Buona Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Buona is a fast-casual restaurant brand rooted in family tradition, best known for its signature Italian beef sandwiches. The concept was launched in 2021 in Berwyn, Illinois, by Joe and Peggy Buonavolanto, and quickly developed into a local favorite with deep ties to the Chicago area.
Still operated by the Buonavolanto family, the company now spans three generations, each playing a role in guiding the business and its continued growth. The brand’s headquarters are located in Burr Ridge, Illinois, and since 2023 Buona has expanded its reach through franchising, aiming to share its Chicago classic with diners nationwide.
At the heart of the franchise is its slow-roasted, all-natural Italian beef, prepared according to long-standing family recipes. Alongside this flagship item, the menu features an array of offerings such as burgers, Chicago-style hot dogs, pasta, salads, and more, appealing to a wide variety of guests.
What sets Buona apart is its unwavering commitment to authentic cooking methods and high-quality ingredients. In addition, the brand has expanded with innovative dual-branded locations in partnership with The Original Rainbow Cone, giving customers the chance to enjoy both savory sandwiches and iconic desserts under one roof.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Buona franchise? It costs on average between $2,917,000 – $6,297,000 to start a Buona franchised restaurant.
This covers expenses such as construction, equipment, inventory, and initial operating costs. The total required amount can vary depending on several factors, including the specific restaurant format, the market location, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or purchase the property. Buona offers 2 types of franchises:
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Single brand free standing Buona Business | $2,916,867 to $5,256,675 |
| Dual brand free standing Buona Business | $3,891,755 to $6,296,680 |
We are summarizing below the main costs associated with opening a Dual Brand Free-Standing Buona Business.
For more information on the various types of franchises and its costs, refer to the Franchise Disclosure Document (Item 7).
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $60,000 |
| Land Acquisition | $500,000 to $1,376,729 |
| Site Work | $400,000 to $947,451 |
| Construction of Building | $1,932,843 to $2,487,834 |
| Travel and Living Costs While Training | $55,882 to $69,860 |
| Initial Inventory and Supplies | $20,000 to $45,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment (excluding Sign Package and POS) | $670,680 to $843,941 |
| Sign Package | $87,593 to $158,607 |
| POS System | $45,529 to $52,358 |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | $15,000 to $50,000 |
| Grand Opening Advertising and Marketing | $25,000 to $35,000 |
| On-Site Training Fee | $39,228 to $69,901 |
| Additional Funds – 3 Months | $40,000 to $100,000 |
| Estimated Total | $3,891,755 to $6,296,680 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a Buona franchise? A Buona franchised restaurant makes on average $3,352,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
Download the Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Buona locations are there?
As of the most recent data, Buona operates 31 company-owned restaurants across the U.S.
What is the total investment required to open a Buona franchise?
The total investment required to open a Buona franchise ranges from $2,917,000 to $6,297,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Buona franchise?
Buona franchisees are required to pay a royalty fee of 4% of gross sales, along with a marketing or advertising fee ranging between 1.5% and 2.5% of gross sales.
What are the financial requirements to become a Buona franchisee?
To qualify as a Buona franchisee, applicants must demonstrate a minimum liquid capital of approximately $750,000 and a minimum net worth of about $2.5 million.
How much can a Buona franchise owner expect to earn?
The average gross sales for a Buona franchise are approximately $3.35 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $3.35 million yearly revenue can result in $503,000 EBITDA annually.
Who owns Buona?
Buona franchise is owned by the Buonavolanto family, who founded the brand in 1981 in Berwyn, Illinois.
Disclaimer
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