Project LeanNation Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Established in 2012 by Tim Dougherty in Rochester, New York, Project LeanNation (PLN) started as a small initiative aimed at helping friends pursue healthier lifestyles with convenient, nutritious meals. Over time, this personal mission grew into a full-scale wellness brand, and by 2019, PLN launched its franchising program.
Now based in Brighton, New York, the brand has expanded to more than 28 locations across the United States. Project LeanNation operates on a subscription-based model, delivering ready-to-eat meals that are crafted and approved by registered dietitians.
These meals support a range of health goals and are ideal for individuals focused on weight management, maintaining active lifestyles, or simply saving time without sacrificing nutrition.
What truly differentiates Project LeanNation is its integrated approach to health. Unlike many digital-only meal prep companies, PLN combines its online offerings with physical locations where customers can receive support, connect with coaches, and engage with a community of peers committed to personal wellness.
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Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Project LeanNation franchise? It costs on average between $238,000 – $354,000 to start a Project LeanNation franchised facility.
This includes expenses related to site build-out, equipment purchases, initial inventory, and early-stage operating costs. The total investment required can vary based on several elements, such as the specific layout and size of the Project LeanNation location, regional real estate costs, and whether the franchisee opts to lease or buy the facility.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $60,000 |
| Real Estate Rent – 1st Month | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| Security Deposits | $0 – $5,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $50,000 – $100,000 |
| Real Estate Project Management Fee | $10,000 |
| Construction Project Management Fee | $0 – $10,000 |
| Furnishings, Fixtures, and Decorating | $4,000 – $6,000 |
| Signage | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Training | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Equipment and Supplies Acquired Locally | $47,000 – $67,000 |
| Computer System/POS | $2,000 – $3,000 |
| Initial Inventory and Materials | $2,000 – $3,000 |
| Inventory of Products for Resale | $6,000 – $8,000 |
| SBA Fees and Other Financing Costs | $0 – $10,000 |
| Additional Operating Funds – 3 Months | $25,000 |
| Professional Fees | $4,000 – $10,000 |
| Pre-Opening Marketing | $15,000 |
| Business Licenses | $500 – $1,000 |
| Insurance | $3,000 – $4,000 |
| Total Estimated Initial Investment | $237,500 – $354,000 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a Project LeanNation franchise? A Project LeanNation franchised restaurant makes on average $614,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
This compares to $612,000 yearly revenue for similar healthy franchises. Below are a few Project LeanNation competitors as a comparison:
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Project LeanNation Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Project LeanNation locations are there?
As of the most recent data, Project LeanNation operates a total of 29 locations across the United States. This includes 28 franchised units and 1 company-owned location .
What is the total investment required to open a Project LeanNation franchise?
The total investment required to open a Project LeanNation franchise ranges from $238,000 to $354,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Project LeanNation franchise?
Project LeanNation franchisees pay a royalty fee of 5.75% to 7% of gross sales. In addition, they are required to contribute to marketing and advertising, though the exact percentage is not publicly disclosed. These fees support ongoing operational assistance and brand marketing efforts.
What are the financial requirements to become a Project LeanNation franchisee?
To become a Project LeanNation franchisee, you must have a minimum net worth of $500,000 and at least $100,000 in liquid capital. These thresholds ensure that prospective franchisees possess the necessary financial stability to support the initial investment and sustain operations.
How much can a Project LeanNation franchise owner expect to earn?
The average gross sales for a Project LeanNation franchise are approximately $0.61 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $0.61 million yearly revenue can result in $92,000 EBITDA annually.
Who owns Project LeanNation?
Project LeanNation franchise is owned by Tim Dougherty, who founded the company in 2012.
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