Established
1971
Franchise Units
320
Minimum Investment
$300,000
Franchise Fee
$30,000
Total Investment Range
$1,305,000
Home Based
No
Description
Schlotzsky’s is one of America’s most beloved fast-casual sandwich franchises, known for its signature oven-baked sandwiches, freshly made breads, and warm, inviting dining experience. Founded on the simple idea of serving a “Better Sandwich,” Schlotzsky’s has grown into a powerful national brand with a loyal following across the United States. With over 300 restaurants and counting, the brand continues to evolve—offering a menu that includes gourmet sandwiches, pizzas, flatbreads, salads, and soups, all crafted with quality ingredients and bold flavors.
As part of the Focus Brands portfolio, which also includes Auntie Anne’s, Cinnabon, Moe’s Southwest Grill, and Jamba, Schlotzsky’s benefits from the strength and stability of one of the most recognized restaurant groups in the world. The brand combines decades of operational excellence with forward-thinking innovation to meet changing consumer tastes. Its modern “Austin Eatery” design concept creates an engaging, laid-back vibe that resonates with guests looking for both convenience and quality.
Schlotzsky’s has positioned itself as a leader in the growing fast-casual restaurant category—a segment that continues to outperform traditional quick-service restaurants in both sales and customer satisfaction. For entrepreneurs looking to invest in a proven food franchise with long-term growth potential, Schlotzsky’s offers a rare blend of heritage, innovation, and franchisor support.
Why Invest in the Schlotzsky’s Franchise?
Investing in Schlotzsky’s means joining a household name in the fast-casual sandwich space—a category that has remained resilient and profitable even during economic shifts. The franchise’s strong brand recognition, differentiated product offering, and multi-channel business model make it a smart investment for entrepreneurs seeking sustainable returns.
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Proven Business Model: With decades of operational success, Schlotzsky’s has developed a franchise system that balances tradition with innovation.
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Strong Brand Equity: As part of Focus Brands, franchisees benefit from marketing expertise, supply chain efficiencies, and the credibility of a world-class franchise group.
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Flexible Formats: From traditional dine-in restaurants to drive-thru and end-cap models, Schlotzsky’s offers adaptable formats to fit various market sizes and investment levels.
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Expanding Market Demand: The fast-casual segment continues to thrive as consumers seek healthier, high-quality, and quick dining options.
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Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive end-to-end training, marketing guidance, and operational assistance to ensure long-term success.
Background
Founded: 1971
Headquarters: Atlanta, Georgia
Founder: Don and Dolores Dissman
Industry Category: Fast-Casual / Sandwich & Bakery Café
Franchise Units: Over 320 locations across the United States
Schlotzsky’s began its journey in 1971 in Austin, Texas, with a single sandwich—the “Original,” an inspired blend of premium meats, cheeses, and freshly baked sourdough bread. Its signature sandwich quickly gained a cult following, and the brand expanded across Texas and beyond. In 2006, Schlotzsky’s joined the Focus Brands family, a move that amplified its reach and operational resources.
Over the years, Schlotzsky’s has modernized its concept to align with consumer trends, introducing a reimagined restaurant design called “Austin Eatery”—a fresh, urban, and relaxed environment inspired by its Texas roots. This updated identity has successfully attracted a younger demographic while retaining its loyal base of long-time fans.
With continued innovation in its menu, digital ordering, and franchise model, Schlotzsky’s remains a powerhouse in the fast-casual restaurant landscape.
Support Training
Schlotzsky’s is deeply committed to setting every franchisee up for success. The brand’s comprehensive support system begins well before the grand opening and continues throughout the life of the business.
1. Pre-Launch Support:
Site Selection & Real Estate Assistance: Guidance in choosing optimal sites using data-driven tools and demographic analysis.
Design & Construction Support: Access to approved vendors and architectural layouts to ensure efficient build-out and compliance with brand standards.
Financing Guidance: Assistance with business plan development and introductions to preferred lenders familiar with the brand.
2. Training Programs:
Initial Training: A robust multi-week program at Schlotzsky’s headquarters and certified training locations covering all aspects of operations, food preparation, and management.
In-Store Operations Training: Hands-on learning at an operating Schlotzsky’s location for real-world experience before launch.
Staff Development: Guidance for hiring, training, and retaining top talent to deliver excellent guest experiences.
3. Marketing & Ongoing Support:
National Marketing Campaigns: Professionally executed national promotions and digital campaigns to drive awareness and traffic.
Local Store Marketing Toolkit: Resources for community-level promotions, grand openings, and customer retention programs.
Operational Support: Dedicated franchise business consultants and regional field teams providing ongoing assistance, audits, and strategic growth input.
4. Technology & Systems:
Digital Integration: Robust POS systems, mobile ordering platforms, and third-party delivery partnerships.
Data & Analytics: Access to performance metrics, sales dashboards, and guest insights to improve efficiency.
This 360-degree support structure ensures franchisees never operate in isolation—they are backed by a network of experts and peers invested in mutual success.
Ideal Candidate
Schlotzsky’s is looking for motivated entrepreneurs who are passionate about the restaurant industry and eager to build a brand that customers love. The ideal franchisee is someone who values teamwork, operational excellence, and community engagement.
Preferred Qualifications:
Background in restaurant, hospitality, or multi-unit operations (though not mandatory).-
Strong business acumen with leadership and team management skills.
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Ability to follow a proven system while maintaining local initiative.
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Financial capability to meet investment requirements and sustain initial growth phases.
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Commitment to providing exceptional customer service and upholding brand standards.
Investment Type:
Schlotzsky’s welcomes both owner-operators and multi-unit investors who are looking to expand within their regions. The brand offers significant territory opportunities across the U.S., especially in suburban and metropolitan markets.
Financial Detail
Initial Franchise Fee: $30,000
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Royalty Fee: 6% of gross sales
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Marketing/Advertising Fee: 2% national + local marketing contribution
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Franchise Units (USA): Over 320 locations
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Total Investment Range: $503,000 – $1,305,000
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Minimum Net Worth: $1,000,000
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Minimum Liquid Capital: $300,000