In today’s fast paced society, fast food restaurants have become one of the most popular munching options. But when it comes to the particular fast-food joint people choose, branding plays an important role.
The vast majority of franchises operating under a well-established brand have proven themselves to be successful and lucrative in both international and domestic markets. This occurs, in part, because customers tend to have a blind belief in branded franchises. But which franchise option would be the most profitable?
There are many things to consider when choosing a franchise, from location, to target audience, and available finances. But to help you with the process, we would like to present you with a list we have compiled of the top 6 most lucrative fast-food franchises, based on the statistics issued earlier this year by Forbes Magazine. The following franchise opportunities are ranked according to the average annual sales for one single store. Curious to see which franchises prove the most lucrative? Let’s take a look at the countdown.
No. 6: Zaxby’s
Headquarters: Athens, Georgia
No. of units: 565
Average annual single-store sales: $1,765,700
Zaxby’s mission is to provide customers with a quick and casual dining option. The chain’s most popular and beloved products are the renowned Buffalo wings and fresh chicken fingers.
No. 5: Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG)
Headquarters: Denver, Colorado
No. of units: 1,410
Average annual single-store sales: $2,113,000
Much of the success of Chipotle Mexican Grill is due its commitment to provide customers with superior quality. Food is prepared directly in front of clients and all kitchens are open to view. The ingredients used are all fresh and Chipotle only uses naturally raised cattle meat.
No. 4: Krispy Kreme Doughnuts (NYSE:KKD)
Headquarters: Winston-Salem, North Carolina
No. of units: 239
Average annual single-store sales: $2,428,000
Krispy Kreme has a very stringent franchise process. Any franchisee applicant should prepare their financial capital, a minimum of $1 million liquid assets and a $2 million net worth.
No. 3: Jason’s Deli
Headquarters: Beamont, Texas
No. of units: 245
Average annual single-store sales: $2,556,000
Though Jason’s Deli has been franchising since the late 1980s, its franchise opportunities are somewhat limited. But if you’re one of the lucky few who gets to operate a Jason’s Deli, expect to be making over $2,500,000 a year.
No. 2: McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE:MCD)
Headquarters: Oak Brook, Illinois
No. of units: 12,605
Average annual single-store sales: $2,600,000
Arguably the most popular fast food chain the world is also one of the best options for those wishing to invest in a franchise. All franchisees are required to complete training that will help them best manage the business; in addition, McDonald’s puts a lot of emphasis on financial management and customer service.
No. 1: Chick-fil-A
Headquarters: College Park, Georgia
No. of units: 1,683
Average annual single-store sales: $3,158,000
Much of Chick-fil-A’s success is due to its founder, Truett Cathy, who believes that managing a business is a family affair, which is he always interviews family members when talking to a prospective franchisee. In addition, his philosophy in life is that one must first be able to manage his own life before managing a business.
