2011
330
$500,000
$30,000
$1,101,500
No
Blaze Pizza is one of America’s fastest-growing and most innovative pizza franchises, redefining how consumers enjoy pizza with its fast-casual, build-your-own, artisanal pizza concept. Known for its made-to-order pizzas, signature open-flame cooking style, and fresh, high-quality ingredients, Blaze Pizza has captured a significant market share in the competitive pizza industry.
Founded on the vision of combining speed, customization, and flavor, Blaze Pizza offers customers the ability to create their own pizzas with unlimited toppings, baked in just 180 seconds using its signature high-temperature open-hearth oven. With its modern brand image, celebrity endorsements (including early investment from LeBron James), and nationwide presence, Blaze Pizza has positioned itself as the “Chipotle of Pizza”—a leader in the fast-casual dining space.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, investing in a Blaze Pizza franchise means partnering with one of the most recognizable, customer-loved, and scalable pizza brands in the United States, with proven operational systems, strong marketing power, and a thriving customer base.
✅ Strong Brand Recognition – Blaze Pizza is a household name in the USA fast-casual dining industry.
✅ Fast-Growing Segment – The fast-casual pizza industry is expanding rapidly with consistent consumer demand.
✅ Proven Business Model – Streamlined operations and efficient systems ensure smooth scalability.
✅ Celebrity Backing – LeBron James and other high-profile investors add credibility and visibility.
✅ High Consumer Appeal – Focus on quality, customization, and affordability attracts a wide audience.
✅ Franchise Support – Comprehensive training, marketing, and operational assistance provided.
Established Year: 2011
Founders: Rick Wetzel (of Wetzel’s Pretzels) & Elise Wetzel
Headquarters: Pasadena, California, USA
Franchise Launch: 2012
Franchise Units (Approx. 2024): 330+ locations across the United States and international markets
Industry Category: Fast-Casual Pizza Franchise
Ownership: Blaze Pizza, LLC – privately held, backed by various investors including LeBron James
Since its launch in Irvine, California, Blaze Pizza has revolutionized the way Americans eat pizza. By combining speed, quality, and customization, the brand quickly attracted millennials, families, and foodies alike. Within just a few years, Blaze Pizza grew to hundreds of locations nationwide, consistently ranking among the fastest-growing restaurant chains in the U.S..
The company’s market presence spans across the U.S. with a strong foothold in urban centers, college towns, and suburban communities, making it a versatile franchise option suitable for a wide range of locations.
Blaze Pizza ensures every franchisee receives end-to-end training and support to succeed:
Site Selection & Lease Negotiation Assistance – Guidance on choosing the best location with demographic and traffic analysis.
Restaurant Design & Construction Support – Help with store layout, equipment sourcing, and compliance with brand standards.
Initial Training Program – Comprehensive classroom and on-site training for owners and staff covering operations, food prep, and customer service.
Standardized Operating Manuals – Detailed guidelines for efficient store management.
Supply Chain Management – Access to preferred vendors and quality-controlled inventory.
Technology Integration – POS systems, delivery platforms, and loyalty program support.
National Marketing Campaigns – Brand-wide promotions and advertising across digital, TV, and print.
Local Store Marketing – Templates, promotional toolkits, and regional guidance to attract customers.
Social Media & PR Assistance – Leveraging Blaze Pizza’s strong digital presence to boost visibility.
Dedicated Franchise Consultant – Continuous guidance and performance monitoring.
Refresher Training Programs – Updated training modules for new systems or menu innovations.
Innovation & R&D – Regular menu updates and product development to stay competitive.
Blaze Pizza seeks motivated, business-savvy entrepreneurs who share the brand’s passion for food quality and customer experience.
Best-Suited Candidates Include:
Investors with prior experience in restaurant, hospitality, or retail management.
Multi-unit operators seeking to expand their portfolio with a proven food franchise.
Entrepreneurs passionate about fast-casual dining and customer service excellence.
Individuals with strong leadership, management, and team-building skills.
Other Ideal Qualities:
Financial capability to meet franchise investment requirements.
Willingness to follow established operational systems and uphold brand standards.
Preference for high-traffic areas such as shopping centers, college towns, and urban hubs.
| Investment Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $562,500 – $1,101,500 |
| Minimum Investment | $500,000+ |
| Franchise Fee | $30,000 |
| Royalty Fees | 5% of gross sales |
| Marketing/Advertising Fees | 2% of gross sales (national fund) + local ad spend |
| Infrastructure/Build-Out Costs | $350,000 – $600,000 |
| Working Capital | $30,000 – $60,000 |
| Expected ROI | 2 – 3 years (depending on location & operations) |
| Break-Even Point | Typically 18 – 24 months |
| Revenue Streams | Dine-in, takeout, delivery, catering, loyalty program sales |
| Current Franchise Units | 330+ |
