Franchise Deep Dive: Donatos Pizza Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data

LAST UPDATED: September 2024

FRANCHISE WEBSITE: https://www.donatospizzafranchise.com/ 

NUMBER OF LOCATIONS: 460+

REPORTED COST TO GET IN: $457,244 - $989,654

REPORTED ROI (Item 19): Up to $2.4 million

Donatos Pizza is a pizza franchise brand that was originally started in 1963 with $1,300 and a dream. Founder Jim Grote was on a mission to “promote goodwill through product and service, principles and people.” Now, Donatos Pizza has grown to occupy markets nationwide and is on track to continue expanding.

How Many Donatos Pizza Locations Are There?

There are currently over 460 Donatos Pizza locations. While some Donatos Pizza restaurants stand on their own, the brand has also partnered with Red Robin to offer its pizza at select locations. In a sea full of pizza shops, Donatos’ elevated — but still convenient and accessible — approach to classic flavors, unique combinations, subs, salads and wings helps it to stand out and positions it for ongoing growth.

What Is the Donatos Pizza Business Model?

Donatos Pizza is a pizza franchise concept offering dine-in, carry-out and delivery services. Like many pizza concepts, it also has salads, wings, calzones, sides and desserts on the menu. In addition to serving great food, Donatos has demonstrated a commitment to serving people and communities through fundraising, volunteering and nurturing other partnerships.

How Much Can Donatos Pizza Franchise Owners Make?

According to the brand’s 2023 Franchise Disclosure Document, top-performing franchised locations captured an average of $2,422,555 in net sales in 2022. The average across all franchised locations was $1,056,219.

How Much Does It Cost To Open a Donatos Pizza?

The estimated initial investment required to begin operation of a Donatos Pizza franchise ranges from $457,244 to $989,654. This includes the following costs:

• Initial Franchise Fee: $30,000
• Security Deposit Under Lease: $2,000 - $11,000
• One Month’s Rent, Real Estate Expenses: $2,000 - $11,000
• Leasehold Improvements/Construction: $35,500 - $454,000
• Furniture, Fixtures, Equipment: $297,244 - $346,154
• Computer System: $18,000 - $23,000
• TRIO Software License Fee: $4,500
• Liquor License: $0 - $10,000
• Opening Inventory and Supplies: $15,000 - $20,000
• Grand Opening Marketing, Initial Marketing Expenses: $25,000 - $30,000
• Training Expenses: $1,000 - $15,000
• Miscellaneous Opening Costs: $2,000 - $5,000
• Additional Funds (3 Months): $25,000 - $30,000

What Is the Franchise Fee for Donatos Pizza?

Donatos Pizza assesses a franchise fee of $30,000.

Who Is the Leadership of Donatos Pizza?

• James E. Grote — Founder
• Jane M. Grote Abell — Chief Purpose Officer
• Thomas Krouse — Chief Executive Officer
• Kevin King — President
• Douglas V. Kourie — Chief Financial Officer
• Jeff Baldwin — Vice President of Development and Franchising
• Tony Capuano — Vice President of Franchise Operations
• Jodie Conrad — Chief Marketing Officer
• Christina Jackson — Chief People Officer
• Steven Graves — Chief Information Officer

What Helpful Articles Can I Read To Learn More?

• Family-owned Donatos Passes the Ownership to the Next Generation
• Donatos Rolls Out Budget-Friendly Bakery Crust Pizza
• Donatos Pizza Makes Massive Texas Debut as Four Franchise Groups Simultaneously Secure Deals
• Why Donatos Pizza Is Ready for a Big Franchise Push

Want to learn more about franchise opportunities on 1851 Franchise? Be sure to visit our Power Rankings to read more on brands making moves. 

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Every great franchisee had help buying a franchise. Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit www.1851growthclub.com and start your journey.

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