The history of the udon noodle goes back centuries and the mastering of noodle making is at the core of Marugame Udon. Tradition and authenticity are often words that are thrown about and used in sometimes a too easy way when it comes to ethnic restaurants. But with Marugame Udon, these words are truly the foundation of this exciting, energetic, and high-volume concept.
It is Marugame Udon’s commitment to tradition and authenticity that has helped it grow to be the largest Japanese restaurant franchise company in the world, with nearly 1,200 restaurants across the globe. The founder, Takaya Awata, is still the President and leader of Marugame Udon as well as 9 other brands and over 1,700 restaurants worldwide. His company, Toridoll Holdings Corporation, based in Tokyo, is now an internationally recognized and respected restaurant company with a goal of becoming one of the top ten restaurant brands by 2025, with up to 6,000 total restaurants.
There are currently nine Marugame Udon locations in the United States including California, Hawaii, and our latest location that recently opened in Dallas, TX to outstanding success, and has set the table as the concept moves across the country. In the United States, Marugame is set to grow by over 100 locations in the next six years, with a mix of both company-owned and franchise locations.
Marugame Udon makes fresh udon noodles daily in an open, exhibition style kitchen, in restaurants which range from 2,600-3,500 square feet. The focus on high quality food, great value pricing, high theater and guest experience, a strong sense of hospitality, and a versatile platform of dine-in, convenient takeaway, delivery and on-line ordering allows guests to choose what mood they are in and what works best for them.
Marugame Udon provides hand crafted udon bowls, tempura, katsu sandos, grilled robata and beverages from a theater kitchen, allowing guests to watch as food is prepared. Udon noodles are made to order in our kitchens in front of our guests, providing the freshest Japanese dining option available. In some locations, Marugame also includes breakfast offerings, rice bowls, and more. We are committed to presenting a menu that stays exciting while keeping our business focused and our processes streamlined.
Marugame Udon backs up its brand with a strong and heavily experienced team of restaurant executives. Our team of industry veterans has decades of experience with some of the most recognizable brands in the country including Pei Wei Asian Diner, Velvet Taco, Sprinkles, La Madeleine, The Habit Burger, and Chipotle.
We help our franchisees in other ways beyond just our leadership team. Franchisees will receive site selection tools and guidance when looking for new locations. Training is provided and required for all management level employees in a Marugame Udon training restaurant.
+ Is my investment in a franchise risk free?
Investment in a franchise, like any investment, is not risk free.
+ What fees to you charge and why?
Marugame Udon charges a franchise fee of $40,000 per restaurant, 5% royalty on net sales and 1% of net sales that goes into the Brand Fund. The Brand Fund provides the system with marketing materials, online media presence and other items that contribute to driving sales.
+ What operating results can I expect?
We do not currently provide an Item 19 Earnings Claim and therefore do not disclose operating performance.
+ What happens at the end of the franchise term?
A franchise agreement has a ten year term. The agreement contains two, five year options, assuming that the franchisee is in good standing. At the end of the agreement and any options exercised, the franchise restaurant either has to sign a new agreement or debrand and fulfill its post-agreement obligations.
+ What is the ideal size of a Marugame restaurant?
A prototype Marugame Udon restaurant is 2,800-3,200 square feet.
+ Can a franchisee sell other products in their restaurant?
A franchisee must only provide their guests with approved products.
+ Can franchisees have their own website and social media channels?
A franchisee must abide by Marugame Udon's online and marketing standards. Currently, the company does not allow its franchisees their own websites and social media channels.
+ How do I start the process for applying for a franchise and what happens after that?
Candidates interested in learning more can go to https://www.marugameudon.com/franchising, email franchise@marugameudon.com, or call 214.440.4945.
+ Does Marugame provide marketing support to it's franchisees?
Marugame Udon, through the Brand Fund, provides in restaurant marketing support for all Marugame Udon restaurants.
+ How much money do I need to have?
Marugame Udon franchise candidates need $1.5 million in liquid assets.
+ Is training provided to propesctive franchisees?
Training is provided and required for all management level employees in a Maruagme Udon training restaurant. For your first two restaurants, Maruagame Udon will supply training teams to train your restaurant level employees in your restaurant prior to opening.
*This information is not intended as an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy, a franchise. It is for informational purposes only. Currently, the following states regulate the offer and sale of franchises: California, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin. If you are a resident of one of these states, we will not offer you a franchise unless and until we have complied with applicable pre-sale registration and disclosure requirements in your jurisdiction