Franchise rules and regulations for Kenya Coffee School (KCS) Training Hubs, based on common franchise models in the coffee education industry:
Kenya Coffee School (KCS) – Franchise Guidelines
Note: “KCS – Knowledge of Coffee Skills” is a proprietary brand in Kenya Owned by Kenya Coffee School
1. Franchise Eligibility & Application
Requirements for Franchisees
- Financial Capacity
- Minimum investment: USD 10,000–15,000 (covers setup, equipment, licensing).
- Proof of liquidity (e.g., bank statements).
- Experience
- Preferred: Background in coffee, hospitality, or education.
- No prior experience? Must complete KCS’s mandatory training.
- Location
- Urban hubs (Nairobi, Mombasa) or coffee-growing regions (Nyeri, Kirinyaga).
- Facility must meet KCS’s design standards (e.g., training lab, seating).
Application Process
- Submit business proposal + franchise fee deposit.
- Attend interview/assessment by KCS headquarters.
- Sign Franchise Agreement (2 to 5 Years).
2. Franchise Fees & Financial Obligations
| Fee Type | Estimated Cost | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | Ksh. 450,000 | One-time, non-refundable license fee. |
| Royalty Fees | 5–10% of monthly revenue and License Renewability (Renewable Annually at Ksh.250k) | Paid to KCS HQ for ongoing support. |
| Marketing Fee | 2–5% of revenue | For national branding/ad campaigns. |
| Equipment/Setup Costs | Ksh.370,000 | Espresso machines, grinders, training tools. |
3. Training & Operational Standards
Mandatory Training for Franchise Staff
- Barista Trainers: Must pass KCS Level 3 Certification.
- Roasting Instructors: Certified by KCS or SCA/CQI.
- Annual Refresher Courses: Required to maintain standards.
Curriculum Compliance
- Use KCS-approved training materials (no third-party content without approval).
- Offer standardized courses (e.g., “KCS Barista Fundamentals,” “Farm to Cup”).
4. Facility Requirements
- Space: Minimum 800–1,500 sq. ft. (classroom + practical lab).
- Equipment:
- Espresso machines (e.g., La Marzocco, Nuova Simonelli).
- Roasting lab (for advanced programs).
- Cupping station (KCS-certified tools).
- Branding: Must display KCS logos, color schemes, and uniforms.
5. Quality Control & Audits
- Mystery Audits: Quarterly checks by KCS HQ for consistency.
- Student Feedback: Minimum 4.5/5 rating required to retain franchise rights.
- Certification Pass Rates: ≥80% of students must pass KCS exams.
6. Marketing & Branding Rules
- Local Marketing: Franchisees can run promotions but must adhere to KCS brand guidelines.
- Digital Presence:
- Mandatory KCS-approved website template.
- Social media posts require HQ approval if using KCS trademarks.
7. Territory & Exclusivity
- Exclusive Territories: Franchisees get protected zones (e.g., no other KCS hub within 30 km).
- Expansion Rights: Option to open additional hubs after 2 years of profitability.
8. Termination & Renewal
- Breach of Contract: Failure to meet standards → 30-day notice to rectify or terminate.
- Renewal: After 5 years, subject to performance review + updated fees.
9. Support from KCS Headquarters
- Pre-Opening: Site selection, staff training, marketing launch.
- Ongoing:
- Access to updated curriculam.
- Bulk purchasing discounts for coffee/equipment.
- Tech support for CRM/e-learning platforms.
Comparison: KCS vs. SCA-Affiliated Franchises
| Aspect | KCS Franchise USD | SCA Premier Training Campus USD |
|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | 5K–5K–20K (Flexible) | 20K–20K–100K+ (SCA affiliation stricter) |
| Curriculum | Proprietary – KCS Coffee Skills Program | SCA Coffee Skills Program |
| Global Recognition | Worldwide | Worldwide |
| Flexibility | High (KCS local & Regional adaptations) | Strict SCA guidelines |
How to Apply for a KCS Franchise?
- Contact KCS HQ (Email : info@kenyacoffeeschool.golearn.co.ke).
- Submit business plan + financial documents.
- Attend franchisee orientation.
- Secure location + pay fees.
Is a KCS Franchise Worth It?
✅ Yes if:
- You want to tap into Kenya’s growing coffee training demand.
- Prefer a local brand with lower entry costs than SCA.
Interested in KCS Franchise – Contact Us