Blimpie Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Blimpie is a well-known American brand specializing in submarine sandwiches.
The first Blimpie shop opened in 1964 in Hoboken, New Jersey, quickly standing out for its generously sized, freshly sliced subs prepared to order.
The name was chosen because the founders thought their sizable sandwiches looked more like blimps than traditional subs or hoagies.
Today, the franchise is operated by Kahala Franchising, L.L.C., based in Scottsdale, Arizona. Blimpie began offering franchise opportunities in 1970 and grew rapidly, with the majority of its outlets now run by independent owners.
Blimpie’s menu features submarine sandwiches, panini, salads, and side dishes. All items are made using freshly sliced meats, cheeses, and crisp vegetables. The concept is adaptable, with locations in standard storefronts as well as non-traditional venues like convenience stores, hospitals, and stadium kiosks.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Blimpie franchise? It costs on average between $90,000 – $589,000 to start a Blimpie franchised restaurant.
This includes expenses for build-out and construction, equipment, inventory, and initial operating costs. The total investment can vary based on factors such as the type of location selected, its size and condition, geographic market, and whether the franchisee chooses to lease or purchase the premises.
Blimpie offers 2 types of franchises:
| Franchise Option | Initial Investment |
|---|---|
| Traditional Blimpie Restaurant | $254,070 to $588,750 |
| Non-Traditional Blimpie Restaurant | $89,780 to $375,800 |
We are summarizing below the main costs associated with opening a Traditional Blimpie Restaurant. For more information on costs required to start a Blimpie franchise, refer to the Franchise Disclosure Document (Item 7).
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $9,520 to $18,000 |
| Rent/Security Deposit (for three months) | $3,000 to $15,000 |
| Travel and Living Expenses (2 persons) while training | $3,000 to $7,500 |
| Lease Review Fee | $0 to $2,500 |
| Architectural Fees | $10,000 to $20,000 |
| Construction Costs / Leasehold Improvements | $100,000 to $311,850 |
| Restaurant Equipment, Furniture, Small Wares, Menu Boards, Signage | $79,800 to $128,100 |
| Exterior Signage | $8,000 to $17,000 |
| Computer Hardware, Software (POS System) | $3,000 to $5,000 |
| PCI Compliance Costs | $0 to $1,300 |
| Opening Inventory (food and paper) | $4,000 to $6,000 |
| Grand Opening Marketing Fee | $10,000 |
| Business Insurance | $1,000 to $5,000 |
| Miscellaneous Opening Costs | $4,750 to $18,500 |
| Depository Account | $3,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 month initial period | $15,000 to $20,000 |
| TOTAL | $254,070 to $588,750 |
Download the Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Blimpie locations are there?
As of the latest data, Blimpie operates approximately 101 locations across the United States and Kuwait, with the vast majority being franchise-owned. Only a small number are company-owned.
What is the total investment required to open a Blimpie franchise?
The total investment required to open a Blimpie franchise ranges from $90,000 to $589,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Blimpie franchise?
For a Blimpie franchise, the ongoing fees include a royalty fee of 6% of gross sales. Franchisees are also required to contribute 4% of gross sales toward marketing and advertising, which supports national and regional promotional efforts as well as brand development.
What are the financial requirements to become a Blimpie franchisee?
To become a Blimpie franchisee, you must have a minimum net worth of $125,000 and at least $75,000 in liquid capital. These financial requirements ensure that franchisees have the resources to cover startup costs, initial operating expenses, and ongoing business needs.
Who owns Blimpie?
The Blimpie franchise is owned by Kahala Franchising, L.L.C.
Disclaimer
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