Donatos Pizza Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs
The Donatos Pizza franchise is a testament to a dream that began in 1963 when its founder, Jim Grote, purchased a small pizza shop in Columbus, Ohio, at just 13 years old.
With a strong commitment to quality and community, Donatos was founded on the principle of creating the best pizza, hiring great people, and promoting goodwill.
The company’s headquarters remain in Columbus, Ohio, where it continues to uphold the family-oriented culture and values instilled by its founder.
The chain began franchising in 1991. Donatos distinguishes itself with its premium Edge to Edge® pizzas, known for their generous toppings on a golden, crispy thin crust, emphasizing quality and customer satisfaction.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Donatos Pizza franchise? It costs on average between $547,000 - $1,061,000 to start a Donatos Pizza franchised restaurant.
This includes costs for construction, equipment, inventory, and initial operating expenses. The exact amount depends on various factors, including the location, and whether the franchisee chooses to lease or purchase the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $30,000 |
| Security Deposit Under Lease | $2,000 to $11,000 |
| One Months’ Lease Rent and real estate expenses | $2,000 to $11,000 |
| Architectural Drawings | $30,000 to $38,5000 |
| Leasehold Improvements/Construction | $26,500 to $426,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures, Equipment | $370,637 to $396,537 |
| Computer System | $18,000 to $23,000 |
| TRIO Software License Fee | $4,500 |
| Liquor License | $0 to $10,000 |
| Opening Inventory and Supplies | $15,000 to $20,000 |
| Grand Opening Marketing Program and Initial Marketing Expenses | $25,000 to $30,000 |
| Training Expenses | $1,000 to $30,000 |
| Miscellaneous Opening Costs | $2,000 to $5,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 months | $20,000 to $25,000 |
| Total Estimated Initial Investment | $546,637 to $1,060,537 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a Mountain Mike’s franchise? A Donatos Pizza franchised restaurant makes on average $883,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
| Net Sales Metric | 2025 Net Sales |
|---|---|
| Average Net Sales | $977,213 |
| Median Net Sales | $882,923 |
| Lowest Net Sales | $377,934 |
| Highest Net Sales | $2,492,132 |
Note: Based on 116 franchisee-owned covered restaurants operating during fiscal year 2025; 45 restaurants, or 39%, exceeded the average.
Donatos Pizza Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
What funding options are available for a Donatos Pizza franchise?
Most franchise buyers in Donatos Pizza’s investment range finance their unit through an SBA 7(a) loan, with some multi-unit operators using SBA 504 loans for real estate. Buyers with rollable retirement funds sometimes use a ROBS structure to reduce debt service. See SharpSheets’ financial model hub for funding guidance.
How long does it take to pay back a Donatos Pizza franchise investment?
Payback periods for franchises in Donatos Pizza’s category typically run 3-7 years, depending on investment level, location performance, and financing structure. Actual payback varies significantly by unit performance and debt service obligations.
Who owns Donatos Pizza?
Donatos Pizza is a family-owned business founded in 1963 by Jim Grote. After a period under McDonald’s ownership from 1999 to 2003, the Grote family repurchased the company. Currently, Jim Grote serves as the owner, with his daughter, Jane Grote Abell, holding the positions of Executive Chairwoman and Chief Purpose Officer.
SharpSheets Editorial Team | sharpsheets.io | Last Updated: July 2026
Disclaimer
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