Famous Dave's vs The Sawmill Franchise Comparison

Below is an in-depth analysis and side-by-side comparison of Famous Dave's vs The Sawmill including start-up costs and fees, business experience requirements, training & support and financing options.

Start-Up Costs and Fees
 
Famous Dave's Franchise
The Sawmill Franchise
Investment $481,750 - $4,495,750$1,000,000
Franchise Fee $45,000$50,000
Royalty Fee 5%-
Advertising Fee 1%Nat'l + 1.5% local-
Year Founded 19951976
Year Franchised 19982004
Term Of Agreement 20 years-
Term Of Agreement 20 years-
Renewal Fee 50% of then-current fee-


Business Experience Requirements
 
Famous Dave's Franchise
The Sawmill Franchise
Experience * Prefer Ownership/management experience in full service, casual dining restaurants, in or near the desired territories. * Multi unit experience is a big plus. * Single units will be considered depending on market conditions, demographics and other criteria. * If Area Development Agreement is chosen, minimum of three units required to be developed. * Minimum LIQUID net worth of $750,000. * Minimum per unit development costs could range from approx $900,000 to $4,000,000. * Proven commitment to customer service and quality food. -

Financing Options
 
Famous Dave's Franchise
The Sawmill Franchise
  In-House/3rd PartyIn-House/3rd Party
Franchise Fees No/No-/-
Start-up Costs No/No-/-
Equipment No/Yes-/-
Inventory No/No-/-
Receivables No/No-/-
Payroll No/No-/-

Training & Support
 
Famous Dave's Franchise
The Sawmill Franchise
Training --
Support Newsletter, Meetings, Toll-free phone line, Grand opening, Internet, Security/safety procedures, Field operations/evaluations, Purchasing cooperatives-
Marketing Co-op advertising, Ad slicks, Regional advertising-
Operations Franchisees required to buy multiple units/master licenses; 84% of all franchisees own more than one unit

Number of employees needed to run franchised unit: 65

Absentee ownership of franchise is NOT allowed. (97% of current franchisees are owner/operators)

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Expansion Plans
 
Famous Dave's Franchise
The Sawmill Franchise
US Expansion YesYes
Canada Expansion NoYes
International Expansion No-

Company Overviews

About Famous Dave's

Famous Dave's is a "specialty" casual dining restaurant franchise, creating environments that transcend current restaurant offerings by serving the highest quality, flavor-intense foods in surroundings that are stimulating, interesting and fun! Famous Dave's is more than a restaurant - it's an escape from the ordinary. Few restaurants in history have achieved as much recognition in a few short years as Famous Dave's! Dave's road to fame began with a strong hankerin' for fine barbecue and a stronger desire to make the finest slow-smoked barbecue folks had ever tasted. He visited rib shacks, roadside joints, every hole-in-the-wall or fancy pants supper club he could, all in search of the most succulent meats, savory seasonings and lipsmackin' sauces around. After 25 years of tastin' and cookin', Dave's barbecue just plain knocked the socks off his family and friends. That's when Dave decided he had to share. He wanted to give all the folks a chance to dig into the best barbecue ever. And in a place as down-home fun and frolicsome as the shacks and clubs he went a callin' on all those years.

"Top
#57 in Gator's Top franchises.

"franchiserankingscom"
#96 on Franchise Rankings.com


About The Sawmill

Established in 1976, The Sawmill Prime Rib & Steak House serves the finest "AAA" Alberta Prime Rib and steaks coupled with Canada's finest Shrimp, Oyster and Salad Bar, the guarantee of delicious food and professional service has made these award winning restaurants a guest favourite. The elegant and inviting atmosphere features rich tapestry, warm wood finishes, intimate booths, tables or nooks in addition to group seating. These restaurants lead the industry as a premium steak house franchise.

Sawmill Prime Rib & Steak House clientele expect the best and are willing to compensate with a higher than average guest cheque. This is an important consideration when comparing franchise options.

We are 100% behind our Franchisees and totally committed to their success. Comprehensive training is provided and all details are addressed to ensure efficient operations in front and back of house.

Our screening process is thorough and comprehensive to ensure that your experience and business acumen are the right fit to assure mutual success in years to come.