Buzz
Have you ever considered what it takes to operate a well-known restaurant chain? If owning a franchise is your goal, here’s a key insight: Before launching, you’ll need to cover a franchise fee. This cost differs across companies, and many also require a specific minimum net worth. Whether you’re a future entrepreneur or simply curious about the inner workings of popular chains, we’ve compiled all the essential information for you.
1. SUBWAY: $15,000
Subway offers one of the most affordable franchise fees at $15,000. Additionally, they require a minimum net worth of $80,000 and $30,000 in liquid assets. With around 35,000 franchises globally, Subway has expanded to unique locations. For instance, in Buffalo, New York, there’s a Subway restaurant located inside the True Bethel Baptist Church.
2. KRISPY KREME DOUGHNUT CORP: $12,500—$25,000
The franchise fee for a Krispy Kreme outlet varies between $12,500 and $25,000. However, investing in your own Krispy Kreme shop doesn’t grant you access to their iconic donut recipe—it remains a closely guarded secret. This recipe is securely stored in a vault at their Winston-Salem, N.C. facility, where the dry doughnut mix is produced.
3. PIZZA HUT: $25,000
With a franchise fee of just $25,000, Pizza Hut has one of the more affordable entry costs on this list. However, potential franchisees must have a net worth of $700,000 and $350,000 in liquid assets. The brand has made its mark globally, even delivering pizzas to the White House in 1989 for First Lady Barbara Bush’s pizza party. In 2001, Pizza Hut achieved another milestone by becoming the first pizza delivered to the International Space Station.
4. COLD STONE CREAMERY: $27,000
Cold Stone promises the “Ultimate Ice Cream Experience.” Established in 1988, the company began franchising in 1994. The initial franchise fee is $27,000, and applicants need a net worth of at least $250,000. On average, the journey from purchasing to opening a Cold Stone franchise spans four to twelve months.
5. BEN & JERRY'S: $37,000
Ben & Jerry’s, known for its socially responsible ethos, requires a minimum net worth of $350,000 and $100,000 in liquid assets. Founded in 1978 by two lifelong friends, the company seeks franchisees who are community-oriented and socially aware. Their quirky headquarters in South Burlington, Vermont, includes a slide between floors and a training facility called “Scoop U” for new franchisees.
6. WENDY’S: $40,000
Opening a Wendy’s franchise costs $40,000, with additional requirements of a $5 million net worth and $2 million in liquid assets. Since its inception in 1969, Wendy’s has been a pioneer in the fast-food industry, notably introducing the first salad bar in a fast-food setting.
7. TACO BELL: $45,000
Starting a Taco Bell franchise requires an initial investment of $45,000. Additionally, potential franchisees must have a net worth of at least $1.5 million and $750,000 in liquid assets. Despite the cost, the opportunity is significant, as Taco Bell has a global presence—except in Mexico. The brand attempted to enter the Mexican market twice, in 1992 and 2010, but both ventures failed due to lack of customer interest.
8. MCDONALD’S: $45,000
McDonald’s stands out by not specifying a minimum net worth for franchisees, though $750,000 in liquid assets and a $45,000 franchise fee are required. The investment could pay off, as McDonald’s serves over 68 million customers daily—a number surpassing the entire population of the U.K.
9. KFC: $45,000
Launching a KFC franchise is a high-cost but potentially rewarding venture. Beyond the $45,000 franchise fee, the company mandates a minimum net worth of $1.5 million and $750,000 in liquid assets.
10. SONIC DRIVE-IN RESTAURANTS: $45,000
Initially, Sonic’s original franchise agreement didn’t include a franchise fee—instead, the founders earned a penny for every logo-printed hamburger bag. Today, however, Sonic operates under a traditional franchise model, requiring a $45,000 fee and a minimum net worth and liquid assets of $1,000,000 each.
11. DUNKIN' DONUTS: $40,000—$90,000
Since its founding in 1950, Dunkin' Donuts has been franchising for nearly six decades. The franchise fee ranges from $40,000 to $90,000, with a minimum net worth of $250,000 and $125,000 in liquid assets. For those considering this opportunity, opening one in an airport could be strategic—in 2012, Dunkin' Donuts was named the top airport franchisor by Airport News.
