Five Guys vs Pieology PizzeriaFranchise Comparison 2026
Five Guys 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 | Five Guys | Pieology Pizzeria | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $25,000 | $30,000 | -17% |
| Total Investment (Low) | $306,000 | $385,000 | -21% |
| Total Investment (High) | $641,000 | $670,000 | -4% |
| Cash Required | $300,000 | $250,000 | +20% |
| Royalty Rate | 6.0% | 5.0% | Higher |
| Advertising Fee | 1.5% | 2.0% | Lower |
| Estimated Revenue | $1.4M | $900,000 | +56% |
| Number of Locations | 1,700 | 130 | More |
| Year Founded | 1986 | 2011 | Older |
| 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 Five Guys
Premium burger concept with fresh ingredients and no freezers. Higher food costs but strong brand loyalty and per-unit sales.
About Pieology Pizzeria
Customizable personal pizzas with fresh ingredients. Fast-casual format competing with Blaze and MOD.
Investment Comparison
Five Guys requires a lower initial investment (avg $473,500) compared to Pieology Pizzeria(avg $527,500), making it more accessible for first-time franchisees. However, Pieology Pizzeria may offer similar revenue potential.
Fee Structure
Pieology Pizzeria has lower ongoing fees (7.0% total) compared to Five Guys(7.5% total), which means more of each sales dollar stays with the franchisee. Over time, this can significantly impact profitability.
Market Position
Five Guys has a significantly larger footprint with 1,700 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 Five Guys vs Pieology Pizzeria franchise?
Five Guys requires an initial investment of $306,000 to $641,000, while Pieology Pizzeria requires $385,000 to $670,000. Five Guys has the lower average investment at $473,500.
What are the ongoing fees for Five Guys vs Pieology Pizzeria?
Five Guys charges a 6.0% royalty plus 1.5% advertising fee (7.5% total). Pieology Pizzeria charges 5.0% royalty plus 2.0% advertising fee (7.0% total). Pieology Pizzeria has lower total ongoing fees.
Which franchise makes more money: Five Guys or Pieology Pizzeria?
Based on estimated average unit revenue, Five Guys generates $1.4M per location compared to $900,000 for Pieology Pizzeria. However, profitability depends on many factors including local market, operating costs, and management.
How many locations does Five Guys have vs Pieology Pizzeria?
Five Guys has 1,700 locations, while Pieology Pizzeria has 130 locations. Five Guys has the larger footprint, which typically means stronger brand recognition and supply chain advantages.
Is Five Guys or Pieology Pizzeria a better franchise investment in 2026?
Both Five Guys and Pieology Pizzeria are established QSR brands with proven models. Five Guys offers a lower entry point, while Five Guys 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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