Vocelli Pizza Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)

Vocelli Pizza is an American pizza franchise recognized for its handcrafted, artisan-style pizzas and Italian-inspired offerings. The brand was established in 1988 by Varol Ablak in Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania, and started franchising just a few years later in 1993.
The company now operates from its headquarters in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with close to 100 locations spread across multiple states, including Pennsylvania, Maryland, Ohio, and Virginia.
Its menu goes well beyond pizza, featuring a wide range of items such as strombolis, subs, fresh salads, and classic appetizers.
What sets Vocelli Pizza apart is its focus on premium ingredients. The dough is prepared with spring wheat and extra virgin olive oil, the sauce is crafted from fresh-packed California vine-ripened tomatoes, and the cheese is 100% Wisconsin mozzarella.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Vocelli Pizza franchise? It costs on average between $156,000 – $331,000 to start a Vocelli Pizza franchised restaurant.
This covers expenses such as construction, kitchen equipment, initial inventory, and early operating costs. The total required amount can vary based on several factors, including the specific restaurant model, its geographic location, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or buy the property.
Type of Expenditure | Amount |
---|---|
Franchise Fee | $30,000 |
Leasehold Improvements | $50,000 – $114,700 |
Equipment | $50,000 – $123,200 |
Signage | $5,000 – $10,000 |
Opening Inventory | $3,000 – $9,000 |
Grand Opening Advertising | $5,000 – $8,000 |
Training Expenses | $1,000 – $5,000 |
Miscellaneous Opening Costs | $2,000 – $6,000 |
Additional Funds – 3 Months | $10,000 – $25,000 |
Total | $156,000 – $330,900 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a Vocelli Pizza franchise? A Vocelli Pizza franchised restaurant makes on average $784,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Vocelli Pizza locations are there?
As of the most recent data, Vocelli Pizza operates 73 locations across the United States. The vast majority of these are franchised, with about 72 franchise-owned units, while only one location is company-owned.
What is the total investment required to open a Vocelli Pizza franchise?
The total investment required to open a Vocelli Pizza franchise ranges from $156,000 to $331,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Vocelli Pizza franchise?
Vocelli Pizza franchisees are required to pay a royalty fee of 5% of gross sales, regardless of whether they operate a standard or non-traditional location. In addition, franchisees contribute between 1% and 2% of gross sales toward marketing and advertising, which supports both national brand initiatives and local promotional efforts.
What are the financial requirements to become a Vocelli Pizza franchisee?
To qualify for a Vocelli Pizza franchise, prospective franchisees must demonstrate a minimum net worth of $250,000 and have at least $100,000 in available cash or liquid assets. These thresholds represent the fundamental financial qualifications required to move forward in the application process.
How much can a Vocelli Pizza franchise owner expect to earn?
The average gross sales for a Vocelli Pizza franchise are approximately $0.78 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $0.78 million yearly revenue can result in $117,000 EBITDA annually.
Who owns Vocelli Pizza?
Vocelli Pizza franchise is owned by Varol Ablak, the founder who established the brand in 1988.
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