Build your business with a restaurant brand known for its signature rectangular pizza since 1955. Ledo Pizza offers single-unit and multi-unit franchise opportunities with training, site-selection assistance, operational support, marketing resources, and an established supply network. Explore our investment requirements, franchise process, available opportunities, and restaurant-conversion program.
Never Cutting Corners drives Ledo Pizza's Franchisee Success!
A Pizza Franchise Built on Tradition Since 1955.
It is hard to believe that LEDO has been making pizza since 1955. After all, pizza seemed to be a passing trend when a restaurant opened near the University of Maryland.
Ledo Pizza is rolled to order with fresh handmade dough, topped with the same high-quality Smoked Provolone cheese and the same style tomatoes that were used back in 1955. It may take a little longer, but it sure is worth it and stays true to the tradition of Ledo Pizza.
The concept was simple: to provide high-quality food at a great value in a comfortable, family atmosphere.
The legacy lives on today. The families that created LEDO Pizza now pass the tradition to other families in new areas. These franchises uphold the high standards that made LEDO Pizza famous. Very little has changed since 1955. The pizza is still made the same way.
There are some unique qualities of LEDO Pizza that come from its long history. People often ask why LEDO Pizza is rectangular. The round pizza pans commonly seen today were very new in the fifties. Rectangular baking pans were readily available, hence the square pizza. Since that time, round pans have become the rage as pizza operators are able to cut costs by giving the appearance of more, while actually offering less. Our thick pepperoni is also a LEDO trademark.
Its unique size resulted from the cooks cutting the pepperoni by hand. The thicker the slice, the faster the work was finished. The customers loved it so much we kept doing it that way. While our entrees and subs have a somewhat shorter history, they have become famous as well. All of our subs are made with freshly baked bread and stuffed with our favorite items. Our Italian salad is large enough for a meal and comes with our famous LEDO salad dressing. Other delicious entrees include lasagna, spaghetti, soup, salad, and cheesy garlic bread.
Ledo Pizza
Franchise Process
Applying for a Location
Ledo Pizza's
Robust Strategy for Franchisee Success
(Technology, Operations, Marketing, Procurement)
Types of Franchises
Unit Franchise:
A unit franchise is a single Ledo Pizza. You are granted a single franchise in the area approved by Ledo Pizza. This type of franchise is suited for those who want to maximize the business by focusing on one unit.
Regional Franchise:
A regional franchise will only be granted to those that have a very strong financial backing. This requires a lot of commitment and resources. The franchisee will generally be granted two or more area franchises. The requirements are much the same as the area franchise.
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Disclaimer: This web site is not a franchise offering and the information provided here is not intended as an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy a franchise. It is for informational purposes only and no offer will be made to you until you are provided with the applicable franchise offering circular of your jurisdiction. A franchise offering can be made by us only in a state where we are first registered or otherwise qualified to offer you a franchise in the following states: California, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Washington and Wisconsin. If you are a resident of one of these states, we will not offer you a franchise unless and until we have complied with your local franchise registration and/or disclosure requirements.
FRANCHISING FAQ
Can I get help with the purchasing of products and supplies?
Of course. LEDO Pizza has negotiated centralized distribution with a non-affiliated regional distribution company that can provide one-stop shopping with a significantly improved cost structure.
Do I need restaurant experience to own a LEDO franchise?
While not mandatory, restaurant experience is highly recommended. LEDO provides every franchisee with training programs necessary to effectively operate a LEDO Pizza franchise.
Does the LEDO Pizza System offer any financing programs?
The franchisor does not offer, directly or indirectly, financing to franchisees for any items. Availability and terms of financing from a lender are usually dependent upon the general availability of financing, the credit-worthiness of the franchisee, other security held by the franchisee, and the lender’s policy regarding lending to restaurant franchises.
How do I select a location?
LEDO Pizza System has considerable experience reviewing real estate selections made by its franchisees. Site selection assistance will be provided for you to source your proposed location. Please see section 7 of the LEDO Pizza Standard Franchise Agreement for further details.
How many employees does it take?
Approximately thirty (30) to seventy-five (75) may be required depending on sales volume.
How soon can I open after being granted a franchise?
Once the LEDO Pizza System has approved a site and a lease has been signed, preparations for opening should take approximately four (4) months based on an average from prior franchise experience.
I am ready to proceed. What are my next steps?
We take granting a LEDO franchise very seriously. Consequently, we will make every effort to be most selective in granting franchises. We encourage you to pursue your interest by calling us at 410-721-6887.
Disclaimer: This website is not a franchise offering, and the information provided here is not intended as an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy a franchise.
It is for informational purposes only, and no offer will be made to you until you are provided with the applicable franchise offering circular for your jurisdiction. A franchise offering can be made by us only in a state where we are first registered or otherwise qualified to offer you a franchise in the following states: California, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Washington and Wisconsin.
If you are a resident of one of these states, we will not offer you a franchise unless and until we have complied with your local franchise registration and/or disclosure requirements.
What about ongoing guidance with operations?
First of all, you will receive a complete set of LEDO Operations Manuals that details the many important facets of your new business. You may also be sent periodic updates from time to time on new products, suppliers, control procedures, and advertising/promotion by our staff. As an additional part of our total support, our experienced field representatives and operations specialists generally visit periodically to consult with you and your personnel on all important aspects of your store’s operations.
In addition, LEDO Pizza System utilizes a franchise inspection team to ensure consistency and quality among all franchises. You will generally have the opportunity to contact your representative whenever you desire advice. You may also from time to time have the opportunity to exchange ideas and information with other franchise owners. Please see section 13 of the LEDO Pizza Standard Franchise Agreement for further details.
What about royalty fees?
The royalty fee is five percent (5%) of your gross sales.
What are the advertising fees?
The advertising fee is two percent (2%) of your gross sales.
What are the hours of operation?
Most stores currently operate from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. weekdays and 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
What expenses are involved in purchasing a franchise?
Real Estate and Construction: Most franchisees lease the premises when the opportunity exists. The purchase of real estate and ownership of the building substantially increase the investment.
Franchise Fees: These are paid to the LEDO Pizza System for the right to open a LEDO Pizza franchise.
Architectural, Legal and Accounting Fees: These will enable you to develop your business plan and procedures, as well as the construction plan for your specific location.
Furnishings, Fixtures and Equipment: These include equipment, furniture and estimated installation costs.
Signage: This includes exterior and interior displays.
Permits and Licenses: These include building permits, occupancy licenses and an alcoholic beverage license, if applicable.
Deposits: These include rent, security and utility deposits.
Opening Inventory: This includes the costs of all food, beverages, paper products, smallwares, uniforms and sundries.
Freight Charges: These include shipping equipment, furnishings, fixtures, signage and inventories.
Working Capital: This includes salaries, travel, lodging, meals and incidental expenses for your management staff to attend the LEDO Pizza System’s mandatory training sessions, as well as pre-opening costs associated with training hourly employees and pre-opening food costs. Capital is also needed for additional pre-opening expenses such as debt service, wages, occupancy costs and insurance premiums.
Initial Advertising Expenses: These include local advertising and promotional activities as recommended by LEDO Pizza System.
What geographic areas are available for franchising?
After we have received your confidential franchise application, we will contact you regarding your preferences. The availability of specific geographical areas will vary as LEDO Pizza grows its franchise program.
What help will I get when I open my LEDO Restaurant?
Our operations specialists will be at your restaurant to help you get off to a smooth start. Our training staff will be with you from the beginning to assist you both before and after you are open for business. Please see section 11 of the LEDO Pizza Standard Franchise Agreement.
What is the initial investment needed to obtain an individual franchise?
Cash requirements differ from location to location depending on a wide range of costs. Total investment presently ranges from $115,250.00 to $419,000.00. Refer to Item 7 of the LEDO Pizza Standard Franchise Agreement.
What is unique about LEDO?
LEDO has established a reputation for food quality and excellence of service in the pizza market. LEDO’s signature square pizza, complete menu offering and fast, courteous service combine to distinguish LEDO Pizza from other pizza restaurants. LEDO offers a family atmosphere in a bright, clean environment.
What kind of training does LEDO provide?
Prior to the opening of a LEDO Pizza store, a franchisee or its designated manager will be required to enroll in and complete certain business and food service courses specified by LEDO Pizza System from time to time. These programs cover numerous areas that will be helpful for you to function effectively as a franchise operator.
If neither the franchisee nor its designated manager completes the required training program to the satisfaction of LEDO Pizza System, LEDO Pizza System may terminate the franchise agreement. You will study the LEDO Operations Manual in effect from time to time, which may include information about equipment layout, inventory control, equipment maintenance, employee training and the complete range of operation techniques.
Upon satisfactory completion of your training program, you and your management staff will work with LEDO corporate personnel at your location to open your restaurant as smoothly and efficiently as possible. The cost of training is included in your franchise fee. However, you will be responsible for your personal expenses, transportation, lodging and meals. Please see section 11 of the LEDO Pizza Standard Franchise Agreement.
