Franchise FAQs
Answers to the Most Common First Watch Franchise Questions
Browse essential information on qualifications, investment, training, real estate, timelines, territories, and more. Use the search or filter by category.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is First Watch and what makes the concept different?
First Watch is a daytime café focused on breakfast, brunch, and lunch—typically operating around 7:00 AM–2:30 PM. The brand emphasizes fresh, made-to-order dishes, seasonal features, and warm hospitality, paired with a simplified daytime model for consistent execution.
Is this page an offer to sell a franchise?
No. This page is for informational purposes only. Offers are made solely by the current Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) or equivalent, and only in jurisdictions where permitted by law.
How much does it cost to open a First Watch franchise?
Investment ranges vary by market and site. Indicative ranges often include: Franchise Fee ~$40,000–$50,000; Total Investment ~$750,000–$1,300,000+ (build-out, equipment, pre-opening, working capital); Royalty ~5% of gross sales; Marketing ~2% of gross sales. Always refer to the current FDD for official figures.
Do you assist with financing?
While direct financing may not be provided, many owners leverage conventional bank loans, SBA (U.S.) programs where applicable, partner/investor structures, and equipment leasing. Your development representative can share common pathways used by franchisees.
What are the typical financial requirements?
Requirements vary by territory and time. As a directional guide, candidates often demonstrate strong credit, sufficient liquid capital (e.g., $250k+), and net worth (e.g., $1M+). The FDD and franchise team will confirm current criteria during qualification.
How long does the process take from inquiry to opening?
Timelines vary by real estate, permitting, construction, and staffing. Many owners plan for several months of diligence and site selection, followed by build-out and training. Your representative can map a timeline for your market and scope.
What are the main steps in the franchise process?
Typical phases include: discovery & pre-qualification → FDD review & diligence → territory planning → site selection & LOI → design & build-out → training → grand opening → ongoing field support.
What training and operational support do franchisees receive?
Owners and managers participate in training covering operations, service standards, menu execution, and team leadership. Support typically includes SOPs/playbooks, opening assistance, and ongoing field visits with KPI cadence.
What are typical hours of operation?
Most locations operate daytime hours around 7:00 AM–2:30 PM, subject to local regulations and market dynamics. Daytime scheduling can aid labor efficiency and team retention.
What real estate criteria do you look for?
High daytime population, strong visibility, easy ingress/egress, and adequate parking are key. Inline or endcap sites in lifestyle centers or strong suburban corridors typically perform well. Prototype plans outline utility and equipment needs.
How does build-out work?
After LOI and lease execution, you’ll work from prototype drawings and equipment specs with approved vendors. Timelines depend on permitting, landlord work, supply chain, and contractor schedules.
What marketing support is provided?
Franchisees contribute to brand marketing and execute required local store marketing. You’ll receive toolkits for grand opening, seasonal promotions, and social media guidance to build community presence.
What technology systems will I use?
Integrated POS, inventory tools, and reporting dashboards help track sales, labor, and guest metrics. Exact systems and integrations may evolve; your representative will share current standards.
Is multi-unit development available?
In select markets, yes. Territory availability changes over time and may include options for multi-unit development with agreed pacing and performance milestones.
Which territories are currently open?
Development priorities vary by year. Common target areas include growing suburbs, hospital/office corridors, college towns, and commuter hubs. Ask the development team for the latest openings in your region.
Where can I see official terms and financials?
Official terms are provided in the current Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) or equivalent, where applicable. We do not make earnings claims outside of the FDD. You should conduct independent due diligence.
Do you franchise internationally?
International development is evaluated case-by-case and subject to local regulations and supply chain feasibility. Please share your market details in your inquiry to discuss options.
How many team members do I need and how do you support staffing?
Staffing needs vary by store size and volume. Playbooks cover recruiting, role definitions, scheduling, training, and retention programs suited to a daytime model.
How do menu, sourcing, and seasonal features work?
Core items are complemented by seasonal features to drive variety and check growth. Approved suppliers and specifications support consistency; guidance is provided for allergens and guest communications.
What about break-even and profitability?
Performance varies widely by market, site, execution, and other factors. We provide educational frameworks to help you model scenarios, but actual results are not guaranteed. Review the FDD and consult your advisors.
Disclaimer: All ranges and examples on this page are illustrative and subject to change. This is not an offer to sell a franchise. Offers are made only by the FDD (or equivalent) where permitted by law.
Didn’t see your question?
Request the latest franchise kit or send us your specific questions—our development team will reach out.
Having trouble with the form? Email us at info@firstwatchrestaurantfranchise.com.