2004
30
$317,000
$25,000
$598,000
No
Earl of Sandwich is more than just a sandwich shop—it’s a legacy brand inspired by over 250 years of culinary tradition. Renowned for its freshly made, hot gourmet sandwiches served on artisan bread, the franchise combines quality, speed, and history in one delicious experience. Founded by the direct descendants of John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich—credited with inventing the sandwich—the brand brings an authentic story to every location.
With its blend of old-world heritage and modern fast-casual appeal, Earl of Sandwich stands out in the highly competitive quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry. It offers customers an elevated experience with handcrafted sandwiches, fresh salads, soups, and wraps—all served with consistency and care. As consumer demand continues to shift toward quality ingredients and fast convenience, the franchise has become a go-to choice for entrepreneurs seeking a strong brand identity and high market recognition.
From bustling city centers to airports, malls, and universities, Earl of Sandwich franchises thrive in diverse environments, backed by a proven operational model and strong brand marketing. This franchise isn’t just about selling sandwiches—it’s about delivering a memorable dining experience with a name that people trust.
Investing in the Earl of Sandwich franchise means joining a world-famous brand with a powerful story and a reputation for excellence. Here’s why investors are drawn to this franchise:
Globally Recognized Brand – Backed by a royal heritage and known for innovation in the sandwich industry, Earl of Sandwich commands instant brand trust and loyalty.
Proven Business Model – Decades of operational refinement ensure high efficiency, strong margins, and consistent customer satisfaction.
High Traffic Locations – Ideal for airports, theme parks, and tourist destinations, the franchise model thrives in busy, high-volume areas.
Diverse Menu Appeal – Offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, and catering—expanding revenue potential throughout the day.
Comprehensive Franchise Support – From location selection to marketing strategy, franchisees receive end-to-end support from experienced professionals.
Strong Unit Economics – Low food waste, high average ticket size, and repeat customers create a sustainable profit model.
The Earl of Sandwich brand is built on a unique blend of culinary tradition, royal heritage, and modern fast-casual excellence. With roots tracing back to the very invention of the sandwich itself, this franchise carries centuries of history while delivering a fresh, efficient, and flavor-packed dining experience for today’s consumers.
Established Year:
2004
Founders:
Robert Earl, Founder of Planet Hollywood, and John Montagu, the 11th Earl of Sandwich, a direct descendant of the 4th Earl of Sandwich—the man credited with inventing the sandwich in the 18th century.
Headquarters:
Orlando, Florida, USA
Industry Category:
Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) / Fast-Casual Dining
Franchise Units:
Over 30+ locations across the United States, with additional international operations in the United Kingdom, France, and Canada.
Brand Journey & Story
The Earl of Sandwich concept was created to honor a culinary legacy that began nearly 250 years ago. John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich, famously invented the sandwich as a way to enjoy a meal conveniently without leaving his gaming table. Inspired by this story, the modern-day Earl of Sandwich franchise brings that same spirit of convenience and quality to the modern consumer.
In 2004, hospitality entrepreneur Robert Earl partnered with John Montagu, the 11th Earl of Sandwich, to launch the first location at Downtown Disney in Orlando, Florida. The restaurant quickly became a hit for its hot, handcrafted sandwiches, freshly baked artisan bread, and premium ingredients. It combined historical charm with fast-casual innovation, creating a new kind of quick-service experience that customers instantly loved.
Growth & Market Presence
Since its founding, Earl of Sandwich has expanded strategically across the United States, targeting high-traffic and high-visibility locations such as:
Airports and travel hubs (e.g., Disneyland, Las Vegas, and major airport terminals)
Shopping malls and retail centers
College campuses and entertainment districts
Tourist destinations and business districts
The brand’s ability to adapt its menu and store design to diverse markets has fueled its steady growth. With strong performance in both franchise and corporate-owned units, Earl of Sandwich has established itself as a trusted and profitable name in the fast-casual segment.
Company Ownership & Management
Earl of Sandwich operates under Earl Enterprises, a global hospitality company founded by Robert Earl. The group also manages several renowned restaurant brands, ensuring strong operational expertise and ongoing support for franchisees. This corporate backing provides franchise owners with the benefit of a proven management structure, industry insights, and global marketing experience.
Industry Overview
The quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry in the USA continues to experience strong demand, driven by customers’ need for convenience, quality, and speed. Earl of Sandwich stands out within this competitive landscape due to:
Its unique historical branding and storytelling appeal.
A diverse menu that satisfies breakfast, lunch, and dinner crowds.
A loyal customer base built on taste consistency and premium ingredients.
The brand’s timeless story, backed by a solid business model, positions it as one of the most distinctive and growth-ready franchises in the American QSR industry.
Vision & Mission
Vision: To be the world’s most loved hot sandwich brand by combining history, quality, and innovation.
Mission: To deliver exceptional food and service inspired by the original sandwich inventor—making every meal memorable and convenient.
Earl of Sandwich is deeply committed to ensuring every franchise owner has the tools, knowledge, and confidence to run a thriving business. From the initial setup to ongoing operations, the brand’s franchise program is built on a foundation of comprehensive support and hands-on guidance. Here’s a detailed look at what’s included:
Before opening your Earl of Sandwich location, the corporate team assists you at every step of the setup process:
Site Selection Assistance: The franchising team helps identify and evaluate high-traffic locations suited for maximum visibility and profitability—such as shopping centers, airports, and downtown areas.
Lease Negotiation & Build-Out Guidance: Expert consultants assist with lease terms, architectural plans, interior design, and store layout to align with brand standards and create an efficient workspace.
Equipment & Vendor Setup: Franchisees receive help with sourcing approved suppliers, equipment installation, and product procurement to ensure consistent quality.
Grand Opening Planning: Marketing and operations teams collaborate with you to organize a powerful launch event designed to attract attention and drive initial sales.
Every new franchisee and their management team participate in an extensive training program held at an existing Earl of Sandwich location or corporate headquarters.
Duration: 3–4 weeks of classroom and hands-on training.
Topics Covered:
Food preparation and menu standards
Daily operations and inventory management
Customer service excellence
Staff hiring, training, and scheduling
POS system operation and financial reporting
Compliance with health and safety standards
This ensures that franchisees open their stores with a complete understanding of how to deliver the signature “Earl of Sandwich” experience.
Earl of Sandwich provides extensive marketing resources to build local awareness and strengthen brand identity.
National Advertising Campaigns: Leverage professionally developed media campaigns that boost brand recognition across the U.S.
Local Marketing Assistance: Guidance for implementing community-level marketing, partnerships, and grand opening promotions.
Digital Marketing Tools: Access to branded assets for social media, website listings, email campaigns, and loyalty programs.
Promotional Strategies: Regular seasonal and limited-time offers that keep customer interest high and drive repeat business.
The franchise system is designed for ease of operation—even for those new to the restaurant industry.
Onsite Opening Support: Corporate representatives are present during the first days of operation to ensure a smooth launch.
Field Operations Support: Experienced regional managers and franchise consultants conduct regular visits and provide ongoing business reviews.
Operational Manuals: Comprehensive documentation detailing best practices for staffing, training, purchasing, and daily management.
Technology Systems: A proprietary POS system and reporting tools make it easy to track performance and optimize profitability.
Earl of Sandwich believes in continuous improvement for its franchise network.
Refresher Courses & Workshops: Regular training updates on new menu items, operational techniques, and customer service standards.
Annual Franchise Meetings: Network with other franchise owners, share success stories, and learn about future brand innovations.
Performance Coaching: Tailored feedback and financial analysis from corporate advisors to help owners meet sales and profit targets.
Consistency is key to the Earl of Sandwich experience.
Approved Vendor Network: Reliable, cost-effective suppliers ensure product quality and brand consistency.
Inventory Management Tools: Systems to help manage stock efficiently, reduce waste, and improve cash flow.
Quality Audits: Regular inspections maintain the brand’s high standards across all locations.
Earl of Sandwich is looking for driven, passionate entrepreneurs who share the brand’s commitment to excellence, hospitality, and community engagement. The ideal franchisee is not just an investor—they’re someone who wants to build a lasting, successful business centered around great food, customer satisfaction, and a respected brand story.
The most successful Earl of Sandwich franchise owners are hands-on operators with a strong sense of leadership and a desire to grow. Whether you’re a seasoned restaurateur or a first-time business owner, the franchise welcomes individuals who are willing to learn, lead a team, and maintain the high standards that make the brand thrive.
Key Traits:
Passion for food, hospitality, and customer service
Strong communication and people-management skills
Dedication to operational excellence and consistency
Ability to follow a proven system while adding local initiative
While previous experience in the restaurant or retail industry is beneficial, it is not mandatory. Earl of Sandwich’s comprehensive support and training programs equip new franchisees with all the tools they need to succeed. However, a background in business ownership, management, or operations is highly advantageous for overseeing staff and daily business activities efficiently.
Preferred Backgrounds:
Restaurant or café management experience
Multi-unit franchise ownership
Retail or hospitality operations
Sales, marketing, or customer relations
Owning an Earl of Sandwich franchise requires a solid financial foundation to support both startup and operational costs. Franchisees must meet the minimum financial requirements to ensure their business is well-funded during the initial stages of development.
Financial Qualifications:
Minimum liquid capital: $150,000 – $250,000
Minimum net worth: $500,000 or higher
Ability to secure financing if needed
Commitment to reinvesting in local marketing and staff development
Franchisees should be prepared to invest in high-traffic, strategically located spaces to maximize visibility and returns.
Earl of Sandwich franchise owners are expected to be actively involved in their business operations. This hands-on approach ensures that each store maintains the brand’s renowned quality, speed, and service standards. For multi-unit operators, the company encourages developing strong management teams to ensure consistent execution across all locations.
Expectations:
Active participation in daily operations or oversight
Compliance with brand guidelines, recipes, and customer experience standards
Regular participation in corporate meetings, promotions, and updates
Willingness to adapt to new menu items and marketing initiatives
Earl of Sandwich thrives in communities where franchisees build genuine connections. The brand values owners who engage with their local customers and become active contributors to their neighborhoods.
Ideal Personality Traits:
Outgoing and customer-focused
Willing to host local events, fundraisers, or promotions
Enthusiastic about building brand presence through word-of-mouth and local partnerships
Ideal Earl of Sandwich franchise locations include high-visibility, high-traffic areas that attract both locals and tourists. The franchise is well-suited for:
Airports and transportation hubs
Shopping malls and retail centers
College campuses
Tourist destinations and entertainment complexes
Business districts and mixed-use developments
These areas allow the brand to leverage its fast service model and attract a diverse customer base throughout the day.
Earl of Sandwich offers a cost-effective entry into the fast-casual dining industry while maintaining a strong return potential backed by a trusted, globally recognized brand. Below is a comprehensive financial overview designed to help potential franchisees understand the investment structure, costs, and profitability expectations.
| Financial Category | Estimated Cost (USD) | Description / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $25,000 – $35,000 | One-time fee granting franchise rights, training, and brand use. |
| Total Initial Investment | $317,000 – $598,000 | Includes all setup expenses such as leasehold improvements, equipment, furniture, and signage. |
| Minimum Net Worth Required | $500,000 | Ensures the financial stability and capacity to support early-stage operations. |
| Liquid Capital Requirement | $150,000 – $250,000 | Readily available cash to cover startup and early operating costs. |
| Royalty Fee | 6% of Gross Sales | Ongoing fee for continued brand support, operations, and system maintenance. |
| Marketing / Advertising Fee | 2% of Gross Sales | Contributes to national marketing campaigns and digital promotions. |
| Leasehold Improvements | $100,000 – $250,000 | Store build-out, interior design, and space customization to brand standards. |
| Equipment & Fixtures | $75,000 – $150,000 | Includes kitchen appliances, POS systems, display units, and furniture. |
| Initial Inventory | $10,000 – $15,000 | Starting stock of food products, packaging, and operational materials. |
| Training & Travel Expenses | $5,000 – $10,000 | Costs associated with attending training at corporate headquarters. |
| Signage & Branding | $10,000 – $20,000 | Interior and exterior signage to maintain brand consistency. |
| Working Capital (First 3 Months) | $25,000 – $50,000 | Cash reserves for salaries, rent, and operational expenses during the initial phase. |
| Technology Systems | $5,000 – $10,000 | POS setup, IT support, and software subscriptions. |
| Grand Opening Marketing | $5,000 – $10,000 | Local promotions and advertising to launch the business successfully. |
| Average Unit Size | 1,000 – 1,800 sq. ft. | Typical store layout designed for high-efficiency operations. |
| Expected ROI (Return on Investment) | 2 – 4 Years | Depending on location, management, and market performance. |
| Break-Even Time | 18 – 24 Months | Average timeframe for recouping initial investment costs. |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Variable | Dine-in, takeout, delivery, catering, and branded retail merchandise. |
Total Estimated Investment: $317,000 – $598,000
Average Annual Revenue (per store): Varies by location and traffic volume
Profit Margins: 12% – 18% (industry average for QSR segment)
Franchise Term: 10 years (renewable)
Training Duration: 3–4 weeks at corporate location
✅ Lower Entry Point: Competitive investment compared to other fast-casual franchises.
✅ High Brand Recognition: A globally respected name that attracts immediate customer trust.
✅ Multi-Unit Potential: Scalable franchise model ideal for investors seeking expansion.
✅ Strong Unit Economics: Balanced food costs, efficient operations, and repeat business drive profitability.
