When entrepreneurs explore restaurant franchise opportunities, two of the most common models they compare are sandwich franchises (sub franchises, deli franchises, pita franchises) and pizza franchises. Both categories have strong brand recognition and steady consumer demand — but they differ significantly in startup costs, operational complexity, profitability, and long-term scalability.

As a franchise grows, the right combination of passion, operational support, cost control, and profitability determines long-term success. Below is a detailed comparison of sandwich franchise financials vs. pizza franchise financials, along with insights into how a multi-category concept like Antioch Pizza Shop offers the best of both worlds.

Key Takeaways

• Sandwich franchises generally cost less to open but have lower profit margins (3%–5%) and rely on high sales volume.
• Pizza franchises have higher startup costs but deliver significantly higher profit margins (7%–20%) due to lower food costs, strong delivery demand, and upsell opportunities.
• Pizza has broader customer appeal and works well for dine-in, carryout, catering, and delivery.
• Sandwich shops require less kitchen complexity but often face tight margins, commodity fluctuations, and fierce competition.
• A multi-category franchise like Antioch Pizza Shop offers pizza, sandwiches, wings, pasta, and more — capturing customers from both markets and increasing revenue potential.

How Do Sandwich Franchise Costs Compare to Pizza Franchise Costs?

A sandwich franchise — whether it’s a sub shop franchise, deli franchise, or pita franchise — generally has lower startup costs and simpler kitchen operations. According to Square’s December 2023 restaurant report:

Estimated Sandwich Franchise Startup Costs

• $50,000 for smaller quick-service deli franchises

• $100,000–$2,000,000 for sit-down restaurant franchises

Costs vary based on:

• Real estate (leasing or purchasing)

• Equipment (prep tables, refrigeration, slicers)

• Initial food inventory (meats, condiments, bread, disposable items)

• Permits and licensing

• Marketing expenses

• Point-of-sale systems

• Working capital

Operational Advantages of Sandwich Franchises

• Easier staffing (no cooks or chefs required)

• Simpler equipment and kitchen setup

• Faster prep times

• Lower barrier to entry

Profit Margins for Sandwich Franchises

Most sandwich shop franchises report 3%–5% average profit margins, meaning franchisees must rely on:

• High sales volume

• Tight operational efficiency

• Strict cost control

• Fast turnover

While the initial investment is attractive, the long-term financial upside is more limited.

Pizza Franchise Financials: Higher Costs, Higher Reward

A pizza franchise typically requires a larger startup investment, but the trade-off is far stronger revenue potential. According to Toast’s 2021 restaurant startup research:

Estimated Pizza Franchise Startup Costs

• $95,000 – $2,000,000+ depending on model, location, and equipment

Costs include:

• Commercial pizza ovens

• Prep and dough equipment

• Delivery infrastructure

• Higher square footage (for dine-in/delivery models)

Why Pizza Franchises Earn Higher Margins

According to UpMenu’s February 2024 industry report, pizza franchises average 7%–20% profit margins, significantly higher than sandwich franchises.

Reasons include:

1. Low Food Cost Relative to Menu Price

Pizza toppings and dough cost less per serving than sliced deli meats.

2. Built-In Upsell Opportunities

• Premium toppings

• Breadsticks

• Salads

• Wings

• Drinks

• Desserts
  These add-ons dramatically increase ticket size.

3. Strong Delivery & Carryout Demand

Pizza dominates delivery more than almost any other food category.

4. Broad Consumer Appeal

Families, students, offices, events — pizza fits every demographic.

Comparing Franchises: Which Is the Better Investment?

✔ Sandwich franchises

Lower investment, but lower profit margins and smaller average ticket size.

✔ Pizza franchises

Higher investment but significantly higher earnings potential, a more diversified revenue stream, and stronger long-term scalability.

Best of Both Worlds: Why Antioch Pizza Shop Outperforms Single-Category Franchises

You don’t have to choose between pizza OR sandwiches — Antioch Pizza Shop offers both.

As a multi-category restaurant franchise, Antioch provides:

• Pizza

• Sandwiches

• Wings

• Pasta

• Salads

• Sides

• Desserts

This allows franchisees to serve:

• Families

• Office catering clients

• Lunch crowds

• Students

• Sports teams

• Delivery customers

• Late-night orders

Why Multi-Category Franchises Win

• Higher average ticket size

• Broader customer base

• Stronger lunch + dinner revenue

• More menu flexibility

• Higher profitability

• Better year-round traffic

Antioch Pizza franchise owners benefit from the profitability of pizza, plus the broad appeal of sandwiches and comfort food, without being limited to one category.

Serve Up Goodness with Antioch

We’re excited to offer you the opportunity to franchise with us. We’re a growing franchise in the pizza industry, and our menu will help you bring in customers and pursue our goal of making everybody a regular. Submit a franchise form today to learn more about your franchising opportunity with Antioch Pizza Shop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more profitable: a sandwich franchise or a pizza franchise?

Typically pizza franchises, which average 7%–20% profit margins, outperform sandwich shops (3%–5%).

Why do pizza franchises earn higher margins than sandwich franchises?

Lower food costs, higher ticket sizes, delivery demand, and the ability to upsell toppings and sides.

Are sandwich franchises cheaper to open?

Yes. Many quick-service delis start under $100K, while pizza franchises often require $95K–$2M depending on buildout.

Is a multi-category restaurant franchise better?

Often yes — offering pizza, sandwiches, wings, and pasta helps maximize customer reach and daily revenue.

Does Antioch Pizza Shop offer a diverse menu?

Yes. Antioch provides pizza, sandwiches, wings, pasta, and more, appealing to both lunch and dinner crowds.

Which franchise model has stronger long-term growth?

Pizza franchises generally have better scalability, stronger delivery revenue, and broader customer demand.