East of Chicago Pizza Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
East of Chicago Pizza is a well-known Midwestern franchise celebrated for its pan-style pizzas and dedication to fresh, quality ingredients.
The concept originated in 1982, when founder L. Scott Granneman launched the first restaurant in Greenwich, Ohio, originally called the Greenwich Pizza Barn. After a satisfied customer declared it the “best pizza east of Chicago,” the name was officially changed to capture that recognition.
Franchising opportunities began in 1990, and the company has since established its headquarters in Lima, Ohio. Over the years, the brand has expanded to nearly 70 locations, with a strong presence in Ohio, Indiana, and West Virginia.
The menu goes beyond traditional pan pizzas, offering thin crust and specialty options, along with subs, wings, salads, and a variety of sides. East of Chicago Pizza sets itself apart by sourcing fresh California tomatoes, blending a unique mozzarella cheese mix, and maintaining a focus on premium ingredients across its offerings.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a East of Chicago Pizza franchise? It costs on average between $214,000 – $690,000 to start a East of Chicago Pizza franchised restaurant.
This investment covers expenses such as construction, equipment, inventory, and initial operating costs. The total amount varies based on several factors, including the specific restaurant format selected, the geographic location, and whether the franchisee opts to lease or buy the property. East of Chicago Pizza offers 2 types of franchises:
| Type of Unit | Initial Investment |
|---|---|
| East of Chicago Pizza Carry-out/Delivery Only Unit | $213,900 – $476,000 |
| East of Chicago Pizza Dine-in/Carry-out/Delivery Unit | $319,700 – $690,200 |
We are summarizing below the main costs associated with opening a East of Chicago Pizza Dine-in/Carry-out/Delivery Unit. For more information on costs required to start a East of Chicago Pizza franchise, refer to the Franchise Disclosure Document (Item 7).
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial franchise fee | $20,000 – $20,000 |
| Real estate | $1,600 – $6,000 |
| Security deposits, utility deposits | $2,600 – $8,000 |
| Architectural fees | $5,000 – $20,000 |
| Leasehold improvements | $90,000 – $275,000 |
| Furniture, fixtures, signage, equipment, and décor | $130,000 – $220,000 |
| Signage | $5,000 – $35,000 |
| Smallwares and office equipment | $1,500 – $4,000 |
| Opening inventory | $4,500 – $12,000 |
| Professional fees and governmental permits | $1,500 – $4,500 |
| Printing | $2,200 – $4,000 |
| Uniforms | $800 – $1,700 |
| Grand opening marketing and expenses | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Miscellaneous expenses | $25,000 – $35,000 |
| Additional funds (for first three months) | $25,000 – $35,000 |
| Total | $319,700 – $690,200 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a East of Chicago Pizza franchise? A East of Chicago Pizza franchised restaurant makes on average $676,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
Download the Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many East of Chicago Pizza locations are there?
As of the latest data, East of Chicago Pizza operates around 70 locations across the United States. The vast majority of these restaurants are franchise-owned, with very few, if any, company-owned locations.
What is the total investment required to open a East of Chicago Pizza franchise?
The total investment required to open a East of Chicago Pizza franchise ranges from $214,000 to $690,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a East of Chicago Pizza franchise?
East of Chicago Pizza franchisees pay a royalty fee of 5 % of gross sales. However, unlike many chains, there is no separate marketing or advertising fee imposed on franchisees—not a percentage of sales nor a flat amount. That makes the royalty the only recurring fee of this type based on publicly available data.
Who owns East of Chicago Pizza?
The East of Chicago Pizza franchise is owned by franchisee and entrepreneur Tony Collins, who purchased the company in 2008 and continues to operate it through its headquarters in Lima, Ohio.
Disclaimer
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