Chick-fil-A Franchise in USA (2025): Low Investment, High ROI Fast-Food Opportunity
Quick Overview Table – Chick-fil-A Franchise
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Franchise Name | Chick-fil-A |
| Founded | 1946 by S. Truett Cathy |
| Headquarters | Atlanta, Georgia, USA |
| Industry | Fast-Food / QSR (Quick Service Restaurant) |
| Franchise Fee | $10,000 |
| Total Investment | $300,000 – $1,000,000 (funded by Chick-fil-A, not franchisee) |
| Ownership Model | Operator-based (hands-on only, no passive investors) |
| Average Sales (2023) | $8.6 Million per store (highest in U.S. QSR industry) |
| ROI Period | Varies; depends on performance & location |
| Official Website | Apply Here |
Table of Contents
Introduction – Chick-fil-A Franchise
When we talk about profitable food franchises in the USA, Chick-fil-A consistently ranks at the top. With its famous chicken sandwiches, waffle fries, and customer-first service, it has become a household name across the United States.
What makes Chick-fil-A different is its unique franchise model. Unlike McDonald’s or Subway that require hundreds of thousands of dollars upfront, Chick-fil-A charges only $10,000 as the franchise fee. The company itself pays for the real estate, construction, and kitchen equipment, which can run into hundreds of thousands of dollars.
This makes Chick-fil-A not only affordable to start but also one of the highest-earning franchises per store, with some outlets generating over $8 million annually despite being closed every Sunday.
Also Read: Primrose Schools Franchise in USA (2025)
Why Choose Chick-fil-A Franchise?
Here are the top reasons entrepreneurs dream of owning a Chick-fil-A franchise:
- Low Entry Cost – With just $10,000, you can start managing one of America’s most profitable fast-food chains.
- Industry-Leading Sales – Average sales per unit are 3x higher than McDonald’s or Burger King.
- Unmatched Brand Trust – Chick-fil-A has ranked #1 in customer satisfaction for nearly a decade.
- Strong Company Support – From marketing to training, Chick-fil-A handles most major operations.
- Prestige Factor – Out of 60,000+ applicants each year, only 80–100 are chosen. Being selected is a recognition of leadership ability.
Founder Details
- Founder: S. Truett Cathy
- First Restaurant: 1946, Hapeville, Georgia (originally named Dwarf Grill)
- Franchise Launch: 1967 with the first Chick-fil-A at Greenbriar Mall in Atlanta
- Current Leadership: Still privately owned, led by the Cathy family
Truett Cathy built Chick-fil-A with a vision of combining great food with Christian values like integrity, kindness, and community service. These values are still visible today — Chick-fil-A remains closed on Sundays to honor work-life balance and religious principles.
Research Insights – Why the U.S. Market Needs Chick-fil-A
- The U.S. quick-service restaurant (QSR) market is valued at over $300 billion (Statista 2024).
- Chicken-based fast food is the fastest-growing segment, outperforming burgers and pizza.
- Chick-fil-A holds nearly 45% market share in the chicken sandwich category.
- Despite being closed one day a week, Chick-fil-A still ranks as the highest revenue-per-unit franchise in America.
This proves that demand for chicken QSR chains is only rising, and Chick-fil-A is leading the way.
Achievements & Recognitions
Chick-fil-A’s success has been recognized worldwide:
- #1 in Customer Satisfaction (ACSI) for 9 years straight
- Top American Franchise in profitability per store
- Ranked Best Drive-Thru Experience by QSR Magazine
- Consistently one of Forbes’ America’s Best Employers
- Expanded internationally to Canada, Puerto Rico, and U.K. pilot stores
Investment & ROI Table
| Category | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $10,000 |
| Total Investment | $300,000 – $1,000,000 (paid by Chick-fil-A, not franchisee) |
| Royalty Fees | 15% of sales + 50% of net profits |
| Average Store Sales | $8.6 Million annually |
| ROI Period | Highly variable, depends on store success & operator skills |
👉 Unlike other QSRs, Chick-fil-A owns the restaurant and rents it to the franchisee. This lowers your risk but also means you don’t own the asset.
Eligibility Criteria
Chick-fil-A carefully selects operators. Requirements include:
- Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- No passive investors allowed — operators must be hands-on daily
- Strong leadership and people management skills
- Alignment with Chick-fil-A’s culture and service values
- No requirement for million-dollar net worth (unique compared to McDonald’s & Subway)
Required Documents
- Valid government-issued ID
- Resume or proof of leadership experience
- Financial disclosure statement
- Application form via official Chick-fil-A website
How to Apply for Chick-fil-A Franchise
The application process is competitive and multi-stage:
- Visit Chick-fil-A Franchise Application.
- Fill out the online form with personal and financial details.
- Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews and assessments.
- Selected operators undergo intensive training before managing a store.
- If chosen, Chick-fil-A assigns you a location — you cannot pick one yourself.
Conclusion
The Chick-fil-A franchise opportunity is unlike any other in the food industry. With its affordable entry fee, high revenue potential, and strong brand power, it is one of the most prestigious franchises in the U.S.
However, it is also one of the hardest franchises to get, with a selection rate of less than 1%. If you are chosen, you gain access to a life-changing business opportunity backed by one of the most respected fast-food brands in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)- Chick-fil-A franchise
How much does it cost to open a Chick-fil-A franchise?
Only $10,000 upfront, as Chick-fil-A covers store construction and setup.
How much profit does a Chick-fil-A franchise make?
On average, stores generate $8.6M in sales per year, with strong ROI for operators.
Why is it so hard to get a Chick-fil-A franchise?
Chick-fil-A receives 60,000+ applications yearly but approves less than 0.2%.
Do franchisees own the restaurant?
No. Chick-fil-A owns the property and assets. Franchisees operate the business.
Can non-U.S. residents apply?
No, currently only U.S. citizens or permanent residents can apply.
