Noodles & Company Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Noodles & Company, founded in 1995 by Aaron Kennedy, is a fast-casual restaurant headquartered in Broomfield, Colorado. Known for its globally inspired noodle dishes and pasta, the company offers a wide range of menu options that cater to various tastes and dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-sensitive options.
Noodles & Company started franchising in 2003, expanding its reach across the United States. The franchise differentiates itself with a menu that blends American and international flavors, featuring dishes such as Wisconsin Mac & Cheese, Japanese Pan Noodles, and Penne Rosa.
Their model is centered on providing high-quality, fresh food quickly and in a welcoming environment. Noodles & Company is recognized for its commitment to community and sustainability, efforts which are reflected in its positive workplace recognition and dedication to diversity.
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Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Noodles & Company franchise? It costs on average between $747,000 – $1,423,000 to start a Noodles & Company franchised restaurant.
This includes costs for construction, equipment, inventory, and initial operating expenses. The exact amount depends on various factors, including the type of restaurant you choose, the location, and whether the franchisee chooses to lease or purchase the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Build-out Costs (Leasehold Improvements) | $490,000 – $891,000 |
| Architectural & Other Design Fees | $59,000 – $132,000 |
| Landlord Credits | $46,000 – $170,000 |
| Kitchen Equipment | $127,000 – $218,000 |
| Millwork & Furniture | $22,000 – $44,000 |
| Computer Equipment | $30,000 – $56,000 |
| Signage | $17,000 – $51,000 |
| Permits & Licenses | $0 – $24,000 |
| Supplies & Smallwares | $1,000 – $10,000 |
| Opening Inventory | $6,000 – $10,000 |
| Safe & Cash on Hand in Registers | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Utilities | $0 – $4,000 |
| Pre-Opening Cash Occupancy Costs | $0 – $8,000 |
| Training | $7,000 – $64,000 |
| Grand Opening Marketing Program | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 months | $0 – $46,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 |
| Total | $747,000 – $1,423,000 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a Noodles & Company franchise? A Noodles & Company franchised restaurant makes on average $1,272,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
This compares to $1,074,000 yearly revenue for similar Asian franchises.
Below are 10 Noodles & Company competitors as a comparison:
The most profitable franchises to own in 2025
We have compiled the list of the top 400 franchises across 9 industries. Download the report below.
Noodles & Company Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Noodles & Company locations are there?
As of the latest data, Noodles & Company operates 473 restaurants across the United States. The majority of these are company-owned, with a smaller portion managed by franchisees. The chain is present in 31 states, with Wisconsin hosting the highest number of locations at 59, accounting for approximately 12% of the total.
What is the total investment required to open a Noodles & Company franchise?
The total investment required to open a Noodles & Company franchise ranges from $747,000 to $1,423,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Noodles & Company franchise?
Noodles & Company franchisees pay a 5% royalty fee on net sales for brand and operational support, plus a 3% marketing fee to fund advertising initiatives.
What are the financial requirements to become a Noodles & Company franchisee?
To qualify as a Noodles & Company franchisee, you bare required to have a minimum net worth of $1 million, ensuring they possess the overall financial stability necessary for the investment. Additionally, a minimum of $500,000 in liquid capital is required, providing the necessary cash flow to cover initial expenses and operational costs.
How much can a Noodles & Company franchise owner expect to earn?
The average gross sales for a Noodles & Company franchise are approximately $1.27 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $1.27 million yearly revenue can result in $191,000 EBITDA annually.
Who owns Noodles & Company?
Noodles & Company is a publicly traded company listed on the NASDAQ stock exchange under the ticker symbol NDLS. Headlands Capital Management holds a significant stake of 9.5%. Drew Madsen serves as interim CEO as of November 2023.
Disclaimer
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