Popeyes vs Hardee'sFranchise Comparison 2026
Popeyes and Hardee's 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 | Popeyes | Hardee's | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $50,000 | $25,000 | +100% |
| Total Investment (Low) | $383,000 | $1.4M | -72% |
| Total Investment (High) | $2.6M | $2.6M | -1% |
| Cash Required | $500,000 | $340,000 | +47% |
| Royalty Rate | 5.0% | 4.0% | Higher |
| Advertising Fee | 4.0% | 5.5% | Lower |
| Estimated Revenue | $1.8M | $1.2M | +45% |
| Number of Locations | 3,705 | 1,740 | More |
| Year Founded | 1972 | 1960 | Newer |
| Training Duration | 7 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 Popeyes
Louisiana-style fried chicken with strong sandwich positioning. Owned by Restaurant Brands International. High per-unit sales growth.
About Hardee's
Legacy QSR brand in the Midwest and Southeast known for charbroiled burgers and biscuit-based breakfast. Part of CKE Restaurants.
Investment Comparison
Popeyes requires a lower initial investment (avg $1.5M) compared to Hardee's(avg $2.0M), making it more accessible for first-time franchisees. However, Hardee's may offer similar revenue potential.
Fee Structure
Popeyes has lower ongoing fees (9.0% total) compared to Hardee's(9.5% total), which means more of each sales dollar stays with the franchisee. Over time, this can significantly impact profitability.
Market Position
Popeyes has a significantly larger footprint with 3,705 locations compared to Hardee's's 1,740. 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 Popeyes vs Hardee's franchise?
Popeyes requires an initial investment of $383,000 to $2.6M, while Hardee's requires $1.4M to $2.6M. Popeyes has the lower average investment at $1.5M.
What are the ongoing fees for Popeyes vs Hardee's?
Popeyes charges a 5.0% royalty plus 4.0% advertising fee (9.0% total). Hardee's charges 4.0% royalty plus 5.5% advertising fee (9.5% total). Popeyes has lower total ongoing fees.
Which franchise makes more money: Popeyes or Hardee's?
Based on estimated average unit revenue, Popeyes generates $1.8M per location compared to $1.2M for Hardee's. However, profitability depends on many factors including local market, operating costs, and management.
How many locations does Popeyes have vs Hardee's?
Popeyes has 3,705 locations, while Hardee's has 1,740 locations. Popeyes has the larger footprint, which typically means stronger brand recognition and supply chain advantages.
Is Popeyes or Hardee's a better franchise investment in 2026?
Both Popeyes and Hardee's are established QSR brands with proven models. Popeyes offers a lower entry point, while Popeyes 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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