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FRANCHISESONAR

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Franchise Sonar is a data analysis tool. We provide forensic business intelligence, not legal or financial advice. Always consult qualified professionals before making franchise investment decisions.

[ THE_FOUNDER // MIDWEST // 2026 ]

Home/Franchises/Cold Stone Creamery vs McDonald's

[ FRANCHISE COMPARISON ]

Cold Stone Creamery vs McDonald's

Side-by-side FDD transparency analysis

Cold Stone Creamery

26/100

MODERATE

our band: 2 to 39

McDonald's

42/100

ELEVATED

our band: 40 to 64

Cold Stone Creamery

METRIC

McDonald's

26%

Murk Score

42%

$390,675

Investment (Low)

$1,471,000

$680,775

Investment (High)

$2,728,000

$27,000

Franchise Fee

$45,000

6.0%

Royalty Rate

5.0%

1,054

Total Units

13,559

+60

Net Growth (YoY)

+102

Cold Stone Creamery

26/100 MODERATE, our band for scores 2 to 39

Full FDD transparency analysis with red flag breakdown

Get Cold Stone Creamery Report →

McDonald's

42/100 ELEVATED, our band for scores 40 to 64

Full FDD transparency analysis with red flag breakdown

Get McDonald's Report →

[ MORE COMPARISONS ]

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