Fries reimagined

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In this article you will learn

• The business idea behind a Croatian street-food brand built around fries
• The different outlet formats available to prospective franchise partners
• The estimated capital requirements and recurring franchise payment
• The training, operational guidance and marketing resources offered by the franchisor
• The main factors that influence the financial performance of an outlet

Surf’n’Fries is a Croatian quick-service restaurant brand founded in 2009. Its concept places French fries at the centre of the menu, transforming a familiar snack into a distinctive street-food experience. The company combines freshly prepared fries with a wide choice of sauces, toppings and gourmet additions, allowing customers to customise their orders.

One of the brand’s most recognisable features is its specially designed packaging, which allows customers to carry their food conveniently in one hand. The packaging also serves as a marketing tool, making the product visible beyond the outlet itself. According to the company, its menu includes close to 40 sauces, toppings and additional options.

Surf’n’Fries has developed an international franchise network. Its official website reports more than 45 shops across over 15 countries. The business offers several outlet formats, including permanent shops, food trucks and carts, giving franchise partners flexibility when choosing a location and scale of operation.

Investment and franchise requirements

Entrepreneurs interested in joining Surf’n’Fries can begin by contacting the company for an introductory consultation and an assessment of their proposed location. The franchisor evaluates the site and helps candidates determine which business format may be appropriate for the local market. The company also offers multi-unit opportunities for investors planning to develop several outlets.

Published franchise listings provide indicative investment figures that vary significantly by format. A cart requires an estimated total investment of €18,000, including a €2,500 initial franchise fee. A trailer is estimated at €56,000, with a €5,000 franchise fee, while a full shop may require approximately €150,000, including a €10,000 franchise fee. The published ongoing royalty is 5% of turnover, with no separate advertising fee listed in the same franchise profile. These figures should be confirmed directly with the franchisor before making an investment decision.

The company provides support with outlet design, standardised plans, supplier arrangements, operational documentation and marketing materials. Franchise partners also receive practical training for the owner, manager and employees. The published training schedule includes preparation before opening and follow-up assistance during the first days of trading.

Daily operations and growth potential

A Surf’n’Fries franchisee is responsible for the daily operation of the outlet, including staff management, customer service, food preparation standards, stock control and financial performance. The franchisee must follow the brand’s operating procedures while ensuring that the chosen location attracts sufficient customer traffic. The company identifies city centres, tourist areas, promenades, shopping streets, transport hubs and events as potential locations for its different formats.

The business can be operated by an owner-manager or developed as part of a larger multi-unit operation, depending on the chosen agreement and available resources. However, the franchisor does not publish a universal revenue figure that can reliably predict the earnings of an individual outlet. Actual results will depend on location, footfall, rent, staffing costs, sales volume and local competition. The initial investment should therefore be assessed alongside a location-specific business plan.

Surf’n’Fries continues to promote international franchise development and invites entrepreneurs to discuss opportunities in their markets. Its combination of a focused menu, distinctive packaging and adaptable outlet formats provides a recognisable concept for street-food locations. Prospective franchisees should contact the company directly to confirm current investment requirements, territorial availability and the terms offered for their country.

Main conclusions

• 2009 – Year Surf’n’Fries was founded.
• 45+ shops – Retail network size reported on the company’s official website.
• 15+ countries – International presence reported by the brand.
• €18,000 – Indicative investment for a cart format.
• €56,000 – Indicative investment for a trailer format.
• €150,000 – Indicative investment for a full shop.
• €2,500–€10,000 – Published initial franchise fees, depending on format.
• 5% of turnover – Published ongoing royalty rate.
• No guaranteed earnings – Franchise profitability depends on the individual location and operating costs.

Author

Agnieszka Bąbik

Journalist