Noodles & Company vs Firehouse SubsFranchise Comparison 2026
Noodles & Company and Firehouse Subs 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 | Noodles & Company | Firehouse Subs | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $30,000 | $20,000 | +50% |
| Total Investment (Low) | $693,000 | $343,245 | +102% |
| Total Investment (High) | $1.5M | $976,700 | +49% |
| Cash Required | $400,000 | $100,000 | +300% |
| Royalty Rate | 5.0% | 6.0% | Lower |
| Advertising Fee | 2.5% | 5.0% | Lower |
| Estimated Revenue | $1.1M | $962,000 | +14% |
| Number of Locations | 450 | 1,209 | Fewer |
| Year Founded | 1995 | 1994 | Newer |
| Training Duration | 5 weeks | 6 weeks | Shorter |
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 Noodles & Company
Global noodle dishes from Asian to Mediterranean cuisines. Fast-casual format with fresh preparation.
About Firehouse Subs
Fast-casual sandwich chain known for hearty hot subs and community service. Part of Restaurant Brands International.
Investment Comparison
Firehouse Subs requires a lower initial investment (avg $659,972.5) compared to Noodles & Company(avg $1.1M), making it more accessible for first-time franchisees. However, Noodles & Company may offer higher revenue potential.
Fee Structure
Noodles & Company has lower ongoing fees (7.5% total) compared to Firehouse Subs(11.0% total), which means more of each sales dollar stays with the franchisee. Over time, this can significantly impact profitability.
Market Position
Firehouse Subs has a significantly larger footprint with 1,209 locations compared to Noodles & Company's 450. 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 Noodles & Company vs Firehouse Subs franchise?
Noodles & Company requires an initial investment of $693,000 to $1.5M, while Firehouse Subs requires $343,245 to $976,700. Firehouse Subs has the lower average investment at $659,972.5.
What are the ongoing fees for Noodles & Company vs Firehouse Subs?
Noodles & Company charges a 5.0% royalty plus 2.5% advertising fee (7.5% total). Firehouse Subs charges 6.0% royalty plus 5.0% advertising fee (11.0% total). Noodles & Company has lower total ongoing fees.
Which franchise makes more money: Noodles & Company or Firehouse Subs?
Based on estimated average unit revenue, Noodles & Company generates $1.1M per location compared to $962,000 for Firehouse Subs. However, profitability depends on many factors including local market, operating costs, and management.
How many locations does Noodles & Company have vs Firehouse Subs?
Noodles & Company has 450 locations, while Firehouse Subs has 1,209 locations. Firehouse Subs has the larger footprint, which typically means stronger brand recognition and supply chain advantages.
Is Noodles & Company or Firehouse Subs a better franchise investment in 2026?
Both Noodles & Company and Firehouse Subs are established QSR brands with proven models. Firehouse Subs offers a lower entry point, while Noodles & Company 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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