GRIMALDI’S Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Grimaldi’s Pizzeria has built a strong reputation as a New York–style pizza brand, best known for its coal-fired brick oven creations. The first restaurant opened in 2003 under the Brooklyn Bridge in Brooklyn, New York, and since then the concept has expanded to more than 40 locations nationwide. Today, the company’s headquarters is located in Scottsdale, Arizona.
In 2019, Grimaldi’s introduced its U.S. franchise program, giving entrepreneurs the chance to become part of its expanding network.
The franchise menu goes beyond pizza, offering calzones, fresh salads, and house-made desserts, including its iconic cheesecakes. Every restaurant operates with a coal-fired oven, a defining feature that ensures the authentic flavor the brand is known for.
What sets Grimaldi’s apart is its dedication to tradition and high standards. A custom-engineered water system replicates the unique quality of New York City water, which is key to producing the brand’s signature dough.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a GRIMALDI’S franchise? It costs on average between $1,390,000 – $1,835,000 to start a GRIMALDI’S franchised restaurant.
This covers expenses such as restaurant construction, specialized equipment, opening inventory, and early operating costs. The total required amount can vary based on several factors, including the size and style of the restaurant, the chosen location, and whether the property is leased or purchased by the franchisee.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Construction and Leasehold Improvements | $630,000 – $850,000 |
| Architectural and Engineering Fees | $32,000 – $40,000 |
| Equipment | $210,000 – $240,000 |
| Coal Brick Oven | $65,000 – $130,000 |
| Furniture and Fixtures | $60,000 – $65,000 |
| Interior Finishes and Equipment | $85,000 – $105,000 |
| Exterior Finishes and Equipment | $40,000 – $65,000 |
| Total Improvement Costs | $1,122,000 – $1,495,000 |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $50,000 |
| Professional Services | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Rent (3 months) | $46,500 – $67,500 |
| Pre-opening Travel | $24,500 – $31,500 |
| Pre-opening Labor | $45,000 – $55,000 |
| Market Introduction (opening advertising) | $13,000 – $18,000 |
| Business Permits and Licenses (excluding liquor license) | $800 – $1,500 |
| Opening Inventory | $20,000 – $25,000 |
| Stationery, Printing and Supplies | $1,000 – $1,500 |
| Insurance Pre-Payment | $4,000 – $5,000 |
| Miscellaneous and Other Pre-Payments | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| Additional Funds During the First Three Months of Operation | $50,000 – $60,000 |
| Total Other Costs | $267,800 – $340,000 |
| Total Estimated Initial Investment | $1,389,800 – $1,835,000 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a GRIMALDI’S franchise? A GRIMALDI’S franchised restaurant makes on average $2,780,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many GRIMALDI’S locations are there?
As of the latest data, Grimaldi’s Pizzeria operates a total of 46 locations in the United States. Out of these, 42 are company-owned and 4 are franchise-owned.
What is the total investment required to open a GRIMALDI’S franchise?
The total investment required to open a GRIMALDI’S franchise ranges from $1,390,000 to $1,835,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a GRIMALDI’S franchise?
Franchisees of Grimaldi’s Pizzeria pay an ongoing royalty fee equal to 6% of their gross sales, along with a 2% contribution to the brand’s marketing fund, also based on gross sales. These fees ensure continued operational support and promote the brand through collective advertising efforts.
What are the financial requirements to become a GRIMALDI’S franchisee?
To qualify as a Grimaldi’s Pizzeria franchisee, you are expected to have a net worth of approximately $1.5 million and liquid capital of at least $700,000. These financial benchmarks help ensure that franchisees are well-positioned both to invest and to sustain operations through the launch period.
How much can a GRIMALDI’S franchise owner expect to earn?
The average gross sales for a GRIMALDI’S franchise are approximately $2.78 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $2.78 million yearly revenue can result in $417,000 EBITDA annually.
Who owns GRIMALDI’S?
The Grimaldi’s Pizzeria franchise is owned by The Grimaldi’s Pizzeria Company, based in Scottsdale, Arizona.
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