The first Pizza Factory was opened in Oakhurst, California in 1979.  This was started near the southern entrance of Yosemite National Park to take advantage of the foot traffic coming and going.  The founders of the Pizza Factory were Dan Wheeler and Ron Willey and they began to franchise the business in 1985.  There are over 120 locations today in five different states and they have opened many locations in large metropolitan areas and also in smaller towns.  There are three basic sizes for the Pizza Factory locations and they are looking to grow the company into a much larger franchise.

The Pizza Factory first became popular because many enjoyed the handmade and hand tossed pizza they created and they originally only served pizza.  Now they serve many different specialty pizzas and a create your own pizza in a variety of different sizes.  They also serve calzones, pasta, salads, subs, breads, soups, and appetizers.  They also offer a variety of beverages including beer and wine for the adults and soft drinks for anybody of any age.  Their menu has many choices, but it is not cluttered with so many choices that you cannot make a decision.

Since the Pizza Factory is looking to expand there are many restaurant franchise opportunities in larger cities and in smaller towns as well.  They do require that all franchisees have a net worth of at least $200,000 and can invest between $137,000 and $426,000 to get the location up and running.  This may mean that the franchisee has to obtain financing to help get the franchise started.  They offer three different restaurant sizes; Express, Mid-Size, and Full Size.  All three of these locations come with a $20,000 initial franchise fee and the royalties are 5% of the gross sales.  All franchises also have to contribute 2% of the gross sales to the advertising fund and must pay $3,500 for training.