Chick-fil-A still owns the restaurant; it just lets franchise operators run the store, like a manager. That’s one reason why starting a Chick-fil-A is so affordable for a franchise operator: It costs just $10,000, while a McDonald’s will cost at least $1 million.
How much does it pay to own a Chick-fil-A?
Chick-fil-A franchise operators pay just $10,000 to open a new restaurant in the US. About 60,000 people apply for a franchise each year, and less than 1% of them are eventually chosen. Here’s what the process of opening a Chick-fil-A is like from start to finish.
How hard is it to open a Chick-fil-A?
Operators pay an initial $10,000 fee to be “granted the rights necessary to operate a franchised Chick-fil-A,” according to the company website. That’s compared to other fast-food chains where franchisees can invest hundreds of thousands, even millions, of dollars to open a restaurant, industry experts said.
Do you have to own a Chick fil A?
So, if you have the intention of buying a franchise you can later sell, Chick-fil-A isn’t for you. Chick-fil-A pays (almost) every startup cost. If you’ve already started to wonder why anyone would consider purchasing a Chick-fil-A franchise, given that you can’t actually own the franchise, then this is a powerful reason.
How much money does it take to open a Chick fil A?
While operating a Chick-fil-A restaurant requires a relatively modest $10,000 initial financial commitment ($15,000 CAD in Canada), it requires a holistic commitment to own and operate the business in a hands-on manner.
What do you need to be a Chick fil A operator?
You also need to have good credit—meaning you have never filed bankruptcy or received protection from your creditors. Typical Chick-Fil-A operators are described as responsible “family men” with track records of solid decision-making, according to Mr. Truett, the company’s founder. “We’re seeking people with character rather than experience.”
How to apply for a Chick fil A franchise?
You can read more about the franchise opportunity and application process online or by participating in a franchise education webinar or event. Chick-fil-A ® Franchisees bring passion, grit and unceasing determination to build their businesses in the communities where they live and work.