Giordano’s Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Giordano’s is a renowned U.S. pizza franchise recognized for its signature Chicago-style stuffed deep-dish creations. The concept was launched in 1974 by brothers Efren and Joseph Boglio, Italian immigrants who opened the very first restaurant on Chicago’s South Side.
The Boglio brothers drew inspiration from their mother’s traditional Italian Easter Pie, adapting it into a double-crust, cheese-filled pizza that quickly won over the local community.
Today, Giordano’s is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, and has expanded to more than 65 restaurants nationwide, with a presence in states such as Florida, Indiana, Nevada, and Colorado.
Franchising opportunities began in the late 20th century, with major expansion taking place between 1995 and 2000. The brand’s growth was especially notable in central Florida, where its restaurants became highly successful.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Giordano’s franchise? It costs on average between $609,000 – $2,056,000 to start a Giordano’s franchised shop.
This involves expenses for construction, equipment, inventory, and the initial operating phase. The total investment can vary based on several factors, such as the type of restaurant model selected, the market and location, and whether the franchisee opts to lease or buy the property. Giordano’s offers 2 types of franchises:
| Type of Restaurant | Initial Investment |
|---|---|
| Limited-Service Restaurant | $609,000 – $973,000 |
| Full-Service Restaurant | $1,565,000 – $2,056,000 |
We are summarizing below the main costs associated with opening a Full-Service Restaurant. For more information on costs required to start a Giordano’s franchise, refer to the Franchise Disclosure Document (Item 7).
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $40,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $854,000 – $1,098,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures, Equipment & Fees | $557,000 – $715,000 |
| Initial Inventory | $9,000 – $23,000 |
| Security Deposits and Advance Rent | $20,000 – $30,000 |
| Grand Opening Advertising | $20,000 |
| Miscellaneous Start-Up Costs | $50,000 – $100,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 Months | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Total | $1,565,000 – $2,056,000 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a Giordano’s franchise? A Giordano’s franchised restaurant makes on average $1,805,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
Download the Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Giordano’s locations are there?
As of the latest data, Giordano’s operates roughly 60 restaurants nationwide, with 28 being company-owned and 32 franchised.
What is the total investment required to open a Giordano’s franchise?
The total investment required to open a Giordano’s franchise ranges from $609,000 to $2,056,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Giordano’s franchise?
Giordano’s franchisees pay a royalty fee of 6% of monthly sales along with a marketing and advertising fee of about 2% of sales. These fees contribute to system-wide advertising campaigns, brand development, and continued operational support.
What are the financial requirements to become a Giordano’s franchisee?
Prospective franchisees must demonstrate a minimum net worth of $3 million, alongside having at least $1 million in liquid assets such as cash, stocks, or secured equity.
Additionally, they must personally cover at least 20% of any single restaurant’s startup costs from liquid funds. These financial benchmarks ensure you’re well-positioned to manage initial investments and ongoing operations.
How much can a Giordano’s franchise owner expect to earn?
The average gross sales for a Giordano’s franchise are approximately $1.81 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $1.81 million yearly revenue can result in $272,000 EBITDA annually.
Who owns Giordano’s?
Giordano’s franchise is owned by Victory Park Capital Advisors, LLC, a Chicago-based private equity investment firm. Victory Park Capital acquired the brand in 2011 and has since overseen its growth and continued expansion across the United States.
Disclaimer
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