Frequently Asked Questions.

Answers About Our Pizza Restaurant Franchise .

Are you interested in taking the first step toward becoming a Donatos franchisee? If so, you’ve come to the right place! We know this is a big decision and you probably have some questions. Our FAQ page is designed to provide all the answers about our pizza restaurant franchise. From background on our company to information on operating a successful franchise, we have compiled all the necessary information here for you. So read on and let us help make your dreams of owning a Donatos franchise come true!

While prior restaurant or business management experience is preferred, it’s not required. A commitment to delivering outstanding guest experiences, a desire to impact your community, and a passion for the food service industry are three key traits we look for. We’ll teach you everything you need to know to run your business.  

Still have questions? Reach out to the Donatos team with any additional inquiries. 

    • How long has Donatos been in business?
      Donatos was founded in 1963 and we opened our first franchise location in 1991.
    • What are the general operations hours of a Donatos location?
      Our locations are open daily at 11:00am.
    • What are the financial qualifications to open a Donatos?
      You will need $200K liquid capital and $1M net worth.
    • How much does it cost to open a Donatos?
      We estimate the initial investment in a Donatos restaurant to range from $457,244-$989,654. See item 7 of our Franchise Disclosure Document for additional details.
    • What is the franchise fee?
      The initial franchise fee is $30,000. See item 7 of our Franchise Disclosure Document for additional details.
    • How long do the franchise agreements last?
      The franchise agreements last for 10 years with 10 year option.
    • What are the royalty fees?
      Each locations pays 4% toward royalty "license" fees and 5% of net sales toward marketing. See item 6 of our Franchise Disclosure Document for additional details.
    • Do you help me find a location?
      Yes. We have a network of pizza restaurants that sees over 15 million transactions each year, so we’ve learned a lot about our customers and know where to find them. Our market and demographic software uses customer information gathered from transactions to help you select a suitable premium location.
    • What size does my restaurant need to be?
      Typically, we look for locations within commercial strip centers with 2,000 square feet to accommodate 24 to 30 seats.
    • What type of training do you provide?
      We provide training for restaurant Franchise Partners, General Managers, and Managers-in-Training. This training is done on the job at a Donatos location. There is also online training available for Associates.
    • Do I need to have restaurant experience to own a Donatos pizza franchise?
      While prior restaurant or business management experience is preferred, it’s not required. A commitment to delivering outstanding guest experiences, a desire to impact your community, and a passion for the food service industry are three key traits we look for. We’ll teach you everything you need to know to run your business.

Ready to join our Family?

Fill out the form below to learn more about becoming a Franchise Partner. Our Franchise Development Team will get back to you soon.

  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your city.
  • Please select a state.
  • Please enter your liquid capital available.
  • Please answer your Net Worth question.

By clicking the button you agree that Donatos Pizza may call, email and/or send text messages to you for education and marketing activities related to your inquiry. We will only use this data for the purposes of determining if you are a suitable candidate to become a franchise owner of Donatos Pizza. At no time will we use the data for any other purpose or provide the data to third parties. Data and message rates may apply.