Winchell’s Donut House Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Established in 1948 by Verne Winchell, Winchell’s Donut House launched its first shop in Temple City, California. Today, the brand’s headquarters are located in the City of Industry, California, and it continues to live up to its long-standing motto, the “Home of the Warm ’n Fresh Donut.”
Winchell’s menu showcases an extensive range of fresh-baked items and beverages. Customers can choose from more than 70 different products, including donuts, bagels, croissants, muffins, cinnamon rolls, sandwiches, and specialty coffees.
A defining feature of Winchell’s is its enduring West Coast legacy and emphasis on freshness. Each store bakes continuously throughout the day so guests can enjoy donuts that are always warm and newly made.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Winchell’s Donut House franchise? It costs on average between $3,000 – $72,000 to start a Winchell’s Donut House franchised restaurant.
This covers expenses such as construction, equipment, inventory, and early operational costs. The total investment required for a Winchell’s Donut House franchise varies based on several factors, including the shop format, geographic location, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or buy the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $2,500 to $20,000 |
| Initial Inventory (supplies, foodstuffs, and small equipment) | $0 to $2,000 |
| Security Deposits for Utilities | $625 to $20,000 |
| Insurance – Worker’s Compensation | $625 to $20,000 |
| Licenses and Permits | $50 to $1,000 |
| Security Deposit | $0 to $17,000 |
| Equipment, Fixtures, Leasehold Improvements, Rental | $100 to $5,000 per week |
| Uniforms | $100 to $200 |
| Insurance – Property and Liability | $25 to $100 per week |
| Premises Rent | $0 to $5,400 weekly + taxes, insurance & common area charges |
| Additional Funds – First 3 Months of Operation | $0 |
| Total Estimated Initial Investment | $3,400 to $71,700 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Winchell’s Donut House locations are there?
As of the most recent data, the franchise chain Winchell’s Donut House operates 159 units across six U.S. states, plus locations in Guam and Saipan.
What is the total investment required to open a Winchell’s Donut House franchise?
The total investment required to open a Winchell’s Donut House franchise ranges from $3,000 to $72,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Winchell’s Donut House franchise?
Winchell’s Donut House franchisees pay an ongoing royalty fee of 5% of gross sales. In addition, they contribute up to 4% of gross sales toward marketing and advertising efforts, which support both local and national promotional activities aimed at increasing brand awareness and driving customer traffic.
Who owns Winchell’s Donut House?
The franchise is owned by Yum Yum Donut Shops, Inc., a company that also operates the Yum Yum Donuts and Tasty Donuts brands.
Disclaimer
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