Overview
The Così franchising opportunity is well positioned against consumer trends in the rapidly growing premium convenience restaurant sector. We hold a premium position in the high-growth sandwich/salad sub-sector, which represents 60% of the market.
The target customer represents a large, attractive demographic representing 85% of the category’s buying power, with expectations that are addressed by premium convenience restaurants like Così. Our consumer is willing to pay more for quality, taste and setting.
Così serves the guest seamlessly in a sophisticated environment by providing a high quality product, service and experience. Our new restaurant design combines an efficient counter service format with relaxing contemporary environment and delivers economic benefits to our operators.
Products & Services
The Food
At the center of Così is our hearth, an open-flame stone oven prominently displayed in each restaurant, reminiscent of a comfortable gathering place where people have met for centuries to enjoy good food and conversation. Our signature flatbread is based on a two millennia-old recipe, similar to the breads first produced by the Romans. Così's sandwiches are made to order with fresh and flavorful ingredients nestled in our signature flatbread. But we're not just about sandwiches. Our distinctive menu offerings also include a wide variety of salads tossed to order, pizzas, soups, bagels, unique gourmet beverages and desserts. Something for everyone to enjoy - any time of day.
The Place
Our look and feel was first inspired by a small Parisian café - a warm inviting spot where people liked to go for coffee, spend time with the community and of course, enjoy a great sandwich. There is an immediate connection with Così that so many feel when they first walk in the door. You're surrounded by a sophisticated, modern and warm atmosphere complete with eclectic music inviting you to relax and enjoy an added personal touch from our partners, while savoring the innovative flavors of our menu. Così offers a premium convenience where you always feel welcome.
Training & Support
- An established and differentiated brand name and proven concept
- A distinctive menu with multiple day part applications
- A new prototype, a fresh image, and flexible, streamlined operations
- A broad consumer base and substantial real estate market potential
- The knowledge and strength of the Così support team
Pre-Opening assistance:
- Lease negotiation suggestions and site selection
- Restaurant design and construction
- Complete in-house and on-site training
- Grand Opening event support
Ongoing support:
- A comprehensive operations manual
- Operational and sales assistance through phone support, training courses, and site visits
- Marketing materials and promotional programs
- Continual menu, concept, and operational improvements
Why Cosi?
At Così, we have created a culture that is both guest-centered and performance-based. We have a commitment to delivering a premium convenience experience to our consumers, while operating our business in a disciplined, strategic, focused, and results-oriented way. We have built a team of experienced leaders and a strong operating business model, and act with passion to create excellence for our teams and our investors.
Our Growth
From humble beginnings in 1996, one restaurant based on a small Parisian Café has evolved to a dynamic growth company with more than 100 restaurants in 16 states and the District of Columbia. The story continues to unfold as we open and plan many new restaurants across the country and delivering our promise that Così = Taste, in both food and attitude.
Our guests continue to embrace the Così Brand – evidenced by high guest satisfaction scores, strong consistent sales and loyal visits.
We are passionate about food and are committed to building a brand that delivers the premium restaurant experience. We invite all qualified and experienced franchisees to review our franchise requirements.
Are You a Good Fit for Cosi?
We require a minimum net worth of $900,000 with $450,000 in liquid assets.
After meeting our requirements, the franchise process takes approximately 5 months from initial contact to store opening.