Franchise Deep Dive: Noodles & Company Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data

This fast-casual pasta franchise has seen impressive growth over the past 25+ years and is seeking continued growth, especially in the southern states.

Company overview

Noodles & Company, the American fast-casual restaurant chain, offers international and American noodle-based dishes. The 474 unit brand competes against other pasta chains in the industry such as Fazoli’s and I Heart Mac and Cheese.

How Many Noodles & Company Locations Are There?

Noodles & Company currently has 474 locations in the United States.

The brand was founded in 1995 by Aaron Kennedy in Broomfield, Colorado. The brand has since made big strides in the world of franchising, with over 90 franchised locations currently operating, while remaining true to its core idea that a bowl of noodles is something that people enjoy, regardless of who they are or where they come from.

What Is the Noodles & Company Business Model?

Noodles & Company primarily offers in-line, order at the counter service. The brand’s menu includes pastas inspired by cuisines all around the world, with side options such as salads, soups and desserts.

Drive-thru and catering options are also available, as well as online ordering services.

How Much Can Noodles & Company Franchise Owners Make?

Financial performance

The financial performance representations below are from Noodles & Company’s 2023 Franchise Disclosure Document and include both company owned and franchised locations.

Company and Franchise Net Sales

• Average Net Sales: $1,349,542

• Median Net Sales: $1,317,125

• High Net Sales: $2,681,158

• Low Net Sales: $475,469

• Average Net Sales: $1,362,385

• Median Net Sales: $1,318,202

• Average Net Sales: $1,288,958

• Median Net Sales: $1,271,807

• High Net Sales: $2,061,718

• Low Net Sales: $646,596

Franchise costs

How Much Does It Cost to Open a Noodles & Company Franchise?

The estimated total investment needed to open a Noodles & Company Franchise ranges from $747,000 to $1,423,000.

A breakdown of initial investment costs according to the brand’s 2023 FDD are indicated below:

• Leasehold Improvements: $490,000 to $891,000

• Architectural and Other Design Fees: $59,000 to $132,000

• Landlord Credits: ($46,000) to ($170,000)

• Kitchen Equipment: $127,000 to $218,000

• Millwork & Furniture: $22,000 to $44,000

• Computer Equipment: $30,000 to $56,000

• Signage: $17,000 to $51,000

• Permits and Licenses: $0 to $24,000

• Supplies and Smallwares: $1,000 to $10,000

• Opening Inventory: $6,000 to $10,000

• Safe and Cash on Hand in Registers: $1,000 to $3,000

• Utilities: $0 to $4,000

• Pre-Opening Cash Occupancy Costs: $0 to $8,000

• Training: $7,000 to $64,000

• Grand Opening Marketing Program: $1,000 to $2,000

• Legal Expenses: $0

• Additional Funds – 3 Months: $0 to $46,000

• Franchise Fee: $35,000

The brand also requires an ongoing royalty fee of 5%.

What Is the Franchise Fee for Noodles & Company?

The Noodles & Company franchise fee is $35,000. This is the upfront fee that must be paid when opening a Noodles & Company franchise.

Who Is the Leadership of Noodles & Company?

• Dave Boennighausen - CEO

• Stacey Pool - Chief Marketing Officer

• Kathy Lockhart - Chief Accounting Officer

• Brad West - Chief Operating Officer

• Melissa M. Heidman - Executive Vice-President, General Counsel

• Sue Petersen - Executive Vice-President, Inclusion, Diversity and People

• Corey Kline - Executive Vice-President, Technology

What Helpful Articles Can I Read to Learn More About Noodles & Company?

• Noodles & Company to Enter Two New Markets with Multi-Unit Franchise Deals in Texas and Arkansas

• Noodles & Co adding 2 franchise partners

• Noodles & Company Recognized as Restaurant Franchise Industry Leader with Multiple Award Honors in 2022

• Noodles & Company ramps up franchising again

• Why Noodles & Co. Joined Black Franchise Ownership Program

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