Doner Kebab Outlet Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Doner Kebab Outlet, operating under the brand name German Doner Kebab (GDK), is a fast-casual restaurant franchise that has modernized the traditional döner experience. The concept combines premium lean meats, freshly baked waffle breads, locally sourced produce, and distinctive signature sauces to deliver a fresh and contemporary take on a classic favorite.
The first German Doner Kebab restaurant opened in Berlin in 1989 after years of refining its recipes. In the United States, the brand is represented by GDK USA, Inc., established on September 12, 2017, and based in Concord, Massachusetts. Worldwide operations are managed by GDK International Ltd, headquartered in Glasgow, Scotland.
Franchising for Doner Kebab Outlet began in 2017, with the first international restaurant opening in Dubai under the leadership of founder Farshad Abbaszadeh. The UK franchise model, introduced in 2015, fueled the company’s rapid expansion into Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Saudi Arabia.
The GDK menu features doner wraps, kebab boxes, rice bowls, vegetarian dishes, and creative offerings such as kebags served with Doritos.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Doner Kebab Outlet franchise? It costs on average between $999,000 – $1,115,000 to start a Doner Kebab Outlet franchised restaurant.
This covers expenses such as construction, equipment, inventory, and initial operating costs required to open a Doner Kebab Outlet franchise. The total investment can vary depending on several factors, including the size and type of restaurant format selected, the chosen location, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or buy the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $30,000 |
| Lease, Utility & Security Deposits | $25,000 – $30,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $260,000 – $275,000 |
| Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing | $325,000 – $350,000 |
| Signage | $35,000 – $40,000 |
| Restaurant Equipment | $157,000 – $180,000 |
| Hardware and Software | $27,500 – $30,000 |
| Furniture & Fixtures | $15,500 – $20,000 |
| Office Supplies & Misc. | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Business Licenses & Permits | $5,000 |
| Professional Fees | $10,000 |
| Insurance | $2,000 – $3,000 |
| Initial Training | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Opening Inventory | $15,000 – $20,000 |
| Pre-Launch, Soft Launch and Grand Opening Marketing | $10,000 – $15,000 |
| Property Agent | $5,000 – $9,000 |
| Architects and Project Manager Fees | $40,000 – $50,000 |
| Additional Funds (Approx. 3 months) | $15,000 – $20,000 |
| Small Wares | $15,000 |
| Total for First Outlet | $998,500 – $1,114,500 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Doner Kebab Outlet locations are there?
As of the most recent data, Doner Kebab Outlet, operating under the brand German Doner Kebab (GDK), has one franchised location in the U.S.
What is the total investment required to open a Doner Kebab Outlet franchise?
The total investment required to open a Doner Kebab Outlet franchise ranges from $999,000 to $1,115,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Doner Kebab Outlet franchise?
Franchisees of Doner Kebab Outlet, operating under the German Doner Kebab (GDK) brand, are required to pay ongoing fees that include a royalty fee of 6% of gross sales and a marketing fee of 3% of gross sales.
Who owns Doner Kebab Outlet?
Doner Kebab Outlet, operating under the German Doner Kebab (GDK) brand, is owned by Hero Brands, a company based in Glasgow, Scotland.
Disclaimer
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