Escapology
Escapology, LLC franchises live escape-room venues where teams solve puzzles and follow clues within a time limit. The offering can be a stand-alone location or part of an existing entertainment facility. Customers include private groups and corporate teams. Each venue uses the brand’s game system, operating standards and approved location.
What It Costs
Open The Full FDDWhere Your Startup Money Goes
| Cost | Disclosed Amount | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $45,000 | 2026 FDD · PDF Page 17 · PDF Page 18 One outlet; due at signing and non-refundable. |
| Additional Game License | $5,000 | 2026 FDD · PDF Page 17 · PDF Page 19 Table allowance for an additional game license; game purchase and installation are extra. |
| Initial Training Expenses | $0 to $6,500 | 2026 FDD · PDF Page 17 · PDF Page 19 Travel, lodging and meals; wages are excluded. |
| Grand Opening Advertising | $5,000 to $15,000 | 2026 FDD · PDF Page 17 · PDF Page 19 At least $5,000 in the initial opening period. |
| Advance Rent | $0 to $40,000 | 2026 FDD · PDF Page 17 · PDF Page 19 Leased premises; actual rent depends on location and lease. |
| Security Deposit | $0 to $60,000 | 2026 FDD · PDF Page 17 · PDF Page 19 Lease deposit estimate; not property purchase. |
| Utilities | $1,500 to $8,000 | 2026 FDD · PDF Page 17 Opening utility costs. |
| Utility Deposits | $1,000 to $3,000 | 2026 FDD · PDF Page 17 · PDF Page 19 Local provider deposits. |
| Escape Rooms | $100,000 to $640,000 | 2026 FDD · PDF Page 18 · PDF Page 19 Game purchase cost; installation is listed separately. |
| Game Installation Labor | $0 to $200,000 | 2026 FDD · PDF Page 18 · PDF Page 20 Dependent on game choice and installation arrangements. |
| Permits And Licenses | $7,000 to $30,000 | 2026 FDD · PDF Page 18 · PDF Page 20 Local rules and permitting costs vary. |
| Professional Fees | $5,000 to $30,000 | 2026 FDD · PDF Page 18 · PDF Page 20 Professional services for opening. |
| Signage | $7,500 to $35,000 | 2026 FDD · PDF Page 18 · PDF Page 20 Signage requirements and local costs vary. |
| Furniture, Fixtures And Equipment | $50,000 to $110,000 | 2026 FDD · PDF Page 18 · PDF Page 20 Opening furnishings and equipment. |
| Office Equipment And Supplies | $1,000 to $5,000 | 2026 FDD · PDF Page 18 · PDF Page 20 Initial office setup. |
| Dues And Subscriptions | $1,000 to $3,000 | 2026 FDD · PDF Page 18 · PDF Page 20 Initial subscriptions and dues. |
| Insurance | $8,000 to $25,000 | 2026 FDD · PDF Page 18 · PDF Page 20 Estimate reflects a semiannual premium; coverage and local conditions affect actual costs. |
| Additional Funds — Three Months | $44,500 to $75,000 | 2026 FDD · PDF Page 18 · PDF Page 21 Includes rent, payroll and listed operating expenses. Excludes owner compensation and debt service; further funds may be needed. |
Line items are shown as disclosed. Some costs overlap or apply to different formats; do not add them together without reviewing the source.
Open The Full FDDKey Franchise Fees
- Royalty
View Disclosed Terms
6% of Gross Sales with mandatory monthly minimums. The minimum begins in the twelfth month after signing even if not open: $1,000, increasing to $2,000 in month 30 and $3,000 in month 48.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 10 · PDF Page 15 · Item 6
Review Fee Sources
Fees And Payment Terms
| Fee | Disclosed Terms | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Royalty | 6% of Gross Sales with mandatory monthly minimums. The minimum begins in the twelfth month after signing even if not open: $1,000, increasing to $2,000 in month 30 and $3,000 in month 48. | 2026 FDD · PDF Page 10 · PDF Page 15 |
| Licensed Game Player Fee | Currently $1.50 to $3.50 per player of a licensed game, payable monthly. Rate varies by game and may increase on 90 days’ notice. | 2026 FDD · PDF Page 10 · PDF Page 15 |
| Managed Marketing | Currently $849 to $1,599 monthly. The minimum may increase with 30 days’ notice. | 2026 FDD · PDF Page 10 · PDF Page 16 |
| Technology | Currently $499 monthly, payable with royalty. | 2026 FDD · PDF Page 10 · PDF Page 16 |
| Minimum Local Advertising | 6% of Gross Sales monthly, payable to vendors. | 2026 FDD · PDF Page 10 |
Some fees apply only to a specific event or service. These are not all monthly expenses.
Open The Full FDDYour Role As An Owner
Open The Full FDDThe facility must have a manager providing full-time supervision. A trained manager can handle day-to-day operations and does not have to be an owner; replacements must complete training. Confidentiality and, where permitted, non-compete obligations may apply. Owners and spouses have additional signing and personal-guaranty obligations described in the FDD.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 37 · Item 15 · View Source
Territory
Open The Full FDDEscapology defines a protected territory after approving the site. While you comply with the agreement, it will not open or authorize another dedicated Escapology outlet there. A multi-unit development area also depends on meeting the development schedule. Territory size varies with the location and population.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 33 · Item 12 · View Source
Read The Disclosed Requirements
That protection does not prevent the franchisor’s alternative sales channels or all other businesses in the area. You may solicit customers outside the territory, but cannot use the reserved alternative distribution channels yourself. Relocation needs approval and has conditions and deadlines. Ask the franchisor to confirm the current available area.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 34 · Item 12 · View Source
A disclosed territory policy does not confirm that your preferred area is available. Ask the franchisor about the specific area you are considering.
Training & Support
Open The Full FDDEscapology provides site-selection guidelines, location approval, design specifications, game materials, manuals and supplier information. You negotiate the lease, adapt the plans and obtain permits. At least five game rooms must be installed, approved and certified before opening. The FDD estimates nine to twelve months from signing to opening, with timing affected by financing, permits, construction, equipment and training.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 25 · PDF Page 26 · Item 11 · View Source
Read The Disclosed Requirements
The individual franchisee or up to two owners must complete initial training to Escapology’s satisfaction four to twelve weeks before opening. Instructor and material costs for up to two people are included in the franchise fee; you pay travel and personal expenses, and additional trainees cost extra. Opening assistance is provided at your premises, with trainer travel costs charged to you. Later training, meetings and conventions may be mandatory and carry fees and travel expenses.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 26 · PDF Page 31 · PDF Page 32 · PDF Page 33 · Item 11 · View Source
After opening, support includes assistance within reasonable limits, inspections, updated supplier information and marketing materials. Participation in the managed marketing program and local advertising spending are required, and advertising needs approval. The innovation fund supports system projects without guaranteeing a benefit proportional to your payments. You must use the specified computer, booking and operating systems and pay for required replacements, modifications and support.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 27 · PDF Page 28 · PDF Page 29 · PDF Page 30 · Item 11 · View Source
Franchisor Financing
Open The Full FDDThe franchisor does not offer direct or indirect financing and does not guarantee a franchisee’s loan, lease or other obligation.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 25 · Item 10 · View Source
Inside The FDD
Open The Full FDDPlain-language summaries of the FDD. Follow the page links to read the original document and its conditions.
Source-linked summaries of this FDD. Unresolved terms are omitted.
Sources
01The Franchisor And The Business
Escapology, LLC franchises live escape-room venues where teams solve puzzles and follow clues within a time limit. The offering can be a stand-alone location or part of an existing entertainment facility. Customers include private groups and corporate teams. Each venue uses the brand’s game system, operating standards and approved location.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 6 · PDF Page 7 · Item 1 · View Source
02Business Experience
The FDD lists Charles Burton Heiss as CEO, Adam Doktor as CFO, Katy Dean as COO and Shawn Baxter as chief development officer. It also describes the backgrounds of franchise-sales leadership and parent-company directors, including restaurant, hospitality, finance and development experience.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 8 · PDF Page 9 · Item 2 · View Source
03Litigation
Escapology reports a California consent order concerning franchise disclosures and records for negotiated sales. It entered the order without a hearing or final adjudication of facts, agreed to comply with the state franchise law and accepted a penalty. The FDD says no other litigation is pending or required to be disclosed here.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 9 · Item 3 · View Source
04Bankruptcy
The franchisor states that no bankruptcy information is required to be disclosed in this Item.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 9 · Item 4 · View Source
05Initial Fees
The initial franchise fee is $45,000, due at signing and non-refundable. It includes game-license fees for up to eight initial games. An additional game license costs $5,000, with game hardware, shipping and installation extra.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 9 · PDF Page 10 · Item 5 · View Source
06Other Fees
Royalty is 6% of Gross Sales, subject to monthly minimums that increase over time. Minimum royalty can become payable before opening. Licensed games also have per-player charges, while managed marketing, technology and local advertising are separate recurring costs.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 10 · PDF Page 15 · PDF Page 16 · Item 6 · View Source
07Estimated Initial Investment
The investment table covers premises, escape rooms, installation, opening marketing, equipment, insurance and three months of operating funds. A single total is omitted because the cover and Item 7 report different totals, and one buildout figure is malformed in the source.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 1 · PDF Page 17 · PDF Page 18 · Item 7 · View Source
The additional-funds estimate is $44,500 to $75,000 for three months and includes rent, payroll and other listed operating costs. It excludes your compensation and financing payments. The FDD warns that additional funding could be needed for three to six months or longer.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 18 · PDF Page 19 · PDF Page 20 · PDF Page 21 · Item 7 · View Source
08Required Purchases And Suppliers
Equipment, inventory and services must come from designated suppliers or meet Escapology specifications. Additional licensed games must be purchased from the franchisor. An alternative item or supplier requires a written request, supporting information and payment of evaluation costs; approval can later be withdrawn.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 21 · PDF Page 22 · Item 8 · View Source
Required insurance is the owner’s expense and coverage requirements can change. The franchisor reserves the right to earn revenue from sales and supplier rebates. Failure to follow purchasing rules can be a default under the franchise agreement.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 22 · PDF Page 23 · Item 8 · View Source
09Your Obligations
The obligations table links responsibilities under both the franchise and development agreements to their detailed terms. It covers opening, fees, training, operating standards, staffing, records, transfers and obligations when the relationship ends. Development-agreement duties apply to the relevant development arrangement.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 23 · PDF Page 24 · PDF Page 25 · Item 9 · View Source
10Franchisor Financing
The franchisor does not offer direct or indirect financing and does not guarantee a franchisee’s loan, lease or other obligation.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 25 · Item 10 · View Source
11Training And Support
Escapology provides site-selection guidelines, location approval, design specifications, game materials, manuals and supplier information. You negotiate the lease, adapt the plans and obtain permits. At least five game rooms must be installed, approved and certified before opening. The FDD estimates nine to twelve months from signing to opening, with timing affected by financing, permits, construction, equipment and training.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 25 · PDF Page 26 · Item 11 · View Source
The individual franchisee or up to two owners must complete initial training to Escapology’s satisfaction four to twelve weeks before opening. Instructor and material costs for up to two people are included in the franchise fee; you pay travel and personal expenses, and additional trainees cost extra. Opening assistance is provided at your premises, with trainer travel costs charged to you. Later training, meetings and conventions may be mandatory and carry fees and travel expenses.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 26 · PDF Page 31 · PDF Page 32 · PDF Page 33 · Item 11 · View Source
After opening, support includes assistance within reasonable limits, inspections, updated supplier information and marketing materials. Participation in the managed marketing program and local advertising spending are required, and advertising needs approval. The innovation fund supports system projects without guaranteeing a benefit proportional to your payments. You must use the specified computer, booking and operating systems and pay for required replacements, modifications and support.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 27 · PDF Page 28 · PDF Page 29 · PDF Page 30 · Item 11 · View Source
12Territory
Escapology defines a protected territory after approving the site. While you comply with the agreement, it will not open or authorize another dedicated Escapology outlet there. A multi-unit development area also depends on meeting the development schedule. Territory size varies with the location and population.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 33 · Item 12 · View Source
That protection does not prevent the franchisor’s alternative sales channels or all other businesses in the area. You may solicit customers outside the territory, but cannot use the reserved alternative distribution channels yourself. Relocation needs approval and has conditions and deadlines. Ask the franchisor to confirm the current available area.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 34 · Item 12 · View Source
13Trademarks
The franchise licenses the Escapology marks listed as federally registered in the FDD. Franchisees must report challenges promptly and cooperate with the franchisor’s control of trademark proceedings. Indemnity for authorized use depends on timely notice and compliance with the agreement. The franchisor may require replacement branding at the franchisee’s expense.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 34 · PDF Page 35 · Item 13 · View Source
14Patents, Copyrights And Proprietary Information
The FDD says no patents are material, but claims copyright in games, manuals, music, themes and other content. Some games use third-party intellectual property that may be used only in the licensed game and approved promotion. Confidentiality continues after the agreement ends. Copyright protection is conditional on compliance and notice, and required changes or discontinued use are at the franchisee’s expense.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 36 · PDF Page 37 · Item 14 · View Source
15Your Role As An Owner
The facility must have a manager providing full-time supervision. A trained manager can handle day-to-day operations and does not have to be an owner; replacements must complete training. Confidentiality and, where permitted, non-compete obligations may apply. Owners and spouses have additional signing and personal-guaranty obligations described in the FDD.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 37 · Item 15 · View Source
16Products And Services You May Sell
Franchisees may sell only approved system products and services to end customers from the approved location. Other or competing businesses are restricted, and the franchisor can change required offerings. Beginning in year four, at least one game must be replaced every other year with a game from the approved catalog. Soliciting customers inside and outside the territory is permitted.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 37 · PDF Page 38 · Item 16 · View Source
17Renewal, Termination, Transfer And Disputes
The initial franchise term is ten years, with two possible five-year successor terms if you meet the requirements and the franchisor has not decided to withdraw from the territory. Renewal involves a new agreement, compliance, notice, upgrades, training, payment and a release. Development rights have a separate agreed term without a stated renewal option.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 38 · PDF Page 42 · Item 17 · View Source
Certain defaults permit termination without a cure period. Transfers need consent and an eligible buyer, and matching or purchase rights can apply. Termination brings de-identification, payment and other continuing duties, including confidentiality and non-compete provisions. The franchise and development agreements have different dispute-resolution provisions; read the applicable agreement and state addenda.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 39 · PDF Page 40 · PDF Page 41 · PDF Page 42 · PDF Page 43 · PDF Page 44 · PDF Page 45 · Item 17 · View Source
18Public Figures
The franchisor says it does not currently use public figures to promote its franchise.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 45 · Item 18 · View Source
19Financial Performance Representations
Item 19 separates 2025 results for company-owned venues, stand-alone franchised venues and franchises within family entertainment centers. The tables focus on locations operating for the full year and exclude newer locations; the company-owned cost sample also excludes a refranchised location. The FDD says the data is compiled on a cash basis.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 45 · PDF Page 46 · PDF Page 47 · PDF Page 48 · PDF Page 49 · Item 19 · View Source
Franchisees reported the operating costs themselves. The franchisor reviewed them for reasonableness but did not audit them. Some entries are adjusted for comparison, including estimated rent where a stand-alone franchisee owns the building and the stated current franchise fees rather than each owner’s actual fees.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 48 · PDF Page 49 · Item 19 · View Source
These tables do not provide a complete operating budget. The family-entertainment-center figures have no occupancy-cost estimate and may leave out shared marketing costs. Other expenses are also excluded from the reported subtotals. Written supporting information is available on reasonable request, and individual results can differ.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 48 · PDF Page 49 · PDF Page 50 · Item 19 · View Source
20Outlets And Franchisee Information
Item 20 includes historical outlet and transfer tables and projected openings. Some year labels and totals differ between tables, so detailed network and growth figures are withheld here. Exhibit E identifies franchise locations and franchisees who left the system or meet the other listed contact-reporting conditions.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 51 · PDF Page 52 · PDF Page 53 · PDF Page 54 · PDF Page 55 · Item 20 · View Source
21Financial Statements
Exhibit D contains the franchisor’s audited financial statements. These describe the franchisor’s finances and do not show what a new franchisee will earn.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 55 · Item 21 · View Source
22Contracts
The proposed agreements include the franchise agreement, multi-unit development agreement and franchisee acknowledgment. The FDD states that an acknowledgment cannot waive applicable state franchise-law claims or disclaim reliance in the way prohibited by that provision.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 55 · PDF Page 56 · Item 22 · View Source
23Receipts
The final pages contain duplicate receipts. Sign both, keep one for your records and return the other to Escapology.
2026 FDD · PDF Page 56 · Item 23 · View Source
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