Established
1958
Franchise Units
1650
Minimum Investment
$500,000
Franchise Fee
$50,000
Total Investment Range
$6,089,550
Home Based
No
Description
IHOP is a beloved American restaurant brand known for its delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner offerings served 24/7. With a strong legacy of serving families and food lovers Established in 1958 in Los Angeles, California, IHOP offers a proven franchise model built on brand loyalty, operational excellence, and nationwide marketing power. Entrepreneurs looking for a well-established, full-service restaurant franchise with high brand recognition and growth potential will find IHOP an ideal opportunity.
IHOP (International House of Pancakes) is a globally recognized breakfast-focused restaurant chain, known for its pancakes, waffles, omelets, and classic American dishes. IHOP has grown to become a household name in the casual dining industry, with over 1,700 locations worldwide. The brand has stood the test of time with its warm hospitality, diverse menu, and all-day breakfast appeal.
Why Invest in the IHOP Franchise?
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Legacy Brand with Strong Market Trust – Over 65 years of operational excellence and nationwide brand recognition.
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All-Day Dining Model – Not just breakfast—IHOP offers lunch, dinner, and late-night menus, maximizing customer footfall.
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Expanding Market – The U.S. breakfast and brunch dining sector continues to grow rapidly post-pandemic.
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High Customer Loyalty – IHOP enjoys a deep emotional connection with American families and tourists alike.
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Multiple Revenue Channels – Dine-in, takeout, delivery, and catering options create diverse income streams.
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Brand Popularity – Frequently featured in national food rankin
Background
IHOP (International House of Pancakes) was founded in 1958 by Al Lapin Jr. and Jerry Lapin in Toluca Lake, California, with a simple mission—to serve delicious, affordable pancakes and breakfast food in a welcoming environment. Over the decades, IHOP has evolved into a full-service casual dining brand with a broad menu that includes lunch, dinner, and late-night options.
Now a subsidiary of Dine Brands Global Inc. (which also owns Applebee’s), IHOP has over 1,700 restaurants across the USA and in international markets, making it one of the most recognized breakfast and brunch chains in the world. The brand operates in the casual dining/restaurant franchise category and maintains a strong, loyal customer base across generations.
Support Training
IHOP’s franchise model is designed for scalability and long-term success.
Franchisees receive:
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✅ Comprehensive Onboarding Program
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✅ Site Selection & Store Setup Assistance
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✅ Interior Design & Equipment Procurement
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✅ Operations & Systems Training (pre-opening + ongoing)
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✅ Marketing & Advertising Support – both local and national campaigns
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✅ Menu Innovation & Recipe Management
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✅ Technology Support – POS systems, mobile apps, and online ordering integration
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✅ Ongoing Field Support from Regional Franchise Consultants
Ideal Candidate
IHOP seeks motivated and business-savvy individuals or groups who:
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Have a passion for hospitality and food service
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Possess restaurant or multi-unit management experience (preferred but not mandatory)
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Can manage day-to-day operations or appoint a qualified manager
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Are financially capable of investing in startup and working capital
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Are committed to delivering high customer service standards
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Preferably located in high-traffic urban, suburban, or highway locations
Financial Detail
Franchise Fee: $50,000
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Royalty Fee: 4.5% of gross sales
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Advertising Fee: 3.5% of gross sales
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Initial Investment Range: $1,152,954 – $6,089,550
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Minimum Net Worth Required: $1.5 million
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Minimum Liquid Capital Required: $500,000
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Franchise Units in USA (approx.): 1,650+