Chick-fil-A is one of America's toughest franchises, and the startup cost may shock you
Chick-fil-A is one of America's toughest franchises to get, attracting thousands of hopeful applicants each year for a limited number of owner-operator opportunities.
The fast-food chain's unique business model was recently highlighted by Julian Good, who owns a Chick-fil-A restaurant in St.
Charles, Illinois, during an appearance on the "Founder Talk" podcast.
"It's a $10,000 franchise fee.
It's been the same for the last 50 years," Good said.
CHICK-FIL-A COPYCAT RECIPE REVEALED AS CEO SHARES INGREDIENT THAT MAKES IT TASTE LIKE THE ORIGINAL About 100,000 people apply each year to become a Chick-fil-A owner-operator, with roughly 200 ultimately selected, Good explained.
Applicants without Chick-fil-A experience often wait three to five years before receiving an opportunity, he added.
Chick-fil-A describes its selection process as "highly competitive," saying it looks for leaders willing to devote their full-time and best efforts to operating a restaurant, according to Chick-fil-A’s January 2024 post on its press room website.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER However, previous experience with the company isn't required.
More than 25% of newly selected owner-operators had never worked at one of its restaurants or for the company before applying, according to Chick-fil-A.
The company said operators also come from a wide range of professional backgrounds, including manufacturing, health care, education, law enforcement and retail.
Unlike many franchise systems, Chick-fil-A owner-operators do not own the restaurant they operate, according to Franchise Business Review.
Chick-fil-A retains ownership of the restaurant, equipment, and, in most cases, the real estate, meaning operators do not build equity in the business or sell it when they retire.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES Chick-fil-A said operators devote their time and energy to managing their restaurants, developing employees and serving their communities.
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