Franchise Deep Dive: I Heart Mac & Cheese Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data

LAST UPDATED: October 2023

FRANCHISE WEBSITE: https://iheartmacandcheese.com/franchise 

NUMBER OF LOCATIONS: 35+

REPORTED COST TO GET IN:  $277,500 – $756,300

REPORTED ROI (Item 19): NA

I Heart Mac & Cheese is known for its customizable macaroni and cheese bowls that are made to order, as well as their grilled cheese sandwiches. This American fast-casual restaurant chain competes against other pasta franchises in the industry such as Fazoli’s and Noodles & Company. 

How Many I Heart Mac & Cheese Locations Are There?

I Heart Mac & Cheese has around 35 locations. The south Florida based brand has most of its locations in the United States, but the brand also has two locations in Canada. 

What Is the I Heart Mac & Cheese Business Model?

I Heart Mac & Cheese primarily offers in-line, order at the counter service. The menu includes made-to-order macaroni and cheese bowls and customizable grilled cheese sandwiches, as well as sides, desserts and drinks. 

 Online order and catering options are also available.

How Much Can I Heart Mac & Cheese Franchise Owners Make?

As a franchise system, I Heart Mac & Cheese does not publicly disclose financial performance representations or return-on-investment data. Earnings can vary greatly, depending on factors like location and management. Potential franchisees should carefully review the franchise disclosure document (FDD) and speak with existing franchisees to better understand the potential financial performance. 

How Much Does It Cost to Open an I Heart Mac & Cheese Franchise?

The estimated total investment necessary to begin the operation of an I Heart Mac & Cheese Franchise ranges from $277,500 – $756,300. 

A breakdown of initial investment costs according to the brand’s 2022 FDD are indicated below:

• Franchise Fee: $35,000
• Real Estate/Rent: $4,000 - $7,000
• Utility Deposits:$1,000 - $2,000
• Leasehold Improvements, Build Out & Permits: $90,000 - $500,000
• Architecture Expenses: $7,600 - $14,000
• Insurance: $2,500 - $6,000
• Office Equipment and Supplies: $500 - $2,500
• Pre-Opening Training Expenses: $1,000 - $3,000
• Signage: $5,000 - $8,000
• Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment: $70,000 - $102,000
• Initial Inventory:$5,000
• Grand Opening Advertising: $12,000
• Business Licenses: $500 - $1,000
• Grand Opening Supplies: $4,300
• Legal & Accounting: $4,000
• Dues and Subscriptions: $100 - $500
• Audio/Visual/Security System : $25,000 - $30,000
• Additional Funds: $19,000 - $20,000

Franchisees must also pay an ongoing royalty fee of 5% of gross sales. 

What Is the Franchise Fee for I Heart Mac & Cheese?

The I Heart Mac & Cheese franchise fee is $35,000 for the first unit and $25,000 on all additional units. This is the upfront fee that must be paid when opening an I Heart Mac & Cheese franchise. 

Who Is the Leadership of I Heart Mac & Cheese?

• Steve Giordanella - CEO, president and founder
• Joe Amodio - Vice President of Franchise Development
• Rich Cueny - Chief Financial Officer
• Gerardo Donatiello - Vice President

What Helpful Articles Can I Read to Learn More About I Heart Mac & Cheese?

• I Heart Mac & Cheese St. Albans grand opening coming Sept 13
• I Heart Mac & Cheese opens highly anticipated location in Spanish Fork, Utah
• Restaurant scene: Tennessee’s first I Heart Mac & Cheese is coming to Hixson
• Staying Cheesy: I Heart Mac and Cheese comes to the Westside

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