Giordano’s: A Deep-Dish Legacy Rooted in Italian Tradition

Giordano’s is a celebrated American pizzeria chain best known for its Chicago-style stuffed deep-dish pizza. Founded in 1974 by Italian immigrant brothers Efren and Joseph Boglio, the first Giordano’s opened on the South Side of Chicago.

Inspired by their mother’s traditional Italian Easter Pie, the brothers introduced a double-crusted, cheese-stuffed pizza that quickly captured the hearts of local food lovers. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, the brand has since grown to more than 65 locations across multiple states, including Florida, Indiana, Nevada, and Colorado.

The company began franchising in the late 20th century, with key growth milestones occurring between 1995 and 2000, particularly with the success of its central Florida locations.

What differentiates Giordano’s from other pizza franchises is its unwavering commitment to authentic flavors and high-quality preparation. While staying true to its original recipe, the brand has embraced modern dining trends and convenience, including the nationwide delivery of its frozen pizzas.

Training

Giordano’s provides a comprehensive and multi-phase training program to ensure that franchisees and their teams are prepared to successfully operate their restaurant:

1. Restaurant Management Initial Training Program: This mandatory eight-week course (approximately 40 hours per week) includes five weeks of pre-opening training and covers all aspects of restaurant management. It is conducted at the Giordano’s Pizza Academy and Training Restaurant in the Chicago area or another designated site. Designated managers must complete this program to Franchisor’s satisfaction.
2. Owner’s Training Program: Lasting two to three weeks, this program is tailored based on the prior experience of the Franchisee or General Manager. Attendance and successful completion are required before restaurant opening. Failure to meet the training standards can lead to termination of the franchise agreement without refund.
3. Opening Assistance: Giordano’s sends two to seven corporate representatives to assist with opening the restaurant. Their support begins two weeks prior to opening and continues for one week post-opening. Additional days may be requested for a fee.
4. Additional and Refresher Training: Franchisees can request, or may be required to attend, supplemental training or refresher courses. These sessions are held at locations determined by the Franchisor and may involve a per diem fee and travel costs.

Territory Protection

Giordano’s grants franchisees a defined territory under certain conditions, but it is not considered exclusive. While a “Territory” may be outlined in the Franchise Agreement using identifiable boundaries like streets or zip codes, the franchisee may still face competition from other franchisees, corporate-owned outlets, and other distribution channels.

The franchisor retains the right to operate or authorize others to operate Giordano’s restaurants or sell related products outside the assigned territory without compensating the franchisee.

Franchisees may solicit customers and advertise freely, even in areas covered by other franchisees, and vice versa. However, the agreement usually permits the franchisee to operate only one restaurant within the specified territory, and any right of first refusal to expand is not guaranteed. Continuation of the territory rights does not depend on sales volume but on compliance with the Franchise Agreement.