# QSR Pro: Public content for AI readers

Canonical HTML: https://qsr.pro. This file is a bounded reading digest; the sitemap lists all current public HTML pages.

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# QSR Pro

> Source: https://qsr.pro
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Independent quick service restaurant industry reporting.

Featured: [Taco Bell keeps PepsiCo for 11 years as KFC moves to Coca-Cola](https://qsr.pro/articles/taco-bell-pepsico-11-year-renewal-kfc-coca-cola)

## Latest reporting

- [Workers pay more for family health coverage at smaller firms](https://qsr.pro/articles/family-health-premiums-small-firm-workers-2026)
- [Chipotle’s brisket return revisits a food-cost tradeoff](https://qsr.pro/articles/chipotle-brisket-return-2026-food-cost-tradeoff)
- [USDA reports record-low September feedlot placements](https://qsr.pro/articles/october-2026-beef-market-data-cattle-prices)
- [Teriyaki Madness reports 5.5% Q3 same-store traffic growth](https://qsr.pro/articles/teriyaki-madness-q3-2026-traffic-catering-growth)
- [What Blodgett’s $21,736 four-chamber oven asks of a QSR kitchen](https://qsr.pro/articles/blodgett-imvection-four-chamber-oven-qsr-buyer-guide)
- [Taco Bell keeps PepsiCo for 11 years as KFC moves to Coca-Cola](https://qsr.pro/articles/taco-bell-pepsico-11-year-renewal-kfc-coca-cola)
- [Bojangles extends AI drive-thru deal, plans 100 more sites and line-aware upsells](https://qsr.pro/articles/bojangles-bo-linda-extension-100-more-ai-drive-thrus)
- [Dunkin's Spidey D Coffee Giveaway Has a Five-Day Afterlife](https://qsr.pro/articles/dunkin-spider-donut-giveaway-five-day-afterlife)

[All articles](https://qsr.pro/articles)


---

# All Articles

> Source: https://qsr.pro/articles
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Latest QSR Pro articles.

847 published articles. The first 18 are listed below; [browse the full archive](https://qsr.pro/articles).

- [Workers pay more for family health coverage at smaller firms](https://qsr.pro/articles/family-health-premiums-small-firm-workers-2026) — KFF compares family premiums and worker contributions. Separate federal data distinguish benefit access from enrollment.
- [Chipotle’s brisket return revisits a food-cost tradeoff](https://qsr.pro/articles/chipotle-brisket-return-2026-food-cost-tradeoff) — Chipotle plans a November 5 return. Its third-quarter 2024 results show how brisket success also changed the protein-cost mix.
- [USDA reports record-low September feedlot placements](https://qsr.pro/articles/october-2026-beef-market-data-cattle-prices) — September feedlot flows fell; inventory barely changed year-over-year.
- [Taco Bell keeps PepsiCo for 11 years as KFC moves to Coca-Cola](https://qsr.pro/articles/taco-bell-pepsico-11-year-renewal-kfc-coca-cola) — Taco Bell renewed PepsiCo through 2036 while KFC plans to switch to Coca-Cola. Two Café Refrescas are scheduled for national Taco Bell menus in December.
- [Bojangles extends AI drive-thru deal, plans 100 more sites and line-aware upsells](https://qsr.pro/articles/bojangles-bo-linda-extension-100-more-ai-drive-thrus) — Bojangles and Hi Auto plan 100 more Bo-Linda sites and a queue-aware upsell feature. What owners can test when it arrives.
- [What Blodgett’s $21,736 four-chamber oven asks of a QSR kitchen](https://qsr.pro/articles/blodgett-imvection-four-chamber-oven-qsr-buyer-guide) — Blodgett pitches faster tickets from four cooking chambers. Its own documents show the temperature, pan, power and installation questions a franchise operator should settle first.
- [Teriyaki Madness reports 5.5% Q3 same-store traffic growth](https://qsr.pro/articles/teriyaki-madness-q3-2026-traffic-catering-growth) — Company figures distinguish existing-shop gains from expansion. Earlier interviews describe catering operations and digital-order constraints.
- [Dunkin's Spidey D Coffee Giveaway Has a Five-Day Afterlife](https://qsr.pro/articles/dunkin-spider-donut-giveaway-five-day-afterlife) — Dunkin's October 21 coffee-code offer is over, but certificates remain valid for five days after entry. Halloween collectibles and a Salem makeover precede a November 4 Marvel menu.
- [Mike’s Red Tacos turns to an experienced operator for 36 Florida stores](https://qsr.pro/articles/mikes-red-tacos-florida-built-different-brands) — Built Different Brands plans the first Florida opening for 2027 under a 36-store agreement.
- [Square’s $1,999 voice kiosk targets franchise operators](https://qsr.pro/articles/square-voice-ordering-kiosk-menu-kitchen-costs) — Voice ordering and chain-level controls come with always-on internet, Square POS connections and monthly software fees.
- [Restaurant sales projection cut $190 billion after Census benchmark](https://qsr.pro/articles/restaurant-sales-estimate-benchmark-reset-growth-forecast) — New Census benchmarks shrink the estimated market but leave the 2026 growth forecast intact.
- [PrimoHoagies offers 10–15 restaurant resales as it tests a smaller store](https://qsr.pro/articles/primohoagies-restaurant-resales-smaller-store-design) — Retiring owners create an acquisition path while new franchisees develop a 1,100-square-foot format.
- [Restaurant spending rises as Wendy’s and Starbucks shares rally](https://qsr.pro/articles/september-food-service-sales-restaurant-shares-rally-2026) — U.S. food-service sales reached $92.9 billion in September. Earlier results at McDonald’s and Wendy’s show how larger checks can support sales and cushion rising costs.
- [Krispy Kreme announces 33-shop New York development deal](https://qsr.pro/articles/krispy-kreme-new-york-franchise-development-plan) — Original Entrepreneurs plans 33 shops over five years as Krispy Kreme expands through franchisees.
- [AmRest recruits Warsaw staff for planned Taco Bell launch](https://qsr.pro/articles/amrest-taco-bell-poland-hiring-training-launch-preparations) — AmRest’s Warsaw recruitment notice details training and restaurant work ahead of Taco Bell’s planned Polish launch.
- [Grocery slowdown widens September’s inflation gap with restaurants](https://qsr.pro/articles/september-2026-restaurant-grocery-inflation-gap-real-earnings) — Limited-service annual inflation held at 3.2% as grocery inflation slowed to 1.8%. BLS also reported a monthly decline in real earnings.
- [Sbarro plans POS and payments upgrade at nearly 300 U.S. restaurants](https://qsr.pro/articles/sbarro-ncr-voyix-pos-payments-us-restaurants) — Sbarro plans Aloha Next and Voyix Pay adoption at nearly 300 U.S. restaurants. The agreement aims to unify store operations, payments and central data management.
- [What lifted Domino’s Q3 operating income](https://qsr.pro/articles/dominos-q3-2026-operating-income-supply-chain-royalties) — Higher supply-chain gross profit and royalties explain the pizza franchisor’s third-quarter operating-income increase.


---

# QSR Franchise Costs and Requirements

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Sourced franchise fees, investment estimates and eligibility for major QSR brands.

A franchise fee is one part of a restaurant project. Candidate liquidity and net worth describe qualifications, not the price of a restaurant. Figures below keep their source scope and review dates.

## Categories

- [6 burger guides](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/burger-franchises)
- [2 chicken guides](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/chicken-franchises)
- [5 sandwich guides](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/sandwich-franchises)

## Brand guides

- [McDonald's](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/mcdonalds)
- [Chick-fil-A](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/chick-fil-a)
- [Subway](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/subway)
- [Taco Bell](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/taco-bell)
- [Dunkin'](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/dunkin)
- [Wendy's](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/wendys)
- [Burger King](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/burger-king)
- [Sonic Drive-In](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/sonic)
- [Jimmy John's](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/jimmy-johns)
- [Domino's](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/dominos)
- [Pizza Hut](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/pizza-hut)
- [KFC](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/kfc)
- [Popeyes](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/popeyes)
- [Five Guys](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/five-guys)
- [Jersey Mike's](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/jersey-mikes)
- [Wingstop](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/wingstop)
- [Arby's](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/arbys)
- [Firehouse Subs](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/firehouse-subs)
- [Culver's](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/culvers)
- [Jack in the Box](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/jack-in-the-box)
- [Hardee's](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/hardees)
- [Carl's Jr.](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/carls-jr)


---

# Compare Franchise Requirements

> Source: https://qsr.pro/compare
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Source-backed franchise comparisons for selected peer brands.

Compare published requirements, availability and operating commitments. Figures have different source scopes and must not be combined as one project budget.

- [McDonald's vs Wendy's](https://qsr.pro/compare/mcdonalds-vs-wendys)
- [Wendy's vs Burger King](https://qsr.pro/compare/wendys-vs-burger-king)
- [Hardee's vs Carl's Jr.](https://qsr.pro/compare/hardees-vs-carls-jr)
- [Chick-fil-A vs KFC](https://qsr.pro/compare/chick-fil-a-vs-kfc)
- [KFC vs Wingstop](https://qsr.pro/compare/kfc-vs-wingstop)
- [Subway vs Jimmy John's](https://qsr.pro/compare/subway-vs-jimmy-johns)


---

# Newsletter archive

> Source: https://qsr.pro/newsletter/archive
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Original QSR Pro weekly editions.

Past editions are preserved as sent; their information reflects the original send date.

- [QSR.pro Weekly: Taco Bell keeps Pepsi, KFC plans Coke](https://qsr.pro/newsletter/editions/2026-10-26) — 2026-10-26
- [QSR.pro Weekly: Chick-fil-A’s $10,000 fee, Domino’s earnings](https://qsr.pro/newsletter/editions/2026-10-19) — 2026-10-19
- [QSR.pro Weekly: Uber’s $2.3B catering deal, Toast’s AI schedules](https://qsr.pro/newsletter/editions/2026-10-12) — 2026-10-12
- [7 Brew’s $2 protein boost goes nationwide](https://qsr.pro/newsletter/editions/2026-10-05) — 2026-10-05
- [McDonald’s plans about $8.5B for franchise upgrades](https://qsr.pro/newsletter/editions/2026-09-28) — 2026-09-28
- [QSR.pro Weekly: Chipotle, Wendy's, Applebee's, Dutch Bros, and more.](https://qsr.pro/newsletter/editions/2026-09-21) — 2026-09-21


---

# QSR Chain Database

> Source: https://qsr.pro/chains
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Restaurant chain profiles and recorded operating metrics.

71 chains in the directory. Unit counts and other values are shown only where recorded.

- [Subway](https://qsr.pro/chains/subway) — 19,223 recorded U.S. units
- [Starbucks](https://qsr.pro/chains/starbucks) — 17,352 recorded U.S. units
- [McDonald's](https://qsr.pro/chains/mcdonalds) — 13,618 recorded U.S. units
- [Dunkin'](https://qsr.pro/chains/dunkin) — 9,515 recorded U.S. units
- [Taco Bell](https://qsr.pro/chains/taco-bell) — 7,284 recorded U.S. units
- [Burger King](https://qsr.pro/chains/burger-king) — 7,058 recorded U.S. units
- [Domino's Pizza](https://qsr.pro/chains/dominos) — 6,828 recorded U.S. units
- [Pizza Hut](https://qsr.pro/chains/pizza-hut) — 6,337 recorded U.S. units
- [Wendy's](https://qsr.pro/chains/wendys) — 5,724 recorded U.S. units
- [Dairy Queen](https://qsr.pro/chains/dairy-queen) — 4,196 recorded U.S. units
- [Chipotle Mexican Grill](https://qsr.pro/chains/chipotle) — 4,186 recorded U.S. units
- [KFC](https://qsr.pro/chains/kfc) — 3,656 recorded U.S. units
- [Sonic Drive-In](https://qsr.pro/chains/sonic) — 3,504 recorded U.S. units
- [Little Caesars](https://qsr.pro/chains/little-caesars) — 3,461 recorded U.S. units
- [Papa John's](https://qsr.pro/chains/papa-johns) — 3,377 recorded U.S. units
- [Arby's](https://qsr.pro/chains/arbys) — 3,319 recorded U.S. units
- [Chick-fil-A](https://qsr.pro/chains/chick-fil-a) — 3,167 recorded U.S. units
- [Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen](https://qsr.pro/chains/popeyes) — 3,121 recorded U.S. units
- [Jimmy John's](https://qsr.pro/chains/jimmy-johns) — 2,777 recorded U.S. units
- [Wingstop](https://qsr.pro/chains/wingstop) — 2,400 recorded U.S. units
- [Panda Express](https://qsr.pro/chains/panda-express) — 2,376 recorded U.S. units
- [Jack in the Box](https://qsr.pro/chains/jack-in-the-box) — 2,149 recorded U.S. units
- [Baskin-Robbins](https://qsr.pro/chains/baskin-robbins) — 2,095 recorded U.S. units
- [Jersey Mike's Subs](https://qsr.pro/chains/jersey-mikes-subs) — 2,091 recorded U.S. units
- [Panera Bread](https://qsr.pro/chains/panera-bread) — 2,020 recorded U.S. units
- [Auntie Anne's](https://qsr.pro/chains/auntie-annes) — 1,568 recorded U.S. units
- [Applebee's](https://qsr.pro/chains/applebees) — 1,476 recorded U.S. units
- [The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf](https://qsr.pro/chains/coffee-bean-tea-leaf) — 1,472 recorded U.S. units
- [Five Guys](https://qsr.pro/chains/five-guys) — 1,415 recorded U.S. units
- [Pieology Pizzeria](https://qsr.pro/chains/pieology) — 1,382 recorded U.S. units
- [Hardee's](https://qsr.pro/chains/hardees) — 1,365 recorded U.S. units
- [Church's Texas Chicken](https://qsr.pro/chains/churchs-chicken) — 1,315 recorded U.S. units
- [Krispy Kreme](https://qsr.pro/chains/krispy-kreme) — 1,290 recorded U.S. units
- [Dave & Buster's](https://qsr.pro/chains/dave-and-busters) — 1,274 recorded U.S. units
- [Dutch Bros Coffee](https://qsr.pro/chains/dutch-bros) — 1,225 recorded U.S. units
- [McAlister's Deli](https://qsr.pro/chains/mcalisters-deli) — 1,197 recorded U.S. units
- [Tropical Smoothie Cafe](https://qsr.pro/chains/tropical-smoothie-cafe) — 1,184 recorded U.S. units
- [Buffalo Wild Wings](https://qsr.pro/chains/buffalo-wild-wings) — 1,148 recorded U.S. units
- [Moe's Southwest Grill](https://qsr.pro/chains/moes-southwest-grill) — 1,138 recorded U.S. units
- [Smoothie King](https://qsr.pro/chains/smoothie-king) — 1,092 recorded U.S. units
- [Firehouse Subs](https://qsr.pro/chains/firehouse-subs) — 1,070 recorded U.S. units
- [Cinnabon](https://qsr.pro/chains/cinnabon) — 1,053 recorded U.S. units
- [Portillo's](https://qsr.pro/chains/portillos) — 976 recorded U.S. units
- [Carl's Jr.](https://qsr.pro/chains/carls-jr) — 951 recorded U.S. units
- [Sheetz](https://qsr.pro/chains/sheetz) — 929 recorded U.S. units
- [Tijuana Flats](https://qsr.pro/chains/tijuana-flats) — 899 recorded U.S. units
- [Jason's Deli](https://qsr.pro/chains/jasons-deli) — 883 recorded U.S. units
- [Jollibee](https://qsr.pro/chains/jollibee) — 879 recorded U.S. units
- [Potbelly Sandwich Shop](https://qsr.pro/chains/potbelly) — 874 recorded U.S. units
- [Zaxby's](https://qsr.pro/chains/zaxbys) — 858 recorded U.S. units
- [Culver's](https://qsr.pro/chains/culvers) — 772 recorded U.S. units
- [Whataburger](https://qsr.pro/chains/whataburger) — 771 recorded U.S. units
- [Noodles & Company](https://qsr.pro/chains/noodles-and-company) — 735 recorded U.S. units
- [Checkers & Rally's](https://qsr.pro/chains/checkers-rallys) — 730 recorded U.S. units
- [Bojangles](https://qsr.pro/chains/bojangles) — 719 recorded U.S. units
- [Jamba Juice](https://qsr.pro/chains/jamba-juice) — 711 recorded U.S. units
- [Raising Cane's](https://qsr.pro/chains/raising-canes) — 709 recorded U.S. units
- [MOD Pizza](https://qsr.pro/chains/mod-pizza) — 701 recorded U.S. units
- [Qdoba Mexican Eats](https://qsr.pro/chains/qdoba) — 664 recorded U.S. units
- [Sweetgreen](https://qsr.pro/chains/sweetgreen) — 652 recorded U.S. units
- [Tim Hortons](https://qsr.pro/chains/tim-hortons) — 648 recorded U.S. units
- [Peet's Coffee](https://qsr.pro/chains/peets-coffee) — 612 recorded U.S. units
- [7 Brew](https://qsr.pro/chains/7-brew) — 602 recorded U.S. units
- [Del Taco](https://qsr.pro/chains/del-taco) — 536 recorded U.S. units
- [Wawa](https://qsr.pro/chains/wawa) — 458 recorded U.S. units
- [Shake Shack](https://qsr.pro/chains/shake-shack) — 423 recorded U.S. units
- [El Pollo Loco](https://qsr.pro/chains/el-pollo-loco) — 423 recorded U.S. units
- [Chopt Creative Salad](https://qsr.pro/chains/chopt) — 409 recorded U.S. units
- [In-N-Out Burger](https://qsr.pro/chains/in-n-out-burger) — 338 recorded U.S. units
- [Blaze Pizza](https://qsr.pro/chains/blaze-pizza) — 325 recorded U.S. units
- [White Castle](https://qsr.pro/chains/white-castle) — 295 recorded U.S. units


---

# How Much Does a McDonald's Franchise Cost?

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/mcdonalds
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Sourced McDonald's franchise fees, investment estimates, candidate requirements and operating model, with scope and unresolved facts.

## Availability and operating model

The published candidate-funding figures cover buying and operating an existing restaurant. New restaurants require a greater investment. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [McDonald's US costs of ownership](https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/us-franchising/costs.html) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Candidates must be willing to relocate and divest other business interests; restaurant interests must be divested before training. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [McDonald's US costs of ownership](https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/us-franchising/costs.html) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Published financial requirements

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [McDonald's US costs of ownership](https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/us-franchising/costs.html) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [McDonald's US costs of ownership](https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/us-franchising/costs.html) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [McDonald's US costs of ownership](https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/us-franchising/costs.html) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $750,000. US existing-restaurant applicants; typical minimum personal funds Non-borrowed, unencumbered funds; foreign-held funds are excluded. Primary-residence equity is considered only after the $750,000 minimum is met from other sources. Separately recommends $100,000 working capital per restaurant and $75,000 relocation funds. This is not a restaurant purchase price. [McDonald's US costs of ownership](https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/us-franchising/costs.html) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [McDonald's US costs of ownership](https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/us-franchising/costs.html) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [McDonald's US costs of ownership](https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/us-franchising/costs.html) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [McDonald's US costs of ownership](https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/us-franchising/costs.html) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Sources and limits

- [McDonald's US costs of ownership](https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/us-franchising/costs.html) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Missing information means the reviewed sources did not establish a comparable amount. Fees, capital requirements and investment estimates are different measures; they are not added as one project budget.


---

# How Much Does a Chick-fil-A Franchise Cost?

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/chick-fil-a
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Sourced Chick-fil-A franchise fees, investment estimates, candidate requirements and operating model, with scope and unresolved facts.

## Availability and operating model

Chick-fil-A selects full-time restaurant Operators. Meeting the published minimum requirements does not guarantee selection. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Chick-fil-A US franchise requirements](https://www.chick-fil-a.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Full-time daily operation; divest other non-passive businesses. The initial fee must come from non-gifted, non-borrowed funds. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Chick-fil-A US franchise requirements](https://www.chick-fil-a.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Published financial requirements

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** Not comparable for this model. United States The Operator fee is not a restaurant-development estimate; the reviewed page does not provide a comparable total investment range. [Chick-fil-A US franchise requirements](https://www.chick-fil-a.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $10,000. US Operator initial franchise fee This fee is not the total cost to develop a restaurant. [Chick-fil-A US franchise requirements](https://www.chick-fil-a.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Chick-fil-A US franchise requirements](https://www.chick-fil-a.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Chick-fil-A US franchise requirements](https://www.chick-fil-a.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Chick-fil-A US franchise requirements](https://www.chick-fil-a.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Chick-fil-A US franchise requirements](https://www.chick-fil-a.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Chick-fil-A US franchise requirements](https://www.chick-fil-a.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Sources and limits

- [Chick-fil-A US franchise requirements](https://www.chick-fil-a.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Missing information means the reviewed sources did not establish a comparable amount. Fees, capital requirements and investment estimates are different measures; they are not added as one project budget.


---

# How Much Does a Subway Franchise Cost?

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/subway
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Sourced Subway franchise fees, investment estimates, candidate requirements and operating model, with scope and unresolved facts.

## Availability and operating model

Subway is seeking multi-unit applicants and buyers interested in acquiring at least five existing restaurants. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Subway US franchise FAQ](https://www.subwayfranchise.com/en-us/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Restaurant, business or franchising experience is preferred for the applicant or an equity partner; a three-week training program is required. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Subway US franchise FAQ](https://www.subwayfranchise.com/en-us/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Published financial requirements

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $199,135–$536,745. US restaurant estimate; building size, configuration and location vary  [Subway US franchise FAQ](https://www.subwayfranchise.com/en-us/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $15,000. US; per restaurant  [Subway US franchise FAQ](https://www.subwayfranchise.com/en-us/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Subway US franchise FAQ](https://www.subwayfranchise.com/en-us/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $100,000. US; minimum per location Higher requirements may apply by territory. [Subway US franchise FAQ](https://www.subwayfranchise.com/en-us/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** $150,000. US; minimum per location Higher requirements may apply by territory. [Subway US franchise FAQ](https://www.subwayfranchise.com/en-us/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** 8%. Percentage of gross sales  [Subway US franchise FAQ](https://www.subwayfranchise.com/en-us/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** 4.5%. Percentage of gross sales  [Subway US franchise FAQ](https://www.subwayfranchise.com/en-us/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Sources and limits

- [Subway US franchise FAQ](https://www.subwayfranchise.com/en-us/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Missing information means the reviewed sources did not establish a comparable amount. Fees, capital requirements and investment estimates are different measures; they are not added as one project budget.


---

# How Much Does a Taco Bell Franchise Cost?

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/taco-bell
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Sourced Taco Bell franchise fees, investment estimates, candidate requirements and operating model, with scope and unresolved facts.

## Availability and operating model

The US/Canada recruitment page seeks operators who can acquire and develop multiple restaurants where opportunities are available. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Taco Bell franchise requirements](https://www.tacobell.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Multi-unit operating experience, preferably in QSR, and a record of successful business ownership are requested. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Taco Bell franchise requirements](https://www.tacobell.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Published financial requirements

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Taco Bell franchise requirements](https://www.tacobell.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Taco Bell franchise requirements](https://www.tacobell.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Taco Bell franchise requirements](https://www.tacobell.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $2,000,000. US/Canada; minimum personal liquidity Cash or assets convertible within ten business days; requirement can increase with ownership level and transaction size. [Taco Bell franchise requirements](https://www.tacobell.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** $5,000,000. US/Canada; minimum personal net worth Requirement can increase with ownership level and transaction size. [Taco Bell franchise requirements](https://www.tacobell.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Taco Bell franchise requirements](https://www.tacobell.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Taco Bell franchise requirements](https://www.tacobell.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Sources and limits

- [Taco Bell franchise requirements](https://www.tacobell.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Missing information means the reviewed sources did not establish a comparable amount. Fees, capital requirements and investment estimates are different measures; they are not added as one project budget.


---

# How Much Does a Dunkin' Franchise Cost?

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/dunkin
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Sourced Dunkin' franchise fees, investment estimates, candidate requirements and operating model, with scope and unresolved facts.

## Availability and operating model

The brand offers multiple restaurant formats. Site, format and market availability require confirmation during the application process. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Dunkin' — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/dunkin) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

The published process includes application, discussion with the franchise team, FDD review and an interview before signing. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Dunkin' — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/dunkin) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Published financial requirements

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $443,000–$1,832,500. US web-summary investment range; confirm the applicable restaurant format  [Dunkin' — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/dunkin) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $40,000. US initial franchise fee as listed in the web summary  [Dunkin' — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/dunkin) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Dunkin' — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/dunkin) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $250,000. US candidate liquid-assets requirement  [Dunkin' — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/dunkin) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** $500,000. US candidate net-worth requirement  [Dunkin' — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/dunkin) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** 5.9%. Percentage of gross sales  [Dunkin' — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/dunkin) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** 5%. Percentage of gross sales  [Dunkin' — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/dunkin) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Sources and limits

- [Dunkin' — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/dunkin) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Missing information means the reviewed sources did not establish a comparable amount. Fees, capital requirements and investment estimates are different measures; they are not added as one project budget.


---

# How Much Does a Wendy's Franchise Cost?

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/wendys
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Sourced Wendy's franchise fees, investment estimates, candidate requirements and operating model, with scope and unresolved facts.

## Availability and operating model

Wendy’s seeks experienced operators. Its two official recruitment pages currently disagree on capital requirements; obtain confirmation for the proposed transaction. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Its FAQ calls for an operating team devoted to restaurant development and operations, with a three-to-five-year business plan. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Published financial requirements

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $50,000. US; per restaurant for a 20-year term Separate application and background-check charges apply. [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** Confirm conflicting sources. United States The recruitment page lists $2,000,000; the FAQ lists $500,000. Confirm the applicable requirement with Wendy’s. [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** Confirm conflicting sources. United States The recruitment page lists $5,000,000; the FAQ lists $1,000,000. Confirm the applicable requirement with Wendy’s. [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** Confirm conflicting sources. United States Both pages list 4–6%, but the recruitment page says gross sales and the FAQ says net sales. Confirm the agreement’s basis. [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** Confirm conflicting sources. United States The recruitment page lists 4% of gross sales split between national and local advertising; the FAQ describes contributions based on net sales and additional local advertising obligations without a rate. Confirm the agreement’s basis and full obligations. [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Sources and limits

- [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Missing information means the reviewed sources did not establish a comparable amount. Fees, capital requirements and investment estimates are different measures; they are not added as one project budget.


---

# How Much Does a Burger King Franchise Cost?

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/burger-king
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Sourced Burger King franchise fees, investment estimates, candidate requirements and operating model, with scope and unresolved facts.

## Availability and operating model

The recruitment site covers the United States and Canada; restaurant format determines the published build-cost estimate. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Burger King franchise investment](https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-fee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Discuss site format, ownership structure, training and the full recurring-fee schedule with the franchise team. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Burger King franchise investment](https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-fee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Published financial requirements

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $348,400–$3,320,600. Estimated cost to build a new restaurant; varies by format The source describes build cost. Confirm land, financing and other inclusions before comparing an all-in project budget. [Burger King franchise investment](https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-fee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $50,000. Per restaurant; 20-year term  [Burger King franchise investment](https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-fee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Burger King franchise investment](https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-fee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $500,000. Minimum liquid assets  [Burger King franchise investment](https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-fee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** $1,000,000. Minimum net worth  [Burger King franchise investment](https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-fee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** 4.5%. Percentage of gross monthly sales  [Burger King franchise investment](https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-fee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** 4.5%. Percentage of gross monthly sales The page also lists building, training, digital and other recurring charges. [Burger King franchise investment](https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-fee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Sources and limits

- [Burger King franchise investment](https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-fee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Missing information means the reviewed sources did not establish a comparable amount. Fees, capital requirements and investment estimates are different measures; they are not added as one project budget.


---

# How Much Does a Sonic Drive-In Franchise Cost?

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/sonic
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Sourced Sonic Drive-In franchise fees, investment estimates, candidate requirements and operating model, with scope and unresolved facts.

## Availability and operating model

The brand offers multiple restaurant formats. Site, format and market availability require confirmation during the application process. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [SONIC — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/sonic) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

The published process includes application, discussion with the franchise team, FDD review and an interview before signing. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [SONIC — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/sonic) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Published financial requirements

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $1,485,200–$2,522,900. US web-summary investment range; confirm the applicable restaurant format  [SONIC — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/sonic) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $15,000. US initial franchise fee as listed in the web summary  [SONIC — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/sonic) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** $10,000. US; per restaurant Listed separately from the initial franchise fee; confirm timing and any credits in the FDD. [SONIC — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/sonic) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $500,000. US candidate liquid-assets requirement  [SONIC — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/sonic) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** $1,000,000. US candidate net-worth requirement  [SONIC — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/sonic) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** 5%. Percentage of gross sales  [SONIC — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/sonic) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** 3.25%. Percentage of gross sales  [SONIC — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/sonic) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Sources and limits

- [SONIC — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/sonic) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Missing information means the reviewed sources did not establish a comparable amount. Fees, capital requirements and investment estimates are different measures; they are not added as one project budget.


---

# How Much Does a Jimmy John's Franchise Cost?

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/jimmy-johns
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Sourced Jimmy John's franchise fees, investment estimates, candidate requirements and operating model, with scope and unresolved facts.

## Availability and operating model

The brand offers multiple restaurant formats. Site, format and market availability require confirmation during the application process. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Jimmy John's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/jimmy-johns) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

The published process includes application, discussion with the franchise team, FDD review and an interview before signing. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Jimmy John's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/jimmy-johns) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Published financial requirements

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $366,200–$733,500. US web-summary investment range; confirm the applicable restaurant format  [Jimmy John's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/jimmy-johns) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $35,000. US initial franchise fee as listed in the web summary  [Jimmy John's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/jimmy-johns) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** $10,000. US; per restaurant Listed separately from the initial franchise fee; confirm timing and any credits in the FDD. [Jimmy John's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/jimmy-johns) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $200,000. US candidate liquid-assets requirement  [Jimmy John's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/jimmy-johns) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** $1,000,000. US candidate net-worth requirement  [Jimmy John's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/jimmy-johns) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** 6%. Percentage of gross sales  [Jimmy John's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/jimmy-johns) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** 4.5%. Percentage of gross sales Advertising and development fund. [Jimmy John's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/jimmy-johns) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Sources and limits

- [Jimmy John's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/jimmy-johns) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Missing information means the reviewed sources did not establish a comparable amount. Fees, capital requirements and investment estimates are different measures; they are not added as one project budget.


---

# How Much Does a Domino's Franchise Cost?

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/dominos
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Sourced Domino's franchise fees, investment estimates, candidate requirements and operating model, with scope and unresolved facts.

## Availability and operating model

Domino’s currently considers only internal US franchise candidates. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Domino's US franchising](https://biz.dominos.com/about-us/franchising/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

US candidates need at least one year of experience as a Domino’s general manager or supervisor before becoming a franchisee. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Domino's US franchising](https://biz.dominos.com/about-us/franchising/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Published financial requirements

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Domino's US franchising](https://biz.dominos.com/about-us/franchising/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Domino's US franchising](https://biz.dominos.com/about-us/franchising/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Domino's US franchising](https://biz.dominos.com/about-us/franchising/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Domino's US franchising](https://biz.dominos.com/about-us/franchising/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Domino's US franchising](https://biz.dominos.com/about-us/franchising/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Domino's US franchising](https://biz.dominos.com/about-us/franchising/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Domino's US franchising](https://biz.dominos.com/about-us/franchising/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Sources and limits

- [Domino's US franchising](https://biz.dominos.com/about-us/franchising/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Missing information means the reviewed sources did not establish a comparable amount. Fees, capital requirements and investment estimates are different measures; they are not added as one project budget.


---

# How Much Does a Pizza Hut Franchise Cost?

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/pizza-hut
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Sourced Pizza Hut franchise fees, investment estimates, candidate requirements and operating model, with scope and unresolved facts.

## Availability and operating model

Traditional franchises and nontraditional licenses have different investment ranges and fee arrangements. The financial rows here cover traditional restaurants. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Pizza Hut restaurant formats](https://franchise.pizzahut.com/restaurants/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Pizza Hut franchise FAQ](https://franchise.pizzahut.com/faqs/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

For traditional restaurants, the franchisee or key operator must complete an eight-to-twelve-week operations training program; travel and lodging are the franchisee’s responsibility. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Pizza Hut restaurant formats](https://franchise.pizzahut.com/restaurants/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Pizza Hut franchise FAQ](https://franchise.pizzahut.com/faqs/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Published financial requirements

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $579,000–$2,053,500. US traditional restaurant estimate; excludes the separate nontraditional licensing format  [Pizza Hut restaurant formats](https://franchise.pizzahut.com/restaurants/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $25,000. US traditional restaurant  [Pizza Hut franchise FAQ](https://franchise.pizzahut.com/faqs/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Pizza Hut restaurant formats](https://franchise.pizzahut.com/restaurants/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Pizza Hut franchise FAQ](https://franchise.pizzahut.com/faqs/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Pizza Hut restaurant formats](https://franchise.pizzahut.com/restaurants/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Pizza Hut franchise FAQ](https://franchise.pizzahut.com/faqs/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Pizza Hut restaurant formats](https://franchise.pizzahut.com/restaurants/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Pizza Hut franchise FAQ](https://franchise.pizzahut.com/faqs/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** 6%–6.5%. Percentage of gross sales; traditional service fee Standard rate is 6%; 6.5% applies in certain circumstances. It is not a freely selectable range. [Pizza Hut franchise FAQ](https://franchise.pizzahut.com/faqs/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** 4.75%. Percentage of gross sales; national advertising The listed association dues are credited toward required system advertising. Do not add them again; digital fees also apply. [Pizza Hut franchise FAQ](https://franchise.pizzahut.com/faqs/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Sources and limits

- [Pizza Hut restaurant formats](https://franchise.pizzahut.com/restaurants/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- [Pizza Hut franchise FAQ](https://franchise.pizzahut.com/faqs/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Missing information means the reviewed sources did not establish a comparable amount. Fees, capital requirements and investment estimates are different measures; they are not added as one project budget.


---

# How Much Does a KFC Franchise Cost?

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/kfc
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Sourced KFC franchise fees, investment estimates, candidate requirements and operating model, with scope and unresolved facts.

## Availability and operating model

KFC describes buying land and building, leasing property and building, reopening or converting a restaurant, and developer-funded build-to-suit leases. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Candidates need multi-unit restaurant or hospitality experience, business ownership experience and hands-on involvement. Initial assessment generally takes 8–12 weeks; transaction approval follows. That is not an opening timetable. Existing-store transfers require KFC US LLC review; new restaurants depend on existing operators’ rights. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Published financial requirements

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $750,000. US candidate minimum Cash or assets convertible within ten business days; requirements may increase. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** $1,500,000. US candidate minimum May rise with ownership level and transaction size. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Sources and limits

- [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Missing information means the reviewed sources did not establish a comparable amount. Fees, capital requirements and investment estimates are different measures; they are not added as one project budget.


---

# How Much Does a Popeyes Franchise Cost?

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/popeyes
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Sourced Popeyes franchise fees, investment estimates, candidate requirements and operating model, with scope and unresolved facts.

## Availability and operating model

Popeyes is seeking development in the United States and Canada; available areas change. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Popeyes North American franchising](https://franchising.popeyes.com/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

The brand seeks active operating partners with a business-ownership record, preferably in QSR. Its cost FAQ says costs vary by site, size, configuration and financing. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Popeyes North American franchising](https://franchising.popeyes.com/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Published financial requirements

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Popeyes North American franchising](https://franchising.popeyes.com/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Popeyes North American franchising](https://franchising.popeyes.com/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Popeyes North American franchising](https://franchising.popeyes.com/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Popeyes North American franchising](https://franchising.popeyes.com/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Popeyes North American franchising](https://franchising.popeyes.com/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Popeyes North American franchising](https://franchising.popeyes.com/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Popeyes North American franchising](https://franchising.popeyes.com/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Sources and limits

- [Popeyes North American franchising](https://franchising.popeyes.com/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Missing information means the reviewed sources did not establish a comparable amount. Fees, capital requirements and investment estimates are different measures; they are not added as one project budget.


---

# How Much Does a Five Guys Franchise Cost?

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/five-guys
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Sourced Five Guys franchise fees, investment estimates, candidate requirements and operating model, with scope and unresolved facts.

## Availability and operating model

Five Guys says new franchise territories are sold out in the United States and Canada. Current recruitment is for selected international markets. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Five Guys franchise availability](https://www.fiveguys.com/support-hub/franchise/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

The public recruitment requirements relate to available international markets; confirm any proposed existing-business transfer separately. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Five Guys franchise availability](https://www.fiveguys.com/support-hub/franchise/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Published financial requirements

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** Not comparable for this model. United States New US/Canada territories are sold out. International recruitment amounts are not represented here as US franchise terms. [Five Guys franchise availability](https://www.fiveguys.com/support-hub/franchise/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** Not comparable for this model. United States New US/Canada territories are sold out. International recruitment amounts are not represented here as US franchise terms. [Five Guys franchise availability](https://www.fiveguys.com/support-hub/franchise/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not comparable for this model. United States New US/Canada territories are sold out. International recruitment amounts are not represented here as US franchise terms. [Five Guys franchise availability](https://www.fiveguys.com/support-hub/franchise/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** Not comparable for this model. United States New US/Canada territories are sold out. International recruitment amounts are not represented here as US franchise terms. [Five Guys franchise availability](https://www.fiveguys.com/support-hub/franchise/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** Not comparable for this model. United States New US/Canada territories are sold out. International recruitment amounts are not represented here as US franchise terms. [Five Guys franchise availability](https://www.fiveguys.com/support-hub/franchise/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** Not comparable for this model. United States New US/Canada territories are sold out. International recruitment amounts are not represented here as US franchise terms. [Five Guys franchise availability](https://www.fiveguys.com/support-hub/franchise/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** Not comparable for this model. United States New US/Canada territories are sold out. International recruitment amounts are not represented here as US franchise terms. [Five Guys franchise availability](https://www.fiveguys.com/support-hub/franchise/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Sources and limits

- [Five Guys franchise availability](https://www.fiveguys.com/support-hub/franchise/) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Missing information means the reviewed sources did not establish a comparable amount. Fees, capital requirements and investment estimates are different measures; they are not added as one project budget.


---

# How Much Does a Jersey Mike's Franchise Cost?

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/jersey-mikes
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Sourced Jersey Mike's franchise fees, investment estimates, candidate requirements and operating model, with scope and unresolved facts.

## Availability and operating model

The prospectus describes area-development agreements and a separate franchise agreement for each restaurant; terms may vary. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Jersey Mike's July 31, 2026 prospectus](https://investors.jerseymikes.com/sec-filings/all-sec-filings/content/0001193125-26-326453/project_70_424b4.htm) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

An area-development agreement specifies restaurant count, protected area and opening schedule. Confirm current eligibility with the brand. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Jersey Mike's July 31, 2026 prospectus](https://investors.jerseymikes.com/sec-filings/all-sec-filings/content/0001193125-26-326453/project_70_424b4.htm) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Published financial requirements

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Jersey Mike's July 31, 2026 prospectus](https://investors.jerseymikes.com/sec-filings/all-sec-filings/content/0001193125-26-326453/project_70_424b4.htm) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $20,000. Latest standard agreements described in July 2026 prospectus; per store opened under an area-development agreement  [Jersey Mike's July 31, 2026 prospectus](https://investors.jerseymikes.com/sec-filings/all-sec-filings/content/0001193125-26-326453/project_70_424b4.htm) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** $10,000. Per restaurant to be developed under an area-development agreement; July 2026 prospectus Separate from the initial franchise fee. The prospectus describes the latest standard agreements at that date; confirm current terms. [Jersey Mike's July 31, 2026 prospectus](https://investors.jerseymikes.com/sec-filings/all-sec-filings/content/0001193125-26-326453/project_70_424b4.htm) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Jersey Mike's July 31, 2026 prospectus](https://investors.jerseymikes.com/sec-filings/all-sec-filings/content/0001193125-26-326453/project_70_424b4.htm) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Jersey Mike's July 31, 2026 prospectus](https://investors.jerseymikes.com/sec-filings/all-sec-filings/content/0001193125-26-326453/project_70_424b4.htm) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** 6.5%. Percentage of gross receipts; latest standard agreements in prospectus  [Jersey Mike's July 31, 2026 prospectus](https://investors.jerseymikes.com/sec-filings/all-sec-filings/content/0001193125-26-326453/project_70_424b4.htm) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** 5%. Percentage of gross receipts; total advertising-fund contribution  [Jersey Mike's July 31, 2026 prospectus](https://investors.jerseymikes.com/sec-filings/all-sec-filings/content/0001193125-26-326453/project_70_424b4.htm) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Sources and limits

- [Jersey Mike's July 31, 2026 prospectus](https://investors.jerseymikes.com/sec-filings/all-sec-filings/content/0001193125-26-326453/project_70_424b4.htm) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Missing information means the reviewed sources did not establish a comparable amount. Fees, capital requirements and investment estimates are different measures; they are not added as one project budget.


---

# How Much Does a Wingstop Franchise Cost?

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/wingstop
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Sourced Wingstop franchise fees, investment estimates, candidate requirements and operating model, with scope and unresolved facts.

## Availability and operating model

Territories are limited and market-dependent. Capital requirements can exceed the stated minimums. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Wingstop US franchise requirements](https://www.wingstop.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Wingstop requires multi-unit restaurant ownership and development experience, plus hands-on involvement and required training. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Wingstop US franchise requirements](https://www.wingstop.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Published financial requirements

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $298,200–$1,013,500. US franchise-page initial investment estimate The page’s March 2025 FDD footnote describes sales-performance evidence; it does not date this investment estimate. [Wingstop US franchise requirements](https://www.wingstop.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $25,000. US published franchise fee  [Wingstop US franchise requirements](https://www.wingstop.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** $25,000. US published development fee; separate from franchise fee  [Wingstop US franchise requirements](https://www.wingstop.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $2,100,000. Minimum total liquid assets May rise with market evaluation and ownership level. [Wingstop US franchise requirements](https://www.wingstop.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** $5,000,000. Minimum total net worth May rise with market evaluation and ownership level. [Wingstop US franchise requirements](https://www.wingstop.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Wingstop US franchise requirements](https://www.wingstop.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Wingstop US franchise requirements](https://www.wingstop.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Sources and limits

- [Wingstop US franchise requirements](https://www.wingstop.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Missing information means the reviewed sources did not establish a comparable amount. Fees, capital requirements and investment estimates are different measures; they are not added as one project budget.


---

# How Much Does a Arby's Franchise Cost?

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/arbys
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Sourced Arby's franchise fees, investment estimates, candidate requirements and operating model, with scope and unresolved facts.

## Availability and operating model

The brand offers multiple restaurant formats. Site, format and market availability require confirmation during the application process. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Arby's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/arbys) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

The published process includes application, discussion with the franchise team, FDD review and an interview before signing. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Arby's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/arbys) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Published financial requirements

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $651,550–$2,456,600. US web-summary investment range; confirm the applicable restaurant format  [Arby's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/arbys) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $37,500. US initial franchise fee as listed in the web summary  [Arby's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/arbys) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** $12,500. US; per restaurant Listed separately from the initial franchise fee; confirm timing and any credits in the FDD. [Arby's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/arbys) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $500,000. US candidate liquid-assets requirement  [Arby's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/arbys) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** $1,000,000. US candidate net-worth requirement  [Arby's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/arbys) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** 4%. Percentage of gross sales  [Arby's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/arbys) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** 5.2%. Percentage of gross sales Minimum combined advertising contribution. [Arby's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/arbys) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Sources and limits

- [Arby's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/arbys) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Missing information means the reviewed sources did not establish a comparable amount. Fees, capital requirements and investment estimates are different measures; they are not added as one project budget.


---

# How Much Does a Firehouse Subs Franchise Cost?

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/firehouse-subs
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Sourced Firehouse Subs franchise fees, investment estimates, candidate requirements and operating model, with scope and unresolved facts.

## Availability and operating model

The brand offers inline, endcap drive-through and freestanding drive-through formats with different budgets. The range below covers inline traditional restaurants only. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Firehouse Subs franchise FAQ](https://www.franchising.firehousesubs.com/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

At least one managing owner must hold 10% equity, live near the restaurant and participate in daily operations. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Firehouse Subs franchise FAQ](https://www.franchising.firehousesubs.com/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Published financial requirements

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $379,650–$795,600. US inline traditional restaurant; 2025 FDD web summary Endcap drive-through and freestanding drive-through estimates are higher; this is not a range covering every format. [Firehouse Subs franchise FAQ](https://www.franchising.firehousesubs.com/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $20,000. US single-unit restaurant; 2025 FDD web summary  [Firehouse Subs franchise FAQ](https://www.franchising.firehousesubs.com/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Firehouse Subs franchise FAQ](https://www.franchising.firehousesubs.com/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $150,000. Minimum available liquid capital  [Firehouse Subs franchise FAQ](https://www.franchising.firehousesubs.com/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** $300,000. Minimum net worth  [Firehouse Subs franchise FAQ](https://www.franchising.firehousesubs.com/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** 6%. Percentage of gross sales; 2025 FDD web summary  [Firehouse Subs franchise FAQ](https://www.franchising.firehousesubs.com/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** 5%. Percentage of gross sales; national and local marketing; 2025 FDD web summary  [Firehouse Subs franchise FAQ](https://www.franchising.firehousesubs.com/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Sources and limits

- [Firehouse Subs franchise FAQ](https://www.franchising.firehousesubs.com/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Missing information means the reviewed sources did not establish a comparable amount. Fees, capital requirements and investment estimates are different measures; they are not added as one project budget.


---

# How Much Does a Culver's Franchise Cost?

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/culvers
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Sourced Culver's franchise fees, investment estimates, candidate requirements and operating model, with scope and unresolved facts.

## Availability and operating model

Available markets and areas reserved for existing franchisees differ. Check the brand’s development map for the proposed territory. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Culver's franchise FAQ](https://www.culvers.com/franchise/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Full-time owner-operators must hold at least 50% of the business, or at least 25% of the business and real estate. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Culver's franchise FAQ](https://www.culvers.com/franchise/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Published financial requirements

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Culver's franchise FAQ](https://www.culvers.com/franchise/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $65,000. New franchisee; initial 15-year term  [Culver's franchise FAQ](https://www.culvers.com/franchise/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Culver's franchise FAQ](https://www.culvers.com/franchise/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $500,000–$750,000. Minimum liquid assets across applicant and investors $500,000 minimum; $750,000 if owning the real estate, building and equipment. These are two scenarios, not an investment-cost range. [Culver's franchise FAQ](https://www.culvers.com/franchise/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Culver's franchise FAQ](https://www.culvers.com/franchise/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** 4%. Percentage of gross sales  [Culver's franchise FAQ](https://www.culvers.com/franchise/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** 2.5%. Published contribution for new franchisees Also requires local advertising spending of at least 1% of gross sales. Confirm contribution basis and full obligations. [Culver's franchise FAQ](https://www.culvers.com/franchise/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Sources and limits

- [Culver's franchise FAQ](https://www.culvers.com/franchise/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Missing information means the reviewed sources did not establish a comparable amount. Fees, capital requirements and investment estimates are different measures; they are not added as one project budget.


---

# How Much Does a Jack in the Box Franchise Cost?

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/jack-in-the-box
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Sourced Jack in the Box franchise fees, investment estimates, candidate requirements and operating model, with scope and unresolved facts.

## Availability and operating model

Recruitment targets multi-unit development; its candidate page calls for a commitment to three to five restaurants in the chosen market. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Jack in the Box investment guide](https://www.jackintheboxfranchising.com/jack-in-the-box-franchise-costs-and-fees) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Jack in the Box candidate requirements](https://www.jackintheboxfranchising.com/who-is-the-ideal-jack-in-the-box-franchise-candidate) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Candidate requirements include US citizenship, funds in US banks and restaurant operating experience or an experienced operating partner. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Jack in the Box investment guide](https://www.jackintheboxfranchising.com/jack-in-the-box-franchise-costs-and-fees) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Jack in the Box candidate requirements](https://www.jackintheboxfranchising.com/who-is-the-ideal-jack-in-the-box-franchise-candidate) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Published financial requirements

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $1,909,500–$4,041,500. US prototypical restaurant; excludes land, financing and certain site-specific costs  [Jack in the Box investment guide](https://www.jackintheboxfranchising.com/jack-in-the-box-franchise-costs-and-fees) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $50,000. US traditional restaurant; standard per-location fee  [Jack in the Box investment guide](https://www.jackintheboxfranchising.com/jack-in-the-box-franchise-costs-and-fees) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Jack in the Box investment guide](https://www.jackintheboxfranchising.com/jack-in-the-box-franchise-costs-and-fees) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Jack in the Box candidate requirements](https://www.jackintheboxfranchising.com/who-is-the-ideal-jack-in-the-box-franchise-candidate) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $750,000. Starting minimum across all partners Larger development agreements can require more liquidity. [Jack in the Box candidate requirements](https://www.jackintheboxfranchising.com/who-is-the-ideal-jack-in-the-box-franchise-candidate) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** $1,500,000. Minimum net worth across all partners  [Jack in the Box candidate requirements](https://www.jackintheboxfranchising.com/who-is-the-ideal-jack-in-the-box-franchise-candidate) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** 5%. Percentage of gross sales; standard rate before conditional incentives  [Jack in the Box investment guide](https://www.jackintheboxfranchising.com/jack-in-the-box-franchise-costs-and-fees) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** 5%. Percentage of gross sales; standard marketing fee  [Jack in the Box investment guide](https://www.jackintheboxfranchising.com/jack-in-the-box-franchise-costs-and-fees) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Sources and limits

- [Jack in the Box investment guide](https://www.jackintheboxfranchising.com/jack-in-the-box-franchise-costs-and-fees) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- [Jack in the Box candidate requirements](https://www.jackintheboxfranchising.com/who-is-the-ideal-jack-in-the-box-franchise-candidate) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Missing information means the reviewed sources did not establish a comparable amount. Fees, capital requirements and investment estimates are different measures; they are not added as one project budget.


---

# How Much Does a Hardee's Franchise Cost?

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/hardees
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Sourced Hardee's franchise fees, investment estimates, candidate requirements and operating model, with scope and unresolved facts.

## Availability and operating model

The brand prefers multi-unit agreements; smaller agreements may be considered. Its requirements page still cites the 2024 FDD. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Hardee's franchising requirements](https://hardeesfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Hardee's franchise FAQ](https://hardeesfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

The franchisee acquires the real estate and contracts construction, with site and design assistance from the brand. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Hardee's franchising requirements](https://hardeesfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Hardee's franchise FAQ](https://hardeesfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Published financial requirements

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $1,375,000–$2,637,395. Historical 2024 FDD web-summary estimate; per unit Current FDD terms have not been verified. This is not a 2026 estimate. [Hardee's franchising requirements](https://hardeesfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** Confirm conflicting sources. United States Requirements page gives $25,000–$35,000 by restaurant count; undated FAQ gives $25,000. Confirm current terms. [Hardee's franchising requirements](https://hardeesfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Hardee's franchise FAQ](https://hardeesfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** $10,000. Per restaurant; listed separately from franchise fee  [Hardee's franchise FAQ](https://hardeesfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $300,000. Minimum liquid assets per unit; historical 2024 web summary Confirm current FDD requirements. [Hardee's franchising requirements](https://hardeesfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** $1,000,000. Minimum net worth per unit; historical 2024 web summary Confirm current FDD requirements. [Hardee's franchising requirements](https://hardeesfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** 4%. Percentage of gross sales  [Hardee's franchise FAQ](https://hardeesfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** Confirm conflicting sources. United States Requirements page says up to 7%; FAQ says 5.5% of gross sales. Confirm current national, regional and local obligations. [Hardee's franchising requirements](https://hardeesfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Hardee's franchise FAQ](https://hardeesfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Sources and limits

- [Hardee's franchising requirements](https://hardeesfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- [Hardee's franchise FAQ](https://hardeesfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Missing information means the reviewed sources did not establish a comparable amount. Fees, capital requirements and investment estimates are different measures; they are not added as one project budget.


---

# How Much Does a Carl's Jr. Franchise Cost?

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/carls-jr
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Sourced Carl's Jr. franchise fees, investment estimates, candidate requirements and operating model, with scope and unresolved facts.

## Availability and operating model

The brand prefers multi-unit agreements; smaller agreements may be considered. Its requirements page still cites the 2024 FDD. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Carl's Jr. franchising requirements](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Carl's Jr. franchise FAQ](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

The franchisee acquires the real estate and contracts construction, with site and design assistance from the brand. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Carl's Jr. franchising requirements](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Carl's Jr. franchise FAQ](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Published financial requirements

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $1,486,000–$3,176,500. Historical 2024 FDD web-summary estimate; per unit Current FDD terms have not been verified. This is not a 2026 estimate. [Carl's Jr. franchising requirements](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** Confirm conflicting sources. United States Requirements page gives $25,000–$35,000 by restaurant count; undated FAQ gives $25,000. Confirm current terms. [Carl's Jr. franchising requirements](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Carl's Jr. franchise FAQ](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** $10,000. Per restaurant; listed separately from franchise fee  [Carl's Jr. franchise FAQ](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $300,000. Minimum liquid assets per unit; historical 2024 web summary Confirm current FDD requirements. [Carl's Jr. franchising requirements](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** $1,000,000. Minimum net worth per unit; historical 2024 web summary Confirm current FDD requirements. [Carl's Jr. franchising requirements](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** 4%. Percentage of gross sales  [Carl's Jr. franchise FAQ](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** Confirm conflicting sources. United States Requirements page says up to 7%; FAQ says 5.5% of gross sales. Confirm current national, regional and local obligations. [Carl's Jr. franchising requirements](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Carl's Jr. franchise FAQ](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Sources and limits

- [Carl's Jr. franchising requirements](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- [Carl's Jr. franchise FAQ](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

Missing information means the reviewed sources did not establish a comparable amount. Fees, capital requirements and investment estimates are different measures; they are not added as one project budget.


---

# 6 Burger Franchise Cost Guides (2026)

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/burger-franchises
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Compare source-reviewed burger franchise guides, with each brand’s restaurant format, candidate requirements and financial scope kept beside the figures.

6 burger franchise cost guides meet our source-review criteria. Listed alphabetically rather than by price, they include Burger King, Carl's Jr., Culver's. Burger King lists $348,400–$3,320,600 for initial investment / development estimate (Estimated cost to build a new restaurant; varies by format). Sources were checked through 2026-10-01; those check dates are not source-publication dates.

## How to read these requirements

- A build-cost estimate and the funds needed to buy an existing restaurant describe different transactions. Check which one each source covers.
- Keep site, land and financing exclusions in the project budget. A published capital requirement is not the purchase price of a restaurant.
- Confirm territory availability and current terms, including where the source is historical or official pages disagree.

## 6 reviewed guides

### [Burger King](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/burger-king)

The recruitment site covers the United States and Canada; restaurant format determines the published build-cost estimate. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Burger King franchise investment](https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-fee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $348,400–$3,320,600. Estimated cost to build a new restaurant; varies by format The source describes build cost. Confirm land, financing and other inclusions before comparing an all-in project budget. [Burger King franchise investment](https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-fee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $50,000. Per restaurant; 20-year term  [Burger King franchise investment](https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-fee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Burger King franchise investment](https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-fee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

### [Carl's Jr.](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/carls-jr)

The brand prefers multi-unit agreements; smaller agreements may be considered. Its requirements page still cites the 2024 FDD. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Carl's Jr. franchising requirements](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Carl's Jr. franchise FAQ](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $1,486,000–$3,176,500. Historical 2024 FDD web-summary estimate; per unit Current FDD terms have not been verified. This is not a 2026 estimate. [Carl's Jr. franchising requirements](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** Confirm conflicting sources. United States Requirements page gives $25,000–$35,000 by restaurant count; undated FAQ gives $25,000. Confirm current terms. [Carl's Jr. franchising requirements](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Carl's Jr. franchise FAQ](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** $10,000. Per restaurant; listed separately from franchise fee  [Carl's Jr. franchise FAQ](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

### [Culver's](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/culvers)

Available markets and areas reserved for existing franchisees differ. Check the brand’s development map for the proposed territory. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Culver's franchise FAQ](https://www.culvers.com/franchise/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Culver's franchise FAQ](https://www.culvers.com/franchise/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $65,000. New franchisee; initial 15-year term  [Culver's franchise FAQ](https://www.culvers.com/franchise/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Culver's franchise FAQ](https://www.culvers.com/franchise/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

### [Hardee's](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/hardees)

The brand prefers multi-unit agreements; smaller agreements may be considered. Its requirements page still cites the 2024 FDD. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Hardee's franchising requirements](https://hardeesfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Hardee's franchise FAQ](https://hardeesfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $1,375,000–$2,637,395. Historical 2024 FDD web-summary estimate; per unit Current FDD terms have not been verified. This is not a 2026 estimate. [Hardee's franchising requirements](https://hardeesfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** Confirm conflicting sources. United States Requirements page gives $25,000–$35,000 by restaurant count; undated FAQ gives $25,000. Confirm current terms. [Hardee's franchising requirements](https://hardeesfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Hardee's franchise FAQ](https://hardeesfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** $10,000. Per restaurant; listed separately from franchise fee  [Hardee's franchise FAQ](https://hardeesfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

### [Jack in the Box](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/jack-in-the-box)

Recruitment targets multi-unit development; its candidate page calls for a commitment to three to five restaurants in the chosen market. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Jack in the Box investment guide](https://www.jackintheboxfranchising.com/jack-in-the-box-franchise-costs-and-fees) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Jack in the Box candidate requirements](https://www.jackintheboxfranchising.com/who-is-the-ideal-jack-in-the-box-franchise-candidate) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $1,909,500–$4,041,500. US prototypical restaurant; excludes land, financing and certain site-specific costs  [Jack in the Box investment guide](https://www.jackintheboxfranchising.com/jack-in-the-box-franchise-costs-and-fees) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $50,000. US traditional restaurant; standard per-location fee  [Jack in the Box investment guide](https://www.jackintheboxfranchising.com/jack-in-the-box-franchise-costs-and-fees) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Jack in the Box investment guide](https://www.jackintheboxfranchising.com/jack-in-the-box-franchise-costs-and-fees) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Jack in the Box candidate requirements](https://www.jackintheboxfranchising.com/who-is-the-ideal-jack-in-the-box-franchise-candidate) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

### [Sonic Drive-In](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/sonic)

The brand offers multiple restaurant formats. Site, format and market availability require confirmation during the application process. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [SONIC — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/sonic) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $1,485,200–$2,522,900. US web-summary investment range; confirm the applicable restaurant format  [SONIC — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/sonic) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $15,000. US initial franchise fee as listed in the web summary  [SONIC — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/sonic) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** $10,000. US; per restaurant Listed separately from the initial franchise fee; confirm timing and any credits in the FDD. [SONIC — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/sonic) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Questions about this list

### Which burger franchise guides are included?

The 6 guides are Burger King, Carl's Jr., Culver's, Hardee's, Jack in the Box, Sonic Drive-In. Each has at least two sourced financial facts in the reviewed ledger.

### How much does a burger franchise cost?

Burger King lists $348,400–$3,320,600 for initial investment / development estimate (Estimated cost to build a new restaurant; varies by format). That figure applies only to the transaction and format described by its source; these brands do not share one comparable opening cost.

### How are guides selected for this list?

A brand needs a public guide, a linked source and at least two verified financial facts. A category needs at least two such brands; the list is alphabetical, not a cost or investment ranking.


---

# 2 Chicken Franchise Cost Guides (2026)

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/chicken-franchises
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Compare source-reviewed chicken franchise guides and the financial and operating requirements stated for each brand.

2 chicken franchise cost guides meet our source-review criteria. Listed alphabetically rather than by price, they include KFC, Wingstop. KFC lists $750,000 for liquid capital / personal funds (US candidate minimum). Sources were checked through 2026-10-01; those check dates are not source-publication dates.

## How to read these requirements

- A franchise fee, candidate liquidity and a restaurant-development estimate answer different questions. Do not treat one as the full opening budget.
- For each brand, confirm whether the opportunity requires multi-unit experience, a development agreement or hands-on operation.
- An unavailable financial figure is not a waived fee or a zero-cost requirement. Request the applicable current disclosure before budgeting.

## 2 reviewed guides

### [KFC](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/kfc)

KFC describes buying land and building, leasing property and building, reopening or converting a restaurant, and developer-funded build-to-suit leases. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

### [Wingstop](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/wingstop)

Territories are limited and market-dependent. Capital requirements can exceed the stated minimums. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Wingstop US franchise requirements](https://www.wingstop.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $298,200–$1,013,500. US franchise-page initial investment estimate The page’s March 2025 FDD footnote describes sales-performance evidence; it does not date this investment estimate. [Wingstop US franchise requirements](https://www.wingstop.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $25,000. US published franchise fee  [Wingstop US franchise requirements](https://www.wingstop.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** $25,000. US published development fee; separate from franchise fee  [Wingstop US franchise requirements](https://www.wingstop.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Questions about this list

### Which chicken franchise guides are included?

The 2 guides are KFC, Wingstop. Each has at least two sourced financial facts in the reviewed ledger.

### How much does a chicken franchise cost?

KFC lists $750,000 for liquid capital / personal funds (US candidate minimum). That figure applies only to the transaction and format described by its source; these brands do not share one comparable opening cost.

### How are guides selected for this list?

A brand needs a public guide, a linked source and at least two verified financial facts. A category needs at least two such brands; the list is alphabetical, not a cost or investment ranking.


---

# 5 Sandwich Franchise Cost Guides (2026)

> Source: https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/sandwich-franchises
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Review source-backed sandwich franchise costs, eligibility and operating terms, with format and agreement differences made explicit.

5 sandwich franchise cost guides meet our source-review criteria. Listed alphabetically rather than by price, they include Arby's, Firehouse Subs, Jersey Mike's. Arby's lists $651,550–$2,456,600 for initial investment / development estimate (US web-summary investment range; confirm the applicable restaurant format). Sources were checked through 2026-10-01; those check dates are not source-publication dates.

## How to read these requirements

- A single-restaurant franchise fee and an area-development agreement fee have different scopes. Confirm the restaurant count and whether a fee is charged per location.
- Inline restaurants and drive-through formats can have different published ranges. Retain the format and source year when preparing a budget.
- Compare royalty and advertising obligations using the agreement’s sales definition. A prospectus summary and an FDD web summary are different source documents.

## 5 reviewed guides

### [Arby's](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/arbys)

The brand offers multiple restaurant formats. Site, format and market availability require confirmation during the application process. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Arby's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/arbys) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $651,550–$2,456,600. US web-summary investment range; confirm the applicable restaurant format  [Arby's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/arbys) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $37,500. US initial franchise fee as listed in the web summary  [Arby's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/arbys) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** $12,500. US; per restaurant Listed separately from the initial franchise fee; confirm timing and any credits in the FDD. [Arby's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/arbys) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

### [Firehouse Subs](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/firehouse-subs)

The brand offers inline, endcap drive-through and freestanding drive-through formats with different budgets. The range below covers inline traditional restaurants only. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Firehouse Subs franchise FAQ](https://www.franchising.firehousesubs.com/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $379,650–$795,600. US inline traditional restaurant; 2025 FDD web summary Endcap drive-through and freestanding drive-through estimates are higher; this is not a range covering every format. [Firehouse Subs franchise FAQ](https://www.franchising.firehousesubs.com/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $20,000. US single-unit restaurant; 2025 FDD web summary  [Firehouse Subs franchise FAQ](https://www.franchising.firehousesubs.com/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Firehouse Subs franchise FAQ](https://www.franchising.firehousesubs.com/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

### [Jersey Mike's](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/jersey-mikes)

The prospectus describes area-development agreements and a separate franchise agreement for each restaurant; terms may vary. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Jersey Mike's July 31, 2026 prospectus](https://investors.jerseymikes.com/sec-filings/all-sec-filings/content/0001193125-26-326453/project_70_424b4.htm) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Jersey Mike's July 31, 2026 prospectus](https://investors.jerseymikes.com/sec-filings/all-sec-filings/content/0001193125-26-326453/project_70_424b4.htm) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $20,000. Latest standard agreements described in July 2026 prospectus; per store opened under an area-development agreement  [Jersey Mike's July 31, 2026 prospectus](https://investors.jerseymikes.com/sec-filings/all-sec-filings/content/0001193125-26-326453/project_70_424b4.htm) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** $10,000. Per restaurant to be developed under an area-development agreement; July 2026 prospectus Separate from the initial franchise fee. The prospectus describes the latest standard agreements at that date; confirm current terms. [Jersey Mike's July 31, 2026 prospectus](https://investors.jerseymikes.com/sec-filings/all-sec-filings/content/0001193125-26-326453/project_70_424b4.htm) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

### [Jimmy John's](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/jimmy-johns)

The brand offers multiple restaurant formats. Site, format and market availability require confirmation during the application process. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Jimmy John's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/jimmy-johns) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $366,200–$733,500. US web-summary investment range; confirm the applicable restaurant format  [Jimmy John's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/jimmy-johns) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $35,000. US initial franchise fee as listed in the web summary  [Jimmy John's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/jimmy-johns) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** $10,000. US; per restaurant Listed separately from the initial franchise fee; confirm timing and any credits in the FDD. [Jimmy John's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/jimmy-johns) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

### [Subway](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/subway)

Subway is seeking multi-unit applicants and buyers interested in acquiring at least five existing restaurants. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Subway US franchise FAQ](https://www.subwayfranchise.com/en-us/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $199,135–$536,745. US restaurant estimate; building size, configuration and location vary  [Subway US franchise FAQ](https://www.subwayfranchise.com/en-us/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $15,000. US; per restaurant  [Subway US franchise FAQ](https://www.subwayfranchise.com/en-us/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Subway US franchise FAQ](https://www.subwayfranchise.com/en-us/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

## Questions about this list

### Which sandwich franchise guides are included?

The 5 guides are Arby's, Firehouse Subs, Jersey Mike's, Jimmy John's, Subway. Each has at least two sourced financial facts in the reviewed ledger.

### How much does a sandwich franchise cost?

Arby's lists $651,550–$2,456,600 for initial investment / development estimate (US web-summary investment range; confirm the applicable restaurant format). That figure applies only to the transaction and format described by its source; these brands do not share one comparable opening cost.

### How are guides selected for this list?

A brand needs a public guide, a linked source and at least two verified financial facts. A category needs at least two such brands; the list is alphabetical, not a cost or investment ranking.


---

# McDonald's vs Wendy's: Franchise Costs & Requirements

> Source: https://qsr.pro/compare/mcdonalds-vs-wendys
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Compare McDonald's and Wendy's published franchise requirements, availability and operating commitments, with direct sources and scope notes.

The figures describe different transactions and obligations. Read each source’s restaurant format, sales basis and exclusions before comparing amounts.

## McDonald's

**Opportunity:** The published candidate-funding figures cover buying and operating an existing restaurant. New restaurants require a greater investment. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [McDonald's US costs of ownership](https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/us-franchising/costs.html) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

**Operating commitment:** Candidates must be willing to relocate and divest other business interests; restaurant interests must be divested before training. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [McDonald's US costs of ownership](https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/us-franchising/costs.html) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [McDonald's US costs of ownership](https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/us-franchising/costs.html) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [McDonald's US costs of ownership](https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/us-franchising/costs.html) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [McDonald's US costs of ownership](https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/us-franchising/costs.html) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $750,000. US existing-restaurant applicants; typical minimum personal funds Non-borrowed, unencumbered funds; foreign-held funds are excluded. Primary-residence equity is considered only after the $750,000 minimum is met from other sources. Separately recommends $100,000 working capital per restaurant and $75,000 relocation funds. This is not a restaurant purchase price. [McDonald's US costs of ownership](https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/us-franchising/costs.html) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [McDonald's US costs of ownership](https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/us-franchising/costs.html) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [McDonald's US costs of ownership](https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/us-franchising/costs.html) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [McDonald's US costs of ownership](https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/us-franchising/costs.html) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

[Read the McDonald's cost guide](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/mcdonalds)

## Wendy's

**Opportunity:** Wendy’s seeks experienced operators. Its two official recruitment pages currently disagree on capital requirements; obtain confirmation for the proposed transaction. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

**Operating commitment:** Its FAQ calls for an operating team devoted to restaurant development and operations, with a three-to-five-year business plan. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $50,000. US; per restaurant for a 20-year term Separate application and background-check charges apply. [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** Confirm conflicting sources. United States The recruitment page lists $2,000,000; the FAQ lists $500,000. Confirm the applicable requirement with Wendy’s. [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** Confirm conflicting sources. United States The recruitment page lists $5,000,000; the FAQ lists $1,000,000. Confirm the applicable requirement with Wendy’s. [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** Confirm conflicting sources. United States Both pages list 4–6%, but the recruitment page says gross sales and the FAQ says net sales. Confirm the agreement’s basis. [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** Confirm conflicting sources. United States The recruitment page lists 4% of gross sales split between national and local advertising; the FAQ describes contributions based on net sales and additional local advertising obligations without a rate. Confirm the agreement’s basis and full obligations. [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

[Read the Wendy's cost guide](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/wendys)

These requirements do not establish restaurant sales, owner earnings or payback.


---

# Wendy's vs Burger King: Franchise Costs & Requirements

> Source: https://qsr.pro/compare/wendys-vs-burger-king
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Compare Wendy's and Burger King published franchise requirements, availability and operating commitments, with direct sources and scope notes.

The figures describe different transactions and obligations. Read each source’s restaurant format, sales basis and exclusions before comparing amounts.

## Wendy's

**Opportunity:** Wendy’s seeks experienced operators. Its two official recruitment pages currently disagree on capital requirements; obtain confirmation for the proposed transaction. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

**Operating commitment:** Its FAQ calls for an operating team devoted to restaurant development and operations, with a three-to-five-year business plan. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $50,000. US; per restaurant for a 20-year term Separate application and background-check charges apply. [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** Confirm conflicting sources. United States The recruitment page lists $2,000,000; the FAQ lists $500,000. Confirm the applicable requirement with Wendy’s. [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** Confirm conflicting sources. United States The recruitment page lists $5,000,000; the FAQ lists $1,000,000. Confirm the applicable requirement with Wendy’s. [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** Confirm conflicting sources. United States Both pages list 4–6%, but the recruitment page says gross sales and the FAQ says net sales. Confirm the agreement’s basis. [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** Confirm conflicting sources. United States The recruitment page lists 4% of gross sales split between national and local advertising; the FAQ describes contributions based on net sales and additional local advertising obligations without a rate. Confirm the agreement’s basis and full obligations. [Wendy's becoming a franchisee](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/becoming-a-franchisee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Wendy's franchise FAQ](https://www.wendys.com/franchising/franchise-faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

[Read the Wendy's cost guide](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/wendys)

## Burger King

**Opportunity:** The recruitment site covers the United States and Canada; restaurant format determines the published build-cost estimate. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Burger King franchise investment](https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-fee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

**Operating commitment:** Discuss site format, ownership structure, training and the full recurring-fee schedule with the franchise team. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Burger King franchise investment](https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-fee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $348,400–$3,320,600. Estimated cost to build a new restaurant; varies by format The source describes build cost. Confirm land, financing and other inclusions before comparing an all-in project budget. [Burger King franchise investment](https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-fee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $50,000. Per restaurant; 20-year term  [Burger King franchise investment](https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-fee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Burger King franchise investment](https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-fee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $500,000. Minimum liquid assets  [Burger King franchise investment](https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-fee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** $1,000,000. Minimum net worth  [Burger King franchise investment](https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-fee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** 4.5%. Percentage of gross monthly sales  [Burger King franchise investment](https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-fee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** 4.5%. Percentage of gross monthly sales The page also lists building, training, digital and other recurring charges. [Burger King franchise investment](https://franchising.bk.com/franchise-fee) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

[Read the Burger King cost guide](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/burger-king)

These requirements do not establish restaurant sales, owner earnings or payback.


---

# Hardee's vs Carl's Jr.: Franchise Costs & Requirements

> Source: https://qsr.pro/compare/hardees-vs-carls-jr
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Compare Hardee's and Carl's Jr. published franchise requirements, availability and operating commitments, with direct sources and scope notes.

The figures describe different transactions and obligations. Read each source’s restaurant format, sales basis and exclusions before comparing amounts.

## Hardee's

**Opportunity:** The brand prefers multi-unit agreements; smaller agreements may be considered. Its requirements page still cites the 2024 FDD. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Hardee's franchising requirements](https://hardeesfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Hardee's franchise FAQ](https://hardeesfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

**Operating commitment:** The franchisee acquires the real estate and contracts construction, with site and design assistance from the brand. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Hardee's franchising requirements](https://hardeesfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Hardee's franchise FAQ](https://hardeesfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $1,375,000–$2,637,395. Historical 2024 FDD web-summary estimate; per unit Current FDD terms have not been verified. This is not a 2026 estimate. [Hardee's franchising requirements](https://hardeesfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** Confirm conflicting sources. United States Requirements page gives $25,000–$35,000 by restaurant count; undated FAQ gives $25,000. Confirm current terms. [Hardee's franchising requirements](https://hardeesfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Hardee's franchise FAQ](https://hardeesfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** $10,000. Per restaurant; listed separately from franchise fee  [Hardee's franchise FAQ](https://hardeesfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $300,000. Minimum liquid assets per unit; historical 2024 web summary Confirm current FDD requirements. [Hardee's franchising requirements](https://hardeesfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** $1,000,000. Minimum net worth per unit; historical 2024 web summary Confirm current FDD requirements. [Hardee's franchising requirements](https://hardeesfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** 4%. Percentage of gross sales  [Hardee's franchise FAQ](https://hardeesfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** Confirm conflicting sources. United States Requirements page says up to 7%; FAQ says 5.5% of gross sales. Confirm current national, regional and local obligations. [Hardee's franchising requirements](https://hardeesfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Hardee's franchise FAQ](https://hardeesfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

[Read the Hardee's cost guide](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/hardees)

## Carl's Jr.

**Opportunity:** The brand prefers multi-unit agreements; smaller agreements may be considered. Its requirements page still cites the 2024 FDD. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Carl's Jr. franchising requirements](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Carl's Jr. franchise FAQ](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

**Operating commitment:** The franchisee acquires the real estate and contracts construction, with site and design assistance from the brand. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Carl's Jr. franchising requirements](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Carl's Jr. franchise FAQ](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $1,486,000–$3,176,500. Historical 2024 FDD web-summary estimate; per unit Current FDD terms have not been verified. This is not a 2026 estimate. [Carl's Jr. franchising requirements](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** Confirm conflicting sources. United States Requirements page gives $25,000–$35,000 by restaurant count; undated FAQ gives $25,000. Confirm current terms. [Carl's Jr. franchising requirements](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Carl's Jr. franchise FAQ](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** $10,000. Per restaurant; listed separately from franchise fee  [Carl's Jr. franchise FAQ](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $300,000. Minimum liquid assets per unit; historical 2024 web summary Confirm current FDD requirements. [Carl's Jr. franchising requirements](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** $1,000,000. Minimum net worth per unit; historical 2024 web summary Confirm current FDD requirements. [Carl's Jr. franchising requirements](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** 4%. Percentage of gross sales  [Carl's Jr. franchise FAQ](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** Confirm conflicting sources. United States Requirements page says up to 7%; FAQ says 5.5% of gross sales. Confirm current national, regional and local obligations. [Carl's Jr. franchising requirements](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/franchising.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [Carl's Jr. franchise FAQ](https://www.carlsjrfranchising.com/faq.php) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

[Read the Carl's Jr. cost guide](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/carls-jr)

These requirements do not establish restaurant sales, owner earnings or payback.


---

# Chick-fil-A vs KFC: Franchise Costs & Requirements

> Source: https://qsr.pro/compare/chick-fil-a-vs-kfc
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Compare Chick-fil-A and KFC published franchise requirements, availability and operating commitments, with direct sources and scope notes.

The figures describe different transactions and obligations. Read each source’s restaurant format, sales basis and exclusions before comparing amounts.

## Chick-fil-A

**Opportunity:** Chick-fil-A selects full-time restaurant Operators. Meeting the published minimum requirements does not guarantee selection. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Chick-fil-A US franchise requirements](https://www.chick-fil-a.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

**Operating commitment:** Full-time daily operation; divest other non-passive businesses. The initial fee must come from non-gifted, non-borrowed funds. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Chick-fil-A US franchise requirements](https://www.chick-fil-a.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** Not comparable for this model. United States The Operator fee is not a restaurant-development estimate; the reviewed page does not provide a comparable total investment range. [Chick-fil-A US franchise requirements](https://www.chick-fil-a.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $10,000. US Operator initial franchise fee This fee is not the total cost to develop a restaurant. [Chick-fil-A US franchise requirements](https://www.chick-fil-a.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Chick-fil-A US franchise requirements](https://www.chick-fil-a.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Chick-fil-A US franchise requirements](https://www.chick-fil-a.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Chick-fil-A US franchise requirements](https://www.chick-fil-a.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Chick-fil-A US franchise requirements](https://www.chick-fil-a.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Chick-fil-A US franchise requirements](https://www.chick-fil-a.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

[Read the Chick-fil-A cost guide](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/chick-fil-a)

## KFC

**Opportunity:** KFC describes buying land and building, leasing property and building, reopening or converting a restaurant, and developer-funded build-to-suit leases. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

**Operating commitment:** Candidates need multi-unit restaurant or hospitality experience, business ownership experience and hands-on involvement. Initial assessment generally takes 8–12 weeks; transaction approval follows. That is not an opening timetable. Existing-store transfers require KFC US LLC review; new restaurants depend on existing operators’ rights. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $750,000. US candidate minimum Cash or assets convertible within ten business days; requirements may increase. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** $1,500,000. US candidate minimum May rise with ownership level and transaction size. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

[Read the KFC cost guide](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/kfc)

These requirements do not establish restaurant sales, owner earnings or payback.


---

# KFC vs Wingstop: Franchise Costs & Requirements

> Source: https://qsr.pro/compare/kfc-vs-wingstop
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Compare KFC and Wingstop published franchise requirements, availability and operating commitments, with direct sources and scope notes.

The figures describe different transactions and obligations. Read each source’s restaurant format, sales basis and exclusions before comparing amounts.

## KFC

**Opportunity:** KFC describes buying land and building, leasing property and building, reopening or converting a restaurant, and developer-funded build-to-suit leases. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

**Operating commitment:** Candidates need multi-unit restaurant or hospitality experience, business ownership experience and hands-on involvement. Initial assessment generally takes 8–12 weeks; transaction approval follows. That is not an opening timetable. Existing-store transfers require KFC US LLC review; new restaurants depend on existing operators’ rights. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $750,000. US candidate minimum Cash or assets convertible within ten business days; requirements may increase. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** $1,500,000. US candidate minimum May rise with ownership level and transaction size. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [KFC franchise FAQ](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/faq) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC development options](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/investment) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.) [KFC franchise inquiry](https://www.kfc.com/franchising/join-us) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

[Read the KFC cost guide](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/kfc)

## Wingstop

**Opportunity:** Territories are limited and market-dependent. Capital requirements can exceed the stated minimums. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Wingstop US franchise requirements](https://www.wingstop.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

**Operating commitment:** Wingstop requires multi-unit restaurant ownership and development experience, plus hands-on involvement and required training. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Wingstop US franchise requirements](https://www.wingstop.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $298,200–$1,013,500. US franchise-page initial investment estimate The page’s March 2025 FDD footnote describes sales-performance evidence; it does not date this investment estimate. [Wingstop US franchise requirements](https://www.wingstop.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $25,000. US published franchise fee  [Wingstop US franchise requirements](https://www.wingstop.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** $25,000. US published development fee; separate from franchise fee  [Wingstop US franchise requirements](https://www.wingstop.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $2,100,000. Minimum total liquid assets May rise with market evaluation and ownership level. [Wingstop US franchise requirements](https://www.wingstop.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** $5,000,000. Minimum total net worth May rise with market evaluation and ownership level. [Wingstop US franchise requirements](https://www.wingstop.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Wingstop US franchise requirements](https://www.wingstop.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Wingstop US franchise requirements](https://www.wingstop.com/franchise) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

[Read the Wingstop cost guide](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/wingstop)

These requirements do not establish restaurant sales, owner earnings or payback.


---

# Subway vs Jimmy John's: Franchise Costs & Requirements

> Source: https://qsr.pro/compare/subway-vs-jimmy-johns
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Compare Subway and Jimmy John's published franchise requirements, availability and operating commitments, with direct sources and scope notes.

The figures describe different transactions and obligations. Read each source’s restaurant format, sales basis and exclusions before comparing amounts.

## Subway

**Opportunity:** Subway is seeking multi-unit applicants and buyers interested in acquiring at least five existing restaurants. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Subway US franchise FAQ](https://www.subwayfranchise.com/en-us/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

**Operating commitment:** Restaurant, business or franchising experience is preferred for the applicant or an equity partner; a three-week training program is required. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Subway US franchise FAQ](https://www.subwayfranchise.com/en-us/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $199,135–$536,745. US restaurant estimate; building size, configuration and location vary  [Subway US franchise FAQ](https://www.subwayfranchise.com/en-us/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $15,000. US; per restaurant  [Subway US franchise FAQ](https://www.subwayfranchise.com/en-us/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** Not verified in reviewed sources. United States No applicable amount verified in the linked sources. Request the current disclosure for this format and territory. [Subway US franchise FAQ](https://www.subwayfranchise.com/en-us/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $100,000. US; minimum per location Higher requirements may apply by territory. [Subway US franchise FAQ](https://www.subwayfranchise.com/en-us/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** $150,000. US; minimum per location Higher requirements may apply by territory. [Subway US franchise FAQ](https://www.subwayfranchise.com/en-us/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** 8%. Percentage of gross sales  [Subway US franchise FAQ](https://www.subwayfranchise.com/en-us/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** 4.5%. Percentage of gross sales  [Subway US franchise FAQ](https://www.subwayfranchise.com/en-us/faqs) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

[Read the Subway cost guide](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/subway)

## Jimmy John's

**Opportunity:** The brand offers multiple restaurant formats. Site, format and market availability require confirmation during the application process. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Jimmy John's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/jimmy-johns) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

**Operating commitment:** The published process includes application, discussion with the franchise team, FDD review and an interview before signing. United States; confirm the format and territory with the franchisor [Jimmy John's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/jimmy-johns) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

- **Initial investment / development estimate:** $366,200–$733,500. US web-summary investment range; confirm the applicable restaurant format  [Jimmy John's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/jimmy-johns) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Initial franchise fee:** $35,000. US initial franchise fee as listed in the web summary  [Jimmy John's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/jimmy-johns) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Separate development fee:** $10,000. US; per restaurant Listed separately from the initial franchise fee; confirm timing and any credits in the FDD. [Jimmy John's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/jimmy-johns) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Liquid capital / personal funds:** $200,000. US candidate liquid-assets requirement  [Jimmy John's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/jimmy-johns) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Net worth:** $1,000,000. US candidate net-worth requirement  [Jimmy John's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/jimmy-johns) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Royalty / service fee:** 6%. Percentage of gross sales  [Jimmy John's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/jimmy-johns) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)
- **Advertising / marketing contribution:** 4.5%. Percentage of gross sales Advertising and development fund. [Jimmy John's — Inspire Brands franchising](https://www.franchising.inspirebrands.com/jimmy-johns) (Source reviewed 2026-10-01; this is not the source publication date.)

[Read the Jimmy John's cost guide](https://qsr.pro/franchise-costs/jimmy-johns)

These requirements do not establish restaurant sales, owner earnings or payback.


---

# QSR News Categories

> Source: https://qsr.pro/categories
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Browse QSR Pro reporting by editorial desk.

- [Finance & Economics](https://qsr.pro/categories/finance)
- [Industry Analysis](https://qsr.pro/categories/industry)
- [Marketing & Growth](https://qsr.pro/categories/marketing)
- [Operations & Management](https://qsr.pro/categories/operations)
- [People & Culture](https://qsr.pro/categories/people)
- [Technology & Innovation](https://qsr.pro/categories/technology)


---

# Our Team

> Source: https://qsr.pro/authors
> Publisher: QSR Pro


QSR Pro editorial bylines.

[QSR Pro Staff](https://qsr.pro/authors/qsr-pro-staff)


---

# Article Collections

> Source: https://qsr.pro/collections
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Curated QSR Pro article collections.

- [Franchise Cost Deep Dives](https://qsr.pro/collections/franchise-cost-deep-dives) — Complete investment breakdowns for major QSR franchises. Everything you need to know about startup costs, fees, and expected returns.
- [Brand Turnaround Stories](https://qsr.pro/collections/brand-turnarounds) — How struggling QSR brands reversed course and found success again. Strategic pivots, new leadership, and operational overhauls.
- [The Technology Revolution](https://qsr.pro/collections/technology-revolution) — How tech is transforming QSR operations, from labor scheduling to ghost kitchens and AI-driven marketing.
- [Wall Street Watch](https://qsr.pro/collections/wall-street-watch) — Follow the money. M&A activity, IPOs, private equity moves, and stock performance in the QSR industry.
- [Franchisee Survival Guide](https://qsr.pro/collections/franchisee-survival-guide) — Real talk for franchise operators. Unit economics, profit margins, labor challenges, and the franchisor-franchisee relationship.
- [Emerging Brands to Watch](https://qsr.pro/collections/emerging-brands) — The next generation of QSR. New concepts, regional chains going national, and trends reshaping the industry.


---

# Curated Reading Lists

> Source: https://qsr.pro/lists
> Publisher: QSR Pro


QSR Pro reading lists by editorial topic.

- [The Complete Franchise Investment Guide](https://qsr.pro/lists/franchise-investment-guide) — Everything you need to know before investing in a QSR franchise. From understanding FDDs to unit economics, financing options, and brand-by-brand cost breakdowns.
- [The Restaurant Technology Playbook](https://qsr.pro/lists/restaurant-technology-playbook) — AI ordering, kitchen automation, POS systems, digital menus, and the tech stack powering modern QSR operations. A curated collection of our best technology coverage.
- [Operations Excellence in QSR](https://qsr.pro/lists/operations-excellence) — Drive-thru optimization, labor management, food safety, supply chain, and the operational fundamentals that separate top-performing QSR units from the rest.
- [QSR Earnings & Financial Analysis](https://qsr.pro/lists/chain-earnings-analysis) — Quarterly earnings breakdowns, same-store sales trends, margin analysis, and financial deep dives on the biggest names in QSR.
- [QSR Marketing & Brand Strategy](https://qsr.pro/lists/marketing-and-branding) — Menu innovation, pricing strategy, loyalty programs, digital marketing, and brand positioning in the competitive QSR landscape.
- [The QSR Workforce Challenge](https://qsr.pro/lists/labor-and-workforce) — Hiring, retention, wages, scheduling, training, and automation — how QSR operators are navigating the labor crisis.
- [QSR Industry Trends 2026](https://qsr.pro/lists/industry-trends-2026) — The trends shaping quick service restaurants in 2026: AI, ghost kitchens, health-conscious menus, sustainability, and evolving consumer preferences.
- [QSR Leadership & People](https://qsr.pro/lists/leadership-and-people) — Profiles, interviews, and analysis of the executives, franchisees, and innovators driving the QSR industry forward.


---

# Article Archive

> Source: https://qsr.pro/archive
> Publisher: QSR Pro


QSR Pro reporting grouped by coverage month.

- [October 2026](https://qsr.pro/archive/2026/10) — 44 articles
- [September 2026](https://qsr.pro/archive/2026/09) — 55 articles
- [August 2026](https://qsr.pro/archive/2026/08) — 20 articles
- [July 2026](https://qsr.pro/archive/2026/07) — 18 articles
- [June 2026](https://qsr.pro/archive/2026/06) — 23 articles
- [May 2026](https://qsr.pro/archive/2026/05) — 20 articles
- [April 2026](https://qsr.pro/archive/2026/04) — 23 articles
- [March 2026](https://qsr.pro/archive/2026/03) — 624 articles
- [November 2025](https://qsr.pro/archive/2025/11) — 20 articles


---

# Workers pay more for family health coverage at smaller firms

> Source: https://qsr.pro/articles/family-health-premiums-small-firm-workers-2026
> Publisher: QSR Pro
> Last content update: 2026-10-27T12:44:16.931957+00:00


KFF compares family premiums and worker contributions. Separate federal data distinguish benefit access from enrollment.

Published: 2026-10-27T12:44:16.931957+00:00

By QSR Pro Staff

![Workers pay more for family health coverage at smaller firms](https://gadzwjyojqpwmxtgebnh.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/newsroom/2026-10-27/family-premium-worker-share-412b532f49-v2.webp)

*AI-generated illustration: QSR.pro.*

Smaller firms had lower average family health premiums but higher employee contributions in [KFF’s 2026 employer survey](https://www.kff.org/health-costs/2026-employer-health-benefits-survey/), released October 22.

At firms with 10 to 199 workers, annual family premiums averaged $27,288, compared with $28,592 at firms with 200 or more. Covered workers’ average contributions were $9,687 and $6,840, respectively. These national figures cover private and nonfederal public employers across industries. KFF defines family coverage as coverage for a family of four.

Federal data measure another part of a benefits offer: access and enrollment.

In March 2026, 87% of full-time private-industry workers had access to medical benefits and 58% participated. For part-time workers, those figures were 23% and 11%, according to [Bureau of Labor Statistics data](https://www.bls.gov/news.release/archives/ebs2_09252026.pdf#page=9).

Participation measures enrollment across all workers in each group. [Take-up](https://www.bls.gov/news.release/archives/ebs2_09252026.pdf#page=10) measures enrollment among those with access. BLS reported take-up rates of 67% for full-time workers and 47% for part-time workers. That means fewer than half of part-time workers with access enrolled, even though that group was already a minority of all part-time workers.

Category: [People & Culture](https://qsr.pro/categories/people)


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# Chipotle’s brisket return revisits a food-cost tradeoff

> Source: https://qsr.pro/articles/chipotle-brisket-return-2026-food-cost-tradeoff
> Publisher: QSR Pro
> Last content update: 2026-10-27T06:44:41.842279+00:00


Chipotle plans a November 5 return. Its third-quarter 2024 results show how brisket success also changed the protein-cost mix.

Published: 2026-10-27T06:44:41.842279+00:00

By QSR Pro Staff

![Chipotle’s brisket return revisits a food-cost tradeoff](https://gadzwjyojqpwmxtgebnh.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/newsroom/2026-10-26/chipotle-2024-cost-mix-0f8765c2-v1.webp)

*AI-generated illustration: QSR.pro.*

Chipotle plans to [bring Smoked Brisket back November 5](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/chipotle-to-bring-back-mesquite-smoked-brisket-for-the-heart-of-football-season-302918817.html) for a limited time in the U.S. and Canada. The company says previous runs sold out earlier than anticipated.

Its [2024 results](https://newsroom.chipotle.com/2024-10-29-CHIPOTLE-ANNOUNCES-THIRD-QUARTER-2024-RESULTS) show the tradeoff: Chipotle called brisket successful while citing its protein mix among the reasons food costs rose.

The October 26 announcement describes a product finished throughout the day in restaurants. After smoking over mesquite, the beef is seared, seasoned, sauced and hand-chopped in small batches by restaurant staff, [Chipotle says](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/chipotle-to-bring-back-mesquite-smoked-brisket-for-the-heart-of-football-season-302918817.html).

Its sourcing rules also narrow the beef it can buy. Chipotle estimates that roughly 5% of U.S. beef meets its standards, which include vegetarian feed, no added growth hormones or routine antibiotics, and traceability to the ranch of origin.

## The 2024 cost comparison

In [the third quarter of 2024](https://newsroom.chipotle.com/2024-10-29-CHIPOTLE-ANNOUNCES-THIRD-QUARTER-2024-RESULTS), comparable sales increased 6% and transactions rose 3.3%. Those are chainwide results; brisket's contribution to visits was not separately quantified.

Food, beverage and packaging costs reached 30.6% of revenue, versus 29.7% a year earlier. Chipotle attributed the increase to brisket's protein mix, avocado and dairy inflation, and greater ingredient use as it pursued consistent, generous portions. Previous menu-price increases partly offset those pressures.

[Fourth-quarter food, beverage and packaging costs](https://newsroom.chipotle.com/2025-02-04-CHIPOTLE-ANNOUNCES-FOURTH-QUARTER-AND-FULL-YEAR-2024-RESULTS?asPDF=1) were 30.4% of revenue, up from 29.7% in the same period of 2023. Management again named brisket mix, ingredient usage and inflation, partly offset by menu prices. The increase was 0.7 percentage point; Chipotle did not assign a share of it to brisket.

The same report puts full-year food, beverage and packaging costs at 29.8% of revenue, compared with 29.5% in 2023. Yet Chipotle's full-year restaurant-level operating margin increased to 26.7% from 26.2%. It measures revenue less direct restaurant operating costs, as a share of revenue. Food cost is one component, so a higher food-cost share does not by itself establish lower overall restaurant profitability. Neither measure isolates the profit earned on a brisket order.

## Beef costs in 2026

By [the second quarter of 2026](https://newsroom.chipotle.com/2026-07-29-CHIPOTLE-RAISES-FULL-YEAR-COMPARABLE-SALES-GUIDANCE-ON-STRONG-Q2-MOMENTUM), beef and freight inflation were among the pressures Chipotle reported on food, beverage and packaging costs. The measure was 29.7% of revenue, up from 28.9% in the second quarter of 2025. Higher protein and produce usage also contributed, while menu-price increases and lower avocado and dairy costs provided some offset.

Comparable restaurant sales increased 2.2% that quarter, comprising 1% more transactions and a 1.2% increase in the average check. The measure compares company-owned restaurants open for at least 13 full calendar months, excluding new openings. The July 29 report covers the quarter ended June 30. Chipotle owns and operates its U.S. and Canadian restaurants; these company disclosures describe its own business, rather than franchisee margins.

The November launch also includes a [$0 delivery-fee promotion](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/chipotle-to-bring-back-mesquite-smoked-brisket-for-the-heart-of-football-season-302918817.html) at participating restaurants through November 18. Qualifying orders must include a brisket entree and total at least $10 in the U.S. or C$12 in Canada before taxes and fees. Orders must go through Chipotle's app or websites, excluding third-party delivery platforms. Delivery menu prices remain higher, and other fees may apply.

Category: [Operations & Management](https://qsr.pro/categories/operations)


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# USDA reports record-low September feedlot placements

> Source: https://qsr.pro/articles/october-2026-beef-market-data-cattle-prices
> Publisher: QSR Pro
> Last content update: 2026-10-26T07:17:37.93725+00:00


September feedlot flows fell; inventory barely changed year-over-year.

Published: 2026-10-26T07:17:37.93725+00:00

By QSR Pro Staff

![USDA reports record-low September feedlot placements](https://gadzwjyojqpwmxtgebnh.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/daily-20261025-usda-cattle/94c047053060e80435f7.webp)

*AI-generated illustration: QSR.pro.*

At U.S. feedlots with capacity of at least 1,000 head, September placements and marketings were the lowest for any September since USDA’s series began in 1996. Yet October 1 inventory was only 0.4% below a year earlier, at 11.372 million head, the [October 23 report](https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/Todays_Reports/reports/cofd1026.pdf) shows.

Feedlots began September with 88,000 more cattle than a year earlier. Compared with September 2025, 244,000 fewer entered, 108,000 fewer were marketed for slaughter and 2,000 fewer left through other disappearance, including deaths and transfers. Together, [these changes](https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/Todays_Reports/reports/cofd1026.pdf#page=2) explain the 46,000-head annual decline. Separately, inventory rose 204,000 head within September 2026.

## The price comparison depends on the clock

The wholesale beef price index rose 2.6% in September from August but was 3.6% below September 2025, according to USDA’s [October 23 price table](https://ers.usda.gov/media/6468/changes-in-producer-price-indexes-2024-through-2027.csv?v=99866). The index measures [prices received by domestic producers](https://ers.usda.gov/data-products/food-price-outlook). QSR.pro reproduced both changes from BLS monthly values; June–September 2026 observations are preliminary.

Both comparisons can hold because they start from different months. September 2025 was a high comparison point: the [BLS index](https://api.bls.gov/publicAPI/v2/timeseries/data/WPU022101?startyear=2025&endyear=2026) had risen 9.7% that month from August. Neither monthly nor annual change alone describes the whole year.

USDA’s [forecast](https://ers.usda.gov/media/6468/changes-in-producer-price-indexes-2024-through-2027.csv?v=99866) for the 2026 [annual-average](https://ers.usda.gov/data-products/food-price-outlook/summary-findings) wholesale-beef index is an 8.8% increase over the 2025 average, with a forecast interval of 4.8%–13.5%. That comparison includes months already elapsed. It does not predict another 8.8% increase from September’s level or a restaurant’s latest quote. Identifying the starting period changes what the number means for a purchasing discussion.

## Different beef products carry different signals

USDA’s [October 16 livestock outlook](https://ers.usda.gov/media/29753/ldp-m-388.pdf?v=13541) adds a product distinction. It describes support for rib and loin prices ahead of the holidays alongside lower year-over-year boxed-beef values. Elsewhere in the report, it describes falling cull-cow prices and a steep decline in prices for 90%-lean beef trimmings.

Describing those declines, USDA writes: “The drop appears tied to increased availability of lower priced imported lean trimmings.” This is the agency’s qualified interpretation; this reporting has not independently established the cause.

Demand for ribs and loins need not describe the market for lean trimmings. A composite can capture several products without matching the one a restaurant purchases. The report does not measure whether these price changes reach restaurant purchase prices.

The outlook predates the October 23 cattle release.

## Frozen stocks answer another question

The [October 23 Cold Storage report](https://release.nass.usda.gov/reports/cost1026.pdf) estimates 400.006 million pounds of frozen beef in covered warehouses on September 30, about 1% below both August 31 and the year-earlier level. Within that total, boneless beef fell 1.5% from August while beef cuts rose about 2%.

This is meat held in qualifying storage facilities. The measure includes imported and domestic products without distinguishing their origin. Its [coverage excludes](https://release.nass.usda.gov/reports/cost1026.pdf#page=25) distributor and chain-store storage space, among other facilities, so it cannot be read as a count of beef held throughout restaurant supply chains.

Nor is frozen warehouse inventory a measure of fresh-beef availability. For operators assessing a supply claim, the useful detail is what stock the number covers. The national total cannot establish whether an individual supplier has more or less of a buyer’s required product.

Category: [Finance & Economics](https://qsr.pro/categories/finance)


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# Teriyaki Madness reports 5.5% Q3 same-store traffic growth

> Source: https://qsr.pro/articles/teriyaki-madness-q3-2026-traffic-catering-growth
> Publisher: QSR Pro
> Last content update: 2026-10-26T07:07:35.472453+00:00


Company figures distinguish existing-shop gains from expansion. Earlier interviews describe catering operations and digital-order constraints.

Published: 2026-10-26T07:07:35.472453+00:00

By QSR Pro Staff

![Teriyaki Madness reports 5.5% Q3 same-store traffic growth](https://gadzwjyojqpwmxtgebnh.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/daily-20261023/teriyaki-q3-traffic/9093862a8deaa5779398.webp)

*AI-generated illustration: QSR.pro.*

Teriyaki Madness [reported](https://www.franchising.com/news/20261022_teriyaki_madness_widens_lead_over_fast_casual_peers_with_doubledigit_samest.html) third-quarter same-store traffic growth of 5.5% and sales growth of 10.3% in an October 22 update.

Separately, it reported nine openings, 229 locations and 25% year-over-year systemwide sales growth, including the expanding footprint.

Its [Q2 recap](https://franchise.teriyakimadness.com/franchise-blog/leaving-competitors-in-the-dust-q2-2026-recap/) put April–June same-store traffic growth at 3.27% and sales growth at 7.42%. Neither update specifies the comparison base or the stores included.

The [Q3 release](https://www.franchising.com/news/20261022_teriyaki_madness_widens_lead_over_fast_casual_peers_with_doubledigit_samest.html) cites fast-casual benchmarks of 1.4% sales growth and a 2.6% traffic decline without identifying their source.

For its U.S. quick-service sample, [Revenue Management Solutions](https://www.revenuemanage.com/trends/restaurant-trends-october-2026-q3-2026/) reported Q3 traffic down 2.6%, average prices up 2.6% and net sales up 0.6%, all year over year. RMS attributed positive sales partly to higher prices. The matching traffic figures do not establish a shared sample.

## Catering and digital orders

[Catering sales](https://www.franchising.com/news/20261022_teriyaki_madness_widens_lead_over_fast_casual_peers_with_doubledigit_samest.html) were 59% "above last year's pace," according to the announcement, which does not specify the comparison period. The [June recap](https://franchise.teriyakimadness.com/franchise-blog/leaving-competitors-in-the-dust-q2-2026-recap/) reported 59.15% year-to-date growth through June 30. Neither isolates Q3 catering growth or discloses channel profit.

Earlier interviews describe operations, without explaining Q3's traffic result. In a [February interview with Food On Demand's Hans Lammeman](https://foodondemand.com/02042026/outstanding-operator-teriyaki-madness/), chief marketing officer Jodi Boyce recalled about 40 shops taking pickup orders by phone or at the counter in 2016. Online and app ordering arrived in 2017. By the interview, she said roughly 80% of food left restaurants through off-premise channels. For catering, Boyce described selecting items that "travel the best" and are "easiest to execute," with franchisee food costs part of that choice.

In a [May interview with Restaurant Technology Guys' Jeremy Julian](https://restauranttechnologyguys.com/ep-337-transcript/), Aunna Macias, then restaurant technology manager, described the brand's earlier problem with separate delivery tablets and manual order entry. Integration had become a requirement for adopting systems.

Macias said Olo handled online ordering and catering, while a move to Toast was underway. She described a gap in pacing online and third-party orders against the kitchen's workload, a project she hoped to revisit after the migration progressed. That account does not establish either project's current status.

Financial reporting had its own gaps. Macias said [integrations conveyed items and required departure times](https://restauranttechnologyguys.com/ep-337-transcript/), while third-party markups and promotions could remain outside the point-of-sale system. Franchisees could need several portals and bank statements to piece together performance.

Category: [Operations & Management](https://qsr.pro/categories/operations)


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# What Blodgett’s $21,736 four-chamber oven asks of a QSR kitchen

> Source: https://qsr.pro/articles/blodgett-imvection-four-chamber-oven-qsr-buyer-guide
> Publisher: QSR Pro
> Last content update: 2026-10-23T09:56:10.524294+00:00


Blodgett pitches faster tickets from four cooking chambers. Its own documents show the temperature, pan, power and installation questions a franchise operator should settle first.

Published: 2026-10-23T09:56:10.524294+00:00

By QSR Pro Staff

![What Blodgett’s $21,736 four-chamber oven asks of a QSR kitchen](https://gadzwjyojqpwmxtgebnh.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/daily/2026-10-23/blodgett-imvection-buyer-guide-c69b17342453.webp)

*Conceptual AI-generated illustration, not actual Blodgett equipment: QSR.pro.*

Blodgett says its ImVection oven can run pizza, proteins, baked goods and sides at once, [easing a busy kitchen's ticket times](https://totalfood.com/rethink-oven-blodgett-imvection-flexibility-kitchen/). The four cooking chambers fit in a cabinet about two feet wide. When checked October 23, [parent company Middleby](https://www.blodgett.com/about/) [showed a U.S. starting price of $21,736 for the IMV-4E](https://shop.middleby.com/blodgettr-imv-4e-electric-freestanding-convection-oven-ventless-4-ovens-full-size-standard-depth-independent-doors-17-5-kilowatt-230v-3ph.html), before delivery or installation.

For a restaurant with more menu than line space, Blodgett's documents show what a buyer would need to test. The oven has two independent doors, each covering two chambers. Temperature settings, pan sizes, electrical service and cleaning work determine what a store could cook through a rush. Neither Blodgett's documents nor its interview cite measured results from a QSR operator.

## Four chambers, one menu plan

In an [October 15 interview](https://totalfood.com/rethink-oven-blodgett-imvection-flexibility-kitchen/), Blodgett's VP of regional sales and director of marketing Stephanie Martin said parallel cooking increases throughput and reduces ticket times. She offered a mix of breakfast sandwiches, pizza, desserts and proteins as an example. Buyers need to test those claims against their own order mix and equipment.

The [IMV-4E spec sheet](https://middleby-cdn.com/specsheets/Blodgett_IMV-4E_ConvectionOven_SpecSheet_1.pdf?update_date=1784217137) lists chamber settings from 300°F to 525°F and says the unit can maintain up to a 175°F difference between neighboring chambers. The [operating manual](https://middleby-cdn.com/usermanuals/Blodgett_IMV_ConvectionOven_Manual_1.pdf?update_date=1789052732) recommends staying within that difference for best performance and placing hotter chambers above cooler ones. The controls reorder a recipe group's chamber temperatures if they are entered otherwise. Below 400°F the machine uses convection airflow; at 400°F and above it switches to impingement. The unit cannot switch recipe groups while cooking an item in the active group.

A menu trial with busy-hour orders and recipes would show how many items can run in parallel before a temperature change or an occupied chamber slows production. The [spec lists](https://middleby-cdn.com/specsheets/Blodgett_IMV-4E_ConvectionOven_SpecSheet_1.pdf?update_date=1784217137) a 13-by-18-inch half-sheet pan or a 16-inch pizza pan, with 4.4 inches of usable height above a rack. Those dimensions may suit one concept and constrain another.

## What the kitchen has to accommodate

The [manufacturer's specification](https://middleby-cdn.com/specsheets/Blodgett_IMV-4E_ConvectionOven_SpecSheet_1.pdf?update_date=1784217137) puts the unit at about 650 pounds. It needs a 24-inch opening when uncrated. Its floor footprint is about 24 by 37 inches. The [store listing](https://shop.middleby.com/blodgettr-imv-4e-electric-freestanding-convection-oven-ventless-4-ovens-full-size-standard-depth-independent-doors-17-5-kilowatt-230v-3ph.html) calls for 22 inches of front clearance, four at each side and two behind. An installer should check those dimensions and service access against the actual site.

The store listing calls for a dedicated 230-volt, three-phase circuit and says the unit must be field-wired. The manufacturer's spec sheet lists 208–240-volt three-phase service and a NEMA 15-50 cord and plug; it also says some units must be hard-wired. Both documents rate the unit at 17.5 kilowatts, but one field on the store page says 11,270 watts. Before a franchisee orders equipment or budgets electrical work, the dealer and electrician need to confirm the exact configuration being supplied.

Blodgett describes the unit as ventless. The spec sheet reports grease-vapor tests for pepperoni pizza and chicken below the stated limit and a UL (KNLZ) listing for ventless operation. Installation must still meet local and national codes. A store should verify the intended menu and site with its code official before treating the absence of a traditional hood as a construction saving.

At close, the [manual](https://middleby-cdn.com/usermanuals/Blodgett_IMV_ConvectionOven_Manual_1.pdf?update_date=1789052732) directs staff to cool the unit, remove the racks and upper and lower jet plates, and keep cleaning liquid out of the catalyst openings. The removable parts can go through a dish machine or soaker. Blodgett's [warranty sheet](https://middleby-cdn.com/warrantysheet/Blodgett_Equipment_AllProducts_WarrantySheet_1.pdf) lists one year of parts and labor coverage for ImVection. Its terms start that period at installation or 90 days after shipment, whichever comes first, if the oven is registered; without registration, the period may instead start on the dealer's invoice date.

Middleby's posted price excludes delivery, liftgate service, installation and startup. A franchisee also needs to check whether the oven is on, or can be added to, the brand's approved-equipment list. For a multi-unit owner, the buying comparison is the installed price and a live menu trial at a representative store. The four chambers would have to earn their space by meeting the chain's recipes, local approval and busy-hour demand.

Category: [Technology & Innovation](https://qsr.pro/categories/technology)


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# Taco Bell keeps PepsiCo for 11 years as KFC moves to Coca-Cola

> Source: https://qsr.pro/articles/taco-bell-pepsico-11-year-renewal-kfc-coca-cola
> Publisher: QSR Pro
> Last content update: 2026-10-23T08:09:50.8536+00:00


Taco Bell renewed PepsiCo through 2036 while KFC plans to switch to Coca-Cola. Two Café Refrescas are scheduled for national Taco Bell menus in December.

Published: 2026-10-23T08:09:50.8536+00:00

By QSR Pro Staff

![Taco Bell keeps PepsiCo for 11 years as KFC moves to Coca-Cola](https://gadzwjyojqpwmxtgebnh.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/daily/2026-10-23/daily-20261023-taco-bell-pepsico-eleven-year-renewal-05e18a1f1969.webp)

*AI-generated illustration: QSR.pro.*

Taco Bell has [renewed its U.S. beverage partnership with PepsiCo](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/taco-bell-and-pepsico-commit-to-11-more-years-together-keeping-the-iconic-mountain-dew-baja-blast-flowing-and-beverage-innovation-moving-forward-302917054.html) for 11 years, through 2036. The October 22 deal covers participating Taco Bell, Taco Bell Cantina and Live Más Café locations. It came one week after fellow [Yum! Brands](https://www.yum.com/wps/portal/yumbrands/Yumbrands/company/our-brands) chain KFC [announced a U.S. switch to Coca-Cola](https://www.coca-colacompany.com/media-center/coca-cola-kfc-us-beverage-partnership) beginning in January 2027. KFC is leaving a roughly 40-year U.S. relationship with Pepsi, [Nation’s Restaurant News reported](https://www.nrn.com/quick-service/kfc-u-s-switches-from-pepsi-to-coke).

For Taco Bell operators, the renewal means the named PepsiCo lineup continues at participating restaurants. In the [renewal announcement](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/taco-bell-and-pepsico-commit-to-11-more-years-together-keeping-the-iconic-mountain-dew-baja-blast-flowing-and-beverage-innovation-moving-forward-302917054.html), PepsiCo says the companies have worked together on Taco Bell’s Refresca platform. Separately, [Taco Bell plans](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/taco-bell-remixes-horchata-as-live-mas-cafe-expands-into-new-markets-302909528.html) to put two horchata Refrescas on menus nationwide in December; neither release assigns PepsiCo a role in those specific flavors.

## A deal with a product pipeline

Pepsi, Pepsi Zero Sugar, Mountain Dew, Starry and the Taco Bell exclusives Baja Blast and Baja Midnight will remain in the participating U.S. portfolio, according to the [joint announcement](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/taco-bell-and-pepsico-commit-to-11-more-years-together-keeping-the-iconic-mountain-dew-baja-blast-flowing-and-beverage-innovation-moving-forward-302917054.html). PepsiCo will also continue supplying Taco Bell in Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland and Thailand. The U.S. announcement does not promise every listed drink at every restaurant.

Baja Blast is the best-known example of their collaboration. They also cite their work on Doritos Locos Tacos. For the next phase, the partners name crafted, functional and energy beverages as development areas, including energy drinks the companies say could appeal to younger customers during morning and afternoon visits. No launch date or restaurant requirements for a future energy drink are specified.

Refrescas offer a closer view of the work already in motion. In a separate [October 15 Café update](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/taco-bell-remixes-horchata-as-live-mas-cafe-expands-into-new-markets-302909528.html), Taco Bell said its Strawberry Horchata and Vanilla Spiced Horchata Refrescas, along with a new Vanilla Spiced Horchata Freeze, are scheduled to reach national menus for a limited time on December 10. Two of the Café's Refrescas are moving beyond that format; the Freeze is a newly announced national item, not one of the Café's Chiller or Cold Brew drinks.

Taco Bell has [set a $5 billion beverage-sales goal for 2030](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/taco-bell-remixes-horchata-as-live-mas-cafe-expands-into-new-markets-302909528.html) and uses its Live Más Cafés to try new flavors and formats. On October 15, the company reported 39 Café locations and about 1.3 million drinks sold since the concept launched. The scheduled Refresca launch shows how two Café drinks are planned to reach the broader system; their national sales have yet to be measured.

## What operators can tell so far

The two announcements give owners different levels of rollout detail. [Coca-Cola and KFC](https://www.coca-colacompany.com/media-center/coca-cola-kfc-us-beverage-partnership) name a January 2027 start and say Coke products are expected across all 3,600 U.S. KFC restaurants by spring 2027. The [Taco Bell-PepsiCo renewal](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/taco-bell-and-pepsico-commit-to-11-more-years-together-keeping-the-iconic-mountain-dew-baja-blast-flowing-and-beverage-innovation-moving-forward-302917054.html) covers participating Taco Bell formats but gives no U.S. store count for the renewed agreement or timetable for future crafted, functional or energy drinks. That leaves Taco Bell owners with product direction and an agreement end year, but no comparable public measure of how broadly new drinks will reach the system. The [December 10 menu plan](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/taco-bell-remixes-horchata-as-live-mas-cafe-expands-into-new-markets-302909528.html) covers three limited-time items; it is not a schedule for the PepsiCo agreement.

The [renewal announcement](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/taco-bell-and-pepsico-commit-to-11-more-years-together-keeping-the-iconic-mountain-dew-baja-blast-flowing-and-beverage-innovation-moving-forward-302917054.html) also does not disclose syrup pricing, rebates, equipment contributions or co-marketing support. Its effect on a Taco Bell franchisee's costs remains unknown.

Category: [Marketing & Growth](https://qsr.pro/categories/marketing)


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# Bojangles extends AI drive-thru deal, plans 100 more sites and line-aware upsells

> Source: https://qsr.pro/articles/bojangles-bo-linda-extension-100-more-ai-drive-thrus
> Publisher: QSR Pro
> Last content update: 2026-10-23T07:51:49.729828+00:00


Bojangles and Hi Auto plan 100 more Bo-Linda sites and a queue-aware upsell feature. What owners can test when it arrives.

Published: 2026-10-23T07:51:49.729828+00:00

By QSR Pro Staff

![Bojangles extends AI drive-thru deal, plans 100 more sites and line-aware upsells](https://gadzwjyojqpwmxtgebnh.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/daily/2026-10-23/daily-20261023-bojangles-hi-auto-extension-333ce0e5382d.webp)

*AI-generated illustration: QSR.pro.*

Bojangles has [renewed its agreement](https://www.tmcnet.com/usubmit/-hi-auto-bojangles-announce-multi-year-extension-bo-/2026/10/22/10468207.htm) with drive-thru voice-AI company Hi Auto for multiple years and plans to put its Bo-Linda order taker in 100 more restaurants by mid-2027. The next phase would let Bo-Linda adjust add-on suggestions to the length of the line when cars stack up.

During a rush, Bo-Linda would favor items that take less time to make. Bojangles and Hi Auto say the feature will bring in more add-on sales without slowing service or adding labor. The [October 22 announcement](https://www.tmcnet.com/usubmit/-hi-auto-bojangles-announce-multi-year-extension-bo-/2026/10/22/10468207.htm) gives no launch date or store results for the new feature.

An add-on can lift the check while adding work to a kitchen clearing a line. The promised benefit is testable: compare offer acceptance, service time and cars served per hour during similar peak periods before and after the feature arrives. Sales alone would not show whether service held up.

## A new phase for an established rollout

Bo-Linda is already operating at nearly 500 of Bojangles' more than 890 company and franchised restaurants, according to the joint release. The chain began scaling it in July 2024. The installed base is not new: a [Bojangles supplier announcement](https://www.bojangles.com/news-and-community/bojangles-honors-outstanding-supplier-partners-at-2025-supplier-summit/) in October 2025 already put the system at nearly 500 locations and one million weekly orders. The latest release says it now handles **more than** one million orders a week, but the rounded figures cannot establish a precise year-over-year growth rate.

The addition of 100 more sites by mid-2027 is a plan, not an installation count. The release does not specify how many of those restaurants will be franchised, whether participation is required or what owners pay under the renewed deal. The announcement also does not say whether restaurants already running Bo-Linda will receive the new queue feature automatically. Those details would determine what an individual operator is being asked to buy and evaluate. Bojangles franchisee Michael Haynes offers a favorable account of Bo-Linda's effect on his crews and guests in the announcement. His experience is a useful perspective, but it is a testimonial selected for the release, not a systemwide measurement.

The planned queue signal would build on Hi Auto’s core upsell engine, which the companies say already uses daypart, weather and inventory. Bo-Linda’s connection to Global Payments' Genius point-of-sale platform through XPI, and an image that helps staff match orders to cars after two lanes converge, are also part of the described setup. Hi Auto [discussed those capabilities in December 2025](https://hi.auto/company/newsroom/the-fast-food-drive-thru-just-got-a-new-operating-system/). They help explain how voice orders reach the point of sale and how staff identify the right vehicle; both predate this deal.

## What counts as a successful order?

Bojangles CIO Richard Del Valle [says](https://www.tmcnet.com/usubmit/-hi-auto-bojangles-announce-multi-year-extension-bo-/2026/10/22/10468207.htm) Bo-Linda processes more than one million orders weekly at a “98%, or better, success rate.” The release does not define success, identify the measurement period or say whether an order finished with human assistance counts. That last question is especially relevant because Hi Auto says its platform has a human-fallback option. A human-assisted order may satisfy a guest while telling an owner something different about how much work the AI removed.

Hi Auto reported [more than 93% completion and 96% accuracy](https://hi.auto/company/newsroom/hi-autos-ai-order-taker-surpasses-100-million-drive-thru-orders-per-year/) across its wider, nearly 1,000-store portfolio in December 2025. Those figures cover several brands and different measures; they cannot be read as a trend against Bojangles' undefined 98% claim. A store-level scorecard separating unassisted completion, crew intervention, final order accuracy and corrections would tell franchisees much more.

For owners, the promised sales gain will mean more if Bojangles also shows what happens to service time at the stores using the feature.

Category: [Technology & Innovation](https://qsr.pro/categories/technology)


---

# Dunkin's Spidey D Coffee Giveaway Has a Five-Day Afterlife

> Source: https://qsr.pro/articles/dunkin-spider-donut-giveaway-five-day-afterlife
> Publisher: QSR Pro
> Last content update: 2026-10-23T05:19:20.103168+00:00


Dunkin's October 21 coffee-code offer is over, but certificates remain valid for five days after entry. Halloween collectibles and a Salem makeover precede a November 4 Marvel menu.

Published: 2026-10-23T05:19:20.103168+00:00

By QSR Pro Staff

![Dunkin's Spidey D Coffee Giveaway Has a Five-Day Afterlife](https://gadzwjyojqpwmxtgebnh.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/daily/2026-10-22/daily-20261022-dunkin-spidey-commerce-54d9a536fe74.webp)

*AI-generated illustration: QSR.pro.*

Dunkin gave Spidey D, its Spider Donut character, one day to offer free iced coffee. Customers could enter a promo code from noon Eastern on October 21, while supplies lasted. Each eligible entry produced a certificate for an iced coffee of any size, valid for five days after entry and limited to one per customer. [Dunkin made one million codes available](https://news.dunkindonuts.com/blog/spidey-d-is-giving-away-1-million-free-dunkinR-iced-coffees); it has not reported how many were claimed or redeemed.

The purple-frosted donut also has a line of Halloween collectibles. [Dunkin listed](https://news.dunkindonuts.com/news/dunkin-halloween-menu-2) a $9.99 Spider Donut keychain and an $8.99 Mystery Boo Box containing one of four surprises at participating restaurants. A glow-in-the-dark bucket holds 50 assorted Munchkins; Dunkin says $2 from each bucket sold will go to its Joy in Childhood Foundation. A separate online Spidey D merchandise collection was priced from $22 to $100.

Dunkin turned one Salem, Massachusetts, restaurant into [“Spidey D's Horror House”](https://news.dunkindonuts.com/blog/spidey-d-takes-over-a-salem-dunkin-2026). The limited October makeover at 152 Washington St. has themed décor, merchandise and a fortune-telling machine. Visitors need no ticket or reservation and can come during normal store hours.

Another character lineup is next. Dunkin plans to bring an [*Avengers: Doomsday* menu and collectibles](https://news.dunkindonuts.com/news/dunkin-and-marvel-studios-avengers-doomsday-team-up-2026) to participating restaurants November 4, including a $14.99 Doctor Doom tin filled with 25 assorted Munchkins. Doom's Orders Energy uses Green Apple Dunkin' Zero and Purple Marshmallow Cold Foam; the Wakandan Daydream Refresher also uses the foam. Both ingredients are on [Dunkin's Halloween menu](https://news.dunkindonuts.com/blog/spidey-d-takes-over-a-salem-dunkin-2026).

Category: [Marketing & Growth](https://qsr.pro/categories/marketing)


---

# Restaurant sales projection cut $190 billion after Census benchmark

> Source: https://qsr.pro/articles/restaurant-sales-estimate-benchmark-reset-growth-forecast
> Publisher: QSR Pro
> Last content update: 2026-10-23T01:59:58.79632+00:00


New Census benchmarks shrink the estimated market but leave the 2026 growth forecast intact.

Published: 2026-10-23T01:59:58.79632+00:00

By QSR Pro Staff

![Restaurant sales projection cut $190 billion after Census benchmark](https://gadzwjyojqpwmxtgebnh.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/daily/2026-10-22/daily-20261022-restaurant-sales-benchmark-reset-c00d22416277.webp)

*AI-generated illustration: QSR.pro.*

The restaurant industry's post-2020 rebound was weaker than first estimated. In 2021, sales rose 11% to $940 billion, the National Restaurant Association says, not 24% to $1.06 trillion. Its [October 19 analysis](https://restaurant.org/research-and-media/research/restaurant-economic-insights/analysis-commentary/restaurant-sales-volume-revised-lower-based-on-benchmarked-government-data/) says the gap later widened.

The revision cuts the Association's 2026 sales projection by $190 billion, from $1.55 trillion to $1.36 trillion. Projected growth remains 4.3%, or 0.8% after inflation. The difference is in estimated market size, not actual 2026 sales.

## What changed

The Census Bureau updated its monthly retail and foodservice estimates using more complete annual business data. Companies have weeks to answer a monthly survey, sometimes before their books are final. The annual survey draws on more reporting and later corrections. Census then [benchmarks the monthly series](https://www.census.gov/retail/mrts/www/benchmark/2026/pdf/Introduction.pdf) against those annual totals. Its 2026 revision also includes historical corrections and updated seasonal adjustments, so a new baseline does not mean every month's growth rate stays untouched.

For the first time, this benchmark uses the [Annual Integrated Economic Survey](https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/aies/about.html), which combines seven annual business surveys. Census produces the monthly estimates; the Association uses them as a building block for its broader restaurant and foodservice forecast. Those are related figures, but they are not the same series.

This matters when an operator compares a company's results with industry growth or sizes an expansion opportunity. A deck prepared with an old market projection has a different denominator from one using the revised figure. It should be updated consistently across years, rather than replacing one headline number and leaving old comparisons in place. The revised industry estimate does not change a restaurant's own receipts.

Category: [Finance & Economics](https://qsr.pro/categories/finance)


---

# PrimoHoagies offers 10–15 restaurant resales as it tests a smaller store

> Source: https://qsr.pro/articles/primohoagies-restaurant-resales-smaller-store-design
> Publisher: QSR Pro
> Last content update: 2026-10-23T01:55:23.564942+00:00


Retiring owners create an acquisition path while new franchisees develop a 1,100-square-foot format.

Published: 2026-10-23T01:55:23.564942+00:00

By QSR Pro Staff

![PrimoHoagies offers 10–15 restaurant resales as it tests a smaller store](https://gadzwjyojqpwmxtgebnh.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/daily/2026-10-22/daily-20261022-primohoagies-acquisition-smaller-prototype-14e3c235b51c.webp)

*AI-generated illustration: QSR.pro.*

PrimoHoagies says 10–15 restaurants, mostly near Philadelphia and in South Jersey, are for sale as longtime owners retire. Its [October 21 update](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/primohoagies-welcomes-seven-new-franchisees-in-2026-and-highlights-acquisition-opportunities-for-multi-unit-growth-302915611.html) also describes five projects using a roughly 1,100-square-foot format. The two developments offer distinct entry points for new operators.

Patrick McCoyd and son Ian bought Lansdale after Ian managed the family’s Newtown store. Patrick’s compact Bluffton project remains in permitting. One route has an operating history; the other needs construction.

## What an existing store offers

Development executive Angela Coppler calls an acquisition “a practical starting point for building a larger portfolio.” Selected purchases may cost less than construction, depending on required improvements, she says. The [announcement](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/primohoagies-welcomes-seven-new-franchisees-in-2026-and-highlights-acquisition-opportunities-for-multi-unit-growth-302915611.html) gives no prices or measured savings.

An existing store gives a buyer its own operating record to examine. The Federal Trade Commission’s [franchise guide](https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/resources/consumers-guide-buying-franchise) explains that actual outlet records can be shared with a prospective buyer; gross sales alone are not profit, and the disclosure document sets out transfer conditions. Those store-level records matter more to a buyer than the chainwide average.

Primo’s [franchise site](https://ownaprimo.com/why-primo/) reports 2025 average annual sales of $927,000 and median sales of $871,000 for 81 franchised restaurants open all year. Thirty-four of the 81 exceeded the average. These are the brand’s Item 19 figures for that group, not a forecast for a resale or the smaller format, and they do not show the buyer’s profit.

## The smaller new-build option

The [new design](https://ownaprimo.com/why-primo/) targets 1,000–1,200 square feet without hoods or fryers. The company says that widens the range of usable sites and can reduce build-out costs. The Bluffton project remains in permitting, so it is too early to treat that claim as a measured result there.

The brand lists a [general initial investment estimate of $367,740–$652,996](https://ownaprimo.com/path-to-ownership/), depending on market, real estate and build-out. Applicants need $500,000 in liquid capital and $1 million in net worth. Its ownership page lists a $25,000 franchise fee, 6% royalty on gross sales, and 3% national plus 1% local marketing contributions.

That investment range is neither a resale price nor a quote for the compact design. PrimoHoagies has not disclosed what the new build costs compared with a standard store.

Category: [Industry Analysis](https://qsr.pro/categories/industry)


---

# Square’s $1,999 voice kiosk targets franchise operators

> Source: https://qsr.pro/articles/square-voice-ordering-kiosk-menu-kitchen-costs
> Publisher: QSR Pro
> Last content update: 2026-10-23T01:52:55.310592+00:00


Voice ordering and chain-level controls come with always-on internet, Square POS connections and monthly software fees.

Published: 2026-10-23T01:52:55.310592+00:00

By QSR Pro Staff

![Square’s $1,999 voice kiosk targets franchise operators](https://gadzwjyojqpwmxtgebnh.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/daily/2026-10-22/daily-20261022-square-voice-kiosk-754594fb51b0.webp)

*AI-generated illustration: QSR.pro.*

Square’s new voice-ordering kiosk costs $1,999 with a counter stand, plus $99 a month per device. The [October 14 launch](https://squareup.com/us/en/press/square-kiosk-self-service-reimagined) also brings a multi-account offering for franchise systems to manage menus, reporting and gift cards while preserving local controls. The release does not say what those network tools will cost.

Lawrence Kam, an L&L Hawaiian BBQ multi-unit franchise operator quoted by Square, said, “I was genuinely skeptical of kiosks, but now I want to place Square Kiosks throughout our national footprint.” His experience is one operator’s account in the company’s launch material, not a measure of what every restaurant will see.

For an owner, the useful question is what must happen between a guest’s spoken request and a kitchen ticket. The kiosk’s 21.5-inch screen also supports touch ordering, so a customer can switch modes during an order. Square says its suggestions use sales data, including what sells at that location or time of day and what tends to accompany an item in the cart. The company has not published independent measurements of voice accuracy or order-value gains.

## The menu does the talking

The voice system draws on the restaurant’s item names, descriptions, modifiers and dietary details, according to Square’s [menu guide](https://squareup.com/help/us/en/article/8684-set-up-menus-for-square-kiosk). If those records do not explain a dish or a substitution, the kiosk has less to work with. Square says it hands questions about missing allergen information, kitchen practices and cross-contamination to staff. Customers can mute voice or use touch; the restaurant can disable voice entirely.

That shared menu is an attraction for a franchise operator running several locations. Menus are assigned by location and kiosks there share the configuration. But the customer-facing experience still depends on the accuracy of each restaurant’s menu records and sold-out settings.

## What to check before buying

The [setup requirements](https://squareup.com/help/us/en/article/8687-set-up-square-kiosk) call for a stable internet connection and at least one active device running Square’s point-of-sale app. The kiosk accepts no cash and has no offline payment mode. Kitchen displays and printers connect through Square POS hardware; direct receipt-printer connection is [coming soon](https://squareup.com/us/en/hardware/kiosk). It is an indoor device available in the United States, with voice support in English. Square recommends at least 24 inches between kiosks to limit audio interference.

The new hardware runs without an iPad. The older iPad-based option is now Square Stand with the Square Kiosk Lite app. Using the new kiosk requires [Square Plus or Premium with advanced restaurant capabilities](https://squareup.com/help/us/en/article/8687-set-up-square-kiosk); customers on legacy Restaurants POS plans must switch to a current plan.

Square lists [Plus at $49 per location monthly and Premium at $149](https://squareup.com/us/en/press/square-kiosk-self-service-reimagined), before the $99 per-device kiosk charge. A Plus restaurant would pay $148 monthly for one kiosk or $247 for two, excluding hardware and card processing. Square also lists [$97 monthly hardware financing over 24 months](https://squareup.com/us/en/hardware/kiosk), a $2,328 total before any other charges, subject to its terms. Its listed tap-or-dip processing rate with Plus is 2.5% plus 15 cents; Square says businesses at $250,000 or more can ask about custom rates.

The buying decision turns on more than the voice feature. An operator has to price the hardware and subscriptions, keep the connection and menu records current, and decide where staff will step in when a question or payment cannot be handled at the screen.

Category: [Technology & Innovation](https://qsr.pro/categories/technology)


---

# Mike’s Red Tacos turns to an experienced operator for 36 Florida stores

> Source: https://qsr.pro/articles/mikes-red-tacos-florida-built-different-brands
> Publisher: QSR Pro
> Last content update: 2026-10-23T01:49:21.98557+00:00


Built Different Brands plans the first Florida opening for 2027 under a 36-store agreement.

Published: 2026-10-23T01:49:21.98557+00:00

By QSR Pro Staff

![Mike’s Red Tacos turns to an experienced operator for 36 Florida stores](https://gadzwjyojqpwmxtgebnh.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/daily/2026-10-22/daily-20261022-mikes-red-tacos-florida-development-c665411aadcc.webp)

*AI-generated illustration: QSR.pro.*

Mike’s Red Tacos has signed a 36-store Florida development agreement with Built Different Brands, led by CEO Kal Gullapalli. The [October 21 announcement](https://www.franchising.com/news/20261021_mikes_red_tacos_is_heading_to_florida_with_a_36unit_development_agreement_f.html) covers greater Tampa, Orlando and Florida’s East Coast, with the first opening planned for 2027.

Mike’s described three restaurants opened over four years and more than 350 nationwide development commitments. Its Florida partner already operates more than 80 locations across brands including Dave’s Hot Chicken, Marco’s Pizza and PopUp Bagels, according to the announcement. Gullapalli said his organization can handle site selection and real estate for the rollout.

## The people behind the plan

Mike’s [recruitment criteria](https://www.mikesredtacos.com/franchising) call for applicants already operating at least five QSR or fast-casual franchise restaurants in the intended market, with strong operating metrics and references from their existing system. Applicants cannot currently own another Mexican restaurant concept.

Built Different’s [team directory](https://builtdifferentbrands.com/team/) lists Michael Ghrist as chief operating officer and Leslie Rate as construction manager, alongside facilities, human-resources and finance staff. It also names separate operating partners for Dave’s, Marco’s and PopUp. The directory shows an existing development and support organization; it does not say which employees will work on Mike’s restaurants.

The franchisor has been building its own side of the relationship. Mike’s [August 18 leadership announcement](https://www.franchising.com/news/20260818_mikes_red_tacos_introduces_leadership_team_driving_nationwide_franchise_gro.html) named Andrew Feghali CEO and founder Mike Touma chief brand officer, alongside real-estate vice president Nate Zelazoski and operations senior vice president Lance Salsman. Feghali, an early investor in Mike’s, was the first Dave’s Hot Chicken franchisee. He said the team’s job was to build support for new owners, openings and markets.

## Turning a territory into restaurants

The [current franchise site](https://www.mikesredtacos.com/franchising) describes 2,200–2,400-square-foot restaurants in inline, endcap and freestanding formats. Mike’s offers real-estate, construction and architectural guidance, plus pre-portioned ingredients and equipment intended to shorten cooking time. That gives the operator a site and food-production playbook, alongside its own construction team.

Mike’s describes a [million-dollar opening commitment](https://www.mikesredtacos.com/franchising) including build-out, equipment and working capital, and refers prospects to its disclosure document for full details. That is a general opening requirement, not a disclosed price for the Florida agreement.

The brand says a typical first opening takes nine to twelve months from signing, depending on site selection, permitting and build-out. Florida’s first restaurant is planned for 2027.

Category: [Industry Analysis](https://qsr.pro/categories/industry)


---

# QSR.pro Weekly: Taco Bell keeps Pepsi, KFC plans Coke

> Source: https://qsr.pro/newsletter/editions/2026-10-26
> Publisher: QSR Pro
> Last content update: 2026-10-26T17:06:07.301Z


Plus Teriyaki Madness traffic growth, a sales forecast reset and USDA’s latest cattle report.

Originally sent 2026-10-26T17:06:07.301Z. Information reflects the date sent.

[Taco Bell](https://qsr.pro/chains/taco-bell) renewed Pepsi through 2036 while [KFC](https://qsr.pro/chains/kfc) plans to switch to Coke next year. Teriyaki Madness reported higher third-quarter same-store guest traffic, and the National Restaurant Association lowered its 2026 sales projection after a government data revision.

## Taco Bell renews Pepsi as KFC prepares for Coke

marketing · 2026-10-22

![Editorial illustration of a restaurant worker preparing colorful drinks at a beverage station.](https://qsr.pro/newsletter/assets/722097ad155acbd1435c9b0e.jpg)

[Taco Bell](https://qsr.pro/chains/taco-bell) renewed its U.S. beverage partnership with PepsiCo for 11 years, through 2036. The October 22 agreement covers participating Taco Bell, Taco Bell Cantina and Live Más Café restaurants. It came a week after fellow Yum! Brands chain [KFC](https://qsr.pro/chains/kfc) said it would begin switching its U.S. restaurants to Coca-Cola in January 2027.

Pepsi, Mountain Dew Baja Blast and other PepsiCo drinks remain in [Taco Bell](https://qsr.pro/chains/taco-bell)’s participating U.S. portfolio. The partners plan to develop crafted, functional and energy beverages, without announced launch dates. PepsiCo also renewed its Taco Bell partnership in Canada, the U.K., Ireland and Thailand. [KFC](https://qsr.pro/chains/kfc) expects Coca-Cola products across its U.S. restaurants by spring 2027.

[Read the Taco Bell deal](https://qsr.pro/articles/taco-bell-pepsico-11-year-renewal-kfc-coca-cola)

## Teriyaki Madness says guest traffic grew 5.5%

operations · 2026-10-22

![Chart of Teriyaki Madness company-reported same-store growth: Q2 sales 7.42% and traffic 3.27%; Q3 sales 10.3% and traffic 5.5%. Comparison cohorts not specified.](https://qsr.pro/newsletter/assets/ae6ce241f9f5c32cd3c5a3c3.jpg)

Teriyaki Madness reported 5.5% same-store guest traffic growth and 10.3% same-store sales growth in the third quarter. The chain also opened nine restaurants, bringing its reported total to 229. More visits contributed to the sales gain; the company’s second-quarter report put traffic growth at 3.27% and sales growth at 7.42%.

[Read the traffic report](https://qsr.pro/articles/teriyaki-madness-q3-2026-traffic-catering-growth)

## Restaurant sales forecast resets to $1.36 trillion

finance · 2026-10-19

![Chart comparing the National Restaurant Association’s earlier $1.55 trillion and revised $1.36 trillion 2026 sales forecasts. Its 4.3% nominal growth forecast is unchanged.](https://qsr.pro/newsletter/assets/c7895b0e79241db611f8888e.jpg)

The National Restaurant Association cut its 2026 restaurant and foodservice sales projection from $1.55 trillion to $1.36 trillion after the Census Bureau revised historical sales data using a newer annual survey. The $190 billion difference is a change in the estimate, not a sudden loss of restaurant receipts.

The Association still forecasts 4.3% sales growth this year, or 0.8% after inflation. Its revised 2021 estimate is $940 billion, down from the previous $1.06 trillion.

[Read the sales analysis](https://qsr.pro/articles/restaurant-sales-estimate-benchmark-reset-growth-forecast)

## Bojangles adds 100 more AI drive-thrus to its plan

technology · 2026-10-22

[Bojangles](https://qsr.pro/chains/bojangles) renewed its multiyear agreement with Hi Auto and plans to add its Bo-Linda voice order taker at 100 more restaurants by mid-2027. The system already runs at nearly 500 locations.

The companies are developing a feature that changes add-on suggestions with the drive-thru line. When cars stack up, it would favor items that take less time to prepare. They have not announced a launch date for the feature.

[Read the Bojangles story](https://qsr.pro/articles/bojangles-bo-linda-extension-100-more-ai-drive-thrus)

## USDA reports record-low September feedlot flows

finance · 2026-10-23

USDA reported the lowest September placements and marketings at U.S. feedlots with capacity for at least 1,000 head since its series began in 1996. October 1 inventory was just 0.4% below a year earlier: fewer cattle entered feedlots, but fewer left for slaughter, too.

In separate price data, the September wholesale beef index rose 2.6% from August but was 3.6% below September 2025. USDA forecasts the 2026 annual average 8.8% above last year. The figures cover different periods and do not establish a restaurant’s price for a particular beef product.

[Read the beef market analysis](https://qsr.pro/articles/october-2026-beef-market-data-cattle-prices)

## Also this week

- [Square adds voice ordering to its $1,999 kiosk](https://qsr.pro/articles/square-voice-ordering-kiosk-menu-kitchen-costs) — Square’s October 14 voice-and-touch kiosk costs $1,999 with a counter stand, plus $99 per device monthly for kiosk software, and requires a current Square Plus or Premium plan.
- [Dunkin gives its Spider Donut a Halloween encore](https://qsr.pro/articles/dunkin-spider-donut-giveaway-five-day-afterlife) — Dunkin’s limited-time Spider Donut is back, alongside Halloween merchandise, a Munchkins bucket benefiting its Joy in Childhood Foundation and a themed Salem restaurant open through October.
- [PrimoHoagies opens two paths to ownership](https://qsr.pro/articles/primohoagies-restaurant-resales-smaller-store-design) — PrimoHoagies says 10–15 operating stores are available for acquisition, including some tied to owner retirements, while five smaller-format locations are in development.


---

# QSR.pro Weekly: Chick-fil-A’s $10,000 fee, Domino’s earnings

> Source: https://qsr.pro/newsletter/editions/2026-10-19
> Publisher: QSR Pro
> Last content update: 2026-10-19T13:04:24.512Z


Inside the operator model, plus a $92.9 billion restaurant month and Krispy Kreme’s 33-shop plan.

Originally sent 2026-10-19T13:04:24.512Z. Information reflects the date sent.

Good morning. [Chick-fil-A](https://qsr.pro/chains/chick-fil-a)’s operator model pairs a $10,000 initial fee with a full-time commitment. Our updated guide explains the arrangement. We also look at the supply business behind [Domino’s](https://qsr.pro/chains/dominos) earnings and an experienced [Krispy Kreme](https://qsr.pro/chains/krispy-kreme) franchisee’s next expansion.

## Updated guide: What Chick-fil-A’s $10,000 fee buys

finance · 2026-10-18

![Conceptual illustration of a restaurant operator coordinating an order with a kitchen employee inside an unbranded restaurant cutaway.](https://qsr.pro/newsletter/assets/588d83bea660cc45c40cdeaf.jpg)

[Chick-fil-A](https://qsr.pro/chains/chick-fil-a) asks a new Operator for a $10,000 initial fee and a full-time commitment to the restaurant. Its current requirements call for hands-on ownership and divestiture of other non-passive business interests. For someone already running another brand, the commitment would mean stepping away from that active business.

The company secures the premises and acquires most equipment, according to its 2025 franchise disclosure. Operators at traditional restaurants lease the space, rent equipment and pay fees tied to sales and defined net profit. The same disclosure limits their ability to transfer the franchise. Our refreshed guide explains those terms, along with how one New Jersey operator built career development into the working day.

[Read the updated guide](https://qsr.pro/articles/how-to-open-chick-fil-a-franchise)

## The supply business lifting Domino’s earnings

finance · 2026-10-13

![Domino’s corporate operating income increased 8.3%, from $223.2 million in Q3 2025 to $241.8 million in Q3 2026. Source: Domino’s financial results.](https://qsr.pro/newsletter/assets/ee9b9be34918a36c10a840e9.jpg)

[Domino’s](https://qsr.pro/chains/dominos) U.S. same-store sales rose 0.3% in the third quarter, ended September 6. Corporate operating income grew 8.3%, to $241.8 million. Its supply business and expanding franchise network helped account for the gain.

Independent franchisees run about 99% of [Domino’s](https://qsr.pro/chains/dominos) stores worldwide. Alongside royalties, the company earns money supplying food and other products, mainly in the U.S. and Canada. Supply-chain gross profit increased $12 million, helped by purchasing and labor improvements, Domino’s said.

More franchise restaurants contributed royalties, too. [Domino’s](https://qsr.pro/chains/dominos) said net openings over the previous four quarters increased the average number of U.S. and international stores generating those fees. The average U.S. supply basket of food and cardboard was priced 2.2% higher than a year earlier.

[Read the story](https://qsr.pro/articles/dominos-q3-2026-operating-income-supply-chain-royalties)

## A $92.9 billion September for restaurants

finance · 2026-10-15

![September 2026 U.S. food-service and drinking-place sales: $92.9 billion, up 7.0% from September 2025. Seasonally adjusted; not adjusted for inflation. Source: U.S. Census Bureau.](https://qsr.pro/newsletter/assets/7f2e92be6c7e35c26417e298.jpg)

September brought an estimated $92.9 billion in U.S. food-service and drinking-place sales, up 7% from a year earlier, according to Census. Across the full July–September quarter, spending was 2.6% higher than in April–June and 6% above the same quarter last year.

Those figures account for seasonal patterns but include price changes. A larger sales total can reflect bigger checks as well as more orders. [McDonald’s](https://qsr.pro/chains/mcdonalds) supplied a concrete example in its second-quarter results: U.S. comparable sales rose 0.8% as higher average checks, helped by what customers bought, more than offset fewer transactions.

[Read the story](https://qsr.pro/articles/september-food-service-sales-restaurant-shares-rally-2026)

## Sbarro lines up a shared checkout and payments platform

technology · 2026-10-14

![Editorial illustration of a pizza counter, checkout terminal and connected restaurant operations.](https://qsr.pro/newsletter/assets/b681780d1d97a85ff836faf2.jpg)

Sbarro plans to bring Aloha Next point of sale and Voyix Pay to nearly 300 U.S. company-owned and franchise restaurants under a multiyear agreement with NCR Voyix. The aim is to bring store data together for the restaurants and the teams overseeing them. CEO David Karam says Sbarro wants a simpler technology setup and a clearer view of operations as the network grows.

That network increasingly reaches beyond the mall food court. Karam told PMQ in September that most new Sbarro openings were elsewhere. At convenience stores and travel centers, franchisees generally also own and run the host operation, with pizza complementing fuel and retail sales.

[Read the story](https://qsr.pro/articles/sbarro-ncr-voyix-pos-payments-us-restaurants)

## From a Jersey City shop to a 33-store commitment

industry · 2026-10-13

![Map of the New York metro area naming New Jersey, New York City and Long Island. The October 13 announcement says Original Entrepreneurs operates 12 Krispy Kreme shops and plans 33 more over five years.](https://qsr.pro/newsletter/assets/d96a98829bb48cd024480859.jpg)

Original Entrepreneurs opened its first [Krispy Kreme](https://qsr.pro/chains/krispy-kreme) shop in Jersey City in 2017. The group now operates 12 and has agreed to add 33 over five years across New York City, Long Island and New Jersey.

The deal extends an existing partnership as [Krispy Kreme](https://qsr.pro/chains/krispy-kreme) shifts more of its business to franchise ownership. In August, the company said franchisees generated about 42% of systemwide sales, compared with 25% in fiscal 2025. Its goal is about 50% beginning fiscal 2027.

Franchisees provide the money and daily management for their shops; [Krispy Kreme](https://qsr.pro/chains/krispy-kreme) collects royalties and sells doughnut mix and equipment. The company’s broader network supports different formats. Hot Light Theater Shops make doughnuts on site and serve as production hubs; smaller Fresh Shops receive doughnuts from hubs instead of making them. The New York announcement does not specify the planned mix.

[Read the story](https://qsr.pro/articles/krispy-kreme-new-york-franchise-development-plan)

## Dunkin’s Spider Donut gets a merchandise line of its own

marketing · 2026-10-14

![Conceptual illustration of a purple Halloween doughnut in a bakery box, with shadows shaped like a keyring and a surprise box.](https://qsr.pro/newsletter/assets/9a06bd6dd3a6b5ae0a225635.jpg)

[Dunkin](https://qsr.pro/chains/dunkin)’s returning Spider Donut has company beyond the bakery case. The Halloween lineup, launched October 14, puts a $9.99 Spider Donut Keychain and an $8.99 Mystery Boo Box in participating restaurants. Each box holds one surprise collectible: a squishy toy, pin set, acrylic keychain or bandana.

The doughnut is purple-frosted, with a Chocolate Glazed MUNCHKIN forming the spider’s body. For a larger order, a new glow-in-the-dark bucket holds a random assortment of 50 MUNCHKINS. [Dunkin’](https://qsr.pro/chains/dunkin) says $2 from each Halloween bucket sold goes to its Joy in Childhood Foundation.

[See the Halloween lineup](https://news.dunkindonuts.com/news/dunkin-halloween-menu-2)

## Also this week

- [Restaurant prices rise faster than groceries](https://qsr.pro/articles/september-2026-restaurant-grocery-inflation-gap-real-earnings) — Limited-service meal prices rose 3.2% over the year ended September, compared with 1.8% for groceries.
- [Taco Bell gets ready for Poland](https://qsr.pro/articles/amrest-taco-bell-poland-hiring-training-launch-preparations) — AmRest is recruiting a Warsaw team for Taco Bell’s planned fourth-quarter Poland launch, with training at its existing Warsaw center.
- [Fast-casual and full-service sales diverge](https://qsr.pro/articles/marginedge-september-2026-restaurant-sales) — MarginEdge reported fast-casual sales up 2.65% and full-service sales down 2.23% in its U.S. and Canadian customer sample, using trailing 28-day year-over-year readings through September.


---

# QSR.pro Weekly: Uber’s $2.3B catering deal, Toast’s AI schedules

> Source: https://qsr.pro/newsletter/editions/2026-10-12
> Publisher: QSR Pro
> Last content update: 2026-10-12T11:05:21.581Z


Plus faster drive-thrus, Wendy’s bid to keep restaurants open and Taco Bell’s next Milk Bar dessert.

Originally sent 2026-10-12T11:05:21.581Z. Information reflects the date sent.

Good morning. Lunch for the office can mean a sizeable order: ezCater says its average exceeds $400. Uber’s proposed purchase leads this week’s brief.

## Uber agrees to buy ezCater for $2.3 billion

finance · 2026-10-06

![A restaurant team member packs catering boxes with an office lunch meeting in the background.](https://qsr.pro/newsletter/assets/539eef9aef681eabb973c772.jpg)

Uber has agreed to buy the workplace-catering company for $2.3 billion in cash, subject to regulatory approval. It expects to bring restaurants more group orders through Uber Eats and Uber for Business.

[Read the story](https://qsr.pro/articles/uber-ezcater-acquisition-workplace-catering)

## Drive-thrus got faster at the pickup window

operations · 2026-10-01

![Illustration of a restaurant worker handing a takeout bag to a drive-thru customer.](https://qsr.pro/newsletter/assets/34d452d8f89a2e627cf00dd0.jpg)

The pickup window is where drive-thrus saved the most time this year. In Intouch Insight’s study, customers spent 1 minute, 40 seconds there, down 7.5 seconds from 2025. The average full visit took 5 minutes, 24 seconds.

The study covered 2,145 mystery-shopper visits across 13 U.S. brands in June and July.

[Read the story](https://qsr.pro/articles/drive-thru-study-2026-pickup-window-handoff)

## Toast adds AI scheduling to its staffing tools

technology · 2026-10-06

![Illustration of a restaurant manager reviewing a staff schedule beside a tablet.](https://qsr.pro/newsletter/assets/c690546bfeaf7ceb91a0a9d6.jpg)

Toast’s new Scheduling Agent, now in beta, drafts a weekly staff schedule using expected sales, employee availability and overtime risk. Managers can review and adjust it before publishing. The tool is part of Toast IQ Team, the company’s staffing package.

[Read the story](https://qsr.pro/articles/toast-iq-team-scheduling-timekeeping-payroll)

## Wendy’s sought to keep seven Meritage restaurants open

finance · 2026-10-09

[Wendy’s](https://qsr.pro/chains/wendys) proposed keeping seven Meritage restaurants open by closing other locations instead and covering losses from the substitutions, Fast Company reported.

The seven were among ten restaurants Meritage planned to close October 9 during its bankruptcy. QSR.pro had not confirmed whether they closed as of October 11.

[Read the story](https://qsr.pro/articles/meritage-wendys-disputed-restaurant-closures-october-2026)

## Taco Bell puts birthday cake in an empanada

marketing · 2026-10-08

Cake batter-flavored filling, pink frosting and rainbow sprinkles: [Taco Bell](https://qsr.pro/chains/taco-bell)’s new Milk Bar Birthday Cake Empanada arrives October 15. The advertised price is $3.49, though prices vary by restaurant. It will be sold at participating locations while supplies last.

[See the announcement](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/taco-bell-and-milk-bar-reunite-for-all-new-birthday-cake-empanada-302901760.html)

## Also this week

- [Red Robin refinances after 108 restaurant transfers](https://qsr.pro/articles/red-robin-refinancing-franchise-transfers-october-2026) — Red Robin completed a $115 million refinancing after transferring 108 restaurants to franchise operators, with eight more transfers expected by fiscal year-end.
- [HME adds cameras to drive-thru timing](https://qsr.pro/articles/hme-nitro-vision-ai-drive-thru-camera-alerts) — HME’s Nitro Vision AI adds cameras to its drive-thru timer, following vehicles from the pre-menu queue through pickup.
- [Chick-fil-A adds a second scholarship window](https://qsr.pro/articles/chick-fil-a-second-scholarship-window-operator-workflow) — Eligible restaurant employees can now apply for $1,500 scholarships twice a year, for up to $3,000 annually; the current application window closes October 27.
- [The Dunkin Zero sugar-labeling dispute](https://qsr.pro/articles/dunkin-zero-lawsuit-allulose-sugar-labeling) — A proposed class action challenges Dunkin Zero’s zero-sugar labeling because the drinks contain the sweetener allulose.
- [Chipotle reaches 1,500 Chipotlanes](https://qsr.pro/articles/chipotle-1500-chipotlanes-pickup-kitchen-equipment) — Chipotle’s September 29 opening in Bradenton, Florida, pairs its 1,500th pickup lane with a new restaurant design and kitchen equipment package.
- [Deliveroo plans UK robot deliveries](https://qsr.pro/articles/deliveroo-coco-uk-robot-delivery-restaurant-handoff) — Deliveroo plans to begin Coco robot deliveries in London’s Canary Wharf this month, with four more UK locations due to follow.
- [Subway links ordering, kitchens and pickup](https://qsr.pro/articles/subway-emea-blueprint-ordering-kitchens-pickup) — New Subway restaurants and remodels in Europe, the Middle East and Africa will use its Blueprint design from January 1, 2027, connecting ordering, kitchen screens and pickup.
- [True Food Kitchen gets interim borrowing approval](https://qsr.pro/articles/true-food-kitchen-interim-financing-sale-investment-october-2026) — An October 6 court order permits True Food Kitchen to borrow up to $5 million as it pursues a sale or new investment during bankruptcy.


---

# Applebee's - QSR Chain Profile

> Source: https://qsr.pro/chains/applebees
> Publisher: QSR Pro
> Last content update: 2026-09-21T19:33:24.888782+00:00


Applebee's Neighborhood Grill + Bar is a Dine Brands Global (NYSE: DIN) casual-dining brand. As of June 28, 2026 Dine Brands counted 1,476 Applebee's locations after dual-brand adjustments, on a development count of 1,557 restaurants (1,439 franchised and 118 company-operated). Domestic same-restaurant sales fell 1.8% in the second quarter. Thrive Restaurant Group's Goodwill success-coach program in nine Wichita Applebee's is in QSR.pro coverage, as is Dine Brands' Applebee's-IHOP dual-brand plan.

Applebee's Neighborhood Grill + Bar is a Dine Brands Global (NYSE: DIN) casual-dining brand. As of June 28, 2026 Dine Brands counted 1,476 Applebee's locations after dual-brand adjustments, on a development count of 1,557 restaurants (1,439 franchised and 118 company-operated). Domestic same-restaurant sales fell 1.8% in the second quarter. Thrive Restaurant Group's Goodwill success-coach program in nine Wichita Applebee's is in QSR.pro coverage, as is Dine Brands' Applebee's-IHOP dual-brand plan.

## Chain facts

- Founded: 1980
- Headquarters: Pasadena, California
- Segment: other
- Parent company: Dine Brands Global

## Recorded metrics

- 2026 franchise fee: 35000 — Applebee's 2026 FDD Item 5, as summarized by FDD Exchange
- 2026 franchised pct: 92.4 — Dine Brands Q2 2026: 1,439 franchised of 1,557 Applebee's development restaurants
- 2026 global unit count: 1557 — Dine Brands Q2 2026 release, Applebee's total development restaurants, June 28, 2026
- 2026 initial investment max: 5822933 — Applebee's 2026 FDD Item 7
- 2026 initial investment min: 616682 — Applebee's 2026 FDD Item 7
- 2026 marketing fee: 4.25 — Applebee's 2026 FDD Item 6, 4.25% brand fund
- 2026 royalty rate: 4 — Applebee's 2026 FDD Item 6, 4% of gross sales
- 2026 us unit count: 1476 — Dine Brands Q2 2026 release, Applebee's total locations after dual-brand adjustment, June 28, 2026


---

# 7 Brew - QSR Chain Profile

> Source: https://qsr.pro/chains/7-brew
> Publisher: QSR Pro
> Last content update: 2026-09-21T19:33:26.174032+00:00


7 Brew is a private drive-thru coffee chain based in Rogers, Arkansas, founded in 2017. Its 2026 Franchise Disclosure Document reported 602 outlets at year-end 2025: 578 franchised and 24 company-operated. Item 7 estimates initial investment at $940,500 to $2,283,500, and the franchisor grants deals for multi-unit development of at least 10 stores. Royalty is disclosed as a range, not a single rate.

7 Brew is a private drive-thru coffee chain based in Rogers, Arkansas, founded in 2017. Its 2026 Franchise Disclosure Document reported 602 outlets at year-end 2025: 578 franchised and 24 company-operated. Item 7 estimates initial investment at $940,500 to $2,283,500, and the franchisor grants deals for multi-unit development of at least 10 stores. Royalty is disclosed as a range, not a single rate.

## Chain facts

- Founded: 2017
- Headquarters: Rogers, Arkansas
- Segment: coffee

## Recorded metrics

- 2023 global unit count: 180 — 7 Brew 2026 FDD Item 20
- 2023 us unit count: 180 — 7 Brew 2026 FDD Item 20, year-end 2023 outlets
- 2024 global unit count: 321 — 7 Brew 2026 FDD Item 20
- 2024 us unit count: 321 — 7 Brew 2026 FDD Item 20, year-end 2024 outlets
- 2025 franchised pct: 96 — 7 Brew 2026 FDD Item 20: 578 franchised of 602 outlets
- 2025 global unit count: 602 — 7 Brew 2026 FDD Item 20
- 2025 us unit count: 602 — 7 Brew 2026 FDD Item 20, year-end 2025 outlets
- 2026 franchise fee: 35000 — 7 Brew 2026 FDD Item 5, first-store franchise fee
- 2026 initial investment max: 2283500 — 7 Brew 2026 FDD Item 7
- 2026 initial investment min: 940500 — 7 Brew 2026 FDD Item 7
- 2026 marketing fee: 2 — 7 Brew 2026 FDD Item 6, 2% brand fund


---

# Whataburger - QSR Chain Profile

> Source: https://qsr.pro/chains/whataburger
> Publisher: QSR Pro
> Last content update: 2026-07-03T16:41:58.665264+00:00


Texas-based burger chain with 24-hour service and regional cult following

Texas-based burger chain with 24-hour service and regional cult following

## Chain facts

- Founded: 1950
- Headquarters: San Antonio, Texas
- Segment: burger
- Parent company: BDT Capital Partners

## Recorded metrics

- 2019 us unit count: 718 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2020 us unit count: 715 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2021 us unit count: 737 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2022 us unit count: 731 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2023 us unit count: 760 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2024 royalty rate: 5 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2024 system sales: 3300000000 — Industry reports
- 2024 auv: 3500000 — Industry analysis
- 2024 us unit count: 757 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2024 initial investment max: 1428000 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2024 initial investment min: 535500 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2024 unit count: 900 — Company reports
- 2025 us unit count: 771 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2025 global unit count: 900 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2025 franchised pct: 15 — QSR Pro estimates


---

# Baskin-Robbins - QSR Chain Profile

> Source: https://qsr.pro/chains/baskin-robbins
> Publisher: QSR Pro
> Last content update: 2026-07-03T16:41:58.665264+00:00


Ice cream chain famous for 31 flavors

Ice cream chain famous for 31 flavors

## Chain facts

- Founded: 1945
- Headquarters: Canton, Massachusetts
- Segment: other
- Parent company: Inspire Brands

## Recorded metrics

- 2019 us unit count: 1977 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2020 us unit count: 2026 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2021 us unit count: 2038 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2022 us unit count: 2073 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2023 us unit count: 2047 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2024 initial investment max: 402200 — FDD
- 2024 royalty rate: 5.9 — FDD
- 2024 us unit count: 2127 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2024 unit count: 2500 — Company reports
- 2024 system sales: 700000000 — Industry reports
- 2024 auv: 370000 — Franchise analysis
- 2024 franchise fee: 25000 — FDD
- 2024 initial investment min: 94350 — FDD
- 2025 us unit count: 2095 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2025 global unit count: 2500 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2025 franchised pct: 90 — QSR Pro estimates


---

# Jersey Mike's Subs - QSR Chain Profile

> Source: https://qsr.pro/chains/jersey-mikes-subs
> Publisher: QSR Pro
> Last content update: 2026-07-03T16:41:58.665264+00:00


Submarine sandwich chain with authentic Jersey-style subs

Submarine sandwich chain with authentic Jersey-style subs

## Chain facts

- Founded: 1956
- Headquarters: Manasquan, New Jersey
- Segment: sandwich

## Recorded metrics

- 2019 us unit count: 1890 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2020 us unit count: 1868 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2021 us unit count: 1916 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2022 us unit count: 1943 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2023 us unit count: 1956 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2024 initial investment max: 787290 — FDD
- 2024 royalty rate: 6.5 — FDD
- 2024 us unit count: 2028 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2024 unit count: 2400 — Company reports
- 2024 system sales: 3200000000 — Industry reports
- 2024 auv: 1400000 — Franchise analysis
- 2024 franchise fee: 18500 — FDD
- 2024 initial investment min: 178523 — FDD
- 2025 us unit count: 2091 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2025 global unit count: 2400 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2025 franchised pct: 90 — QSR Pro estimates
- 2025 digital sales pct: 55 — QSR Pro estimates


---

# October 2026 Articles

> Source: https://qsr.pro/archive/2026/10
> Publisher: QSR Pro


QSR Pro coverage for October 2026.

- [Workers pay more for family health coverage at smaller firms](https://qsr.pro/articles/family-health-premiums-small-firm-workers-2026) — KFF compares family premiums and worker contributions. Separate federal data distinguish benefit access from enrollment.
- [Chipotle’s brisket return revisits a food-cost tradeoff](https://qsr.pro/articles/chipotle-brisket-return-2026-food-cost-tradeoff) — Chipotle plans a November 5 return. Its third-quarter 2024 results show how brisket success also changed the protein-cost mix.
- [USDA reports record-low September feedlot placements](https://qsr.pro/articles/october-2026-beef-market-data-cattle-prices) — September feedlot flows fell; inventory barely changed year-over-year.
- [Taco Bell keeps PepsiCo for 11 years as KFC moves to Coca-Cola](https://qsr.pro/articles/taco-bell-pepsico-11-year-renewal-kfc-coca-cola) — Taco Bell renewed PepsiCo through 2036 while KFC plans to switch to Coca-Cola. Two Café Refrescas are scheduled for national Taco Bell menus in December.
- [Bojangles extends AI drive-thru deal, plans 100 more sites and line-aware upsells](https://qsr.pro/articles/bojangles-bo-linda-extension-100-more-ai-drive-thrus) — Bojangles and Hi Auto plan 100 more Bo-Linda sites and a queue-aware upsell feature. What owners can test when it arrives.
- [What Blodgett’s $21,736 four-chamber oven asks of a QSR kitchen](https://qsr.pro/articles/blodgett-imvection-four-chamber-oven-qsr-buyer-guide) — Blodgett pitches faster tickets from four cooking chambers. Its own documents show the temperature, pan, power and installation questions a franchise operator should settle first.
- [Teriyaki Madness reports 5.5% Q3 same-store traffic growth](https://qsr.pro/articles/teriyaki-madness-q3-2026-traffic-catering-growth) — Company figures distinguish existing-shop gains from expansion. Earlier interviews describe catering operations and digital-order constraints.
- [Dunkin's Spidey D Coffee Giveaway Has a Five-Day Afterlife](https://qsr.pro/articles/dunkin-spider-donut-giveaway-five-day-afterlife) — Dunkin's October 21 coffee-code offer is over, but certificates remain valid for five days after entry. Halloween collectibles and a Salem makeover precede a November 4 Marvel menu.
- [Mike’s Red Tacos turns to an experienced operator for 36 Florida stores](https://qsr.pro/articles/mikes-red-tacos-florida-built-different-brands) — Built Different Brands plans the first Florida opening for 2027 under a 36-store agreement.
- [Square’s $1,999 voice kiosk targets franchise operators](https://qsr.pro/articles/square-voice-ordering-kiosk-menu-kitchen-costs) — Voice ordering and chain-level controls come with always-on internet, Square POS connections and monthly software fees.
- [Restaurant sales projection cut $190 billion after Census benchmark](https://qsr.pro/articles/restaurant-sales-estimate-benchmark-reset-growth-forecast) — New Census benchmarks shrink the estimated market but leave the 2026 growth forecast intact.
- [PrimoHoagies offers 10–15 restaurant resales as it tests a smaller store](https://qsr.pro/articles/primohoagies-restaurant-resales-smaller-store-design) — Retiring owners create an acquisition path while new franchisees develop a 1,100-square-foot format.
- [Restaurant spending rises as Wendy’s and Starbucks shares rally](https://qsr.pro/articles/september-food-service-sales-restaurant-shares-rally-2026) — U.S. food-service sales reached $92.9 billion in September. Earlier results at McDonald’s and Wendy’s show how larger checks can support sales and cushion rising costs.
- [Krispy Kreme announces 33-shop New York development deal](https://qsr.pro/articles/krispy-kreme-new-york-franchise-development-plan) — Original Entrepreneurs plans 33 shops over five years as Krispy Kreme expands through franchisees.
- [AmRest recruits Warsaw staff for planned Taco Bell launch](https://qsr.pro/articles/amrest-taco-bell-poland-hiring-training-launch-preparations) — AmRest’s Warsaw recruitment notice details training and restaurant work ahead of Taco Bell’s planned Polish launch.
- [Grocery slowdown widens September’s inflation gap with restaurants](https://qsr.pro/articles/september-2026-restaurant-grocery-inflation-gap-real-earnings) — Limited-service annual inflation held at 3.2% as grocery inflation slowed to 1.8%. BLS also reported a monthly decline in real earnings.
- [Sbarro plans POS and payments upgrade at nearly 300 U.S. restaurants](https://qsr.pro/articles/sbarro-ncr-voyix-pos-payments-us-restaurants) — Sbarro plans Aloha Next and Voyix Pay adoption at nearly 300 U.S. restaurants. The agreement aims to unify store operations, payments and central data management.
- [What lifted Domino’s Q3 operating income](https://qsr.pro/articles/dominos-q3-2026-operating-income-supply-chain-royalties) — Higher supply-chain gross profit and royalties explain the pizza franchisor’s third-quarter operating-income increase.
- [MarginEdge: Fast-casual sales growth tops full service’s in September](https://qsr.pro/articles/marginedge-september-2026-restaurant-sales) — September’s reported sales-growth gap was 4.88 percentage points.
- [MTY renews its franchising push after strategic review](https://qsr.pro/articles/mty-franchising-strategic-review-restaurant-ownership) — MTY plans fewer company-operated restaurants and a review of its brands.
- [Kinetic12 plans to bring MenuData research into foodservice consulting](https://qsr.pro/articles/kinetic12-menudata-foodservice-consulting-planning) — Kinetic12 plans to use MenuData’s menu, flavor and pricing intelligence in foodservice consulting.
- [Wendy’s sought to keep seven Meritage restaurants open](https://qsr.pro/articles/meritage-wendys-disputed-restaurant-closures-october-2026) — The proposal would replace seven planned closures with closures elsewhere, Fast Company reports.
- [QSR property asking yields rise in Q3](https://qsr.pro/articles/qsr-property-asking-cap-rates-q3-2026) — Boulder’s October report puts corporate and franchisee property asking yields 97 basis points apart, with separate comparisons by lease term.
- [HME's Nitro Vision AI brings cameras to drive-thru timing](https://qsr.pro/articles/hme-nitro-vision-ai-drive-thru-camera-alerts) — How HME maps the queue and configures crew alerts.
- [Why Dunkin Zero’s sugar claims drew a lawsuit](https://qsr.pro/articles/dunkin-zero-lawsuit-allulose-sugar-labeling) — The dispute turns on allulose and the rules separating nutrition disclosures from marketing claims.
- [Red Robin refinances after transferring 108 restaurants](https://qsr.pro/articles/red-robin-refinancing-franchise-transfers-october-2026) — Completed restaurant transfers preceded Red Robin’s five-year refinancing. Its pricing and coverage tests account for debt and rent.
- [Subway’s EMEA Blueprint links ordering, kitchens and pickup](https://qsr.pro/articles/subway-emea-blueprint-ordering-kitchens-pickup) — The January 2027 standard for new stores and remodels follows earlier technology trials. Local formats depend on demand.
- [Toast IQ Team connects AI scheduling with payroll](https://qsr.pro/articles/toast-iq-team-scheduling-timekeeping-payroll) — Toast’s new labor bundle connects schedule planning, recorded hours and payroll review.
- [Faster pickup handoffs led drive-thru gains in 2026 study](https://qsr.pro/articles/drive-thru-study-2026-pickup-window-handoff) — Faster pickup handoffs led the study’s service-time gains. Dunkin’ and Chick-fil-A examples show how kitchen work and lane design connect.
- [Chick-fil-A adds a second $1,500 scholarship window](https://qsr.pro/articles/chick-fil-a-second-scholarship-window-operator-workflow) — Restaurant employees can apply in fall and spring. Operators submit recommendations after employee applications.
- [Deliveroo plans UK robot deliveries with Coco](https://qsr.pro/articles/deliveroo-coco-uk-robot-delivery-restaurant-handoff) — Deliveroo and Coco plan a phased UK launch starting in Canary Wharf, with pavement robots handling short trips alongside the rider network.
- [Uber agrees to buy ezCater for $2.3 billion](https://qsr.pro/articles/uber-ezcater-acquisition-workplace-catering) — ezCater's Online Ordering service connects restaurant websites to a branded catering checkout and lets restaurants export their own customer records.
- [True Food Kitchen gets interim borrowing approval](https://qsr.pro/articles/true-food-kitchen-interim-financing-sale-investment-october-2026) — The chain is seeking a buyer or new investment through a proposed process that could preserve leases and beverage permits.
- [Chipotle’s 1,500th Chipotlane pairs pickup with kitchen upgrades](https://qsr.pro/articles/chipotle-1500-chipotlanes-pickup-kitchen-equipment) — Chipotle’s September 29 milestone in Florida shows how pickup lanes fit its restaurant expansion.
- [Pizza Hut’s next reading project has a red roof](https://qsr.pro/articles/pizza-hut-little-hut-libraries-local-stewards-book-it-2026) — The Little Free Library collaboration connects Pizza Hut’s restaurant design and BOOK IT history with neighborhood book sharing.
- [Grain prices rise as U.S. wholesale beef prices ease](https://qsr.pro/articles/q4-2026-grain-beef-food-costs-diesel) — New reports show rising grain prices and easing U.S. wholesale beef.
- [Sky Co-op uses AI to flag purchasing price changes](https://qsr.pro/articles/sky-co-op-ai-purchasing-price-review) — Tom Hannon says AI assistants flag purchasing changes while people retain buying decisions.
- [7 Brew’s $2 protein boost goes nationwide, from coffee to soda](https://qsr.pro/articles/7-brew-protein-boost-nationwide-drink-menu) — 7 Brew expands protein choices alongside coffee brands’ milk and foam.
- [Digi plans $130 million sensor acquisition for SmartSense](https://qsr.pro/articles/digi-smartsense-disruptive-technologies-acquisition) — Digi’s planned acquisition would bring Disruptive Technologies into its SmartSense business.
- [DFI plans takeover of Maxim’s licensed Starbucks interests](https://qsr.pro/articles/dfi-maxims-starbucks-licensed-interests) — The conditional exchange covers licensed interests in seven Asian markets.
- [Restaurants and bars added 10,800 jobs in September](https://qsr.pro/articles/september-2026-restaurant-payrolls-hiring-staffing) — September’s restaurant and bar payroll gain followed a revised increase in August.
- [DoorDash connects restaurant tools through DashOS](https://qsr.pro/articles/doordash-dashos-ordering-guest-tools-2026) — Existing ordering tools meet a 2027 integration roadmap.
- [DTiQ launches ACTIONiQ to alert restaurant managers](https://qsr.pro/articles/dtiq-actioniq-restaurant-alerts) — DTiQ says ACTIONiQ flags queue conditions, supports scheduled reviews and leaves the response to restaurant managers.
- [Hormel agrees to buy chicken processor Brakebush](https://qsr.pro/articles/hormel-brakebush-acquisition-chicken-foodservice) — The proposed acquisition would add chicken portioning, cooking and custom product development to Hormel's foodservice business.


---

# September 2026 Articles

> Source: https://qsr.pro/archive/2026/09
> Publisher: QSR Pro


QSR Pro coverage for September 2026.

- [El Pollo Loco plans New York entry with three franchise partners](https://qsr.pro/articles/el-pollo-loco-new-york-franchise-development-queens-2026) — The company says its first regional lease is signed in Queens, with an opening targeted for mid-2027.
- [Dunkin brings cold foam to Zero for Halloween](https://qsr.pro/articles/dunkin-zero-cold-foam-halloween-october-rewards-2026) — The seasonal drinks build on earlier beverage launches, with an October afternoon bonus for Boosted members.
- [Menufy survey: Diners would check menus after AI recommendations](https://qsr.pro/articles/menufy-survey-ai-restaurant-recommendations-menu-checks) — Respondents would check menus and websites after AI recommendations. Google’s documentation explains discovery eligibility and menu publishing.
- [Square links Apple Maps place cards to restaurant ordering](https://qsr.pro/articles/square-apple-maps-restaurant-ordering-september-2026) — Square’s September 24 update connects its Dashboard to Apple Business, adding tools to manage restaurant listings and ordering links.
- [CAVA’s training plan at 500 restaurants](https://qsr.pro/articles/cava-opening-teams-training-500-restaurants-september-2026) — Opening specialists and manager development support the expansion.
- [Five Guys says its 2,000th restaurant has 150-language kiosks](https://qsr.pro/articles/five-guys-citywalk-2000th-restaurant-kiosks) — Five Guys says its CityWalk kiosks offer ordering in 150 languages. Universal’s venue preview advertised breakfast sandwiches and indoor and outdoor seating.
- [Restaurant Workers in Survey See Several Paths to Advance](https://qsr.pro/articles/restaurant-workers-survey-career-advancement-current-other-employers) — Surveyed workers see career opportunities with current and other employers.
- [SBA's October 1 acquisition rules: earnings, equity and the $3 million test](https://qsr.pro/articles/sba-october-1-2026-acquisition-rules-restaurant-buyers) — The updated SBA manual separates initial acquisitions from qualifying expansions, ties earnings reviews to the business purchase price and sets conditions for equity contributions.
- [Taco Bell adds daily games and Friday prize entries](https://qsr.pro/articles/taco-bell-bid-on-luxe-daily-games-prize-drawings) — Rewards members can turn virtual paddles into entries for weekly prize drawings.
- [Restaurant outlook forecasts modest purchasing-power growth](https://qsr.pro/articles/restaurant-association-september-2026-purchasing-power-outlook) — The Association forecasts 0.5% growth in real disposable income for 2026. Its separately released survey describes restaurant use and spending choices.
- [Scooter’s Coffee connects app and marketplace ordering through Olo](https://qsr.pro/articles/scooters-coffee-olo-app-marketplace-ordering-september-2026) — June’s marketplace setup and September’s app migration show how Scooter’s connects digital ordering with store systems.
- [Wendy’s operator Meritage plans closures, Fast Company reports](https://qsr.pro/articles/meritage-wendys-operating-objection-september-2026) — Fast Company reports planned closures as Meritage’s bankruptcy proceedings continue.
- [Pizza Inn signs a 10-buffet development agreement](https://qsr.pro/articles/pizza-inn-10-buffet-development-agreement-2026) — The first five openings are anticipated in fiscal 2027.
- [Starbucks plans 250 North American closures](https://qsr.pro/articles/starbucks-250-north-america-closures-september-2026) — Starbucks estimates $300 million in restructuring charges and lowers its global net-opening forecast to about 440.
- [KPOT picks Deliverect for marketplace orders and menus](https://qsr.pro/articles/kpot-deliverect-marketplace-orders-menu-management) — KPOT plans a network deployment. Deliverect’s general tools connect shared menus with local exceptions, editing permissions and channel publishing.
- [Wendy’s made an emo album for its parking lot](https://qsr.pro/articles/wendys-emo-album-parking-lot) — Six tracks, real musicians and a Frosty funeral.
- [Decision Logic launches Vitals and ShiftFlow](https://qsr.pro/articles/decision-logic-vitals-shiftflow-performance-mobile-tasks) — Decision Logic says Vitals tracks performance and ShiftFlow organizes mobile tasks.
- [How restaurant workers can ask Giving Kitchen for crisis support](https://qsr.pro/articles/giving-kitchen-crisis-assistance-restaurant-workers) — Ahead of September 25, Giving Kitchen is pointing food-service workers toward existing crisis assistance and community resources.
- [KFC Canada's Kwench rollout pairs equipment and site work](https://qsr.pro/articles/kfc-canada-kwench-equipment-site-work) — Elevate outlines a program to equip and prepare more than 200 Canadian KFC restaurants.
- [Arby’s promotes Loaded Rewards](https://qsr.pro/articles/arbys-loaded-rewards-checkout-points) — Points connect restaurant purchases and digital orders.
- [Bad Ass Coffee moves headquarters to Lexington](https://qsr.pro/articles/bad-ass-coffee-lexington-headquarters-distribution) — A new distribution center supports East Coast and destination stores.
- [Chipotle pilots food-safety platform with Palantir](https://qsr.pro/articles/chipotle-palantir-food-safety-risk-pilot) — The company’s September statement outlined a pilot to consolidate restaurant risk information and guide follow-up.
- [Slutty Vegan adds Cincinnati to Soul Republic’s Ohio plans](https://qsr.pro/articles/slutty-vegan-cincinnati-soul-republic-ohio) — Soul Republic’s third announced Ohio market follows its plans for Columbus and Cleveland.
- [DonorLink connects Toast food donations to volunteer pickups](https://qsr.pro/articles/donorlink-toast-food-donations-volunteer-pickups) — Food Rescue US links Toast donation records to local pickups, following a 2023 grant initiative.
- [McDonald’s plans $8.5 billion in franchise support](https://qsr.pro/articles/mcdonalds-next-franchise-support) — Rent relief and capital backing would help fund restaurant upgrades.
- [Aspire’s first food-service trainees serve a practice lunch](https://qsr.pro/articles/aspire-food-service-training-paid-internships) — Aspire’s first food-service cohort handled a three-course lunch, from taking orders to resetting tables, as part of its preparation for restaurant jobs.
- [KFC UK Made Cereal. It Wants You to Add Gravy.](https://qsr.pro/articles/kfc-uk-surreal-cereal-gravy) — Chicken-flavored cereal meets a gravy boat.
- [Presto connects drive-thru voice orders to Toast](https://qsr.pro/articles/presto-connects-drive-thru-voice-orders-to-toast) — How menu management, voice generation and POS connections bring spoken orders into restaurant operations.
- [Dunkin’s coffee gets an L.L.Bean sweater. Humans are next.](https://qsr.pro/articles/dunkin-llbean-matching-coffee-sweaters) — The coffee gets dressed first.
- [Carl’s Jr. wants proof you threw away your crown](https://qsr.pro/articles/carls-jr-crown-photos-angus-maximus-promotion) — Carl’s Jr. limited burger offers to the first 100 eligible entries.
- [7 Brew outbids Dutch Bros for 72 Salad and Go drive-thrus](https://qsr.pro/articles/dutch-bros-salad-and-go-site-assets-agreement-august-2026) — 7 Brew won the August 31 auction for 72 closed Salad and Go leases. Dutch Bros declined to raise its bid. The court has not approved the sale.
- [Thrive put a Goodwill coach in nine restaurants](https://qsr.pro/articles/thrive-goodwill-success-coach-wichita-applebees) — More than 80 of about 300 Wichita employees used the coach in year one.
- [Meritage files for Chapter 11, plans to keep restaurants operating](https://qsr.pro/articles/meritage-chapter-11-restaurant-operations-september-2026) — The Wendy’s operator is seeking financing and court approval for employee payments.
- [Tropical Smoothie plans cafe and digital refresh](https://qsr.pro/articles/tropical-smoothie-cafe-brand-digital-refresh) — Cafe branding changes begin in coming weeks; a redesigned web and app experience follows over several months.
- [Brinker targets 30 annual restaurant openings by fiscal 2029](https://qsr.pro/articles/brinker-30-annual-restaurant-openings-fiscal-2029) — Brinker’s development plans pair new restaurants with remodel investment. It forecast fiscal 2027 capital spending of $265 million to $285 million.
- [Hunt Brothers, GoMart and Così outline three partner formats](https://qsr.pro/articles/hunt-brothers-gomart-cosi-partner-formats) — Pizza inside stores, restaurant endcaps and licensed catering bring different operating arrangements.
- [Qvinci launches RoyaltyHub for franchise billing](https://qsr.pro/articles/qvinci-launches-royaltyhub-franchise-billing) — The platform connects royalty invoices and payments.
- [Crunchtime brings prep and waste logging to kitchen screens](https://qsr.pro/articles/crunchtime-connected-kitchen-prep-waste-tasks) — The September launch connects tasks, inventory and reporting.
- [&pizza removes kiosks and AI ordering](https://qsr.pro/articles/andpizza-removes-kiosks-ai-ordering) — The chain cites lost interaction with guests.
- [Higher-income households account for most restaurant spending](https://qsr.pro/articles/higher-income-households-restaurant-spending-september-2026) — New Census income figures and the restaurant association's analysis show how higher-income households contribute to spending on meals away from home.
- [7shifts Brings Employee Training Into Its Restaurant HR Platform](https://qsr.pro/articles/7shifts-employee-training-premium-courses-manager-review) — Course completion still leaves managers responsible for assessing practical skills.
- [Chipotle Targets Full Apprentice Coverage by the End of 2027](https://qsr.pro/articles/chipotle-apprentice-coverage-target-management-development-2027) — Chipotle aims to extend Apprentice coverage from roughly three-quarters of restaurants to every company-owned location by end-2027.
- [Taco Bell Foundation's 2026 Grants Reach 700 Nonprofits](https://qsr.pro/articles/taco-bell-foundation-2026-community-grants-local-nominations) — Applications require an invitation from the foundation.
- [Dunkin’s Tennis Campaign Connects Drinks, Merchandise and Rewards](https://qsr.pro/articles/dunkin-tennis-menu-head-amex-rewards-september-2026) — An upcoming app points offer follows restaurant tennis collectibles, an announced HEAD collection and a public Grand Central pop-up.
- [WOWorks’ Franchise Incentives Reward Scale, but Cash Timing Matters](https://qsr.pro/articles/woworks-franchise-incentive-tiers-fee-refunds-royalty-relief-2026) — WOWorks ties franchise fee reductions, refunds and royalty relief to development commitments. Operators need to put the incentives on the same calendar as their openings.
- [Jersey Mike’s Q2 shows sales growth and a complicated earnings comparison](https://qsr.pro/articles/jersey-mikes-q2-2026-sales-digital-advertising-earnings) — Comparable sales rose 2.3% as Jersey Mike’s expanded, while advertising timing and corporate costs complicate the second-quarter profit comparison.
- [Dunkin’s Fall Campaign Moves From Breakfast to Afternoon Lattes](https://qsr.pro/articles/dunkin-fall-campaign-earle-espresso-spice-girls-2026) — A creator meal, capped espresso codes and a four-hour latte offer give customers three ways to participate in Dunkin’s fall campaign.
- [Food-Service Payrolls Rebound in the First August Jobs Estimate](https://qsr.pro/articles/august-2026-food-service-payrolls-first-estimate-revisions) — The September 4 release estimated 59,000 additional food-service jobs. Original release tables also show how July’s decline changed in revision.
- [Massachusetts cites Dunkin operator and staffing firms over worker pay](https://qsr.pro/articles/massachusetts-nmg-dunkin-staffing-wage-citations-september-2026) — The $1.46 million assessment covers restitution for 100 employees and state penalties, with findings involving classification, pay and assignment notices.
- [Pilot completes Wendy’s kiosk rollout at 78 travel-center restaurants](https://qsr.pro/articles/pilot-wendys-78-restaurants-kiosk-rollout-september-2026) — Pilot’s completed Wendy’s deployment connects travel-center restaurants to brand ordering options within its wider food and digital program.
- [Wendy’s Halloween offer pairs coupon books with meal collectibles](https://qsr.pro/articles/wendys-halloween-boo-books-frosty-frights-september-2026) — Boo! Books, scheduled Frosty Frights toys and a planned app-exclusive toy use different participation rules within Wendy’s seasonal program.
- [Pesce reopens Lexington Dunkin with Jimmy John’s under one roof](https://qsr.pro/articles/pesce-lexington-dunkin-jimmy-johns-marrett-reopening-2026) — The Marrett Road reopening restores a historic Dunkin and adds Jimmy John’s, with the operator describing training work and planned delivery.
- [Dunkin and Febreze launch Walmart-exclusive coffee and bakery scents](https://qsr.pro/articles/dunkin-febreze-walmart-scent-collection-september-2026) — Dunkin’s Walmart-exclusive Febreze range follows earlier Native and Flipz launches, with scent-specific formats and separate retail channels.
- [July Food-Service and Lodging Hires Nearly Matched Departures](https://qsr.pro/articles/july-2026-jolts-hospitality-hires-separations-openings) — July accommodation and food-service hires nearly matched separations. The September JOLTS release shows why stable headcount can still require substantial recruiting.
- [Riko’s buys two franchise restaurants without adding system locations](https://qsr.pro/articles/rikos-merrick-levittown-franchise-buyback-september-2026) — Riko’s completed its purchase of Merrick and Levittown restaurants August 31. The transfer changes ownership within a 13-location system as another Long Island site remains planned.


---

# The Complete Franchise Investment Guide

> Source: https://qsr.pro/lists/franchise-investment-guide
> Publisher: QSR Pro


Everything you need to know before investing in a QSR franchise. From understanding FDDs to unit economics, financing options, and brand-by-brand cost breakdowns.

Everything you need to know before investing in a QSR franchise. From understanding FDDs to unit economics, financing options, and brand-by-brand cost breakdowns.

- [USDA reports record-low September feedlot placements](https://qsr.pro/articles/october-2026-beef-market-data-cattle-prices) — September feedlot flows fell; inventory barely changed year-over-year.
- [Restaurant sales projection cut $190 billion after Census benchmark](https://qsr.pro/articles/restaurant-sales-estimate-benchmark-reset-growth-forecast) — New Census benchmarks shrink the estimated market but leave the 2026 growth forecast intact.
- [Restaurant spending rises as Wendy’s and Starbucks shares rally](https://qsr.pro/articles/september-food-service-sales-restaurant-shares-rally-2026) — U.S. food-service sales reached $92.9 billion in September. Earlier results at McDonald’s and Wendy’s show how larger checks can support sales and cushion rising costs.
- [Grocery slowdown widens September’s inflation gap with restaurants](https://qsr.pro/articles/september-2026-restaurant-grocery-inflation-gap-real-earnings) — Limited-service annual inflation held at 3.2% as grocery inflation slowed to 1.8%. BLS also reported a monthly decline in real earnings.
- [What lifted Domino’s Q3 operating income](https://qsr.pro/articles/dominos-q3-2026-operating-income-supply-chain-royalties) — Higher supply-chain gross profit and royalties explain the pizza franchisor’s third-quarter operating-income increase.
- [MarginEdge: Fast-casual sales growth tops full service’s in September](https://qsr.pro/articles/marginedge-september-2026-restaurant-sales) — September’s reported sales-growth gap was 4.88 percentage points.
- [Wendy’s sought to keep seven Meritage restaurants open](https://qsr.pro/articles/meritage-wendys-disputed-restaurant-closures-october-2026) — The proposal would replace seven planned closures with closures elsewhere, Fast Company reports.
- [QSR property asking yields rise in Q3](https://qsr.pro/articles/qsr-property-asking-cap-rates-q3-2026) — Boulder’s October report puts corporate and franchisee property asking yields 97 basis points apart, with separate comparisons by lease term.
- [Red Robin refinances after transferring 108 restaurants](https://qsr.pro/articles/red-robin-refinancing-franchise-transfers-october-2026) — Completed restaurant transfers preceded Red Robin’s five-year refinancing. Its pricing and coverage tests account for debt and rent.
- [Uber agrees to buy ezCater for $2.3 billion](https://qsr.pro/articles/uber-ezcater-acquisition-workplace-catering) — ezCater's Online Ordering service connects restaurant websites to a branded catering checkout and lets restaurants export their own customer records.
- [True Food Kitchen gets interim borrowing approval](https://qsr.pro/articles/true-food-kitchen-interim-financing-sale-investment-october-2026) — The chain is seeking a buyer or new investment through a proposed process that could preserve leases and beverage permits.
- [Grain prices rise as U.S. wholesale beef prices ease](https://qsr.pro/articles/q4-2026-grain-beef-food-costs-diesel) — New reports show rising grain prices and easing U.S. wholesale beef.
- [Digi plans $130 million sensor acquisition for SmartSense](https://qsr.pro/articles/digi-smartsense-disruptive-technologies-acquisition) — Digi’s planned acquisition would bring Disruptive Technologies into its SmartSense business.
- [SBA's October 1 acquisition rules: earnings, equity and the $3 million test](https://qsr.pro/articles/sba-october-1-2026-acquisition-rules-restaurant-buyers) — The updated SBA manual separates initial acquisitions from qualifying expansions, ties earnings reviews to the business purchase price and sets conditions for equity contributions.
- [Restaurant outlook forecasts modest purchasing-power growth](https://qsr.pro/articles/restaurant-association-september-2026-purchasing-power-outlook) — The Association forecasts 0.5% growth in real disposable income for 2026. Its separately released survey describes restaurant use and spending choices.


---

# The Restaurant Technology Playbook

> Source: https://qsr.pro/lists/restaurant-technology-playbook
> Publisher: QSR Pro


AI ordering, kitchen automation, POS systems, digital menus, and the tech stack powering modern QSR operations. A curated collection of our best technology coverage.

AI ordering, kitchen automation, POS systems, digital menus, and the tech stack powering modern QSR operations. A curated collection of our best technology coverage.

- [Bojangles extends AI drive-thru deal, plans 100 more sites and line-aware upsells](https://qsr.pro/articles/bojangles-bo-linda-extension-100-more-ai-drive-thrus) — Bojangles and Hi Auto plan 100 more Bo-Linda sites and a queue-aware upsell feature. What owners can test when it arrives.
- [What Blodgett’s $21,736 four-chamber oven asks of a QSR kitchen](https://qsr.pro/articles/blodgett-imvection-four-chamber-oven-qsr-buyer-guide) — Blodgett pitches faster tickets from four cooking chambers. Its own documents show the temperature, pan, power and installation questions a franchise operator should settle first.
- [Square’s $1,999 voice kiosk targets franchise operators](https://qsr.pro/articles/square-voice-ordering-kiosk-menu-kitchen-costs) — Voice ordering and chain-level controls come with always-on internet, Square POS connections and monthly software fees.
- [Sbarro plans POS and payments upgrade at nearly 300 U.S. restaurants](https://qsr.pro/articles/sbarro-ncr-voyix-pos-payments-us-restaurants) — Sbarro plans Aloha Next and Voyix Pay adoption at nearly 300 U.S. restaurants. The agreement aims to unify store operations, payments and central data management.
- [Kinetic12 plans to bring MenuData research into foodservice consulting](https://qsr.pro/articles/kinetic12-menudata-foodservice-consulting-planning) — Kinetic12 plans to use MenuData’s menu, flavor and pricing intelligence in foodservice consulting.
- [HME's Nitro Vision AI brings cameras to drive-thru timing](https://qsr.pro/articles/hme-nitro-vision-ai-drive-thru-camera-alerts) — How HME maps the queue and configures crew alerts.
- [Toast IQ Team connects AI scheduling with payroll](https://qsr.pro/articles/toast-iq-team-scheduling-timekeeping-payroll) — Toast’s new labor bundle connects schedule planning, recorded hours and payroll review.
- [Deliveroo plans UK robot deliveries with Coco](https://qsr.pro/articles/deliveroo-coco-uk-robot-delivery-restaurant-handoff) — Deliveroo and Coco plan a phased UK launch starting in Canary Wharf, with pavement robots handling short trips alongside the rider network.
- [Sky Co-op uses AI to flag purchasing price changes](https://qsr.pro/articles/sky-co-op-ai-purchasing-price-review) — Tom Hannon says AI assistants flag purchasing changes while people retain buying decisions.
- [DoorDash connects restaurant tools through DashOS](https://qsr.pro/articles/doordash-dashos-ordering-guest-tools-2026) — Existing ordering tools meet a 2027 integration roadmap.
- [Menufy survey: Diners would check menus after AI recommendations](https://qsr.pro/articles/menufy-survey-ai-restaurant-recommendations-menu-checks) — Respondents would check menus and websites after AI recommendations. Google’s documentation explains discovery eligibility and menu publishing.
- [Square links Apple Maps place cards to restaurant ordering](https://qsr.pro/articles/square-apple-maps-restaurant-ordering-september-2026) — Square’s September 24 update connects its Dashboard to Apple Business, adding tools to manage restaurant listings and ordering links.
- [Decision Logic launches Vitals and ShiftFlow](https://qsr.pro/articles/decision-logic-vitals-shiftflow-performance-mobile-tasks) — Decision Logic says Vitals tracks performance and ShiftFlow organizes mobile tasks.
- [Chipotle pilots food-safety platform with Palantir](https://qsr.pro/articles/chipotle-palantir-food-safety-risk-pilot) — The company’s September statement outlined a pilot to consolidate restaurant risk information and guide follow-up.
- [&pizza removes kiosks and AI ordering](https://qsr.pro/articles/andpizza-removes-kiosks-ai-ordering) — The chain cites lost interaction with guests.