News Europe Food and beverage

Neuhaus Chocolates franchise model

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2026-02-03

An established Belgian chocolate house offering a structured franchise concept built on heritage, premium quality and international brand recognition.

In this article you will learn

Overview of a premium European chocolate brand and how its retail partnership model operates in practice.
Details on the countries and regions where branded stores are already present and where further growth is planned.
Clear explanation of how to join the network, including entry requirements and estimated start-up investment levels.
Practical information on ongoing fees, operational duties and the type of training and launch support provided.
Insight into expected business performance and long-term expansion direction of the brand.

Neuhaus Chocolates is a Belgian chocolate manufacturer founded in 1857 and widely recognized as the creator of the Belgian praline. The company designs, produces and distributes premium chocolates and pralines, all manufactured in Belgium and sold through branded boutiques. The franchise model is distinctive due to its strong historical positioning, consistent product quality, centralized production and clearly defined boutique concepts that allow franchisees to operate within a luxury retail framework while benefiting from a globally known brand.

Global presence and franchise access

Neuhaus franchises operate across Europe and in selected international markets, including North America, with boutiques located in major cities, shopping streets and premium retail environments. Becoming a franchisee involves a formal application process, followed by an evaluation of the candidate’s profile, market potential and proposed location. The company works closely with approved candidates during site selection and ensures that each boutique meets Neuhaus design, layout and brand standards before opening.

Financial structure, operations and growth outlook

Joining the Neuhaus franchise network requires a defined financial investment that includes an entrance fee of approximately €15,000 in Europe, initial stock typically ranging from €12,000 to €15,000, and boutique design, fit-out and renovation costs that generally bring the total initial investment to a range of roughly €150,000 to €200,000 depending on location and size. Ongoing fees mainly consist of a marketing contribution of around 2.5 percent of net turnover, with no additional production royalties as products are supplied directly by the brand. Neuhaus supports new franchisees through structured training programs, operational guidance, merchandising support and coordinated marketing initiatives from the outset. Revenue potential depends on location, footfall and operational performance, with the business model designed to reach profitability and return on investment within several years. Franchisees are responsible for daily store operations, staff management, inventory control, local marketing execution and maintaining brand standards. Neuhaus continues to plan measured expansion in strategically selected markets, focusing on locations that align with the brand’s premium positioning and long-term growth objectives.

Main conclusions

Neuhaus Chocolates operates a franchise model based on centralized production in Belgium and decentralized retail, which limits production risk on the franchisee side.
The estimated total initial investment typically falls in the range of approximately €150,000–€200,000, depending on boutique size and location.
Ongoing costs are relatively limited and mainly include a marketing fee of around 2.5% of net turnover, with no classic royalty on sales.
The brand focuses on premium locations and controlled expansion, which reduces saturation risk but limits the number of available franchise territories.
The business model assumes stable demand for luxury chocolate products and is designed for medium- to long-term return on investment rather than rapid short-term gains