How it works

No black boxes. Every number the Profit Doctor shows comes from a formula you can check on a napkin.

Total variable cost

Ingredients + Packaging + Labor per item

What it costs you every single time you make and hand over this item. Rent and utilities aren't included here — those don't change per sandwich.

Gross profit per item

Selling price − Total variable cost

The dollars left over from one sale to cover your fixed bills and pay you.

Gross margin %

(Gross profit ÷ Selling price) × 100

The share of each sale you keep. Easier to compare across items than dollars alone.

Weekly gross profit

Gross profit per item × Units sold per week

The real contribution of an item. A small margin on 300 units can beat a big margin on 10.

Suggested price

Total variable cost ÷ (1 − Target margin)

The price that hits your target margin. Default target is 65% and you can change it any time.

Reading the colors

  • Green — you're at or above your target margin. Hold the price.
  • Yellow — within 15 points of target. A small price or portion change closes the gap.
  • Red — well below target. This item needs a real change.

These are estimates and guidelines, not a guarantee of profit.