Fleet Feet Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs
Fleet Feet, a well-known franchise in the running retail industry, began its journey in 1976 when it opened its first store in Sacramento, California, founded by Sally Edwards and Elizabeth Jansen.
The brand quickly became a beacon for the running community, offering not just running gear but also fostering a culture of fitness and well-being.
Recognized for its specialty in fitting and its comprehensive approach to customer service, Fleet Feet introduced franchising in 1980, responding to the growing interest and expanding their footprint across the United States.
Headquartered in Carrboro, North Carolina, Fleet Feet distinguishes itself from competitors through a unique store experience focused on personalized service.
The franchise’s ‘Fitlosophy’ ensures customers receive tailored fitting sessions for footwear and apparel, aligning with their specific physical needs and lifestyle. This personalized approach is enhanced by advanced technologies like 3D foot scanning and dynamic pressure mapping.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Fleet Feet franchise? It costs on average between $352,000 - $652,000 to start a Fleet Feet franchised business.
This includes costs for construction, equipment, inventory, and initial operating expenses. The exact amount depends on various factors, including the type of facility you choose, the location, and whether the franchisee chooses to lease or purchase the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $22,500 to $45,000 |
| Inventory | $80,000 to $140,000 |
| Real Estate & Improvements | $150,000 to $250,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment | $50,000 to $125,000 |
| Computer Hardware and Software | $16,000 to $24,000 |
| fit id® Subscription | $1,200 |
| Travel and Living Expenses While Training | $4,000 to $6,000 |
| E-Commerce Fee | $300 |
| Legal, Accounting, and License Fees | $3,000 to $10,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 Months | $25,000 to $50,000 |
| Total Estimated Initial Investment | $352,000 to $651,500 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a Fleet Feet franchise? A Fleet Feet franchised center makes on average $624,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
Fleet Feet Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
What funding options are available for a Fleet Feet franchise?
Most franchise buyers in Fleet Feet’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 Fleet Feet franchise investment?
Payback periods for franchises in Fleet Feet’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 Fleet Feet?
Fleet Feet is owned by Investors Management Corporation (IMC), a company founded by James Maynard. IMC acquired Fleet Feet in 2012, and since then, it has operated under IMC’s leadership. The acquisition allowed Fleet Feet to continue expanding while maintaining its focus on locally-owned franchises.
SharpSheets Editorial Team | sharpsheets.io | Last Updated: June 2026
Disclaimer
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Research Fleet Feet franchise data: For the full FDD cost breakdown, investment tables, and Item 19 disclosures, visit FranchisePayback.com → Fleet Feet FDD Review.
