Yoshinoya Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Yoshinoya is an internationally recognized fast-casual dining franchise celebrated for its iconic beef rice bowls and authentic Japanese donburi dishes. Established in 1899 by Eikichi Matsuda at Tokyo’s Nihonbashi fish market, the brand has evolved into a global name under Yoshinoya Holdings Co., Ltd., with headquarters located in Chūō-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
The company started expanding beyond Japan in 1996, launching franchise operations through regional subsidiaries such as Asia Yoshinoya International and Yoshinoya America, Inc. This move helped the brand grow its footprint across Asia and the United States, where it now serves millions of loyal customers every year.
Yoshinoya’s menu centers around fresh, affordable Japanese-inspired meals, featuring its signature gyūdon (beef bowl) along with chicken, seafood, and combination bowls, complemented by sides like miso soup and vegetables.
What sets Yoshinoya apart is its rich heritage of more than 100 years and its specialization in rice-bowl cuisine instead of Western-style offerings like burgers or sandwiches.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Yoshinoya franchise? It costs on average between $456,000 – $2,154,000 to start a Yoshinoya franchised restaurant.
This covers expenses related to building the restaurant, purchasing equipment, stocking initial inventory, and covering early operational costs. The total investment varies based on several elements, such as the restaurant format selected, its geographic location, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or buy the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $27,500 |
| Store Development | $12,000 – $100,000 |
| Security Deposit and Rent | $18,000 – $30,000 |
| Construction and Leasehold Improvements | $158,000 – $1,200,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures, Décor and Equipment | $75,000 – $150,000 |
| Computer System | $65,000 – $225,000 |
| Initial Inventory – Food | $6,000 |
| Other Initial Inventory | $2,000 |
| Signs | $10,000 – $120,000 |
| Professional Fees | $0 – $10,000 |
| Utility Deposits | $3,000 – $20,000 |
| Insurance | $1,000 – $10,000 |
| Training Expenses | $20,000 – $80,000 |
| Grand Opening Fee | $12,000 |
| Additional Advertising Contribution | $0 – $10,000 |
| Pest Control Service | $650 – $1,400 |
| Reimbursement of Professional Fees | $0 – $20,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 months | $46,000 – $130,000 |
| Total Initial Investment | $456,150 – $2,153,900 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Yoshinoya locations are there?
As of the most recent data, Yoshinoya operates approximately 100 locations in the United States.
What is the total investment required to open a Yoshinoya franchise?
The total investment required to open a Yoshinoya franchise ranges from $456,000 to $2,154,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Yoshinoya franchise?
Yoshinoya franchisees pay an ongoing royalty fee of 5.0% to 5.5% of net sales, which grants them continued access to the brand name, operating system, and support services.
In addition, franchisees contribute about 3.5% of their net sales toward marketing and advertising efforts, which help fund national and regional promotional campaigns designed to maintain brand visibility and drive customer traffic.
Who owns Yoshinoya?
Yoshinoya franchise is owned by Yoshinoya Holdings Co., Ltd., a Japan-based global restaurant group headquartered in Chūō-ku, Tokyo.
Disclaimer
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