Established
1983
Franchise Units
40
Minimum Investment
$375,800
Franchise Fee
$40,000
Total Investment Range
$552,700
Home Based
No
Description
Blackjack Pizza & Salads is a beloved fast-casual restaurant chain renowned for its handcrafted pizzas, fresh salads, and commitment to quality. Since its inception in 1983, Blackjack has built a strong reputation for delivering delicious, made-from-scratch meals that satisfy a wide range of tastes. With a focus on using the finest ingredients and providing exceptional customer service, Blackjack has become a staple in communities across the United States.
The franchise model emphasizes owner-operator involvement, ensuring that each location maintains the brand's high standards and fosters a personal connection with customers. This approach has led to a loyal customer base and consistent growth over the years.
Positioned in the competitive fast-casual dining industry, Blackjack Pizza & Salads stands out by offering a menu that caters to diverse preferences, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. The brand's commitment to quality and community involvement has solidified its place in the market, making it an attractive opportunity for potential franchisees.
Why Invest in this Franchise?
-
Proven Business Model: Blackjack Pizza & Salads has a track record of success, with a franchise system that has been refined over decades.
-
Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive extensive training and ongoing support in operations, marketing, and management.
-
Brand Recognition: The brand's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has fostered strong brand loyalty.
-
Scalable Opportunity: With a flexible franchise model, investors can expand their portfolio by opening multiple locations.
Background
Established Year: 1983
First Unit Franchised: 1986
Franchise Units: 40
Company-Owned Units: 0
Founders: Vince Schmuhl, a former Domino's Pizza employee, founded Blackjack Pizza with the vision of providing an alternative to existing pizza delivery services in the Rocky Mountain region.
Company History: The first Blackjack Pizza store opened in Federal Heights, Colorado, on June 29, 1983. By 1986, the company had expanded to six corporate stores and one franchisee. In 1988, Blackjack officially became a franchisor using the concept of an owner/operator franchisee at each store location.
Industry Category: Fast-Casual Dining / Pizza & Salads
States Registered In:
Alabama (AL), Arizona (AZ), Arkansas (AR), Colorado (CO), Georgia (GA), Iowa (IA), Kentucky (KY), Louisiana (LA), Mississippi (MS), Nevada (NV), New Jersey (NJ), New Mexico (NM), North Carolina (NC), Ohio (OH), Oklahoma (OK), Pennsylvania (PA), South Carolina (SC), South Dakota (SD), Tennessee (TN), Texas (TX), Wyoming (WY)
Canada Franchises: No
International Franchises: No
Support Training
Blackjack Pizza & Salads provides comprehensive pre-opening and ongoing support designed to set franchisees up for long-term success.
Initial Training Program
Before opening your store, you and your management team will complete an in-depth training program that covers:
- Full operations
- Staff management
- Marketing and promotions
- Brand standards and customer service
Training is conducted in English and offered at no cost, except for travel and living expenses.
Pre-Opening Support
You receive hands-on guidance at every setup stage, including:
- Site selection assistance
- Lease review and negotiation support
- Standard layout design (interior + exterior brand-approved plans)
- Final review visit to ensure all brand standards are met
A corporate representative is also present during the Grand Opening to provide on-site supervision and support.
Operations & Marketing Support
Franchisees receive the official Operations Manual, which includes:
- Daily operational procedures
- Quality and service standards
- Marketing and promotional guidelines
The brand also helps design and execute your Grand Opening Marketing Program, ensuring a strong launch and local market introduction.
Ongoing Support
After opening, Blackjack Pizza & Salads continues to support your growth through:
- Periodic field operations visits
- Continued training programs
- Performance and management guidance
- Marketing support and updated promotional materials
The brand remains committed to providing tools, resources, and expert guidance to help franchisees operate efficiently and achieve long-term business success.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal Blackjack Pizza & Salads franchisee is:
-
Entrepreneurial Spirit: Motivated individuals with a passion for the food industry and a desire to operate their own business.
-
Hands-On Management Style: Owners who are committed to being actively involved in daily operations to ensure quality and consistency.
-
Financial Capability: Individuals with the financial resources to meet the investment requirements and sustain operations during the initial growth phase.
-
Community-Oriented: Franchisees who value community engagement and are dedicated to building strong relationships with customers and local organizations.
-
Experience: While prior experience in the food industry is beneficial, it is not mandatory. A strong work ethic and willingness to learn are essential.
Financial Detail
Liquid Asset Requirement: $150,000
Total Investment: $375,800 – $552,700
Minimum Net Worth: $300,000
Franchise Fee: $40,000
Royalty Fee: 5%
Marketing Fund: 2%*
Item 19: Yes
Average Number of Employees: 15
Visa Candidates: No
Passive Ownership: Yes
Home-Based: No
B2B: No
Master Franchise Opportunities: No
Veteran Discount: Yes