Everyone loves burgers. Including entrepreneurs. That's why there are so many places where you can try delicious burgers. Joke. Restaurants that sell burgers a lot, because it's a profitable business. And the competition in this business is not small either. If you are asked to name companies that sell burgers and are known all over the world, you will probably think of Burger King, Mcdonalds, Carl's jr and others. All these companies are actively developing now and have made a name for themselves, including on burgers. Competition is good for consumers. Thanks to this, people get inexpensive dishes with excellent taste, and companies always try to surprise with something new. And everyone tries to stand out. This is why we can find both classic burgers and exclusive burgers with unusual ingredients or cooking methods in restaurants.
If you want to open your own restaurant, pay attention to the Burger menu. This way you can attract a lot of new customers. But it won't be easy. Your burgers should also be different from others. Take care of the price-quality ratio. If the dishes are inexpensive and very tasty, then your visitors will become regular guests.
But in fact, the quality of burgers alone is not enough to make a business successful. You will need to invest in development, advertising, style, and much more. Also, do not forget that you need to think about everything well before you start-make a business plan, calculate investments, possible profits, and the concept.
Or you can buy a franchise of an already well-known brand and start developing a specific strategy. This is easier, although it may take more money. To help you make your choice, we suggest you check out the most popular Burger franchises. These are firms that are looking for entrepreneurs who are ready to start a business with their help. Each company is unique, each has its own conditions. Check out all of them and choose what is right for you.
Pay attention to the conditions. Find out how much money you will need, what is the size of the franchise fee, the advertising fee, and what investments are required from entrepreneurs. Don't forget to find out what advantages your chosen franchise gives you. And to find out absolutely all the details, contact representatives of the franchise.
Here are TOP-30 burger franchises of 2020 (Updated rankings)
1. Sonic Drive-in
- Founded: 1953
- Franchise since: 1959
- Initial investment: $1,236,800 - $3,536,300
- Net-worth Requirement: $1,000,000 - $2,000,000
- Liquid Cash Reuirement: $500,000 - $1,000,000
- Initial franchise fee: $45,000 - $45,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 2.45-5%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 3.25-5%
Sonic Drive In-a company that pleases its regular visitors with a huge selection of delicious dishes - from branded burgers to hot dogs and chicken sandwiches. Sonic first opened in 1953 in Shawnee, Oklahoma. But it was then called Top Hat Drive-In. And in 1959 the firm has teamed up with Troy Smith Sr. and got its modern name. The company cares not only about the taste of its dishes, but also about the convenience of customers, providing a convenient delivery service. For aspiring entrepreneurs who want to start a successful business, Sonic Drive In offers its franchise.
2. Culver’s
- Founded: 1984
- Franchise since: 1988
- Initial investment: $1,970,000 - $4,714,000
- Liquid Cash Reuirement: $350,000 - $600,000
- Initial franchise fee: $55,000 - $55,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 4%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 2.5%
The history of this restaurant began in 1984, when Craig CULVER decided to take over his parents ' restaurant, which has been operating since the 60s. His father and mother, as well as his wife Lea, helped him in this.
One of the restaurant's features is the Culver family recipes. For example, when Craig's mother baked burgers, she always put a drop of butter on the top before roasting. In Culver's restaurant, burgers are prepared according to the same recipe. And according to all visitors, they have their own original taste, different from burgers from other burger restaurant. Culver's has become an example of how family recipes and family businesses can grow many times, become successful and delight visitors. Now the company is developing with the help of a franchise and offers other entrepreneurs to become part of this chain on favorable terms.
3. KFC
- Founded: 1930
- Franchise since: 1952
- Initial investment: $1,442,550 - $2,771,550
- Liquid Cash Reuirement: $750,000
- Initial franchise fee: $45,000 - $45,000
- Net-worth Requirement: $1,500,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 4 - 5%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 5%
The history of the KFC brand begins in 1930, when Harland Sanders opened a small corner at a gas station in Corbin, Kentucky. There, visitors could try his original chicken wings. This dish was so liked by everyone that things went up for Sanders. In 1936, he was awarded the title of honorary Colonel of Kentucky for his contribution to the development of gastronomy.
in 1936, Sanders sold his first franchise in Salt Lake City, Utah. Then the conditions were simple. For each chicken sold, the franchisee had to pay one cent. Years later, KFC has become one of the most famous brands worldwide, selling billions of chickens in its franchise chain. The secrets of Colonel Sanders's recipes are still kept secret. Successful entrepreneurs can open their own KFC restaurant and offer their favorite menu to their customers. To do this, you need to buy a franchise and become part of a worldwide chain.
4. Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
- Founded: 2002
- Franchise since: 2004
- Initial investment: $590,469 - $1,986,315
- Liquid Cash Reuirement: $250,000
- Initial franchise fee: $25,000 - $25,000
- Net-worth Requirement: $850,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 4.5%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 0.375%
The history of Freddy's Frozen Custard began in 2002, when Scott Ridley and Bill, Randy and Freddy Simon opened their first restaurant in Wichita, Kansas. Visitors to this place could try delicious hot dogs, shoestring fries, and frozen custard that is freshly churned throughout the day. Now it is a successful company that develops franchising over a large territory and has more than 300 points in the network in 31 States.
If you are interested in opening your own restaurant with burgers, steakburgers, frozen custard and other popular dishes, take advantage of the franchise opportunities.
5. Hardee’s
- Founded: 1960
- Franchise since: 1962
- Initial investment: $1,454,000 - $2,046,000
- Liquid Cash Reuirement: $300,000
- Initial franchise fee: $25,000 - $35,000
- Net-worth Requirement: $1,000,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 4%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 5.5%
The company's history begins in 1960, when the first Hardee's restaurant was opened by entrepreneur Wilber Hardee in Greenville, North Carolina. The restaurant concept included delicious burgers, as well as biscuits and chicken. Visitors liked what Hardee did so much that five months later the company had its first franchisee. And since then, the network has grown. In 1997, the Hardee's restaurant chain was purchased by CKE Restaurants Inc. - a California company that owned another restaurant chain - Carl's Jr.
Now the company continues to develop a chain of restaurants through franchising. If you are interested in starting a business on burgers, contact representatives of this company and find out about favorable terms.
6. Carl’s Jr
- Founded: 1945
- Franchise since: 1984
- Initial investment: $1,585,000 - $2,143,000
- Initial franchise fee: $25,000 - $35,000
- Net-worth Requirement: $1,000,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 4%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 6%
One of the oldest and most famous Burger companies in America. Its history began back in 1941, when Carl N. Karcher and his wife Margaret, with only$ 15 in their pocket, borrowed another $ 311 and bought the first hot dog cart in Los Angeles. Such a small business suddenly became super-popular. And after a while, they were able to buy more carts. And in 1945, they opened their own barbecue Carl's Jr. Drive-In, adding burgers to the menu.
It's been a long time since then. In 1984, the company had its first franchisee. And today it is one of the largest chains selling hamburgers and other delicious dishes. Even outside the United States, the chain has more than 500 locations.
7. A&W
- Founded: 1919
- Franchise since: 1925
- Initial investment: $269,000 - $1,213,000
- Liquid Cash Reuirement: $150,000 - $250,000
- Initial franchise fee: $15,000 - $30,000
- Net-worth Requirement: $350,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 5%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 5%
A long time ago, Roy W. Allen decided to open a business. It was originally a beverage stand. It took place in 1919 in Lodi, California. It turned out pretty good. The business developed. And just three years later, he decided to join forces with Frank Wright. Together, they created A & W Root beer Co.
But the company of two people sold more than just cold drinks. They also opened a diner with burgers, fries and delicious hot dogs. Since then, a lot of time has passed and A&W is a huge franchise network, known not only within the United States. They started developing franchising very early - in 1925. And now they can offer other entrepreneurs favorable conditions to become part of a big business.
8. Roy Rogers
- Founded: 1968
- Franchise since: 1980
- Initial investment: $767,250 - $1,580,950
- Liquid Cash Reuirement: $500,000
- Initial franchise fee: $30,000 - $30,000
- Net-worth Requirement: $1,000,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 5%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 3%
A company with an interesting history. In 1968, the fast-food chain Roy Roger's appeared as a result of the rebranding of Robeez House of Beef after it was acquired by the Mariott Corporation. The new name quickly caught on. And the managers have launched a strong advertising campaign. As a result, many learned about this network. Given that they prepared delicious burgers and other dishes, visitors became more and more.
Today, Ray Rogers offers entrepreneurs from different States favorable conditions for cooperation on the franchise system. If you are interested in earning money by selling delicious burgers and other food, pay attention to the offer from this company.
9. Burger King
- Founded: 1956
- Franchise since: 1956
- Initial investment: $330,000 - $3,000,000
- Initial franchise fee: $50,000 per restaurant
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 4.5%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 4%
Burger King is a world-famous fast food restaurant chain that offers its own menu for Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Today, the chain includes more than 14,000 Burger King branded stores in 100 countries around the world. It is the second largest Burger chain in the United States.
Burger King franchising is available to any entrepreneur, but the company is demanding of candidates. This is not a cheap offer, but a large number of people dream of opening their own Burger restaurant under the banner of a famous brand. Because this is a really effective schem.
10. Wayback Burgers
- Founded: 1991
- Franchise since: 2006
- Initial investment: $209,000 - $524,500
- Initial franchise fee: $35,000
- Net-worth Requirement: $350,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 5%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 2%
The company's history begins in 1991 in Newark, DE, when the first store of the Wayback Burgers chain was opened. The concept of the establishment was the simplest. Because the company expected to win the hearts of ordinary people. The most common food is simple burgers, simple French fries and simple milkshakes. All without frills, but very tasty. The cafe's setting was also inviting. This is exactly what most people needed. Therefore, the company managed to attract a lot of visitors.
Now the company with the help of franchising has achieved great success, having a developed café chain with more than 100 points. And every entrepreneur can become a part of it and start earning money under the banner of a well-known brand.
11. Smashburger
- Founded: 2007
- Franchise since: 2008
- Initial investment: $545,500-$894,500
- Initial franchise fee: $40,000
- Net-worth Requirement: $350,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 5 - 6%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 2%
The company is proud of its service and concept. Speed, quality and taste are at the top of the list. The firm is working on franchising, but is well suited to those who will be partners. All franchising partners strive not just to comply with the company's terms, but to improve the service, which will attract even more visitors to the entire network.
12. The Counter Burger
- Founded: 2003
- Franchise since: 2005
- Initial investment: $750,000 - $2,335,250
- Initial franchise fee: $50,000
- Net-worth Requirement: $1,500,000
- Liquid Cash Reuirement: $500,000
The company offers an interesting, non-standard approach to the standard vision of a Burger restaurant. The composition of burgers restaurant guests choose themselves, combining it from a variety of possible options. In total, there are more than a million different combinations available. The point is designed in a quiet industrial style, which creates a pleasant everyday atmosphere and attracts new visitors. For entrepreneurs who want to open their own Burger shop, TheCounterBurger offers favorable franchise conditions.
13. Boardwalk Fresh Burgers
- Founded: 1981
- Franchise since: 2007
- Initial investment: $174,500 - $626,000
- Initial franchise fee: $30,000
The history of Boardwalk Fresh Burgers begins in 1981, when Brothers Dave and Fran Di Ferdinando opened their first restaurant, where they sell French fries and other popular fast food dishes.
In 2007, after a successful single development, the company decided to open a franchise area, extending its model to different States. Boardwalk Burgers serves the famous fries, which are covered in vinegar and Old Bay seasoning, are cut fresh every morning and cooked in peanut oil multiple times and at different temperatures. These recipes make the company even more popular. So that future franchisees can count on the interest from visitors.
14. Big Smoke Burger
- Founded: 2007
- Franchise since: 2011
- Initial investment: $750,000 - $2,335,250
- Initial franchise fee: $35,000 - $35,000
- Net-worth Requirement: $500,000
- Liquid Cash Reuirement: $200,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 6%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 3%
Big Smoke Burger restaurant was founded by Mustafa Yusuf in 2007 in in Toronto, Canada. The concept of fresh ingredients helped the company quickly gain popularity. Crushed ingredients are always selected the freshest, home-made recipes are used, familiar to many, but rare for restaurants. In addition, the company always tries to come to the best service for its customers. Entrepreneurs can count on the full support of the franchisor.
15. Top Burger
- Founded: 20012
- Franchise since: 2015
- Initial investment: $200,900 - $302,900
- Initial franchise fee: $24,900 - $24,900
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 5%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 2%
The company has a simple but effective concept. Produce simple burgers and beer, but do it very tasty. This approach allowed the company to quickly gain popularity among visitors. Therefore, a few years after the opening, the first franchise appeared. Now for entrepreneurs who want to open their own Burger shop without investing a lot of money, Top Burger has an excellent franchise offer with favorable conditions.
16. Liberty Burger
- Founded: 2011
- Franchise since: 2014
- Initial investment: $540,000 - $789,000
- Initial franchise fee: $35,000
- Liquid cash requirement: $250,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 4%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 1%
Liberty Burger is famous for its handmade burgers, which are served with craft beer, fresh salads and other dishes from the adult menu. There is also a menu for children. Therefore, the restaurant is considered a family restaurant. It has a pleasant atmosphere, good service and everything you need for a successful business. All products are only used fresh. The Liberty Burger franchise is suitable for cities with a population of at least 250,000 people. Restaurants occupy 2-3 thousand square meters. Thus, entrepreneurs have a great opportunity to open their business using an interesting model from the company.
17. Cheeburger Cheeburger
- Founded: 1986
- Franchise since: 1991
- Initial investment: $175,000 - $475,000
- Initial franchise fee: $24,000 - $24,000
- Net-worth Requirement: $250,000
- Liquid cash requirement: $250,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 5%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 1%
Cheeburger begins its history in 1986, when the first cafe opened on Sanibel Island in Florida. And so it turned out that the concept of an old diner of the 50s with the ability to choose your own Burger, with delicious dishes, French fries and cocktails, liked everyone. After a few years, it became clear that you can't do without a franchise. Because visitors and tourists demanded to open exactly the same institution all over America. So began the expansion of the Cheeseburger franchise.
18. Hamburger Mary’s Bar & Grill
- Founded: 1972
- Franchise since: 1999
- Initial Investment: $417,150 - $955,500
- Total investment: Up to 1,000,000
- Initial franchise fee: $50,000
- Net-worth Requirement: $200,000
- Liquid cash requirement: $75,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 4-3%
The company began its history back in 1970 in San Francisco. Customers received delicious meals including low-fat beef, farm-fresh chicken and turkey, and salads, as well as desserts including carrot cake, snicker's pie and cheesecake. Only fresh products are used. The concept involves an open - air bar and grille for open-minded people. The idea of your business, despite all its greatness, may not work. Hamburger Mary's Bar offers an idea that has already been tested and invites all entrepreneurs to evaluate the franchise.
19. BGR The Burger Joint
- Initial Investment: $199,500-$409,500
- Initial franchise fee: $40,000
- Net-worth Requirement: $250,000
- Liquid cash requirement: $97,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 5.5%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 1%
BGR Burger boasts many prestigious awards. The company is actively developing through franchising. Visitors like delicious fast-casual food, pleasant service and the ability to order what you want. The company is looking for entrepreneurs who want to start a business within a well known brand with a quick return in the form of income.
20. Burger Nation
- Founded: 2011
- Franchise since: 2011
- Initial Investment: $415,000 - $415,000
- Liquid cash requirement: $83,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 4-3%
The popular menu of burgers that you customize yourself is reflected in the concept of Burger Nation. The company uses only high-quality ingredients and takes a responsible approach to meeting the needs of its visitors. Creative freedom should also be in food. In addition, visitors of the restaurant can enjoy French fries, sweet chips, wings, fish, salads. All recipes are passed on to new entrepreneurs who open their Nation Burger.
21. Juicy Burgers
- Founded: 1978
- Franchise since: 2016
- Initial Investment: $50,414 - $150,265
- Initial franchise fee: $50,000
- Liquid cash requirement: $75,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 5%
For everyone who wants to open a business under the Juicy Burgers franchise, there are special conditions that include comprehensive assistance from the franchisor-real estate assistance, dynamic marketing programs and national buying power. Also, for future owners of the restaurant under the Juicy Burgers brand, favorable conditions are provided, allowing you to invest small money in creating a business. Buy a franchise can even people who do not have experience in management or other work in public catering, as the training program is designed for this.
22. Whataburger
- Founded: 1972
- Franchise since: 1999
- Initial Investment: $1,200,000
Whataburger is a large chain of restaurants in several States, which is known for its cute design and of course delicious burgers. Now there are more than 700 points in the network, but the company does not stop there and is going to expand further to other regions. So if you want to start your own business, operating under a recognizable sign, pay attention to the Whataburger franchise.
23. Hero Certified Burgers
- Founded: 2003
- Franchise since: 2005
- Initial Investment: $300,000-$350,000
- Initial franchise fee: $25,000
- Liquid cash requirement: $150,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 6%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 2%
The concept of the restaurant is based on winning the competition in two simple ways - excellent service and delicious food that will appeal to everyone. This is also the basis for the franchise strategy. Every entrepreneur who joins the network must adhere to the style and philosophy of the entire company. So the whole chain will come to become the main player in the Burger market.
24. Teddy’s Bigger Burgers
- Founded: 2003
- Initial Investment: $350,000 - $500,000
- Initial franchise fee: $25,000
- Liquid cash requirement: $150,000
- Net Worth requirement: $300,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 6%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 2%
For more than 10 years, Teddy's Bigger Burgers has been delighting the people of Hawaii with its first-class burgers. They are cooked over an open fire in the old-fashioned way, served in five, seven and nine one size, one soft potato gun and made to order. Regular customers appreciate the taste of this restaurant's dishes. In 2005, it was decided to allow other entrepreneurs to create their own business based on the concept of Teddy's. Since then, the franchise has been developing, which gives many advantages to everyone who wants to open their own Burger shop.
25. Fatburger North America Inc
- Founded: 1952
- Franchising Since: 1990
- Initial Investment: $463,169 - $988,000
- Initial franchise fee: $50,000
- Liquid cash requirement: $500,000
- Net Worth requirement: $1,500,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 6%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 2%
The history of a major franchise chain begins in 1952 when Lovie Yancey opened the first Burger restaurant in Los Angeles. However, the name was different then. The company was called Mr. Fatburger. They sold delicious burgers, salads, drinks and other popular dishes that were very popular with local visitors. So many years passed and in 1990 the company began to grow due to the fact that it began to sell its franchise to other cities and States.
26. Elevation Burger
- Founded: 2005
- Franchising Since: 2008
- Initial Investment: $408,500 - $821,500
- Initial franchise fee: $35,000
- Liquid cash requirement: $600,000
- Net Worth requirement: $2,000,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 6%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 3%
The history of Elevation Burger begins with a three-year study of tastes by Hans and April Hess. Thanks to their passion for the idea and thorough approach, the menu of the branded Burger became popular first in one institution, and then in others, when it was decided to sell the franchise. The franchise is interesting because it uses energy-efficient equipment, as well as recyclable eco-friendly certified materials.
27. Built Custom Burger
- Founded: 2013
- Franchising Since: 2014
- Initial Investment: $368,000 - $982,000
- Initial franchise fee: $40,000
- Liquid cash requirement: $200,000 - $2,000,000
- Net Worth requirement: $800,000 - $2,000,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 5%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 1%
The company is on the market recently, but has already managed to please many visitors. The Burger restaurant's menu features delicious burgers, side dishes, sandwiches, salads, desserts, ice-cream shakes and alcoholic beverages. Dishes can be combined and ordered their own versions, which is now very much appreciated by young people.
28. Burgerim
- Founded: 2008
- Franchising Since: 2010
- Initial Investment: $150,000 - $400,000
- Initial franchise fee: $40,000
- Liquid cash requirement: $50,000
- Net Worth requirement: $100,000
The franchise chain Burgerim is famous for its non-trivial menu, where you can find 11 types of 2.8 oz burger patties, classic burgers, as well as a variety of fillings and toppings. The concept of the restaurant is a modern, calm design, easy service and a pleasant atmosphere. Here you can just eat very tasty and inexpensive food. Now the chain has more than 100 restaurants in different States. For entrepreneurs who want to buy a franchise, favorable conditions are provided.
29. Little Big Burger
- Founded: 2009
- Franchising Since: 2017
- Initial Investment: $212,000 - $464,000
- Initial franchise fee: $40,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 5.5%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 2.0%
A restaurant that will offer you a variety of delicious burgers, truffle fries, ice cream floats, soda, craft beers and a relaxed atmosphere. The company has been developing on its own for a long time and only recently decided to extend the business model to other territories. Now entrepreneurs can take advantage of the offer and buy a profitable franchise.
30. Hooters
- Founded: 1983
- Franchising Since: 1986
- Initial Investment: $956,500 - $4,275,000
- Initial franchise fee: $75,000
- Liquid cash requirement: $1,500,000
- Net Worth requirement: $2,500,000 - $3,000,000
- Ongoing Royalty Fee: 5%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 2.5%
The history of hooters restaurant begins in Clearwater, Florida, in 1983. Then the first institution was opened, which later became known in a large area thanks to its concept. Beautiful waitresses Hooters Girls create a pleasant atmosphere. And visitors can not only enjoy a relaxing holiday near the beaches, as the restaurants of this chain are beach, but also enjoy a variety of delicious dishes-burgers, sandwiches, seafood and more. The franchise is not cheap, but the concept is effective, which allows the company to develop successfully for decades.
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