Blaze Pizza vs Pieology PizzeriaFranchise Comparison 2026
Blaze Pizza and Pieology Pizzeria 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 | Pieology Pizzeria | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $30,000 | $30,000 | 0% |
| Total Investment (Low) | $350,000 | $385,000 | -9% |
| Total Investment (High) | $850,000 | $670,000 | +27% |
| Cash Required | $250,000 | $250,000 | 0% |
| Royalty Rate | 5.0% | 5.0% | Same |
| Advertising Fee | 1.0% | 2.0% | Lower |
| Estimated Revenue | $850,000 | $900,000 | -6% |
| Number of Locations | 340 | 130 | More |
| Year Founded | 2011 | 2011 | Same |
| 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 Pieology Pizzeria
Customizable personal pizzas with fresh ingredients. Fast-casual format competing with Blaze and MOD.
Investment Comparison
Pieology Pizzeria requires a lower initial investment (avg $527,500) compared to Blaze Pizza(avg $600,000), making it more accessible for first-time franchisees. However, Blaze Pizza may offer similar revenue potential.
Fee Structure
Blaze Pizza has lower ongoing fees (6.0% total) compared to Pieology Pizzeria(7.0% total), which means more of each sales dollar stays with the franchisee. Over time, this can significantly impact profitability.
Market Position
Blaze Pizza has a significantly larger footprint with 340 locations compared to Pieology Pizzeria's 130. 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 Pieology Pizzeria franchise?
Blaze Pizza requires an initial investment of $350,000 to $850,000, while Pieology Pizzeria requires $385,000 to $670,000. Pieology Pizzeria has the lower average investment at $527,500.
What are the ongoing fees for Blaze Pizza vs Pieology Pizzeria?
Blaze Pizza charges a 5.0% royalty plus 1.0% advertising fee (6.0% total). Pieology Pizzeria charges 5.0% royalty plus 2.0% advertising fee (7.0% total). Blaze Pizza has lower total ongoing fees.
Which franchise makes more money: Blaze Pizza or Pieology Pizzeria?
Based on estimated average unit revenue, Pieology Pizzeria generates $900,000 per location compared to $850,000 for Blaze Pizza. However, profitability depends on many factors including local market, operating costs, and management.
How many locations does Blaze Pizza have vs Pieology Pizzeria?
Blaze Pizza has 340 locations, while Pieology Pizzeria has 130 locations. Blaze Pizza has the larger footprint, which typically means stronger brand recognition and supply chain advantages.
Is Blaze Pizza or Pieology Pizzeria a better franchise investment in 2026?
Both Blaze Pizza and Pieology Pizzeria are established QSR brands with proven models. Pieology Pizzeria offers a lower entry point, while Pieology Pizzeria 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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