Pastry franchise Le Macaron French Pastries has just moved another step forward in its United States expansion plans. The pastry brand recently announced the opening of five new stores in major markets in Florida and California in the cities of Santa Barbara, San Francisco, Tampa, Jacksonville and Miami. More franchise business locations are in the works in Santa Monica, Laguna Beach, Estero and St. Augustine, with openings slated for this summer.
Le Macaron French Pastries President and CEO Rosalie Guillem said the brand is proud to continue its American expansion. Florida, according to Guillem, is where the brand made its name, and the franchiser is also excited to increase its presence there and in another states across the West Coast.
The specialty pastry chain opened the doors to its first location in September 2009, with franchising starting in 2012. Today, the brand has more than 40 locations, most of which are franchisee-owned and operated. Its European-flavored p?tisserie concept came from the mother-and-daughter team of Rosalie Guillem and Audrey Guillem-Saba, who started the business shortly after arriving in the US from France. Le Macaron French Pastries offers 20 different varieties of the macaron, gourmet chocolates, imported gelato in the French style, espresso, and other staple French pastries against a luxury cafe backdrop.
Franchisee Benjamin Brizard, owner of the new San Francisco location, cited the brand's atmosphere as one factor in his decision. After he spoke to other franchisees and met with Rosalie Guillem, he was also impressed by their passion and love for the core concept. According to Brizard, becoming a member of the brand's family was ultimately an easy choice to make.
Current franchise opportunities:
Recently making the "Top 10 Hottest Franchise Categories" list by Entrepreneur StartUps in the bakery section, the specialty pastry chain is now offering franchise opportunities across the nation as part of an ambitious expansion plan. To qualify for one of these franchise opportunities, applicants must have a net worth of $500,000, with at least $100,000 liquid. The initial franchise fee is $30,000, and the initial total investment ranges from $126,000 to $353,500.
