Domino's vs Jimmy John'sFranchise Comparison 2026
Domino's and Jimmy John's represent two different approaches in the QSR space. Here's how they compare on investment costs, fees, revenue potential, and market presence.
Quick Comparison
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Domino's | Jimmy John's | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $25,000 | $35,000 | -29% |
| Total Investment (Low) | $178,000 | $330,000 | -46% |
| Total Investment (High) | $563,000 | $558,000 | +1% |
| Cash Required | $80,000 | $200,000 | -60% |
| Royalty Rate | 5.5% | 6.0% | Lower |
| Advertising Fee | 4.0% | 4.5% | Lower |
| Estimated Revenue | $1.1M | $1.1M | 0% |
| Number of Locations | 6,929 | 2,800 | More |
| Year Founded | 1960 | 1983 | Older |
| Training Duration | 4 weeks | 2 weeks | Longer |
Note: Data sourced from public FDD filings and industry reports. Actual costs vary by location, real estate, and format. Always review current FDD Item 7 and Item 19 disclosures before making investment decisions.
Detailed Analysis
About Domino's
Delivery-focused pizza leader with strong technology platform. Lower investment than dine-in pizza concepts.
About Jimmy John's
Fast sandwich delivery specialist with 'freaky fast' positioning. Simpler operations than full-service QSR.
Investment Comparison
Domino's requires a lower initial investment (avg $370,500) compared to Jimmy John's(avg $444,000), making it more accessible for first-time franchisees. However, Jimmy John's may offer similar revenue potential.
Fee Structure
Domino's has lower ongoing fees (9.5% total) compared to Jimmy John's(10.5% total), which means more of each sales dollar stays with the franchisee. Over time, this can significantly impact profitability.
Market Position
Domino's has a significantly larger footprint with 6,929 locations compared to Jimmy John's's 2,800. This larger network typically means better brand recognition, more purchasing power, and stronger operational support.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to open a Domino's vs Jimmy John's franchise?
Domino's requires an initial investment of $178,000 to $563,000, while Jimmy John's requires $330,000 to $558,000. Domino's has the lower average investment at $370,500.
What are the ongoing fees for Domino's vs Jimmy John's?
Domino's charges a 5.5% royalty plus 4.0% advertising fee (9.5% total). Jimmy John's charges 6.0% royalty plus 4.5% advertising fee (10.5% total). Domino's has lower total ongoing fees.
Which franchise makes more money: Domino's or Jimmy John's?
Based on estimated average unit revenue, Jimmy John's generates $1.1M per location compared to $1.1M for Domino's. However, profitability depends on many factors including local market, operating costs, and management.
How many locations does Domino's have vs Jimmy John's?
Domino's has 6,929 locations, while Jimmy John's has 2,800 locations. Domino's has the larger footprint, which typically means stronger brand recognition and supply chain advantages.
Is Domino's or Jimmy John's a better franchise investment in 2026?
Both Domino's and Jimmy John's are established QSR brands with proven models. Domino's offers a lower entry point, while Jimmy John's shows higher average revenue. The best choice depends on your available capital, local market conditions, and personal goals. Always review the current FDD before making investment decisions.
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