Cousins Maine Lobster
Financial Plan
Liquid capital
The amount you need to secure the necessary loans.
Total investment
Total Investment to launch the business, including initial fees (Not disclosed)
Average annual revenue
A snapshot of yearly performance
The Concept
Founded in 2012 by cousins Jim Tselikis and Sabin Lomac, Cousins Maine Lobster began as a single food truck in Los Angeles with a mission to bring authentic Maine lobster to customers outside New England. Inspired by the seafood traditions of their home state, the founders created a menu centered on premium lobster rolls, bisque, chowder, tacos, and other seafood specialties made with wild-caught lobster sourced directly from Maine. The brand gained national recognition after appearing on ABC’s Shark Tank, where investor Barbara Corcoran backed the business and helped accelerate its expansion.
Following its success as a food truck, Cousins Maine Lobster expanded into a franchise system that includes both mobile food trucks and brick-and-mortar restaurants. The company emphasizes authenticity by training franchisees in Maine, where they learn about lobster harvesting, sourcing, and quality standards directly from local lobstermen. Today, the brand operates across dozens of U.S. markets and has become one of the country’s best-known seafood food truck franchises.
Cousins Maine Lobster supports franchisees with site selection, truck or restaurant development, marketing, proprietary technology, supply chain management, and comprehensive operational training. Its flexible franchise model allows entrepreneurs to choose between a mobile food truck business or a permanent restaurant while leveraging a nationally recognized brand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Cousins Maine Lobster different from other food truck franchises?
Cousins Maine Lobster stands out by offering premium seafood rather than the burgers, tacos, or desserts commonly found in the food truck industry. Every menu is built around authentic Maine lobster sourced directly from the state’s fisheries, allowing franchisees to offer a distinctive product with strong brand recognition.
The brand’s appearance on Shark Tank significantly increased its visibility, helping it become one of the most recognized food truck franchises in the United States. Its combination of food trucks, restaurants, catering, and event services provides multiple revenue opportunities.
Additionally, franchisees receive hands-on training in Maine to understand lobster sourcing and quality standards, reinforcing the company’s commitment to authenticity.
How much does it cost to open a Cousins Maine Lobster franchise?
The investment depends on the business format selected. According to the franchisor, a food truck requires an estimated investment of $194,000 to $644,700, while a brick-and-mortar restaurant requires approximately $266,700 to $968,900.
Prospective franchisees must also meet the company’s financial qualifications, including at least $250,000 in liquid capital and a minimum net worth of $500,000. These requirements help ensure franchisees have sufficient resources to launch and operate the business successfully.
Candidates should review the latest Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) for complete information on fees, startup costs, and ongoing financial obligations.
What products does Cousins Maine Lobster serve?
The menu focuses on authentic Maine seafood prepared in approachable, fast-casual formats. Signature offerings include the Maine Lobster Roll, Connecticut Lobster Roll, lobster bisque, New England clam chowder, lobster tacos, lobster grilled cheese, lobster quesadillas, and lobster tots. All lobster is wild-caught and sourced directly from Maine.
The combination of premium ingredients and a streamlined menu allows franchisees to maintain consistent quality while serving customers efficiently from either food trucks or restaurants.
In addition to everyday service, franchisees generate revenue through catering, festivals, corporate events, and private functions.
Does Cousins Maine Lobster disclose average franchisee revenue?
No. Cousins Maine Lobster does not publicly disclose average franchisee revenue or earnings information. The company does not publish a public Item 19 Financial Performance Representation that provides average annual sales for franchise locations.
Because performance varies by territory, operating model, local demand, and management, prospective franchisees should review the latest FDD and speak directly with existing franchise owners during the due diligence process.
Evaluating local market conditions and event opportunities is an important part of assessing the franchise’s potential.
What support does Cousins Maine Lobster provide franchise owners?
Cousins Maine Lobster provides comprehensive franchise support before and after opening. New franchisees receive multi-stage training in both Maine and Los Angeles, covering operations, food preparation, customer service, marketing, and business management.
The company also assists with truck or restaurant development, site selection, approved suppliers, branding, technology systems, marketing materials, and ongoing operational coaching. Franchisees are assigned a dedicated liaison to help guide them through the opening process and beyond.
This extensive support, combined with a nationally recognized brand and authentic sourcing program, makes Cousins Maine Lobster one of the leading seafood franchise opportunities in the U.S. food truck sector.
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