Sbarro’s Pizza Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs
Sbarro is a renowned pizza franchise that began in 2014 and quickly gained recognition for its New York-style pizza by the slice. Founded with a focus on providing high-quality, freshly made Italian-inspired dishes, the brand has grown into a well-known name in the quick-service pizza industry.
Since it started franchising in 2016, Sbarro has expanded its presence to over 600 locations across 23 countries, serving customers in a variety of high-traffic areas. The franchise specializes in offering oversized slices of pizza made from freshly prepared dough, along with other Italian favorites such as pasta and stromboli.
By maintaining a commitment to fresh ingredients and traditional preparation methods, Sbarro differentiates itself from many competitors in the fast-food space. The brand is particularly known for its convenience, allowing customers to grab a quick and satisfying meal without sacrificing quality.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Sbarro’s Pizza franchise? It costs on average between $212,000 - $931,000 to start a Sbarro’s Pizza franchised restaurant.
This includes expenses for construction, kitchen equipment, inventory, and initial operating costs. The total investment varies based on multiple factors, such as the type of Sbarro location, its geographic area, and whether the franchisee opts to lease or purchase the property.
Sbarro’s Pizza has 4 single-unit investment categories, based on whether the restaurant is new or converted and whether the location is traditional or non-traditional:
| Type of Franchise | Initial Investment |
|---|---|
| New Sbarro Restaurant – Traditional Location | $211,900 to $931,000 |
| New Sbarro Restaurant – Non-Traditional Location | $310,150 plus gross sales to $1,006,000 |
| Sbarro Conversion Restaurant – Traditional Location | $99,900 to $394,500 |
| Sbarro Conversion Restaurant – Non-Traditional Location | $99,900 to $394,500 |
To compare the estimated investment ranges for each Sbarro’s Pizza restaurant format, see Item 7 of the Franchise Disclosure Document.
The table below outlines the primary estimated costs for opening a New Sbarro Restaurant – Traditional Location.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $30,000 |
| Lease | $10,000 to $50,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $50,000 to $450,000 |
| Purchase of Initial Equipment Package | $50,000 to $225,000 |
| POS/Computer System | $3,000 to $20,000 |
| Permits & Licenses | $2,000 to $5,000 |
| Outside Signs Or Menuboards | $10,000 to $25,000 |
| Insurance Package | $1,200 to $2,500 |
| Opening Inventory & Supplies | $16,000 |
| Training Expenses | $7,000 to $15,000 |
| Utility Installations & Deposits | $200 to $2,000 |
| Architectural Fees | $20,000 to $35,000 |
| Project Design and Vendor Coordination | $0 to $10,500 |
| Legal & Accounting | $2,500 to $5,000 |
| Additional Funds – 1 to 3 Months | $10,000 to $15,000 |
| Total Estimated Initial Investment | $211,900 to $931,000 |
Sbarro's Pizza Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
What funding options are available for a Sbarro’s Pizza franchise?
Most franchise buyers in Sbarro’s Pizzas investment range finance their unit through an SBA 7(a) loan, with some multi-unit operators using SBA 504 loans. Buyers with rollable retirement funds sometimes use a ROBS structure. See SharpSheets financial model hub for guidance.
How long does it take to pay back a Sbarro’s Pizza franchise investment?
Payback periods 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 Sbarro’s Pizza?
Sbarro is currently owned by a private equity firm, MidOcean Partners, which acquired the company in early 2007. The franchise is led by CEO J. David Karam, who has been instrumental in guiding the company’s strategic direction and expansion efforts.
SharpSheets Editorial Team | sharpsheets.io | Last Updated: July 2026
Disclaimer
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