1987
20
$350,000
$35,000
$650,000
No
i Fratelli Pizza is more than just a pizza brand—it’s a Texas-born legacy that redefined how Americans experience authentic Italian-style pizza. Since opening its doors in 1987, i Fratelli has built a loyal following for its thin-crust pizzas made from scratch daily, with fresh ingredients and a signature sauce recipe that has remained unchanged for decades. The franchise’s commitment to excellence, community involvement, and hospitality-driven service has positioned it as one of the most respected regional pizza brands in the United States.
Unlike mass-produced fast-food chains, i Fratelli Pizza offers a handcrafted, family-owned touch. Every pizza is made to order, reflecting a tradition of consistency, quality, and care that has been passed down through generations. With over 20+ locations across Texas and continued expansion across the southern U.S., i Fratelli Pizza presents a proven and scalable model that blends the warmth of a family business with the professionalism of a modern franchise.
From dine-in and carryout to delivery and catering, i Fratelli’s multi-channel approach ensures consistent revenue streams and adaptability to local market needs. The brand’s reputation for quality and service has earned it numerous awards and loyal repeat customers—making it a compelling opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to invest in the thriving pizza and fast-casual dining industry.
Why Invest in the i Fratelli Pizza Franchise?
Investing in an i Fratelli Pizza franchise means joining a time-tested brand that values integrity, community, and hospitality as much as it values profitability.
Here’s why it stands out:
Strong Brand Legacy: With nearly four decades of success, i Fratelli Pizza is a household name in Texas and a recognized regional leader in the premium pizza segment.
High-Quality Product Offering: Every pizza is made from premium ingredients—fresh dough, house-made sauce, and locally sourced toppings—crafted to deliver authentic flavor that keeps customers coming back.
Simple Operations Model: Designed for ease of management with streamlined kitchen processes, limited menu complexity, and optimized space requirements.
Community-Focused Values: The brand’s motto, “Never trust a round pizza,” reflects both its signature rectangular pies and its playful, community-oriented culture.
Growing Market Demand: The U.S. pizza industry generates over $46 billion annually. Consumers are increasingly choosing artisanal and high-quality brands—an area where i Fratelli excels.
Scalable Franchise System: Franchisees benefit from decades of refined operational systems and the support of an experienced corporate team dedicated to franchise success.
Founded: 1987
Founders: The Cole Brothers – seven brothers from Irving, Texas
Headquarters: Irving, Texas, USA
Industry Category: Pizza, Fast-Casual Restaurant, Food & Beverage
Franchise Units: Over 20 locations across Texas (Dallas–Fort Worth, Austin, Houston, and growing markets)
The i Fratelli story began when the Cole brothers set out to bring authentic, family-inspired Italian pizza to their local community. What started as one humble location quickly grew into a regional sensation, celebrated for its signature thin-crust pizzas and exceptional customer care.
As the brand evolved, i Fratelli embraced franchise expansion to share its values and flavors with new communities. Each new location continues to reflect the brothers’ original commitment to family, service, and quality—values that remain central to its franchise philosophy today.
i Fratelli Pizza’s franchise program includes comprehensive pre-launch and ongoing support to help franchisees succeed from day one.
Pre-Opening Support
Site Selection & Lease Guidance: Assistance in choosing high-visibility, high-traffic locations ideal for the brand’s demographic.
Design & Construction: Expert guidance on store layout, décor, equipment, and build-out specifications.
Initial Training Program: Extensive in-person and virtual training for owners, managers, and key staff on operations, recipes, and brand standards.
Operational Support
Onsite Launch Support: Corporate trainers assist with your grand opening, helping ensure smooth operations and staff confidence.
Supply Chain Management: Established vendor relationships for consistent, high-quality ingredients and competitive pricing.
Operations Manual: Comprehensive guide covering every detail from pizza preparation to customer service best practices.
Marketing & Growth Support
Local Store Marketing Plans: Tailored campaigns to build strong community relationships and local brand awareness.
Digital Marketing & SEO: Assistance with social media, online ordering systems, and loyalty programs.
Ongoing Field Support: Regular visits and consultations from experienced franchise development representatives.
The franchise system is built around collaboration and communication, ensuring each franchisee feels supported as part of the larger i Fratelli family.
The ideal i Fratelli Pizza franchisee is passionate about food, community, and customer service. While prior restaurant experience is an advantage, it’s not a strict requirement—what matters most is the ability to uphold the brand’s family-driven values and operational excellence.
Key Qualities of a Successful Franchisee:
Strong leadership and people management skills
Dedication to maintaining quality and service consistency
Community-oriented mindset with a focus on building relationships
Interest in the food & beverage industry or multi-unit development
Willingness to follow proven operational systems
Financial capability to invest in and sustain the business
Preferred Franchise Locations:
Expansion is targeted across major metropolitan and suburban markets throughout the southern and midwestern United States, including states such as Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Colorado, and beyond.
| Investment Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $350,000 – $650,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | $150,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 6% of gross sales |
| Marketing/Advertising Fee | 2% of gross sales |
| Initial Inventory & Equipment | $120,000 – $200,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements & Build-Out | $150,000 – $300,000 |
| Working Capital (3 Months) | $50,000 – $75,000 |
| Expected ROI | 15% – 25% (depending on market and management) |
| Estimated Break-Even Period | 18 – 30 months |
Franchisees benefit from multiple revenue streams, including dine-in, carryout, delivery, catering, and event sales, with opportunities for local partnerships that boost brand exposure and profitability.
