FAQ
How did Anntony’s Caribbean Café’s get started?
In 1968, Dr. Tony Martin, a PhD in nutrition and born in British Guyana, immigrated to the United States, bringing with him secret recipes handed down to him through generations of his family. He moved to Charlotte, NC in 1986 and opened a small café with a menu straight from the heart of the Caribbean. It is named for his mother, Ann, and himself, Tony. It is still located in Charlotte, NC at the corner of 7th Street and Pecan Avenue.
How much money is needed to start an Anntony’s Caribbean Café franchise?
You can expect to invest somewhere between $293,000.00 and $397,000.00. This is more fully described in item 7 of the Franchise Application and includes initial franchise fee, inventory, leasehold improvements, store fixtures, equipment and telephone, computer, startup working capital, miscellaneous and other expenses
Can I set my own store hours?
Our restaurants are generally open Monday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Local conditions may dictate that a unit should be opened longer or shorter hours and can be accommodated with the approval of Calypso Franchises, LLC.
Are price structures fixed or can I set my own pricing based on my location?
Price structures are not fixed but should be in line with our other units, notwithstanding that local conditions may, in some cases, dictate adjustments in price. All menus and prices must be approved by Calypso Franchises, LLC.
How many Anntony’s Caribbean Cafe franchises are there currently?
There are currently three restaurants. We completed the legal requirements in 2006 and began offering franchises in 2006.
What kind of support can I expect to receive from Calypso Franchises, LLC?
The initial franchise fee includes pre-opening training at an Anntony’s Caribbean Café. Franchisee is responsible for paying for lodging, transportation and food expenses incurred while attending training.
Will I be able to add items to the menu based on regional desires?
Changes to the menu can be made in locations where additional items are necessitated. Any additions to the menu must be approved in advance by Calypso Franchises, LLC.
Is there a training process?
We offer a training program which at least one franchise owner plus the manager, if different, must complete. Other managers may attend. The training program consists of classroom training and on the job training. The initial franchise fee covers the cost of initial training.
What is the recommended square footage for an Anntony’s Caribbean Cafe?
We do not have a set square footage requirement at present. Our current restaurants are in the 2500 to 3500 square foot range.
What is my timeline for opening an Anntony’s Caribbean Cafe?
Approximately 8-12 months after signing the franchise agreement.
What is the franchise fee for a single Anntony’s Caribbean Cafe?
$25,000.00
What are the royalty fees?
3% royalties plus an advertising fees not to exceed 2% of sales. At present, the advertising fee is 1% of sales.
Is previous restaurant ownership or experience necessary to own and/or operate a Anntony’s Caribbean Cafe?
It is not mandatory but will help to insure the success of your unit.
Will Calypso Franchises, LLC assist me in locating real estate, developing a suitable location, and negotiating a fair lease or purchase?
We do not provide formal real estate services but will assist with information about type of location that would be most likely to be successful.
Are there any ongoing fees associated with owning an Anntony’s Caribbean Café franchise?
Only the royalties and advertising fees mentioned above.
Where do I go from here?
For more information, fill out our online Application Form.