What is the estimated range for signs and awning costs for a free-standing Gold Star restaurant?
Gold_Star Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
| Type of Expenditure | Amount for Free Standing Building | Amount for Inline Space | Method of Payment | When Due | To Whom Payment Is To Be Made |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Signs and Awning | $38,737 to $46,285 | $31,510 to $38,737 | As Arranged | Before Opening | Approved Contractors |
| Training5 | $5,500 to $10,000 | $5,500 to $10,000 | As Arranged | Before Opening | Employees, Miscellaneous Vendors |
| Licenses & Permits | $1,350 to $11,972 | $1,000 to $5,000 | As Arranged | Before Beginning Operations | Licensing Authorities |
| Legal & Accounting | $2,500 | $2,500 | As Arranged | Before Beginning Operations | Attorney, Accountant |
| Office Equipment and | $1,000 | $1,000 | As Arranged | Before Opening | Suppliers |
| Supplies | |||||
| Grand Opening | $10,000 | $10,000 | As Arranged | Within 3 months | Miscellaneous |
| Advertising6 | of Opening | Vendors | |||
| Additional Funds - 3 Months7 | $15,000 to $30,000 | $15,000 to $30,000 | As Arranged | As Incurred | Gold Star, Employees, Suppliers, Utilities, Insurers, Professionals, Etc. |
| TOTAL4 | $506,117 to $1,730,950 | $496,432 to $809,237 |
Source: Item 7 — Estimated Initial Investment (FDD pages 18–21)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Gold Star's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the estimated cost for signs and awnings for a free-standing building ranges from $38,737 to $46,285. This cost is paid to approved contractors before opening the Gold Star restaurant, as arranged between the franchisee and the contractors. These figures are part of the total estimated initial investment for a free-standing Gold Star restaurant, which ranges from $506,117 to $1,730,950.
For a prospective Gold Star franchisee, this means allocating a significant portion of their initial investment to signage and awnings. The actual cost may vary depending on the contractor chosen, the specific design and materials used for the signs and awnings, and any local regulations that may impact signage requirements. It is important to note that Gold Star requires franchisees to use approved contractors, which may limit the franchisee's ability to negotiate lower prices.
In comparison, the cost for signs and awnings for an inline space is estimated to be between $31,510 to $38,737. The cost difference likely reflects the different signage needs and requirements for a free-standing building versus an inline space within a shopping center. Franchisees should carefully consider the location type and associated costs when evaluating the overall investment required to open a Gold Star franchise.
It is important for prospective franchisees to obtain detailed quotes from approved contractors and to factor these costs into their overall budget. Additionally, franchisees should inquire about any potential cost overruns or unexpected expenses that may arise during the sign and awning installation process. Understanding these costs upfront can help franchisees avoid financial surprises and ensure a smooth opening for their Gold Star restaurant.