected name.
See also: How Profitable Is An Ice Cream Shop- A Guide To Maximising Your Ice Cream Shop Revenue
Why Invest in a Bakery Franchise?
The food industry may be competitive, but certain niches continue to deliver strong, consistent returns. Bakery franchises have carved out a reliable space in the market, and Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise is leading the way.
If you are exploring where to invest next, here is why bakery franchises are worth serious consideration.
Consumers Are Spending More on Premium Desserts
Desserts are no longer an afterthought, they are an experience. The U.S. bakery products market is projected to surpass 55 billion dollars by 2026, according to Statista.
Nothing Bundt Cakes stands out by specialising in a single product done exceptionally well, with cakes that serve birthdays, holidays, and every sweet moment in between.
Lower Complexity Than Full-Service Restaurants
Operating a bakery franchise typically requires less infrastructure and fewer staff than a dine-in restaurant. No deep fryers, no large menus, and no food waste from complex recipes.
Nothing Bundt Cakes franchisees benefit from a simplified operation that keeps overhead manageable and focus sharp.
Consistent Demand, Even in Down Markets
People may cut back on big-ticket items during economic uncertainty, but affordable indulgences like cake remain popular.
A bakery franchise model that supports both everyday treats and special occasion sales offers more revenue consistency than most food service businesses.
Strong Brand Backing and Systems
When you invest in a franchise opportunity like Nothing Bundt Cakes, you are not starting from scratch. You gain a turnkey system with national brand recognition, structured training, centralised marketing, and a supply chain that has been tested and refined. It is business ownership with the support of a well-oiled machine.
See also: A product on how to own a successful franchise
Nothing Bundt Cakes Franchise Cost
Understanding the financial commitment involved in owning a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise is critical before you make a move.
From the franchise fee to buildout and operational expenses, the total investment reflects the quality, support, and market potential the brand offers. If you have ever asked, how much does a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise cost, this breakdown will give you a clear view.
Initial Franchise Fee
To begin the process, you will pay a 35,000 dollar franchise fee. This one-time fee gives you the right to operate under the brand name, access proprietary systems, and receive support from the franchisor.
It is also your entry ticket to a recognised and well-loved dessert brand with a strong foothold in the U.S. market.
Total Estimated Investment
The total cost to open a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise ranges between 483,600 dollars and 699,700 dollars. These numbers come directly from the brand’s latest Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).
This investment covers every major expense required to launch and run a fully functional bakery location.
Here is a closer look at what the investment includes:
Leasehold improvements: Site preparation and construction make up a significant part of the budget. Depending on the location, this may range from 150,000 to 250,000 dollars.
Equipment and fixtures: The cost of bakery equipment, refrigeration, point-of-sale systems, and display units typically falls between 80,000 and 120,000 dollars.
Opening inventory and supplies: Initial stock for cake ingredients, packaging, and branded materials ranges from 15,000 to 25,000 dollars.
Training expenses: The cost of travel and lodging during the franchisee training program is estimated at 5,000 to 10,000 dollars.
Marketing and grand opening: You will also budget for a required local advertising campaign of around 5,000 to 10,000 dollars to promote your launch.
Working capital: Expect to set aside at least 30,000 to 50,000 dollars in working capital to cover operating expenses in the early months.
Ongoing Fees
Royalty fee: Franchisees pay 5 per cent of gross sales in royalties to the franchisor. This contributes to ongoing support, system updates, and field operations.
Marketing fund contribution: An additional 2 per cent of gross sales goes to national brand advertising, supporting everything from TV spots to social media and seasonal campaigns.
These recurring fees are typical in the food and franchise industry and help maintain the strong national presence that drives customer awareness and loyalty.
Is Investment In Nothing Bundt Cakes Franchise Worth It?
Compared to similar bakery franchises and quick-service food brands, the Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise cost is positioned in the mid-to-upper range.
However, the combination of brand strength, efficient operations, and customer loyalty can make the investment worthwhile, especially when compared to restaurants that require far more equipment, labour, and complexity.
If you are seriously considering a franchise investment and want to run the numbers, explore our Business Plan Template to map out your startup costs, cash flow, and projected return. It is designed to help entrepreneurs like you create investor-ready plans.
See also: Proven steps to start a successful business.
Nothing Bundt Cakes Franchise Requirements
If you are thinking seriously about joining the Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise network, understanding what the brand expects from potential franchisees is just as important as knowing the financial costs.
The company is selective, not just because of the brand’s popularity, but because it wants to ensure franchisees are prepared for long-term success. Here is what you need to qualify and what the ownership journey looks like.
Financial Requirements
To own a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise, you will need a minimum net worth of 750,000 dollars and at least 250,000 dollars in liquid assets.
These financial requirements help ensure you can manage the upfront investment and operate the business until it becomes self-sustaining. The brand wants financially stable owners who are able to handle the pressures of a new business without being stretched too thin.
If you plan to secure a loan, keep in mind that franchisors typically prefer candidates who can cover at least 30 per cent of the total investment through personal funds. Having clean financial records and a strong credit score will also strengthen your franchise application.
Ideal Owner Profile
Nothing Bundt Cakes does not require prior bakery experience, but it does look for owners with a passion for hospitality and a knack for managing people.
Many current franchisees come from corporate backgrounds, operations, or customer service. What matters most is your ability to lead a team, follow proven systems, and build strong ties within your community.
If you are looking to be a hands-on owner, that is even better. While some franchises allow passive investors, Nothing Bundt Cakes strongly prefers owner-operators who are present, involved, and focused on daily operations, especially during the early stages.
Time Commitment
Running a franchise is not a part-time job, especially not in the first 12 to 18 months. You will be expected to manage store setup, complete mandatory training, and lead your team through the grand opening.
Once the bakery is operational, your daily involvement may shift depending on your staff and systems, but your leadership and presence will still play a key role in growth and performance.
Training and Onboarding
Franchisees are required to complete an in-depth training programme before opening their bakery. This includes:
- A multi-week course at the company’s corporate headquarters
- Hands-on experience in an existing store
- Localised training for your team before opening
You will also receive ongoing support through field visits, marketing toolkits, and operational updates. The brand has built a structure that sets new franchisees up for success, even if they are new to the food industry.
Location and Real Estate Guidelines
Franchise locations must meet specific criteria to reflect the brand’s image and operational needs. This includes:
- High-visibility retail spaces with ample parking
- Minimum square footage of 2,000 to 2,400 square feet
- Locations in high-traffic shopping centres or commercial zones
The franchisor assists with site selection, lease negotiation, and design layout, so you will not be alone during this phase.
If you are ready to own a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise, it pays to come to the table prepared. Whether you are still gathering financial documentation or mapping out your ideal store location, our school – Entrepreneurs Success Blueprint can help guide you from research to ownership.
See Also: Starbucks Franchise- Cost and Top Coffee Shop Franchise Alternatives You Can Invest In
How Much Does a Nothing Bundt Cakes Franchise Make
If you are considering investing in a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise, one of the first questions on your mind is likely, how much does a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise make?
Understanding the potential return on investment is essential before making any franchise commitment, and while individual earnings vary by location, the available data provides a solid starting point.
Average Franchise Revenue
According to the brand’s 2023 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), the average annual revenue for top-performing Nothing Bundt Cakes locations exceeds 1.3 million dollars.
These results are based on bakeries that have been open for at least two years and are actively managed by the franchise owner. Even mid-range stores average between 900,000 and 1.1 million dollars in gross sales annually.
Revenue can vary based on location, local competition, and how engaged you are in the day-to-day operations. High-traffic retail areas with solid footfall tend to generate stronger numbers, especially when supported by local marketing and community engagement.
Gross Profit Margins
While the gross revenue figures are impressive, what really matters is how much of that income turns into actual profit.
On average, Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise profit margins sit around 20 to 25 per cent after accounting for operating costs, royalties, staffing, rent, and ingredients. This puts it ahead of many food-based franchises that operate on thinner margins.
Let us look at a simplified example of a bakery generating 1 million dollars in annual revenue:
- Cost of goods sold (ingredients and packaging): 250,000 dollars
- Labour and staffing: 200,000 dollars
- Rent and utilities: 100,000 dollars
- Royalties and marketing fees (7 per cent total): 70,000 dollars
- Miscellaneous operational costs: 80,000 dollars
Estimated Net Profit: 300,000 dollars (30 per cent)
Of course, these numbers are estimates. Your actual profit depends on your cost control, local pricing, and how efficiently you run your operations.
However, these figures show that a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise can offer strong earning potential when well managed.
See Also: IN-N-OUT Burger Franchise Alternatives- Top Fast-Food Franchises to Invest In 2025
Timeframe to Break Even
Most franchise owners aim to recoup their initial investment within 3 to 5 years, depending on location and performance.
A bakery generating steady six-figure net income can return your upfront investment of 500,000 to 700,000 dollars in a reasonable timeframe, especially if revenues ramp up in year two and beyond.
Profit Drivers That Matter
To maximise nothing bundt cakes franchise earnings, focus on:
Owner involvement: Actively managed stores tend to perform better than absentee-owned ones.
Local marketing: Engaging with schools, corporations, and local events can drive repeat business.
Cost control: Staying on top of labour and inventory can significantly improve your margins.
Team culture: A well-trained, motivated team enhances the customer experience and supports long-term loyalty.
If you are serious about running the numbers in detail, our Business Plan Template can help you model your projected cash flow, profits, and break-even point. It is built specifically for entrepreneurs evaluating franchise models and can be customised to your financial goals.
See also: Smoothie King Franchise Cost: Fees, Investment Breakdown & Profit Potential
Nothing Bundt Cakes Franchise Profit Potential
When exploring any franchise opportunity, the question is not just how much revenue the business can generate, but how much of that revenue translates to profit.
The Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise profit potential is one of the reasons this bakery brand continues to attract serious investors across the United States.
High Margins for a Food-Based Business
Unlike traditional restaurants that carry high food waste and payroll expenses, the Nothing Bundt Cakes model keeps things streamlined.
With a focused product line, simplified kitchen processes, and lower ingredient variability, franchisees often enjoy higher margins than many other food-based businesses.
Gross margins typically sit between 60 to 70 per cent. After factoring in labour, rent, marketing, and royalty fees, the average net profit margin settles between 20 to 25 per cent for well-managed locations.
These are solid numbers for a retail food franchise, especially one with relatively low complexity.
Predictable Revenue Streams
The revenue model for a Nothing Bundt Cakes bakery is not just based on walk-in customers. Franchisees benefit from:
- Pre-orders for events and holidays
- Corporate gifting
- Seasonal promotions
- Online and phone-in orders
- Partnerships with schools, realtors, and local organisations
This diversified income stream helps smooth out seasonal dips and builds long-term customer relationships.
Repeat Customers and Local Loyalty
The brand thrives on repeat business. People do not just try it once, they return for birthdays, graduations, client gifts, and even “just because” days.
Franchise owners often see customers come back month after month, especially when strong local marketing and community outreach are in place.
Profit Potential by the Numbers
Let us consider a bakery generating 1.2 million dollars in gross annual sales:
- Gross profit (at 65 per cent margin): 780,000 dollars
- Operating expenses (rent, wages, utilities, supplies): 480,000 dollars
- Franchise royalty and marketing fees: 84,000 dollars (7 per cent of revenue)
Net Profit Estimate: 216,000 dollars
This puts your Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise earnings in a range that can deliver a strong return on investment over time. Profitability can rise even higher once the business stabilises and fixed costs are covered by repeat customer volume.
If you are focused on building a profitable franchise with a brand that people already love, Nothing Bundt Cakes offers a model that rewards consistency, community engagement, and operational discipline.
See also: Best Franchises to Own for Beginners: Top Opportunities for First-Time Entrepreneurs
Nothing Bundt Cakes Franchise Training and Support
When you invest in a franchise, you are not just buying into a product, you are buying into a system. The Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise training and support programme is designed to give you every advantage from day one.
Whether you are new to the food business or transitioning from corporate life, the franchisor provides a roadmap that is both practical and proven.
Comprehensive Initial Training
Once your application is approved and the franchise agreement is signed, you will attend a mandatory training programme at the company’s headquarters in Dallas, Texas.
The training lasts approximately three weeks and covers everything you need to run a successful bakery. Topics include:
- Store operations and workflow
- Quality control and recipe consistency
- Customer service and team management
- Inventory and supplier systems
- POS system training and reporting tools
The hands-on nature of the training ensures that when you open your doors, you are not learning as you go; you are executing a system that has already worked in hundreds of locations.
Localised Store Setup and Pre-Opening Support
In the months leading up to your store’s opening, the corporate team will assist with location selection, lease negotiations, and bakery layout.
You will receive store buildout guidelines that align with the brand’s look and feel, down to the last design detail.
As your opening date approaches, a field operations team will help with:
- Staff hiring and onboarding
- Inventory ordering
- Marketing launch plan
- In-store workflow simulations
This level of support helps ensure that your grand opening is smooth and that your first impression in the local market is strong.
Ongoing Franchise Support
After your store is open, support does not stop. The brand continues to guide you with:
- Regular field visits from support staff
- Access to marketing campaigns and creative materials
- Updated operational manuals and tools
- New product rollouts and training updates
- Franchisee community calls and peer support
This is one of the key advantages of owning a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise. You are part of a wider network with built-in mentoring, proven playbooks, and national marketing momentum.
If you are looking for a franchise opportunity that does not leave you to figure things out alone, this bakery concept delivers structure without stifling your ability to lead.
And if you are already building your entrepreneurial journey, resources like our Entrepreneurs Success Blueprint or Brand Development Tools can help you take your store’s visibility even further.
How to Own a Nothing Bundt Cakes Franchise – Step-by-Step
If you are serious about owning a bakery that already has brand loyalty baked in, understanding the steps to own a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise is crucial.
While the company offers solid training and support, the process to join the system is structured and selective. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the franchise process with confidence.
Step 1: Submit Your Franchise Inquiry
The journey begins with an online inquiry form through the Nothing Bundt Cakes website.
This is your opportunity to express interest and share a bit about your background, business experience, and location preferences. A franchise development representative will follow up for an initial conversation.
Step 2: Complete the Franchise Application
Once initial contact is made, you will be invited to fill out a formal application. This includes your personal and financial background, net worth documentation, and liquidity verification. The franchisor will also assess whether your goals align with the brand’s values and expectations.
If you are preparing for this step, tools like our Business Plan Template can help you organise your business plan and financial projections, both of which show the franchisor that you are ready for ownership.
Step 3: Review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)
Once your application is accepted, you will receive the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). This legal document includes everything you need to know before buying a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise. It outlines:
- Franchise fees and royalty structure
- Training and support obligations
- Territory rights
- Earnings claims and historical financials
- Terms of the agreement
Take time to review this thoroughly, preferably with a franchise attorney or accountant. It is essential that you understand every obligation and commitment before moving forward.
Step 4: Attend a Discovery Day
Qualified applicants are invited to attend a Discovery Day at the company’s headquarters. This is your chance to meet the corporate team, ask questions, and experience the company culture firsthand.
You will tour a working bakery and dive deeper into what it means to own a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise.
Discovery Day is a mutual evaluation process. The brand is assessing you just as much as you are assessing them. Being prepared with thoughtful questions and a clear understanding of your goals will go a long way.
Step 5: Secure Your Location and Financing
After Discovery Day and approval, you will sign the franchise agreement and begin the real work. This includes:
- Finding and leasing a suitable retail space
- Collaborating with the corporate team on buildout and design
- Securing financing (if needed) through SBA loans or commercial lenders
Franchisees typically work with contractors and the franchisor’s approved vendors to ensure every element of the store meets brand standards. A project timeline is developed to manage the buildout and pre-opening checklist.
Step 6: Complete Franchise Training
Before opening your doors, you will participate in the official Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise training program. This is a deep dive into every aspect of running your bakery, from cake prep and customer experience to inventory systems and local marketing.
You will also train at an existing location to gain real-world experience.
This step ensures that by the time your store opens, you are not just informed, you are confident.
Step 7: Launch Your Bakery
The final step is your grand opening. With support from the franchisor and your local marketing efforts, you will officially welcome customers and begin operations.
The launch is your chance to introduce yourself to the community, build early brand loyalty, and create a strong foundation for recurring sales.
Do not underestimate the power of first impressions. Successful franchisees often plan soft openings, community outreach, and targeted advertising in advance to build momentum from day one.
If you want additional support during this launch phase, our Advertising Packages are designed to help you put your business in front of a wider audience. Whether you need press coverage, brand storytelling, or visibility among business leaders, we help entrepreneurs amplify their message the right way.
Nothing Bundt Cakes Franchise Reviews and Success Stories
One of the best ways to evaluate a franchise opportunity is by listening to the voices of those who are already in the system. Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise reviews consistently reflect a brand built on strong support, simple operations, and reliable customer loyalty.
Below are real-world stories and insights from franchisees who have successfully built their own bakeries under the Nothing Bundt Cakes banner.
A Community-Focused Brand With National Reach
Franchise owners often highlight how the brand’s family-friendly appeal and emotional connection with customers drive repeat business. One franchisee in Colorado shared that the store had become “a staple in the community,” with customers dropping by not only for celebrations but also just to brighten their day.
This kind of customer relationship is not accidental, it is the result of a franchise model that emphasises hospitality, product consistency, and local marketing.
According to public franchisee feedback, owners appreciate that they are not just selling cake, they are helping people celebrate life’s big and small moments.
Operational Support That Makes a Difference
Many of the most positive Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise reviews mention the high quality of operational support. New owners say they feel equipped to succeed even if they come from outside the food industry.
One multi-unit operator based in Texas explained that “the training and systems made it possible to go from no baking background to running two profitable bakeries in under three years.”
Franchisees often speak highly of the field consultants who assist with everything from pre-opening to monthly performance reviews.
This type of structure can make a huge difference for first-time business owners or those looking to expand their investment portfolio without starting from scratch.
Real Profit, Real Lifestyle
Several owners share that their decision to own a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise was about more than just financial gain, it was about lifestyle flexibility.
Because the bakery operates during regular retail hours and does not involve late nights or complicated kitchen prep, owners often find a better work-life balance compared to other food concepts.
One franchisee in Florida noted, “I can pick up my kids from school and still run a successful bakery. That’s rare in food service.”
Lessons From the Field
While the reviews are overwhelmingly positive, successful franchisees are quick to point out that it is not a passive investment.
Results come from being involved, hiring the right team, and following the systems. The most common advice across franchisee interviews is: stick to the model, trust the training, and take care of your people.
If you are thinking about joining the brand and want to build a similar story of your own, make sure to check out our Entrepreneurs Success Blueprint. It is ideal for entrepreneurs mapping their transition from idea to full-fledged ownership and will help you move from planning to profit with a clear, actionable strategy.
Pros and Cons of the Nothing Bundt Cakes Franchise
Every franchise opportunity comes with benefits and trade-offs. While the Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise continues to earn strong reviews from franchisees and customers alike, it is important to weigh the full picture.
Here are the most common pros and cons shared by owners, industry analysts, and experienced operators.
Pros of Owning a Nothing Bundt Cakes Franchise
Strong Brand Recognition
Nothing Bundt Cakes is a household name in many U.S. markets. With more than 500 locations nationwide, the brand is widely recognised and trusted.
That kind of brand equity can take years to build independently, but is available from day one when you own a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise.
Simple Product Line, High Consistency
Unlike other food businesses that juggle complex menus and high ingredient waste, this franchise focuses on doing one thing—bundt cakes—exceptionally well. The narrow product range simplifies inventory, training, and quality control.
Comprehensive Training and Support
Franchisees benefit from structured training, field support, and access to national marketing campaigns.
Whether you are a first-time entrepreneur or a seasoned investor, the onboarding and ongoing guidance make the ramp-up phase more manageable.
Loyal Customer Base
This is not a trend-driven brand. Customers return again and again for birthdays, holidays, thank-you gifts, and office celebrations.
The franchise’s strong emotional connection with its audience drives repeat business and long-term value.
Favourable Work-Life Balance
Many owners appreciate the standard business hours and retail-focused schedule. Unlike fast food or full-service restaurants, bakeries typically close earlier and do not operate late into the night, allowing owners to enjoy a more balanced lifestyle.
Cons of Owning a Nothing Bundt Cakes Franchise
High Startup Costs
Compared to some emerging food concepts, the Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise cost is on the higher end, with total investment ranging from 483,600 dollars to 699,700 dollars.
While the brand offers strong profit potential, it does require significant upfront capital and liquidity.
Niche Product Offering
The focused menu is a strength, but also a limitation. Because the brand is known for a specific product, expanding the offering or adapting to local tastes is not encouraged. Owners must rely on the existing bundt cake model to drive all revenue.
Royalty and Marketing Fees
Franchisees are required to pay 5 per cent of gross sales as royalty fees and contribute another 2 per cent to the national marketing fund. While these fees support training and brand visibility, they do impact your bottom line.
Competitive Real Estate Requirements
Securing a location that meets the franchisor’s criteria- high foot traffic, ample parking, and strong retail synergy can be challenging in certain markets. This can delay opening timelines and increase buildout costs.
Nothing Bundt Cakes vs Other Bakery Franchises
When considering franchise investment, especially in the bakery segment, it is smart to compare options. There are several bakery franchise opportunities in the U.S. market today, each with its own business model, cost structure, and brand appeal.
Here is how the Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise stacks up against some of the most talked-about bakery concepts.
Nothing Bundt Cakes vs Crumbl Cookies
Crumbl Cookies has made headlines with its rotating weekly cookie menu and Instagram-worthy branding. It appeals to a younger, trend-focused audience and has grown rapidly across suburban markets.
Startup Costs: Crumbl’s estimated initial investment is between 228,000 and 587,000 dollars, which is similar to the cost of opening a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise.
Menu Model: While Crumbl offers novelty through variety, Nothing Bundt Cakes offers consistency. Customers know what to expect, and operational simplicity makes staffing and training easier.
Profitability: Both brands are profitable when managed well, but Crumbl may require more frequent product changes and marketing adjustments.
For entrepreneurs looking for long-term brand strength over trend momentum, owning a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise may feel more grounded and manageable.
Nothing Bundt Cakes vs Gigi’s Cupcakes
Gigi’s Cupcakes is another bakery franchise focused on desserts, but with a broader menu that includes cupcakes, cookies, and seasonal treats. It offers greater menu flexibility, but that comes with more operational complexity.
Operations: More variety means more SKUs, more prep time, and more room for inconsistency.
Brand Power: Nothing Bundt Cakes currently has stronger national awareness and a more standardised product experience across locations.
Customer Loyalty: Bundt cakes tend to be positioned around events and gifting, creating repeat behaviour. Cupcakes, while popular, often face pricing pressure in competitive local markets.
If you prefer a tight operation with a refined customer journey, the bundt cake model keeps things simple without sacrificing revenue.
Nothing Bundt Cakes vs Independent Bakeries
Opening an independent bakery gives you full control over branding, menu, and operations. However, it also means building everything from scratch- recipes, reputation, customer base, supply chains, and compliance systems.
Risk Level: Significantly higher. Success depends on your experience, team, and ability to build a following.
Startup Costs: May be lower initially, but long-term costs often rise due to trial and error, lack of bulk pricing, and marketing inefficiencies.
Support: None. You are responsible for everything from social media to sourcing ingredients.
While independent ownership can be rewarding, the structure and support offered by the Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise opportunity make it a better fit for those who value a proven system and established brand.
What Sets Nothing Bundt Cakes Apart
Brand Trust: Over two decades of consistency and community engagement.
Focused Model: Simpler to operate and scale than most competitors.
Franchisee Satisfaction: High ratings in Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise reviews for support, training, and profitability.
Resilience: A product that transcends trends, backed by national advertising and operational playbooks.
Is a Nothing Bundt Cakes Franchise Right for You?
With over 500 locations across the U.S. and a reputation for consistent quality, the Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise opportunity has proven itself. But the real question is—is it the right fit for you?
While the brand offers strong earnings potential and national support, success in franchising always comes down to the owner. If you are considering buying a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise, here are a few important factors to reflect on.
You May Be a Good Fit If:
You are financially prepared
You have a net worth of at least 750,000 dollars and 250,000 dollars in liquid capital, or access to funding that meets those levels. This allows you to comfortably handle the Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise cost without financial strain.
You want a structured, proven model
You prefer working within a system that already works rather than building from scratch. The franchise model includes clear operating procedures, tested marketing strategies, and step-by-step training.
You are community-driven
You enjoy working with people and have a strong desire to serve your local community. Franchisees who connect with schools, local businesses, and nonprofits often see greater loyalty and growth.
You are ready to be hands-on
Especially in the first 12 to 18 months, being present in the business daily makes a significant difference. If you are willing to lead, train, and manage, you are more likely to succeed.
This Franchise May Not Be for You If:
You are looking for passive income
The Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise is not a plug-and-play investment. Owners who try to remain hands-off, especially in the early stages, often struggle to build the consistency and team culture the brand relies on.
You want full creative control
If you are more of a free-form entrepreneur who wants to experiment with products, brand design, or marketing themes, a tightly branded franchise system might feel limiting.
You are unsure about long-term commitment
This is not a short-term play. Most franchise agreements last 10 years or more. Success requires vision, patience, and consistency.
Your Next Step
If you see yourself in the profile of a successful franchisee and believe in leading with service, structure, and strong community roots, then owning a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise may align perfectly with your goals.
Still weighing your options? Our Entrepreneurs Success Blueprint is a great way to evaluate this and other franchise opportunities. It helps you assess business fit, clarify your goals, and map out a launch strategy based on your personal strengths and market conditions.
Conclusion
The Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise stands out as a low-complexity, high-potential opportunity in the U.S. food franchise space.
With a well-defined product, strong national branding, and a customer base that values celebration and consistency, it offers an appealing mix of financial reward and operational simplicity.
From understanding the total investment and franchise requirements to evaluating profit margins and hearing real-world success stories, you now have a comprehensive view of what it takes to own a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise.
Like any business, success depends on your commitment, your ability to lead a team, and your willingness to follow a proven system.
This is more than a bakery, it is a business that helps people celebrate milestones, connect with others, and feel joy. If that resonates with you, it might be time to take the next step.
We want to see you succeed, and that’s why we provide valuable business resources to help you every step of the way.
- Join over 21,000 entrepreneurs by signing up for our newsletter and receiving valuable business insights.
- Register your business today with Entrepreneurs.ng’s Business Registration Services.
- Tell Your Brand Story on Entrepreneurs.ng, let’s showcase your brand to our global audience.
- Need help with your marketing strategy? Get a Comprehensive Marketing and Sales Plan here.
- Sign up for our Entrepreneurs Success Blueprint Programme to learn how to start and scale your business in just 30 days.
- Book our one-on-one consulting and speak to an expert about structuring and growing your business.
- Visit our shop for business plan templates and other valuable resources to guide you.
- Get our Employee-Employer Super Bundle NDA templates to legally protect your business and workforce.
- Advertise your business to over a million entrepreneurs through our different advertising packages.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Nothing Bundt Cakes Franchise
What is the total investment required to own a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise?
The total investment to own a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise ranges from approximately $551,300 to $978,210.
This includes the initial franchise fee, build-out costs, equipment, inventory, and working capital. The exact amount can vary based on location, lease agreements, and other factors.
How much does a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise cost?
The initial franchise fee for a Nothing Bundt Cakes bakery is $35,000. Additional costs include expenses for construction, equipment, signage, inventory, and other startup costs, bringing the total estimated investment to between $551,300 and $978,210.
What are the financial requirements to become a franchisee?
Prospective franchisees should have a minimum net worth of $600,000 and at least $150,000 in liquid assets. These requirements ensure that franchisees have the financial stability to support the initial investment and ongoing operations.
How much can a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise owner earn?
On average, a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise generates annual gross sales of approximately $1.4 million. With an estimated EBITDA margin of 20%, franchise owners can expect earnings of around $280,000 annually.
What is the average revenue of a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise?
The average unit volume (AUV) for a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise is about $1.4 million per year. Top-performing locations can achieve revenues exceeding $2 million annually.
What are the ongoing fees associated with the franchise?
Franchisees are required to pay a royalty fee of 6% of gross sales and contribute 5% of gross sales to marketing efforts. These fees support the brand’s national marketing campaigns and ongoing operational support.
What support and training does Nothing Bundt Cakes provide?
Nothing Bundt Cakes offers comprehensive training programs covering bakery operations, customer service, marketing, and more. Franchisees also receive ongoing support in areas such as product development, marketing strategies, and operational guidance.
How long does it take to open a Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise?
The process from initial inquiry to opening a bakery typically takes between 6 to 12 months. This timeline includes application approval, site selection, build-out, training, and other preparatory steps.
How many Nothing Bundt Cakes locations are there?
As of early 2025, Nothing Bundt Cakes operates over 660 locations across the United States, with plans for continued expansion.
Who owns Nothing Bundt Cakes?
Nothing Bundt Cakes is owned by Roark Capital Group, a private equity firm specialising in franchise and multi-unit businesses. Roark acquired the brand in 2021.
What makes Nothing Bundt Cakes a unique franchise opportunity?
Nothing Bundt Cakes specialises in Bundt cakes, offering a focused product line that appeals to a broad customer base. The brand’s commitment to quality, customer service, and community involvement sets it apart in the bakery franchise sector.
