In the noisy world of fast foodburger franchises reign supreme. From classic cheeseburgers to gourmet creations topped with crave-worthy toppings, these franchises have mastered the art of going away customers want more.
In this article, sink your teeth into the top burger franchises by 2024 Franchise 500 Rankingeach spinning their way to fame with mind-blowing menus and a side of entrepreneurial flair. from nostalgic diners Serving comfort on a bun to trendy joints pushing the boundaries of burger innovation, these franchises cater to every taste and preference. With a winning combination of delicious flavors, efficient service and widespread popularity, they have earned their place at the top of the fast food hierarchy.
So grab a napkin and get ready to indulge in the best burger experiences the franchise world has to offer.
1. Culver's
- Established: 1984
- Franchising since: 1988
- Overall ranking: 7
- Number of units: 978
- Change in units: +21.0% over 3 years
- Initial investment: $2,800,000-$6,900,000
- Leadership: Rick Silva, CEO
- Parent company: Culver Franchising System LLC
Starting one Culver's franchising can be a profitable opportunity due to its widespread popularity and loyal customer base in 26 states. Culver's offers quality fast food products such as ButterBurgers, ice cream sundaes and cheese curds. Founded in 1984 in Wisconsin, Culver's has grown to over 900 restaurants under the leadership of Craig Culver, making it an attractive option for ambitious franchise. With one direct franchise system and a demand for owner-operators, Culver's offers hands-on business management opportunities for individuals with experience in the fast food industry.
Related: Culver's is punching above its weight in the fast food world thanks to this unique growth strategyy
2. Wendy's
- Established: 1969
- Franchising since: 1971
- Overall ranking: 17
- Number of units: 7282
- Change in units: +5.8% over 3 years
- Initial investment: $310,000-$2,800,000
- Leadership: Kirk Tanner, President and CEO
- Parent company: Wendy's Int'l. Inc.
Starting one Wendy's franchising offers numerous advantages, given its long-standing success and strong brand recognition since its founding by Dave Thomas in 1969. With approximately 94% of its franchised locations, Wendy's presents numerous opportunities for entrepreneurs in fast food industry. Known for quality food and efficient service, Wendy's menu includes burgers, fries and the famous Frosty. attractive to customers globally. Franchisees enjoy autonomy in pricing, operations and management decisions, along with extensive training and support from the franchisor. Although the initial investment may be significant, Wendy's offers a default customer base and a relatively affordable entry point compared to other franchises.
3. McDonald's
- Established: 1955
- Franchising since: 1955
- Overall ranking: 18
- Number of units: 42, 406
- Change in units: +7.6% over 3 years
- Initial investment: $1,500,000-$2,600,000
- Leadership: Chris Kempczinski, CEO
- Parent company: N/A
McDonald'sa global fast food giant, traces its roots back to the 1940s, when Dick and Mac McDonald opened a hamburger drive-thru in San Bernardino, California. Adapting operations and providing ia simple menu with hamburgers, fries and shakes, the McDonald brothers expanded their business and introduced iconic elements such as golden arches and distinctive colors. In the 1950s, Ray Kroc joined as their franchise agent, leading expansion eastward and internationally. McDonald's growth was fueled by innovations such as Hamburger University, Play Places and memorable slogans. Today, with over 40,000 locations in more than 100 countries, McDonald's remains one dominant force in the fast food industry.
4. Burger King
- Established: 1954
- Franchising since: 1961
- Overall ranking: 38
- Number of units: 19739
- Change in units: +4.1% over 3 years
- Initial investment: $2,000,000-$4,700,000
- Leadership: Chris Elias, Sr. Director, Business Development and Franchising
- Parent company: International Restaurant Brands.
Burger Kinga popular fast food chain, started as Insta-Burger King in 1953 before rebranding in 1967 and expanding globally. With a menu featuring iconic items like WhopperBurger King boasts of wide recognition and a strong customer base. Starting a Burger King franchise offers numerous benefits, including access to financial assistance through programs like DiversityFran, extensive franchise opportunities and comprehensive support from The franchise team of Burger King. By leveraging global brand recognition and customer base, Burger King franchisees can quickly establish themselves in their communities and generate revenue. For aspiring fast food entrepreneurs, starting a Burger King franchise presents a profitable opportunity for success.
5. Sonic Drive-In
- Established: 1953
- Franchising since: 1959
- Overall ranking: 50
- Number of units: 3521
- Change in units: +0.6% over 3 years
- Initial investment: $1,700,000-$3,400,000
- Leadership: Jim Taylor, President
- Parent company: Inspire brands
Sonic Drive-In stands out as a successful franchise opportunity in the shrinking drive-thru industry, maintaining its popularity and serving millions of customers each year. With its sustainable business model and a menu of hamburgers, hot dogs and onion rings, Sonic has thrived for more than 60 years. As one of larger input chains Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Sonic offers franchisees the opportunity to capitalize on its established brand and expand into all 50 states. For aspiring entrepreneurs looking for a elastic and profitable fast food franchise, Sonic presents a compelling opportunity to succeed in a competitive market.
6. Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
- Established: 2002
- Franchising since: 2004
- Overall ranking: 67
- Number of units: 531
- Change in units: +26.9% over 3 years
- Initial investment: $898,000-$2,800,000
- Leadership: Chris Dull, President and CEO
- Parent company: N/A
Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgersestablished in 2002, offers a unique blend of fresh-sliced frozen custard and ground beef steakburgers. With nearly 500 locations across the United States and several internationally, the appeal of franchising lies in its ease of operation, well priced menu and focus on quality over quantity. By joining Freddy's franchise, entrepreneurs can leverage the brand and its established commitment to hospitalitymaking it a tempting opportunity in the competitive restaurant industry.
Related: See where these franchises rank in our 2024 500 Franchise
7. Habit Burger Grill
- Established: 1969
- Franchising since: 2013
- Overall ranking: 117
- Number of units: 382
- Change in units: +28.2% over 3 years
- Initial investment: $1,500,000-$1,800,000
- Leadership: Shannon Hennessy, CEO
- Parent company: Yum! brands
Habit Burger Grillknown for its mouth-watering burgers, chicken and tuna sandwiches, offers a tempting menu for would-be franchisees. Originating in 1969 in Goleta, California, it has expanded to become a fast casual dining experience, reaching its 300th location by 2021, including international branches in Cambodia and China.
8. Carl's Jr.
- Established: (1945
- Franchising since: 1984
- Overall ranking: 123
- Number of units: 1709
- Change in units: +3.0% over 3 years
- Initial investment: $1,500,000-$3,200,000
- Leadership: Max Wetzel, CEO
- Parent company: CKE Restaurant Holdings Inc.
Since 1941, Carl's Jr. has grown from a single entree to a global chain of franchises offering a diverse menu of American and Mexican cuisine. Through hard work and exceptional customer service, Carl's Jr. expanded to over 1,600 franchises in the US and internationally. Known for its Black Angus beef burgers, Carl's Jr. draw one wide customer base with its breakfast, lunch and dinner offerings. Franchise owners benefit from ongoing product development efforts and a digital customer loyalty program, ensuring continued success and customer satisfaction.
9. A&W Restaurants
- Established: 1919
- Franchising since: 1925
- Overall ranking: 170
- Number of units: 865
- Change in units: -6.0% over 3 years
- Initial investment: $287,000-$1,600,000
- Leadership: Kevin Bazner, CEO
- Parent company: A&W Restaurants
A&W Restaurants offers franchise opportunities for those looking to bring a taste of classic Americana to their community. Founded in 1919 and franchised since 1925, A&W is known for root beer and a menu of hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken, sides and ice cream. The franchise prioritizes community connection, with decisions made by a franchise association board and corporate office staff required to work at one restaurant each quarter. Financial readiness for initial and ongoing fees, incl advertising and royalty ratesis essential for prospective franchisees.
10. Jack in the Box
- Established: 1951
- Franchising since: 1982
- Overall ranking: 193
- Number of units: 2191
- Change in units: -1.0% for 3 years
- Initial investment: $1,800,000-$4,200,000
- Leadership: Tim Linderman, ALL
- Parent company: Jack in the Box Inc.
Jack in the box was founded in 1951 by Robert O. Peterson in San Diego as a burger restaurant. It expanded outside of California in 1960 and began franchising in 1982. Today, it offers a varied menu including burgers, chicken sandwiches, breakfast items, tacos, salads, shakes and wraps.
Related: See who made the 500 Hall of Fame franchise this year
