Marco’s Pizza franchise is one of the fastest-growing pizza franchises in the country. Because it’s not as well-known as other national brands like Dominos and Pizza Hut, there’s a lot of opportunity in certain markets.
Business Highlights
If you’re thinking about becoming a franchise owner for Marco’s Pizza, here are a few things to consider before you dive in. A franchise is a great way to get into the restaurant business, but it does come with some hefty costs and a lot of work.
This blog is a complete guide for anyone interested in buying a Marco Pizza franchise. It offers an in-depth look at the franchise and franchising in general including helpful tips on finding the franchise that is right for you and how to start your franchise in the US. From navigating the FDD to figuring out whether franchising is right for you, this blog will help you take your first steps in making your business dreams come true.
- Founded by Pat Giammarco, Marco’s Pizza is an Italian restaurant chain that serves chicken wings, sandwiches, pizza, salads, and beverages.
- Marco’s Pizza is one of the fastest-growing pizza brands in America, with over 1,000 pizza franchise locations open.
- It opened its 1,000 stores in 2020 during the pandemic.
- Marco’s Pizza ranked #70 on the franchise 500 lists in Entrepreneur
Marco’s Pizza Franchise Cost
Marco’s Pizza requires the following financial portfolio from its franchises:
- Net worth: $450,000.
- Liquid capital requirement: $125,000
- Initial franchising fee: $25,000
- Royalty Fee: 5.5%
- Ad royalty fee- 7%
Franchisees can expect a total investment of $183,408 – $552,713 inclusive of $25,000 franchise fee. Here is a breakdown of the franchise costs:
| Name of Fee | Low | High |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $25,000 | $25,000 |
| Real Property | $6,000 | $18,666 |
| Equipment, Fixtures | $35,800 | $97,725 |
| Point of Sale Computers | $14,000 | $25,244 |
| Credit Card Processing | $5,090 | $5,090 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $34,000 | $235,000 |
| Signage | $3,000 | $12,000 |
| Opening Inventory | $7,000 | $8,500 |
| Small Supplies | $13,267 | $15,153 |
| Deposits, Pre-Paid Expenses | $2,500 | $6,000 |
| Business Licenses | $500 | $1,500 |
| Insurance | $800 | $8,000 |
| Training Expenses | $3,150 | $10,150 |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | $500 | $5,000 |
| Architectural and Engineering | $4,500 | $12,000 |
| Technology Fee | $335 | $335 |
| Delivery Area, Streets Database for POS, and Shape Files for POS and OLO Platform Maps | $500 | $500 |
| Brand Launch Program | $15,000 | $25,000 |
| Store Technology Infrastructure System | $800 | $2,150 |
| Menu Boards | $600 | $1,200 |
| Additional Funds (3 months) | $9,000 | $30,000 |
| ESTIMATED TOTAL | $183,408 | $552,713 |
The initial franchise term is 10 years renewable for two additional terms if the franchisor’s operational requirements are met. Marco’s Pizza offers a discount for veterans, but no other financial assistance. However, franchisees can obtain loans from third-party financial services firms.
Franchisee Testimonials
“It was literally loved at first bite. It’s just been the perfect storm for me to dive into Marco’s. And here I am.” – Von Herbulis.
“Marco’s Pizza embraces the corporate mentality of people first. It’s truly empowering and encouraging.” – Joe Walker.
“While the sales could be huge, the fees are also hefty in running an F&B franchise business.”
“Pizza is America’s most popular food. Unfortunately, this makes it a competitive industry that requires significant investments and monthly royalty payments to thrive.”
Available Franchise Locations
In America, Marco’s Pizza has franchise opportunities in over 40 states. Marco’s Pizza partners with new and master franchisees to expand outside the United States. Marco’s Pizza currently accepts master franchisee applications in South America, Central America, Mexico, and Canada.
How to buy a Marco’s Pizza Franchise
Marco’s Pizza has three different store types, including inline, endcap, and stand-alone stores, which vary in size between 1,200 to 1,600 sq. ft. Franchisees can choose between a single unit franchise or a multi-unit franchise.
Buying any franchise is a complex process, but, Fransmart, the leading franchise development company for emerging brands, has broken it down into a 10 step process that can help you navigate the process.
Is a Marco’s Pizza Franchise Profitable?
Marco’s Pizza is in the $46 billion pizza franchise industry. The growth projection puts the annual spend on pizza at $50.7 billion by 2023.
Marco’s Pizza holds a significant position in the industry, having placed second in the pizza franchise category in 2021 on the Franchise 500 list.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Marco Pizza
Pros:
- All franchisees receive extensive training, technology support, and marketing support.
- Franchisees enjoy protected territories.
- Franchisees are sure of high-quality material supplies from vendors approved by the franchisor at the lowest prices.
- Growing industry.
Cons:
- The franchise requires considerable startup costs and ongoing fees from franchisees.
- The franchise faces massive competition from other QSR brands for market share.
- The profit percentage is weak.
Alternative Franchises
For an investor looking to build wealth through franchising, there are other industries and brands that could return a stronger ROI than Marco Pizza.
Fransmart has a portfolio of emerging brands with lower start-up costs, easier operations and the opportunity for better ROI including:
- RISE SOUTHERN BISCUITS & RIGHTEOUS CHICKEN
- BROOKLYN DUMPLING SHOP
- CURRY UP NOW
- IKE’S LOVE & SANDWICHES
- JARS BY FABIO VIVIANI
- PAYMORE
- SLAPFISH
- THE HALAL GUYS
- TAFFER’S TAVERN
- SAVANNAH SEAFOOD SHACK
- DUFFS CAKE MIX
If you’re ready to explore all your franchise options, contact Fransmart today for help choosing the ideal franchise for your goals.