What is the estimated timeframe between signing the Aw Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant Franchise Agreement and opening the restaurant?
Aw Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
We estimate that the length of time between the signing of the Franchise Agreement and the opening of your Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant will be 6 to 18 months, depending on the amount of time it takes to secure an approved site, the time it takes to secure required permits and licenses and how much build-out must be done to the premises and how long that will take to complete. You must sign a lease for an approved site within 6 months of signing the Franchise Agreement.
You may not open your Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant for business until: (1) you have completed the build-out of the restaurant premises and installed all fixtures, furniture and equipment; (2) we determine that your Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant has been constructed, equipped, decorated and stocked with inventory, materials and supplies in accordance with plans and specifications we have approved; (3) you and any operating manager have completed our initial training and your employees have completed pre-opening training to our satisfaction; (4) the initial franchise fee has been paid in full; and (5) you have furnished us with evidence of required insurance coverage. You must begin operating your Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant within 12 months of the date you sign the Franchise Agreement. (Franchise Agreement, Section 4.7.)
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND TRAINING (FDD pages 22–29)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Aw's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the estimated time between signing the Franchise Agreement and opening a Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant ranges from 6 to 18 months. This timeframe depends on several factors, including securing an approved site, obtaining the necessary permits and licenses, and completing the build-out of the premises.
Aw requires franchisees to sign a lease for an approved site within 6 months of signing the Franchise Agreement. Failure to secure an approved site within 180 days (6 months) of signing the Franchise Agreement can result in the termination of the franchise. Franchisees must also begin operating their Papa Ray's Pizza Restaurant within 12 months of the date they sign the Franchise Agreement.
Before opening, franchisees must complete the restaurant build-out, install all fixtures, furniture, and equipment, and ensure the restaurant is stocked with inventory, materials, and supplies according to Aw's approved plans and specifications. Additionally, the franchisee and any operating manager must complete Aw's initial training program, and all employees must complete pre-opening training to Aw's satisfaction. The initial franchise fee must be paid in full, and the franchisee must provide evidence of required insurance coverage before opening.