Glass Nickel Pizza Co. Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Glass Nickel Pizza Co. is a Wisconsin-based pizza franchise that first opened its doors in Madison in 1997. Founded by Brian Glassel and Tim Nicholson, the original restaurant was launched on Atwood Avenue and quickly became a local favorite for handcrafted pizzas.
The company’s headquarters remain in Madison, and its franchising arm, GN Independents, Inc., was formally established in 2006. Since then, the brand has steadily grown across the state, adding locations in communities such as Green Bay and Brookfield.
Glass Nickel Pizza offers a diverse menu that extends beyond pizza to include calzones, salads, sandwiches, and drinks. Some of its signature creations—like The Thai Pie, The Ranch, and the Fetalicious—highlight the chain’s inventive approach to flavors while still appealing to classic pizza lovers.
A strong commitment to sustainability helps set the brand apart. Glass Nickel makes use of hybrid and recycled-oil–powered delivery vehicles, energy-efficient ovens, and LED lighting, reinforcing its dedication to environmentally responsible operations alongside its focus on quality ingredients and local sourcing.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Glass Nickel Pizza Co. franchise? It costs on average between $943,000 – $1,709,000 to start a Glass Nickel Pizza Co. franchised restaurant.
This investment covers expenses such as construction, kitchen equipment, inventory, and the initial operating costs needed to launch the business. The total required will vary based on several factors, including the size and format of the Glass Nickel Pizza Co. restaurant, the chosen location, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or purchase the property.
Glass Nickel Pizza Co. offers 2 types of franchises:
| Restaurant Type | Initial Investment |
|---|---|
| Carryout and Delivery Restaurant | $943,000 – $1,330,500 |
| Dine-In Restaurant | $986,500 – $1,708,500 |
We are summarizing below the main costs associated with opening a Glass Nickel Pizza Co. Dine-In Restaurant.
For more information on the various types of franchises and its costs, refer to the Franchise Disclosure Document (Item 7).
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 |
| Real Estate/Rent | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Utility Deposits | $0 – $3,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $250,000 – $500,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment | $340,000 – $515,000 |
| POS System | $40,000 – $65,000 |
| Initial Inventory | $18,000 – $35,000 |
| Insurance | $15,000 – $35,000 |
| Signage | $10,000 – $30,000 |
| Office Equipment & Supply | $15,500 – $37,500 |
| Grand Opening or Pre-Opening | $0 – $8,000 |
| Vehicle | $0 – $40,000 |
| Training | $30,000 – $50,000 |
| Uniforms | $2,500 – $5,000 |
| Licenses & Permits | $500 – $5,000 |
| Legal & Accounting | $15,000 – $20,000 |
| Dues & Subscriptions | $0 |
| Initial Payroll/Training Wages | $30,000 – $40,000 |
| Additional Funds / Working Capital (3 months) | $175,000 – $300,000 |
| Total | $986,500 – $1,708,500 |
Download the Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Glass Nickel Pizza Co. locations are there?
As of the most recent information available, Glass Nickel Pizza Co. operates 10 locations across the United States.
What is the total investment required to open a Glass Nickel Pizza Co. franchise?
The total investment required to open a Glass Nickel Pizza Co. franchise ranges from $943,000 to $1,709,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Glass Nickel Pizza Co. franchise?
Franchisees of Glass Nickel Pizza Co. pay a royalty fee of 4% of gross sales, which goes to the franchisor to support ongoing operations and brand development. In addition, they contribute 2% of gross sales toward marketing and advertising efforts, helping to fund both local and regional promotional campaigns that strengthen brand awareness and drive customer traffic.
What are the financial requirements to become a Glass Nickel Pizza Co. franchisee?
To qualify for a Glass Nickel Pizza Co. franchise, a prospective franchisee should have at least $235,000 in liquid capital available to invest.
Who owns Glass Nickel Pizza Co.?
Glass Nickel Pizza Co. is owned and franchised through GN Independents, Inc., the corporate entity established in 2006 to manage its franchise operations.
Disclaimer
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