Five Guys vs Smoothie KingFranchise Comparison 2026
Five Guys and Smoothie King represent two different approaches in the QSR space. Here's how they compare on investment costs, fees, revenue potential, and market presence.
Quick Comparison
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Five Guys | Smoothie King | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $25,000 | $30,000 | -17% |
| Total Investment (Low) | $306,000 | $295,000 | +4% |
| Total Investment (High) | $641,000 | $844,000 | -24% |
| Cash Required | $300,000 | $150,000 | +100% |
| Royalty Rate | 6.0% | 6.0% | Same |
| Advertising Fee | 1.5% | 2.0% | Lower |
| Estimated Revenue | $1.4M | $620,000 | +126% |
| Number of Locations | 1,700 | 1,300 | More |
| Year Founded | 1986 | 1973 | Newer |
| Training Duration | 3 weeks | 2 weeks | Longer |
Note: Data sourced from public FDD filings and industry reports. Actual costs vary by location, real estate, and format. Always review current FDD Item 7 and Item 19 disclosures before making investment decisions.
Detailed Analysis
About Five Guys
Premium burger concept with fresh ingredients and no freezers. Higher food costs but strong brand loyalty and per-unit sales.
About Smoothie King
Purpose-driven smoothies for health and fitness. Strong brand heritage and growing health-conscious consumer base.
Investment Comparison
Five Guys requires a lower initial investment (avg $473,500) compared to Smoothie King(avg $569,500), making it more accessible for first-time franchisees. However, Smoothie King may offer similar revenue potential.
Fee Structure
Five Guys has lower ongoing fees (7.5% total) compared to Smoothie King(8.0% total), which means more of each sales dollar stays with the franchisee. Over time, this can significantly impact profitability.
Market Position
Five Guys has a significantly larger footprint with 1,700 locations compared to Smoothie King's 1,300. This larger network typically means better brand recognition, more purchasing power, and stronger operational support.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to open a Five Guys vs Smoothie King franchise?
Five Guys requires an initial investment of $306,000 to $641,000, while Smoothie King requires $295,000 to $844,000. Five Guys has the lower average investment at $473,500.
What are the ongoing fees for Five Guys vs Smoothie King?
Five Guys charges a 6.0% royalty plus 1.5% advertising fee (7.5% total). Smoothie King charges 6.0% royalty plus 2.0% advertising fee (8.0% total). Five Guys has lower total ongoing fees.
Which franchise makes more money: Five Guys or Smoothie King?
Based on estimated average unit revenue, Five Guys generates $1.4M per location compared to $620,000 for Smoothie King. However, profitability depends on many factors including local market, operating costs, and management.
How many locations does Five Guys have vs Smoothie King?
Five Guys has 1,700 locations, while Smoothie King has 1,300 locations. Five Guys has the larger footprint, which typically means stronger brand recognition and supply chain advantages.
Is Five Guys or Smoothie King a better franchise investment in 2026?
Both Five Guys and Smoothie King are established QSR brands with proven models. Five Guys offers a lower entry point, while Five Guys shows higher average revenue. The best choice depends on your available capital, local market conditions, and personal goals. Always review the current FDD before making investment decisions.
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