Food & beverage franchising encompasses a wide range of business types, from bars to ice cream parlors, from fast food to street food to restaurants and pizzerias.
In this article, we discover the secrets behind the success of franchise restaurants in Italy, focusing on a selection of brands that are worth investing in.
The growth of restaurant franchises in Italy
According to a report in Il Sole 24 Ore, the total turnover of restaurant chains in Italy reached 8.2 billion € in 2023 with an annual growth rate of 11 percent, outpacing the industry average.
Internationally, restaurant chains account for a significant percentage of the market: 26% in Europe and 35 percent globally. In Italy, however, they make up only 10 percent of the market, indicating considerable room for growth.
The out-of-home consumption trend is expected to grow by 4-5% annually, a figure that stimulates interest in restaurant franchising in the country. In particular, the quick service restaurant sector is showing stronger growth than casual dining. While the latter involves ordering at the table, in quick service restaurants customers order and receive food quickly at the counter or through a drive-through service.
The secrets of successful restaurant franchising in Italy
What are the reasons restaurant franchises in Italy are finding so much success? Let’s find out together.
Consistency of supply and high standards
Venues’ adherence to high standards for food quality, service, and overall customer experience means that customers always know what to expect when they go to a franchise location.
Nationwide brand awareness
Nationwide marketing campaigns help build brand awareness and keep the public’s attention high. This allows franchisees to increase point-of-sale traffic without having to individually invest large sums in advertising.
Location of the venue
Usually, brands require the venue to be located in high-traffic areas, such as historic centers or shopping areas. Choosing an easily accessible location, perhaps near public transportation or parking, further enhances the attractiveness of the venue.
Affiliate training and support
Affiliate entrepreneurs can receive training on operations and assistance in running the business, thus reducing the risks associated with running an independent business.
Cost optimisation
By leveraging economies of scale in purchasing supplies and sharing resources across locations, franchises can optimise costs and maximize profit margins.
5 restaurant franchises in Italy to invest in
Given the many opportunities in the food & beverage sector in Italy, it can be complex for an entrepreneur to select a brand to invest in. To help you in this endeavor, we thought we would drive into on five restaurant franchises in Italy that stand out for their strength, innovation and growth potential in the market.
Kyosko Sushi
Kyosko Sushi distinguishes itself from classic all-you-can-eat restaurants by offering a more affordable and fun experience. In fact, customers have the option of individually choosing sushi, composing their sushi box with what they prefer.
Affiliates can open a corner or restaurant without entrance fees or royalties, gaining area exclusivity and advertising support.
The investment required for furnishings and equipment is 55,000€, with the area of the room to range from 30 to 100 square meters.
The Yogurteria
In recent years, there has been a boom in demand for healthy, high-protein foods.
Therefore, Yogurteria Joy Bubble Tea, which has 85 outlets in Italy and an offering ranging from lactose-free frozen yogurt and yogurt to bubble teas and crepes, is definitely one of the brands to watch in this sector.
Thanks to the brand’s activated partnerships with major financial institutions, franchisees can rent furniture and equipment for the premises. In addition, they can count on considerable support that includes established know-how, market analysis, marketing campaigns, and ongoing training.
No previous experience is required to become a franchisee, just a minimum of 25 sq. m. space in high-traffic areas and an initial investment of 14,900€.
California Poké
The poké sector in Italy shows great room for growth, with revenues expected to increase from 328 millions € in 2022 to 689 millions € in 2026.
Opening a California Pokè restaurant is an attractive opportunity for entrepreneurs, especially considering the many benefits the brand offers franchisees, including zero royalty, guaranteed margin on exclusive dishes, territorial exclusivity, and support in management and training.
The initial investment required to open a store is about 65,000€, with a location of at least 70 square meters.
La Piadineria
La Piadineria, founded in 1994, is one of the leading brands in quick service restaurants. The concept is to offer piadina romagnola throughout Italy.
To join the franchise, it is necessary to select a high-traffic location, such as historic centers, shopping streets or malls, and rent a space with an installed or installable chimney, of at least 80 square meters.
In addition, equity of up to 300,000€ is required to open the store.
Capatoast
Capatoast is a franchise where toast becomes the star of lunches, snacks and quick dinners for adults and children.
The concept distinguishes itself from competitors by using artisanal bread made by experienced bakers, available in classic, whole wheat, and nut variants, and filled with high-quality ingredients. In addition, with more than 30 savoury and sweet recipes, Capatoast satisfies a variety of tastes with both light and mouthwatering options.
To open a Capatoast store, no specific skills are required for franchisees.
However, an initial investment of at least € is required, varying according to the type of business, location and size of the premises, with a royalty of 3 percent on sales.
In addition, the premises must have a minimum area of 50 square meters and be located in a high-traffic area.
