With its roots in Dallas, French cafe la Madeleine plans to expand its franchise concept across the U.S.
“We are excited to introduce our high-quality and unique French fare into new cities across the country by extending our franchise opportunities,” la Madeleine COO Christine Johnson said in a news release. “For over 40 years, la Madeleine has been a beloved franchise concept. We eagerly look forward to welcoming new partners who will open cafes and introduce new guests to cherished brand classics like Croque Monsieur, Quiche Florentine, and, of course, our famous Tomato Basil Soup.”
The first la Madeleine cafe opened on Mockingbird Lane in 1983. The company has since grown its franchising platform to 90 stores and is searching for prospective franchisees to open other locations in Colorado, Arizona, Virginia, Florida, Utah, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Kansas, and Ohio.
“Expanding into these states allows la Madeleine to ignite a new passion in entrepreneurs seeking growth opportunities with a progressive and relevant brand,” said Mark Ramage, the company’s senior director of franchise development.
La Madeleine operates 25 restaurants in North Texas, including eight in Dallas, according to its website. The store’s menu includes fresh bread, French patisserie, soups, salads, pastas, sandwiches, entrees, and an all-day breakfast.
Franchisees must have $500,000 to $1.5 million in liquidity, experience in the multi-unit restaurant industry, and knowledge of real estate in their prospective markets in order to be considered.
The company offers several options for franchising, including traditional, petite, self-contained kiosks, and inline formats. Traditional cafes are between 3,400 and 4,500 square feet and employ 25 to 30 workers.