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Franchise Restaurants: How to Choose the Right One for You | Metrics and data guide! (2024)
Written by: Carolina Ines Sosa
Last Updated by
Rocio Somoza: January 19, 2023
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The American love for world foods is something that we can’t help but indulge in. From traditional favorites such as Mexican and Chinese cuisine to more eclectic choices like Italian or French food. There’s always something new on menus across the country!
We spend thousands of dollars each year dining out at restaurants where not only do dishes cost less than if you made them yourself (and save some cash), but also typically much lighter with ordering appetizers/ shared plates versus full meals. It isn’t uncommon nowadays either: many folks will go straight from work.
American restaurants are a big deal. The industry makes up around 10% of the overall US workforce and almost 50% have worked in them at some point during their careers, while three-forths gain initial experience as servers or cooks before going on to work other jobs within this sector which accounts for 8 trillion dollars annually – 4%.
If you’re looking for a new business opportunity, you may consider franchise restaurants. This is a great option for many people, but it’s important to choose the right franchise for you. There are many different franchises out there, and each one has its own unique benefits and drawbacks. In this blog post, we will discuss the things you need to consider when choosing a franchise restaurant. We’ll also provide some tips on how to find the best franchise for your needs.
Contents
What To Consider When Franchising
When you’re considering franchise restaurants, the first thing you need to do is figure out what kind of restaurant you want to open. There are many different types of franchise restaurants, from fast food chains to fine dining establishments. Once you’ve decided on the type of restaurant you want to open, you can start looking for franchise opportunities.
There are a few things you should keep in mind when searching for franchise restaurants. First, make sure the franchise is a good fit for your skills and interests. Second, research the franchise thoroughly before making any commitment. Finally, ask questions and get all the information you can before signing any contracts.
If you follow these tips, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect franchise restaurant for you. With a little research and careful consideration, you can find a franchise that will help you achieve your business goals.
Facts About Restaurant Franchises
The restaurant industry is a booming market that has been growing for decades. It’s also one of the few remaining jobs Americans can get with just education and no experience necessary. This means it will continue to thrive in coming years as well! In fact, there are currently over 1 million locations across America alone employing less than fifty people each (and many only employ four). The reason why this profession attracts such little talent? Well according to the Labor Department: “Most adult males who work full time earn between $25-$30K annually.” That simply isn’t enough money when you consider cost-of.
The US economy has seen significant growth over the past thirty years. And this is because of strong contributions from industries like restaurant franchises. In fact, sales within this sector have doubled since 2000 and now make up an essential part of our country’s economic machine – playing their role well as never before!
With the COVID-19 pandemic, American restaurants have experienced a decrease in business. However, over time this will settle and people are eager to return back into their everyday routine of dining out once things return. However delivery services like UberEats or DoorDash continue on as before with increased popularity due largely because it’s so easy!
One of the best ways to thrive in a stay-home market is by expanding your digital presence. Restaurant franchises are ideally placed for this because they have already grown accustomed to and learned how best to adapt when challenges arise, making them well equipped as others in their industry who may not be so fortunate or able yet handle such changes without assistance from parent companies’ budgets which provide websites marketing campaigns special offers among other things that attract customers.
Restaurant Franchises
So, what are you looking for in a food franchise? The 14 greatest opportunities we highlighted here offer some excellent choices to consider.
Investment requirements vary by each opportunity and some people may not be financially capable of the investments they require. However, all these brands have strong reputations so it’s important that before signing on any dotted line or filling out an application form with your personal information that aligns closely enough around demographics target customers will allow them extra room if needed!
Some people might think that the most important thing in choosing a food franchise is whether or not you can make money off it.
However, I always recommend doing your research and considering all of these factors before making any decisions about which type of business may suit what would be best for yourself long-term career-wise as well as financially!
Einstein Bros. Restaurant
Einstein Bros. Bagels is an American chain that specializes in bagels and coffee. In 1996, Berkeley-based Noah’s Bagels was bought out by Einstein Bros. And it was subsequently bought out by Einstein Noah Restaurant Group in 2002. The menu at Einstein Bros. Bagels features a wide variety of bagel types as well as breakfast and lunch sandwiches. Some of the more popular items include the Egg White & Roasted Tomato on an Everything Bagel and the Bacon, Egg & Cheese on a Plain Bagel. For those looking for something sweeter, Einstein Bros. also offers a selection of flavored cream cheeses, such as strawberry and honey walnut.
Einstein Bros. Restaurant is based in Lakewood, CO.
The minimum investment amount required to open an Einstein Bros. Restaurant franchise is $138,550 and can go up to $935,850.
Franchise Data
| Year | Start of Year | Units Opened | Units Closed | End of Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 62 | 1 | 2 | 58 |
| 2017 | 58 | 3 | 1 | 59 |
| 2018 | 59 | 0 | 6 | 50 |
| 2019 | 50 | 3 | 7 | 52 |
| 2020 | 52 | 1 | 1 | 53 |
| 2021 | 53 | 2 | 1 | 54 |
As of 2022, there were 54 locations across the U.S. There are also 322 corporate locations. Most Food and Beverage franchises like Einstein Bros. Restaurant have more franchised locations than corporate locations.
Fuji Grill
FUJI GRILL offers franchises to establish and operate quick-service casual dining restaurants in a relaxed family atmosphere featuring Japanese-style Foods in accordance with specified recipes and procedures for carry-out or on-premises dining. The franchisee will use its best efforts to promote and maintain the good name and reputation of FUJI GRILL. And also to keep the premises, equipment, utensils, and supplies in clean, attractive, and good working order and condition.
The franchisee will receive a license to use the FUJI GRILL trade name, logos, and service marks in connection with the operation of FUJI GRILL restaurants according to specified standards and procedures. Also, the franchisee will receive a manual of operations containing detailed specifications for restaurant layout, equipment, signage, menu items, preparation methods, portion sizes and control, packaging, Server uniforms, and guest check format. Franchising with FUJI GRILL is a great way to get started in the restaurant business. They offer a proven business model and comprehensive support to help you succeed.
Fuji Grill is based in Orange, CA.
The minimum investment amount required to open a Fuji Grill franchise is $152,400 and can go up to $286,300.
Freshii Restaurant
The franchise is to develop and operate restaurants offering healthy meals. Its menu includes salads, rice bowls, wraps, oatmeal, fresh and frozen yogurt, healthy portable snacks and beverages. Freshii is a Canadian-based franchisor of healthy eating restaurants. The company was founded in 2005 by Matthew Corrin. As of October 2017, the company had grown to 315 locations in 16 countries including Canada, the United States, South Africa, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Panama. The restaurant concept is based around providing healthy meal options that are affordable and convenient. The menu includes items such as salads, rice bowls, wraps, oatmeal, fresh and frozen yogurt, healthy portable snacks, and beverages. If you’re looking for a franchise opportunity that focuses on healthy eating, then a Freshii restaurant might be the right fit for you.
Freshii Restaurant is based in Chicago, IL.
Are you wondering how much is a Freshii Restaurant franchise? Before starting a Freshii Restaurant franchise, it is important to know the franchise fee, working capital, and other costs required to start the business.
The minimum investment amount required to open a Freshii Restaurant franchise is $175,500 and can go up to $581,000. Keep in mind, you should also allocate additional funds to live off of while the Freshii Restaurant business ramps up. This can take as little as 6 months to over 2 years depending on the franchise opportunity. You should speak to at least 5 Freshii Restaurant franchisees to understand the true cost of opening the franchise and how long it takes to 1) start a Freshii Restaurant business 2) pass break even 3) hit significant income.
After (and if) you pass the point of earning significant income from your Freshii Restaurant franchise, there may be enough margin to hire a day-to-day manager and work fewer hours in the business.
Franchise Data
| Year | Start of Year | Units Opened | Units Closed | End of Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 80 | 35 | 8 | 107 |
| 2017 | 107 | 23 | 24 | 105 |
| 2018 | 106 | 25 | 8 | 121 |
| 2019 | 121 | 19 | 19 | 121 |
| 2020 | 121 | 0 | 35 | 86 |
Sharky's Woodfired Mexican Grill
Sharky’s Woodfired Mexican Grill is a chain of fast-casual restaurants in the United States, specializing in Mexican-style cuisine. They have multiple locations all across the country. Sharky’s is best known for its made-from-scratch food, including burritos, tacos, quesadillas, nachos, salads, and soups. All the menu items are prepared fresh daily using only the highest quality ingredients. Their staff is friendly and welcoming, and they always strive to provide the best possible experience for their customers. Sharky’s Woodfired Mexican Grill provides their franchisees with everything they need to get started and be successful. They offer a comprehensive training program, support from experienced professionals, and an extensive marketing campaign.
Sharky’s Woodfired Mexican Grill is based in Westlake Village.
The minimum investment amount required to open a Sharky’s Woodfired Mexican Grill franchise is $308,000 and can go up to $1,755,400.
Franchise Data
| Year | Start of Year | Units Opened | Units Closed | End of Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 22 | 2 | 0 | 24 |
| 2017 | 24 | 4 | 1 | 27 |
| 2018 | 27 | 2 | 0 | 29 |
Zoup! Restaurants
They set out to create soups from only the best quality ingredients, and they now have hundreds of recipes. The first location opened in Southfield, Michigan. Zoup! quickly grew to offer more than just soup, with the introduction of freshly baked ciabatta bread, sandwiches, and salads. The first franchise location opened in 2003. And since then the company has been building a support team and cultural foundation for its growing franchise system. As a franchisee, you may purchase a single franchise or an area development franchise.
Zoup! Restaurants are based in Southfield, MI.
The minimum investment amount required to open a Zoup! Restaurant franchise is $357,900 and can go all the way up to $675,500.
Franchise Data
| Year | Start of Year | Units Opened | Units Closed | End of Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 76 | 12 | 1 | 86 |
| 2017 | 86 | 12 | 7 | 91 |
| 2018 | 91 | 7 | 13 | 85 |
| 2019 | 85 | 1 | 8 | 77 |
| 2020 | 77 | 2 | 11 | 64 |
Cool Hand Luke's Steakhouse/Saloon
Cool Hand Luke’s Steakhouse/Saloon is a family-friendly steakhouse and saloon with locations all over the United States. They offer a variety of delicious steaks, seafood, and chicken dishes. As well as a full bar with a wide selection of beer, wine, and spirits. Their friendly and knowledgeable staff is here to make the customer’s dining experience truly enjoyable, whether they’re looking for a casual meal or a night out on the town. They are committed to providing the highest quality food and service to their customers. Cool Hand Luke’s provides its franchisees with a comprehensive training program that covers everything from food safety to customer service. So franchisees can be confident they are well-prepared to open and operate their own business.
Cool Hand Luke’s Steakhouse/Saloon is based in San Luis Obispo, CA.
The minimum investment amount required to open a Cool Hand Luke’s Steakhouse/Saloon franchise is $373,000 and can go up to $1,817,000.
Pie Five Restaurants
Pie Five Restaurants is a chain of quick-service pizza restaurants with multiple locations across the United States. The concept behind Pie Five is “fast casual” dining, which is a combination of fast food and casual dining concepts. Customers can order custom-made pizzas with a variety of toppings, or they can choose from a selection of pre-made pizzas. The pizzas are made fresh to order and are ready in about five minutes. In addition to pizza, they also offer salads, wings, and desserts. Their staff is friendly and their restaurants are clean and well-maintained. Pie Five Restaurants provides their franchisees with everything they need to get started, including training, marketing support, and a proven business model.
Pie Five Restaurants is based in The Colony, TX.
The minimum investment amount required to open a Pie Five Restaurants franchise is $392,500 and can go up to $891,000.
As of 2019, there were 72 locations across the U.S. There is also 1 corporate location. Most Food and Beverage franchises like Pie Five Restaurants have more franchised locations than corporate locations.
Board And Brew Restaurant Group
At Board & Brew, they pride themselves on serving top-quality food and local craft beer. Their focus has always been on providing guests with a relaxed beach atmosphere where they can enjoy their delicious sandwiches and explore new craft brews. Their original Del Mar location started it all back in 1979 and remains a cult favorite to this day. Thanks to their commitment to using only the freshest ingredients and providing outstanding value, Board & Brew restaurants have become a Southern California staple. As a Board and Brew franchisee, you will operate and offer within defined territories a quick-serve restaurant outlet providing a full variety of sandwiches, specialty condiments and ingredients, and other food, beverages, and related products and accessories.
Board And Brew Restaurant Group are based in Del Mar, CA.
The minimum investment amount required to open a Board And Brew Restaurant Group franchise is $433,500 and can go up to $777,500.
Franchise Data
| Year | Start of Year | Units Opened | Units Closed | End of Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 5 | 3 | 1 | 6 |
| 2017 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 7 |
| 2018 | 7 | 1 | 0 | 8 |
| 2019 | 8 | 2 | 0 | 10 |
| 2020 | 10 | 1 | 0 | 11 |
| 2021 | 11 | 5 | 0 | 16 |
Monical's Restaurant
Monical’s Restaurant is a pizza chain with locations throughout Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, and Missouri. The restaurant is known for its thin-crust pizzas, salads, pasta dishes, and sandwiches. Their atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, with a focus on providing a great dining experience for their customers. Monical’s has been in business for over 50 years and continues to be a popular choice for pizza lovers in the Midwest. Monical’s has been voted “Best Pizza in Champaign-Urbana” 14 years in a row and was voted the best pizza chain in the Midwest by Midwest Living magazine. The company has a commitment to giving back to the community and has raised over $1 million for charities such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Monical’s Restaurant is based in Bradley, IL.
The minimum investment amount required to open a Monical’s Restaurant franchise is $487,550 and can go up to $1,133,400.
Franchise Data
| Year | Start of Year | Units Opened | Units Closed | End of Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 30 | 0 | 0 | 30 |
| 2017 | 30 | 1 | 0 | 31 |
| 2018 | 31 | 0 | 0 | 31 |
| 2019 | 31 | 0 | 1 | 30 |
| 2020 | 30 | 0 | 0 | 30 |
| 2021 | 30 | 0 | 1 | 30 |
The Brass Tap
The Brass Tap is an upscale beer bar that offers a wide selection of craft beers on tap, as well as a large variety of imported domestic and local craft beers. They also have a large selection of fine wines and other beverage options. If permitted by applicable law, they can offer cigars and bottled beers to carry out from their annexed package store. Their experienced staff are passionate about providing excellent service and are always on hand to help customers find the perfect drink to suit their taste. Their focus is on helping their franchisees succeed by providing a high-quality product, exceptional service, and a great customer experience. The Brass Tap provides its franchisees with a turn-key business model that includes everything from site selection and build-out to ongoing marketing support.
The Brass Tap is based in Tampa, FL.
The minimum investment amount required to open a The Brass Tap franchise is $783,425 and can go up to $1,321,025.
Over the prior 3 years, we have data for, The Brass Tap has closed 15 outlets throughout the U.S
Freddy's
Freddy’s is a chain of fast-food restaurants that specializes in burgers and fries. The company was founded in 2002 by brothers Bill and Randy Simon, who wanted to create a restaurant that would serve fresh, made-to-order food at a reasonable price. The first Freddy’s restaurant opened in Wichita, Kansas. Today, Freddy’s is known for its friendly service and delicious food. As a franchisee, you will operate a restaurant featuring the retail sale of steakburgers, hot dogs, and frozen custard to the general public. The franchisee-operated restaurant will conduct its business under the name and mark “Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers”.
Freddy’s brand is built on four core values: quality, service, cleanliness, and fun. These values guide everything they do, from the way they prepare their food to the way they interact with their customers. Their goal is to continue expanding Freddy’s across the United States and beyond so that even more people can enjoy their delicious food. They also want to remain focused on delivering great customer service and maintaining the high standards that have made Freddy’s a success. Freddy’s is based in Wichita, KS.
Are you wondering how much is Freddy’s franchise? Before starting Freddy’s franchise, it is important to know the franchise fee, working capital, and other costs required to start the business. The minimum investment amount required to open Freddy’s franchise is $794,254 and can go up to $2,327,329.
Franchise Data
| Year | Start of Year | Units Opened | Units Closed | End of Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 163 | 57 | 0 | 220 |
| 2017 | 220 | 44 | 1 | 263 |
| 2018 | 263 | 48 | 5 | 305 |
| 2019 | 306 | 33 | 4 | 335 |
| 2020 | 335 | 27 | 5 | 357 |
| 2021 | 357 | 35 | 1 | 391 |
Boston Pizza Restaurants
Boston Pizza Restaurants is a pizza chain and franchise. They have multiple locations in North America, including the United States. They are casual family dining establishments with a focus on serving pizzas, pasta dishes, chicken wings, salads, appetizers, and desserts. The chain offers both dine-in and take-out options. Boston Pizza has a sports bar theme in some of its restaurants, with televisions broadcasting various sporting events. The staff is friendly and committed to providing customers with the best food quality and service at every location site. Boston Pizza Restaurants provides its franchisees with support in the areas of site selection, store design and construction, marketing, grand opening assistance, and ongoing operations.
Boston Pizza Restaurants is based in Dallas, TX.
The minimum investment amount required to open a Boston Pizza Restaurants franchise is $1,023,500 and can go all the way up to $2,757,500.
Franchise Data
| Year | Start of Year | Units Opened | Units Closed | End of Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 25 | 2 | 1 | 26 |
| 2017 | 26 | 2 | 6 | 22 |
| 2018 | 22 | 1 | 2 | 21 |
| 2019 | 21 | 3 | 4 | 19 |
| 2020 | 19 | 4 | 2 | 21 |
| 2021 | 21 | 2 | 0 | 23 |
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Restaurant
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Restaurant is a chain of restaurants specializing in yakiniku. They have locations across Asia, North America, and South America. They are known for their wide variety of meats, including Wagyu beef, as well as their unique atmosphere, which features traditional Japanese decor and music. The restaurant offers an assortment of meats, seafood, poultry, vegetables, and desserts for customers to cook on state-of-the-art charcoal roaster systems. Additionally, they extend proprietary dipping sauces, marinades, and a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Their staff is highly trained to provide an authentic and memorable yakiniku experience. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Restaurant provides its franchisees with extensive training in all aspects of restaurant operations, from management to cooking. They also offer ongoing support to help franchisees succeed.
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Restaurant is based in Torrance, CA.
Are you wondering how much is a Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Restaurant franchise? Before starting a Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Restaurant franchise, it is important to know the franchise fee, working capital, and other costs required to start the business.
The minimum investment amount required to open a Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Restaurant franchise is $1,184,424 and can go up to $2,496,498. Keep in mind, you should also allocate additional funds to live off of while the Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Restaurant business ramps up. This can take as little as 6 months to over 2 years depending on the franchise opportunity. You should speak to at least 5 Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Restaurant franchisees to understand the true cost of opening the franchise and how long it takes to: 1) start a Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Restaurant business 2) pass break even 3) hit significant income.
After (and if) you pass the point of earning significant income from your Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Restaurant franchise, there may be enough margin to hire a day-to-day manager and work fewer hours in the business.
The net unit growth rate for Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Restaurant over the past 3 years is 77%. Over the last year we have data for, Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Restaurant had a net unit growth rate of 28%.
Without comparison, this number doesn’t mean much. Compare how the Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Restaurant’s growth rate compares to 2,000+ other franchises and Industry franchises like Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Restaurant.
Sizzler
Sizzler is a casual dining restaurant chain with multiple locations all across the United States. The menu features a variety of steak, seafood, and chicken entrées, as well as a salad bar. They use a unique grill that sears meat at a high temperature to lock in flavor. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere is casual yet inviting. They are committed to providing their customers with the best food quality and dining experience at every location site. Sizzler provides its franchisees with the support they need to be successful, including access to a network of experienced professionals, marketing resources, and operational guidance.
Sizzler is based in Mission Viejo, CA.
The minimum investment amount required to open a Sizzler franchise is $1,329,750 and can go up to $2,607,750.
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
“HOMESTYLE COOKING RIGHT TO YOUR DOORSTEP”. They’re famous for breakfast but they also take the same approach to lunch & dinner. Perkins Restaurant & Bakery is a family-style restaurant offering moderately priced meals. Founded in 1958 as a single pancake house in Ohio, Perkins has transformed into the nation’s leading family restaurant. With nearly 300 company-owned and franchised locations in 32 states and two Canadian provinces, they’re pretty proud of how far they’ve come.
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery is based in Sandy Springs, GA.
The minimum investment amount required to open a Perkins Restaurant & Bakery franchise is $1,703,050 and can go all the way up to $2,732,300.
Bombshells Restaurant & Bar
Bombshells Restaurant & Bar is a chain of family-friendly restaurants and bars located throughout the United States. They are known for their fun and festive atmosphere, as well as their menu of American comfort food classics with a twist. The restaurants feature a sports bar vibe, with large TVs tuned to the latest games, and a lively, happy hour scene. The menu features all the customer’s favorite American foods, like burgers and fries, as well as their famous chicken and waffles. Their staff is always friendly and welcoming, making sure that everyone has a great time. Bombshells Restaurant & Bar provides its franchisees with support in every aspect of opening and running their business. From site selection and lease negotiation to construction, marketing, and grand opening support, they are there to help their franchisees succeed.
Bombshells Restaurant & Bar is based in Houston, TX.
The minimum investment amount required to open a Bombshells Restaurant & Bar franchise is $2,094,000 and can go all the way up to $4,820,500.
