Blaze Pizza vs The Coffee Bean & Tea LeafFranchise Comparison 2026
Blaze Pizza and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf represent two different approaches in the QSR space. Here's how they compare on investment costs, fees, revenue potential, and market presence.
Quick Comparison
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Blaze Pizza | The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $30,000 | $35,000 | -14% |
| Total Investment (Low) | $350,000 | $250,000 | +40% |
| Total Investment (High) | $850,000 | $550,000 | +55% |
| Cash Required | $250,000 | $200,000 | +25% |
| Royalty Rate | 5.0% | 6.0% | Lower |
| Advertising Fee | 1.0% | 2.0% | Lower |
| Estimated Revenue | $850,000 | $720,000 | +18% |
| Number of Locations | 340 | 1,100 | Fewer |
| Year Founded | 2011 | 1963 | Newer |
| Training Duration | 3 weeks | 3 weeks | Same |
Note: Data sourced from public FDD filings and industry reports. Actual costs vary by location, real estate, and format. Always review current FDD Item 7 and Item 19 disclosures before making investment decisions.
Detailed Analysis
About Blaze Pizza
Fast-fire'd artisan pizzas with unlimited toppings. Fast-casual positioning with build-your-own model similar to Chipotle.
About The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
Specialty coffee and tea with global locations. Premium positioning and diverse beverage menu.
Investment Comparison
The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf requires a lower initial investment (avg $400,000) compared to Blaze Pizza(avg $600,000), making it more accessible for first-time franchisees. However, Blaze Pizza may offer higher revenue potential.
Fee Structure
Blaze Pizza has lower ongoing fees (6.0% total) compared to The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf(8.0% total), which means more of each sales dollar stays with the franchisee. Over time, this can significantly impact profitability.
Market Position
The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf has a significantly larger footprint with 1,100 locations compared to Blaze Pizza's 340. This larger network typically means better brand recognition, more purchasing power, and stronger operational support.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to open a Blaze Pizza vs The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf franchise?
Blaze Pizza requires an initial investment of $350,000 to $850,000, while The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf requires $250,000 to $550,000. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf has the lower average investment at $400,000.
What are the ongoing fees for Blaze Pizza vs The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf?
Blaze Pizza charges a 5.0% royalty plus 1.0% advertising fee (6.0% total). The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf charges 6.0% royalty plus 2.0% advertising fee (8.0% total). Blaze Pizza has lower total ongoing fees.
Which franchise makes more money: Blaze Pizza or The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf?
Based on estimated average unit revenue, Blaze Pizza generates $850,000 per location compared to $720,000 for The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. However, profitability depends on many factors including local market, operating costs, and management.
How many locations does Blaze Pizza have vs The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf?
Blaze Pizza has 340 locations, while The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf has 1,100 locations. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf has the larger footprint, which typically means stronger brand recognition and supply chain advantages.
Is Blaze Pizza or The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf a better franchise investment in 2026?
Both Blaze Pizza and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf are established QSR brands with proven models. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf offers a lower entry point, while Blaze Pizza shows higher average revenue. The best choice depends on your available capital, local market conditions, and personal goals. Always review the current FDD before making investment decisions.
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