Established
1959
Franchise Units
27
Minimum Investment
$450,000
Franchise Fee
$35,000
Total Investment Range
$850,000
Home Based
No
Description
Straw Hat Pizza is a legacy American pizza brand with deep roots on the West Coast and a loyal, multi-generational customer base. Known for its signature thick-crust pizzas, family-friendly dine-in experience, and nostalgic brand appeal, Straw Hat Pizza occupies a unique position in the competitive U.S. pizza segment.
Unlike fast-turn, delivery-only concepts, Straw Hat Pizza blends classic pizzeria hospitality with scalable franchise systems, making it attractive to entrepreneurs seeking a proven brand with enduring consumer recognition. The concept thrives in suburban and neighborhood markets where families, sports teams, and community groups value consistency, comfort food, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
Investing in Straw Hat Pizza means aligning with a brand that has stood the test of time while continuing to adapt to changing consumer habits. Key reasons investors choose this franchise include:
Established Brand Recognition: Decades of presence in the U.S. pizza market with strong regional loyalty
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Proven Menu Appeal: Classic pizzas, wings, salads, and shareable items that resonate with families and groups
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Community-Driven Concept: Popular for team nights, school fundraisers, and local events, driving repeat traffic
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Multiple Revenue Channels: Dine-in, carry-out, delivery, online ordering, and catering opportunities
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Operational Simplicity: Streamlined kitchen processes and standardized recipes reduce complexity
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Scalable Growth Model: Ideal for single-unit owners and multi-unit operators seeking territory expansion
Background
Established Year: 1959
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Founders: Bob and Jerry Schutz
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Industry Category: Quick Service / Casual Dining Pizza Franchise
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Ownership: Privately held franchise system
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Market Presence: Primarily across the Western United States, with strong brand equity in California and surrounding states
Straw Hat Pizza began as a neighborhood pizzeria in California and quickly gained popularity for its hearty pizzas and relaxed, family-centric environment. Over time, the brand expanded through franchising, building a network of franchised locations that emphasized consistency, quality ingredients, and community involvement.
Today, the franchise system continues to operate with a focus on supporting owner-operators, refining operations, and selectively expanding into new U.S. markets where the brand’s nostalgic appeal and comfort-food positioning resonate strongly.
Franchise Active Units: Approximately 27 operating locations across the United States
Support Training
Straw Hat Pizza offers comprehensive franchise support designed to help owners launch confidently and operate efficiently over the long term.
Pre-Launch Support
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Site selection guidance and territory evaluation
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Restaurant layout, kitchen design, and equipment specifications
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Assistance with permitting, vendor sourcing, and pre-opening timelines
Training & Operations
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Initial hands-on training covering food preparation, quality control, and kitchen systems
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Front-of-house service standards and staff management
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Inventory control, cost management, and POS system training
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Ongoing operational coaching and performance reviews
Marketing & Brand Support
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Brand standards, signage, and local store marketing tools
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Digital marketing guidance including online ordering and local promotions
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Community marketing strategies such as fundraisers and school partnerships
Ongoing Support
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Field support visits and operational audits
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Menu updates, promotional rollouts, and system-wide initiatives
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Access to approved suppliers and purchasing programs
Ideal Candidate
The ideal Straw Hat Pizza franchisee is a hands-on entrepreneur or experienced operator who values community engagement and operational excellence.
Best Suited For:
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Owner-operators or family business investors
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Multi-unit restaurant operators seeking a proven pizza brand
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Individuals with hospitality, retail, or food service experience
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Investors passionate about customer service and local marketing
Key Traits:
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Strong leadership and people-management skills
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Willingness to be involved in daily operations, especially during early stages
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Financial capability to meet investment requirements
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Interest in suburban or family-oriented trade areas
Financial Detail
All figures are estimates and may vary by location, size, and market conditions.
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Total Investment Required: USD $450,000 – $850,000
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Minimum Investment / Net Worth: USD $150,000+ liquid capital recommended
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Franchise Fee: Approximately USD $35,000
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Number of Franchise Units: 27 (USA)
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Infrastructure & Build-Out Cost: USD $250,000 – $500,000
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Equipment & Fixtures: USD $100,000 – $200,000
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Initial Marketing & Grand Opening Budget: USD $10,000 – $25,000
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Working Capital: USD $50,000 – $75,000
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Royalty Fees: Around 5–6% of gross sales
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Expected ROI: 18–25% annually (well-run locations)
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Break-Even Time: Approximately 24–36 months
