Shawarma Press Franchise Loan: The Complete Financing Guide for Shawarma Press Franchise Owners

If you're exploring the exciting world of fast-casual Mediterranean dining, a Shawarma Press franchise loan could be the key to turning your entrepreneurial vision into reality. Shawarma Press is the nation's first authentic shawarma franchise, offering a differentiated, growing concept in a market hungry for healthier, flavorful alternatives to traditional fast food. With a total initial investment ranging from approximately $153,675 to $389,900, understanding your shawarma press franchise cost and identifying the right financing strategies are critical steps before you sign a franchise agreement. This comprehensive guide walks through everything you need to know about Shawarma Press as a brand, what it costs to open a location, and how Crestmont Capital - rated the #1 business lender in the United States - can help you secure the funding you need to launch and grow your Shawarma Press franchise. Whether you are a first-time franchisee or an experienced multi-unit operator, the information here will help you navigate your financing options with confidence.

What Is Shawarma Press?

Shawarma Press holds a unique distinction in the American franchise landscape: it is the nation's first authentic shawarma franchise. Founded in 2016 by Sawsan Abublan and Dr. Ehap Sabri in Irving, Texas, the brand opened its inaugural restaurant in 2017. The founders, both of Jordanian heritage, were inspired by a simple but powerful observation - after relocating to North Texas, they could not find the kind of fresh, authentic Mediterranean fare they had grown up enjoying. Rather than accept inferior alternatives, they built a brand from scratch that would bring true shawarma craftsmanship to American consumers.

At its core, Shawarma Press is a fast-casual Mediterranean restaurant concept. The menu centers on fresh, made-from-scratch shawarmas - seasoned, spit-roasted meats served in wraps, bowls, or plates - alongside hummus, falafel, soups, salads, and a growing lineup of fusion offerings such as the signature Tex-Mex Press Shawarma. Every item is prepared fresh daily using authentic recipes and quality ingredients, which gives the brand a compelling differentiation story in a crowded restaurant marketplace.

The timing of Shawarma Press's launch aligns with a powerful macro trend. American consumers have steadily shifted toward healthier, more globally inspired food options. The U.S. Mediterranean restaurant market reached $34.3 billion in 2025, reflecting robust and sustained consumer demand. Shawarma Press is well-positioned to capture a meaningful share of this growth as one of the few dedicated shawarma franchise concepts operating at scale.

The brand operates two distinct business models: stand-alone restaurant locations and store-within-a-store locations inside select Walmart stores. This dual-format strategy expands the addressable market significantly - Walmart placements reduce build-out costs and bring built-in foot traffic, while stand-alone restaurants allow for full brand expression in high-visibility retail corridors. As of 2025, Shawarma Press has expanded across Texas (Irving, Arlington, Denton, Frisco, Georgetown, Plano, San Antonio, and a flagship in the Dallas Arts District), Georgia (Johns Creek and a digital kitchen in Midtown Atlanta), and Kansas (Lawrence, near the University of Kansas). The brand is targeting more than 100 locations nationwide within the next five years, with expansion plans focused on Oklahoma, Kansas, Georgia, and additional Walmart partnerships.

For prospective franchisees, Shawarma Press offers a compelling combination: a differentiated concept with strong consumer demand, a relatively accessible investment level compared to many fast-casual peers, comprehensive training and ongoing support, site selection assistance, grand opening support, and a veteran-friendly discount of 10% off the initial franchise fee. The franchise system is young, which means early adopters have an opportunity to secure prime territories before competition intensifies.

Franchise Costs and Investment Requirements

Understanding the full financial picture of a Shawarma Press franchise is essential before you pursue financing. The shawarma press franchise cost falls within a range that is competitive for the fast-casual segment, particularly given the availability of both stand-alone and in-store Walmart formats, the latter of which tends to reduce build-out expenses considerably.

Here is a detailed breakdown of the investment components you should plan for when budgeting for a Shawarma Press franchise:

Initial Franchise Fee: The initial franchise fee is $45,000. Veterans receive a 10% discount, reducing this to $40,500. This fee grants you the right to operate under the Shawarma Press brand, access the proprietary recipes and systems, receive initial training, and benefit from the brand's ongoing development and support infrastructure.

Build-Out and Leasehold Improvements: This is typically one of the largest variable costs in any restaurant franchise. For stand-alone Shawarma Press locations, build-out costs are factored into the total investment range. For Walmart in-store formats, build-out expenses are generally lower given the existing infrastructure. Site conditions, local contractor pricing, and lease terms will all affect your final number.

Equipment and Fixtures: Restaurant equipment for Shawarma Press includes shawarma rotisserie spits, refrigeration, prep tables, point-of-sale systems, display cases, and related fixtures. The brand's emphasis on fresh preparation means equipment quality directly impacts product consistency.

Working Capital: Having adequate working capital to cover the first three to six months of operations is critical. Payroll, food costs, rent, utilities, and marketing during the ramp-up period all require liquidity.

One of the notable advantages of Shawarma Press relative to many competing fast-casual brands is the lower end of its investment range. At approximately $153,675 for a Walmart in-store format, a motivated franchisee with the right financing strategy can enter the Mediterranean fast-casual space at a fraction of what traditional restaurant buildouts cost. For comparison, many established fast-casual brands require total investments of $500,000 or more.

Beyond the initial investment, prospective franchisees should model ongoing costs carefully. The 6% royalty on gross sales represents a meaningful recurring expense that must be factored into unit economics projections. Working with a financial advisor and your Shawarma Press franchise development team to build realistic pro forma income statements before committing to a franchise agreement will help you understand the capital you need and the returns you can expect.

Shawarma Press also offers third-party financing assistance to qualified candidates, which can help bridge the gap between available liquid capital and the total investment requirement. This is particularly relevant for candidates who have the net worth and operating experience but may not have all required liquid capital readily accessible.

Financing Options for Shawarma Press Franchise Owners

Securing the right financing for your Shawarma Press franchise is one of the most consequential decisions you will make as a prospective franchisee. The good news is that multiple financing pathways exist, and working with an experienced lender like Crestmont Capital gives you access to a range of products designed specifically for business owners in your situation.

SBA Loans

Small Business Administration loans are one of the most popular and cost-effective financing tools for franchise investments. The SBA 7(a) loan program allows eligible borrowers to access up to $5 million with competitive interest rates and extended repayment terms - often 10 years for working capital and up to 25 years for real estate. The SBA does not lend directly; rather, it guarantees a portion of the loan made by an approved lender, which reduces risk for the lender and enables more favorable terms for the borrower. For Shawarma Press franchisees, an SBA loan can cover the initial franchise fee, build-out costs, equipment, and initial working capital. Learn more about SBA loan options at Crestmont Capital.

Equipment Financing

Restaurant equipment is a major capital expenditure for any food service franchise. Equipment financing allows you to spread the cost of rotisserie spits, refrigeration systems, POS hardware, prep equipment, and other tangible assets over a multi-year term. Because the equipment itself serves as collateral, this financing type is often more accessible than unsecured loans, even for newer businesses. Interest rates on equipment financing are typically favorable, and the tax treatment of equipment purchases (including Section 179 deductions) can provide additional financial benefits.

Working Capital Loans

The first several months after opening a franchise location are often cash-intensive. Revenue may ramp slowly while fixed costs - rent, payroll, utilities, royalties - run at full rate from day one. A working capital loan provides the short-term liquidity needed to bridge this gap. These loans are typically structured with shorter terms and faster funding timelines than SBA loans, making them a useful complement to longer-term financing strategies.

Business Lines of Credit

A business line of credit gives franchise owners revolving access to funds up to a predetermined limit. Unlike term loans, you only pay interest on what you draw. A line of credit is particularly valuable for managing seasonal revenue fluctuations, covering unexpected expenses, or funding inventory and marketing initiatives. For Shawarma Press franchisees, a line of credit can serve as a financial safety net that supports operational agility.

Revenue-Based Financing

Revenue-based financing (sometimes called merchant cash advances or revenue share loans) offers an alternative for franchisees who need fast capital without extensive collateral. Repayment is tied to a percentage of daily or weekly revenue, which means payments flex with your cash flow. This product is particularly useful for established franchise locations that need growth capital but may not qualify for traditional bank loans due to limited business credit history or collateral constraints.

Each of these financing tools serves a distinct purpose, and the optimal strategy for most Shawarma Press franchisees involves a combination of products - perhaps an SBA loan for the bulk of the initial investment combined with a line of credit for ongoing working capital flexibility. A knowledgeable lender will help you structure a financing package that matches your specific situation, timeline, and risk tolerance.

How Crestmont Capital Helps Shawarma Press Franchise Owners

Crestmont Capital has earned its reputation as the #1 business lender in the United States by doing something deceptively simple: treating business owners as partners rather than applicants. When you work with Crestmont Capital on a Shawarma Press franchise loan, you get access to a full spectrum of financing products, a streamlined application process, and funding professionals who understand the unique economics of franchise businesses.

Here is how Crestmont Capital can support your Shawarma Press franchise journey at every stage:

Pre-Launch Financing

Before your first restaurant opens, you need capital for the franchise fee, build-out, equipment, and initial inventory. Crestmont Capital's small business loans and SBA products can cover these pre-revenue startup costs, giving you the financial foundation to launch with confidence rather than under-capitalized stress.

Equipment Financing for Restaurant Build-Out

The commercial-grade equipment required to operate a Shawarma Press restaurant - rotisserie spits, commercial refrigeration, prep stations, POS systems, and more - represents a significant investment. Crestmont Capital's equipment financing solutions let you acquire the tools your business needs while preserving working capital for operations.

Fast Access to Capital When Opportunities Arise

In franchising, timing matters. A prime location may become available, a second territory may open up, or an unexpected opportunity for a Walmart in-store format may arise. Crestmont Capital's fast business loans are designed to move quickly - often funding within 24 to 48 hours for qualified borrowers. When opportunity knocks, you need a lender that can move at the speed of business.

Comprehensive Financing for Every Growth Stage

Whether you are opening your first Shawarma Press location or scaling to multiple units, Crestmont Capital's small business financing portfolio covers the full range of capital needs. From working capital lines of credit to multi-million dollar SBA loans for multi-unit operators, the right product is available for every stage of your franchise growth journey.

Crestmont Capital has supported franchisees across many concepts. If you're exploring other food franchise investments, you may also find value in reading about financing for similar brands: check out our guide to Schlotzsky's franchise financing or our resource on Dutch Bros franchise loans to see how our approach translates across different restaurant concepts.

The Crestmont Capital difference is not just about products - it is about relationships. Our team takes the time to understand your business, your goals, and your timeline before recommending a financing strategy. That personalized approach means you get a loan structure that actually works for your Shawarma Press franchise rather than a generic product that doesn't fit your situation.

Who Qualifies for a Shawarma Press Franchise Loan?

Qualifying for a Shawarma Press franchise loan depends on a combination of personal financial factors, business history, and the specific loan product you are pursuing. Understanding the typical qualification criteria in advance helps you prepare your application, address potential gaps, and approach lenders with confidence.

Credit Score

For most franchise financing products, lenders look for a minimum personal credit score in the range of 650 to 680. For SBA loans - which offer the most favorable terms - a score of 680 or higher is typically expected, though some SBA lenders will work with scores as low as 640 in certain circumstances. A higher credit score generally translates to better interest rates, higher loan amounts, and more flexible terms. If your score is below the threshold, taking six to twelve months to improve it before applying can meaningfully improve your financing options.

Time in Business

For startup franchise financing (i.e., you are opening your first location), many lenders evaluate your personal financial strength and franchising experience rather than business operating history, since there is no existing business to underwrite. For franchisees seeking financing for a second or third location, having an established track record of at least one to two years of profitable operations significantly strengthens your application. Some working capital products and lines of credit require a minimum of six months to one year in business.

Revenue and Cash Flow

For established franchise operators, lenders typically look for annual gross revenues that support the requested loan amount. A debt service coverage ratio (DSCR) of at least 1.25 - meaning your business generates $1.25 in income for every $1.00 of debt obligations - is a common threshold. For startup loans, lenders rely on franchisee pro forma projections and the track record of the franchise system rather than existing revenue.

Liquid Capital and Net Worth

Shawarma Press itself requires a minimum of $70,000 in liquid capital and a net worth of at least $250,000 for prospective franchisees. Lenders will independently verify that you have sufficient liquid reserves to meet both the franchisor's requirements and the down payment or equity injection required for your chosen loan product. SBA loans typically require a 10% to 20% equity injection from the borrower, meaning you need personal funds available beyond the loan proceeds.

Collateral

Many loan products - especially SBA loans above $25,000 - require collateral to secure the financing. Collateral can include the business's assets (equipment, fixtures, leasehold improvements), personal assets (real estate, investment accounts), or a combination. For restaurant franchise financing, the equipment itself often serves as partial collateral. Lenders understand that franchise startup investments are often collateral-light in the early stages, and many work with borrowers to structure deals that use available collateral efficiently.

Franchise Agreement and FDD

Having your Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and executed or in-process franchise agreement in hand significantly strengthens your loan application. The FDD gives lenders visibility into the franchise system's financial performance, litigation history, and operating requirements - all factors that inform their credit decision.

How to Apply for Franchise Financing

Applying for a Shawarma Press franchise loan with Crestmont Capital is a streamlined process designed to minimize paperwork burden while ensuring we understand your specific needs. Here is a step-by-step overview of what to expect:

Step 1: Gather Your Financial Documents

Before submitting your application, collect the key documents lenders will need to evaluate your request. These typically include: personal tax returns for the past two to three years, personal financial statement (listing assets, liabilities, and net worth), bank statements for the past three to six months, your Shawarma Press Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), any executed letters of intent or lease agreements for your proposed location, and a business plan with financial projections if you are a startup franchisee. Having these documents ready before you apply speeds up the review process and demonstrates preparedness to your lender.

Step 2: Submit Your Application Online

Visit Crestmont Capital's application portal and complete the online application. The process is designed to take minutes, not days. You will be asked for basic business information, the loan amount requested, and the intended use of funds. A funding specialist will follow up promptly to discuss your application and gather any additional information needed.

Step 3: Consult with a Crestmont Capital Funding Specialist

One of Crestmont Capital's experienced funding specialists will review your application and financial documents, then consult with you to identify the optimal financing structure for your Shawarma Press franchise. This consultation covers loan type, amount, term, rate expectations, and any specific requirements related to your situation. There is no obligation associated with this consultation.

Step 4: Receive and Review Your Loan Offer

Once your application is approved, you will receive a formal loan offer outlining the terms, interest rate, repayment schedule, and any conditions. Review this offer carefully and ask questions about anything that is not clear. Crestmont Capital's team is available to walk you through every element of the term sheet.

Step 5: Close and Fund

After you accept the offer and complete any required closing documentation, funds are disbursed. For many Crestmont Capital products, funding can occur within 24 to 48 hours of final approval. For SBA loans, the timeline is longer - typically three to four weeks from application to funding - due to the additional documentation and guarantee process involved.

Real-World Scenarios: Shawarma Press Franchise Financing in Action

Understanding how financing works in practice can help you think through your own situation more clearly. Here are three illustrative scenarios showing how different types of Shawarma Press franchisees might approach their financing needs.

Scenario 1: First-Time Franchisee Opening a Walmart In-Store Location

Marcus is a 38-year-old former restaurant manager who has always dreamed of owning his own business. After researching Mediterranean food concepts, he connects with Shawarma Press and qualifies for a Walmart in-store location in a growing suburb of Dallas. His total estimated investment is $185,000, which includes the $45,000 franchise fee, $95,000 in build-out and equipment for the Walmart format, and $45,000 in initial working capital. Marcus has $70,000 in liquid savings and a credit score of 695. He applies to Crestmont Capital for an SBA 7(a) loan of $115,000 to bridge the gap between his liquid capital and the total investment. His SBA loan is structured over 10 years at a competitive rate, and his monthly payment is well within the projected cash flow of his unit based on Shawarma Press system averages. Marcus closes on his financing and opens his location within four months of his initial consultation.

Scenario 2: Multi-Unit Operator Expanding to a Second Location

Diana opened her first Shawarma Press stand-alone restaurant in Frisco, Texas, 18 months ago. Her unit has been performing well, generating strong weekly sales with solid margins. She has been approached about a second territory in nearby Plano, and she wants to move quickly before another franchisee claims it. Diana's first location has approximately $180,000 in equipment and leasehold improvements on the books. She applies to Crestmont Capital for an equipment financing package of $120,000 to cover kitchen equipment for her new location, combined with a $50,000 working capital line of credit for operational flexibility. Because her first location has a 20-month track record of positive cash flow, her approval is fast and the terms are favorable. She opens her second location within five months of signing her territory agreement.

Scenario 3: Veteran Franchisee Using the Discount and Fast Financing

Carlos is a retired U.S. Army officer who has been exploring franchise opportunities for two years. When he discovers Shawarma Press and learns about the 10% veteran discount on the initial franchise fee - bringing his franchise fee from $45,000 down to $40,500 - he is motivated to move forward. His total estimated investment for a stand-alone location is $320,000. Carlos has a strong credit score of 730 and substantial home equity. He applies to Crestmont Capital for a combined SBA loan and equipment financing package. His SBA 7(a) loan covers $180,000 of the total investment, while equipment financing covers $95,000 of specialized restaurant equipment. Carlos contributes $45,000 from personal savings as his equity injection. The total financing package closes in approximately three weeks, and Carlos opens his Shawarma Press location with adequate capitalization to support a confident launch.

These scenarios illustrate the range of financing structures that can work for Shawarma Press franchisees depending on their background, financial profile, and the specific format they are pursuing. The common thread is having the right lending partner who understands franchise economics and can structure a package that fits your unique situation.

Comparing Franchise Financing Options

Not all franchise financing products are created equal. The right loan for your Shawarma Press franchise depends on your timeline, credit profile, collateral, and the specific use of funds. The table below summarizes the key options available through Crestmont Capital and how they compare across several dimensions:

For most Shawarma Press franchisees launching their first location, the optimal strategy is to combine an SBA loan for the bulk of the initial investment with a separate working capital line of credit for operational flexibility. The SBA loan provides long terms and favorable rates for the capital-intensive startup phase, while the line of credit gives you the agility to respond to unexpected expenses or opportunities during the first year of operations.

Multi-unit operators expanding to additional locations often benefit from equipment financing (which can be closed faster than SBA loans and uses equipment as collateral) combined with a working capital product for the ramp-up period at each new location. The faster funding timelines of equipment financing and working capital products are particularly valuable when you are competing for prime locations or trying to capitalize on a time-sensitive expansion opportunity.

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Conclusion

The Shawarma Press franchise represents a compelling opportunity in one of the fastest-growing segments of American dining. As the nation's first authentic shawarma franchise, Shawarma Press has carved out a differentiated position in the $34.3 billion Mediterranean restaurant market. With a total investment range of $153,675 to $389,900, the shawarma press franchise cost is accessible relative to many competing fast-casual concepts, especially for the Walmart in-store format. The brand's dual-format strategy, strong consumer demand for authentic Mediterranean cuisine, veteran-friendly incentives, and ambitious expansion plans make it an attractive option for prospective franchisees looking to enter a growth category early.

Financing your Shawarma Press franchise successfully requires a clear understanding of your options and the right lending partner. Whether you choose an SBA loan for a full-scale stand-alone restaurant, equipment financing for a more targeted capital deployment, or a combination of products for a multi-unit expansion strategy, the structure of your financing will have a lasting impact on your profitability and cash flow. Working with Crestmont Capital - the #1 business lender in the United States - gives you access to the full range of franchise financing products, personalized guidance from experienced funding specialists, and the speed and reliability you need to capitalize on franchise opportunities as they arise.

Do not let capital constraints stand between you and your Shawarma Press franchise. The application process is simple, the consultation is free, and the funding can happen faster than you might expect. Take the first step today and discover what you qualify for - your franchise journey starts with a single application.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general educational purposes only and is not financial, legal, or tax advice. Funding terms, qualifications, and product availability may vary and are subject to change without notice. Crestmont Capital does not guarantee approval, rates, or specific outcomes. For personalized information about your business funding options, contact our team directly.