Key Takeaways

• Domino’s Pizza Franchise Cost: Typically ranges from $150K–$600K with a $10K franchise fee—but open only to internal candidates.

• Emerging Franchises Like Antioch Pizza: Offer lower entry costs, greater flexibility, and direct access to founders.

• Industry Growth: The U.S. pizza industry surpassed $65 billion in annual revenue and continues to expand.

• Best Fit: Established brands offer scale; emerging brands offer personal support, open territories, and stronger influence on growth.

When considering owning a pizza franchise, Domino’s Pizza is often the first name that comes to mind. With decades of brand dominance, massive advertising, and strong unit-level performance, Domino’s may seem like the obvious investment.

But here’s the question every entrepreneur should ask: Is a Domino’s Pizza franchise the best investment — or could an emerging brand like Antioch Pizza Shop offer better long-term opportunity?

Let’s take a closer look at both options.

How Much Does a Domino’s Pizza Franchise Cost?

According to industry data from Sharpsheets, the average Domino’s franchise costs around $400,000, with investment ranges between $150,000–$600,000. The franchise fee is $10,000, which may appear modest — but there’s a catch.

Domino’s only offers franchise ownership to internal candidates. To even apply, you must:

• Have worked as a Domino’s manager or supervisor for at least one year, and

• Be approved through their internal training and evaluation process.

While the average unit generates about $1.2 million in sales, access to ownership is limited and expansion opportunities are often restricted to available internal markets.

In short: Domino’s offers consistency and strong infrastructure — but limited freedom, high operational standards, and a smaller role in brand decisions.

Are Emerging Pizza Franchises a Better Investment?

The good news about owning a pizza franchise is that in 2022, the pizza restaurant industry recorded $65.2 billion in revenue, and the market size increased by 6.2% that same year, according to IBISWorld. This means the overall industry is profitable and there are options such as working with an emerging brand like Antioch Pizza Shop.

The International Franchise Professionals Group defines an emerging franchise as having less than 50 units, and only 16% of U.S. franchises have more than 100 units, according to the International Franchise Association. Emerging franchises are the majority of franchise opportunities.

Benefits of Working with an Emerging Pizza Franchise

When you invest in an emerging brand like Antioch Pizza Shop, you don’t just become a number — you become part of the story.

1. Greater Growth Potential

Early franchisees benefit from prime territory availability and the opportunity to grow alongside the brand. Antioch offers flexible formats (dine-in, express, takeout, and even food truck options) designed for different markets and budgets.

2. Personalized Franchise Support

Smaller networks mean closer relationships with leadership. Franchisees have direct access to the owners and training team, making it easier to solve challenges and build a solid foundation.

3. Stronger Influence & Collaboration

With emerging brands, franchisees often have input into menu development, marketing, and operations, helping shape the company’s evolution.

4. More Affordable Entry Point

Emerging franchises typically feature lower startup costs than national brands — allowing owners to reinvest in marketing, community involvement, and local growth.

Domino’s vs Antioch Pizza Shop Comparison:

Explore Antioch Pizza Shop

When the owners of Antioch Pizza Shop decided to franchise, it was because they wanted other aspiring entrepreneurs to have the opportunity to own a truly impactful business. When you invest in an Antioch Pizza Shop franchise, you’re going to work with the very people who had that dream – the owners, Art and Karen Wicklein. They know what it’s like to be starting a business because they did it themselves, and they’re committed to being with you every step of the way.

One thing we realized early on at Antioch is that small businesses make big contributions to their communities. Whether you choose a dine-in, takeout, express, or food truck option with Antioch, you’ll feel the impact you’re making in the community. Antioch is an Italian pizza franchise you’ll be proud to own.

Inquire Today to Start a Pizza Franchise

See what the Antioch Pizza Shop franchise is about and learn how we’ve positioned our brand to be a truly great business ownership option. Fill out our online form so a member of our franchise team can reach out for a conversation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Domino’s Pizza franchise a good investment?
Yes—Domino’s offers strong sales and global recognition. However, it’s limited to internal candidates, meaning external entrepreneurs must look elsewhere for ownership opportunities.

What makes Antioch Pizza a better choice for new franchise owners?
Antioch offers direct founder access, lower startup costs, open territories, and greater personal involvement in shaping the business.

Are emerging franchises riskier than established brands?
While every business carries risk, emerging franchises often offer faster growth potential and stronger support for each franchisee due to smaller system size and focused leadership.

How much can I make with an Antioch Pizza franchise?
Earnings vary by location, but franchisees benefit from efficient operations, low food costs, and repeat customer demand, creating a strong foundation for profitability.