What is the discounted initial franchise fee for an Aw franchise offered to current or past employees?
Aw Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
cumstances.
The following franchisees will pay a discounted initial franchise fee of $15,000:
- (1) an existing Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant franchisee currently operating a Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant in compliance with the franchise agreement;
- (2) a honorably discharged Veteran;
- (3) a current or past employee of ours, an affiliate or one of our franchisees who was so employed for a minimum of one year.
The $15,000 non-refundable initial franchise fee must be paid in cash in full when the franchise agreemen
Source: Item 5 — INITIAL FEES (FDD pages 12–13)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Aw's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, current or past employees may be eligible for a discounted initial franchise fee. Specifically, a current or past employee of Aw, its affiliate, or one of its franchisees who has been employed for a minimum of one year will pay a discounted initial franchise fee of $15,000.
This represents a significant savings compared to the standard initial franchise fee of $30,000. This discount could make Aw franchise ownership more accessible to individuals already familiar with the brand and its operations.
To qualify for this discount, the $15,000 initial franchise fee must be paid in cash in full when the franchise agreement is signed. This fee is non-refundable, meaning that Aw will not return the money under any circumstances once the agreement is signed. This is a common practice in franchising, as the franchisor incurs expenses in granting the franchise.
Prospective franchisees who are current or former employees should verify their eligibility with Aw and ensure they meet the one-year employment requirement to take advantage of this reduced fee.