Established
1964
Franchise Units
3400
Minimum Investment
$644,950
Franchise Fee
$12,500
Total Investment Range
$2,451,000
Home Based
No
Description
The Arby’s Advantage: A Cut Above the Rest
In the competitive landscape of American fast food, Arby’s has carved out a unique niche that bridges the gap between the speed of traditional QSR and the quality of fast-casual dining. While the rest of the industry fights over the "best burger," Arby’s dominates the sandwich category with its "We Have The Meats®" positioning. This strategy isn’t just marketing fluff; it’s a commitment to a diverse menu featuring 13 different types of protein, from signature slow-roasted roast beef and pit-smoked brisket to Greek gyro meat and crispy chicken.
Investing in an Arby’s franchise means joining a brand with an incredible reputation for innovation and resilience. With over 3,400 units across the United States and a growing international presence, the brand benefits from massive economies of scale provided by its parent company, Inspire Brands (which also owns Dunkin’, Sonic, and Buffalo Wild Wings). As a franchisee, you aren't just selling sandwiches; you are leveraging a high-visibility brand that consistently ranks as the second-largest sandwich restaurant brand in the world.
Why Invest in an Arby’s Franchise?
Market Differentiation: Arby’s avoids the "burger fatigue" of the QSR sector. By focusing on high-quality, deli-inspired sandwiches, the brand attracts a demographic looking for premium options without the fast-casual price tag.
Strong Sales Performance: With an average unit volume (AUV) exceeding $1.2 million, the revenue potential is robust.
Innovation-Driven: From the "Inspire" store redesigns that boost curb appeal to advanced digital ordering systems, Arby's remains at the forefront of modern restaurant technology.
Multi-Unit Growth Incentives: Arby’s actively encourages expansion through programs like the Development Incentive Program (DIP), which offers reduced royalty fees and waived license fees for qualifying multi-unit developers.
Veteran Friendly: As a proud supporter of the military, Arby’s offers significant discounts on development fees for qualified veterans.
Background
| Detail | Information |
| Founded | 1964 (Boardman, Ohio) |
| Founders | Forrest and Leroy Raffel |
| Franchising Since | 1965 |
| Parent Company | Inspire Brands (Majority owned by Roark Capital Group) |
| Active Units | ~3,400+ (USA) |
| Industry Category | Fast Food / Sandwich Shop |
| Headquarters | Atlanta, Georgia |
The brand journey began when the Raffel brothers (the "R" and "B" in Arby's) realized there was a market gap for a fast-food alternative to hamburgers. Since then, the brand has navigated multiple ownership phases, eventually becoming the cornerstone of Inspire Brands in 2018. Today, it stands as a pillar of the American dining landscape.
Support Training
Arby’s provides a comprehensive support ecosystem designed to set you up for success long before your first customer walks through the door.
New Franchisee Orientation (NFO): A 1–2 day intensive classroom session covering the Arby’s business philosophy, administrative systems, and corporate culture.
Restaurant Management Training Program (MTP): An extensive 5–6 week hands-on training program conducted at a Certified Training Restaurant. This covers everything from the "Art of Meatcraft®" (slicing and preparation) to inventory management.
Real Estate & Construction: You’ll receive expert guidance on site selection, demographic analysis, and building design. Whether you are building a "Pinnacle" prototype from the ground up or remodeling an existing site, Arby’s provides the blueprints.
Operational Support: A dedicated Franchise Business Manager (FBM) provides ongoing coaching, helping you optimize labor costs, food waste, and guest satisfaction.
Marketing & Advertising: Franchisees benefit from a multi-million dollar national advertising fund and access to high-impact local marketing toolkits.
Ideal Candidate
Arby’s is looking for:
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Multi-unit operators or entrepreneurs with QSR experience
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Minimum liquid capital of $500,000
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Net worth of $1 million+Strong leadership and team-building skills
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Commitment to operational excellence and brand values
Experience in restaurant, retail, or hospitality operations
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Strong financial credentials
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Desire to grow with a top-tier national brand
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Preferred: Access to high-traffic locations in urban/suburban USA
Financial Detail
- Initial Franchise Fee: $12,500 to $37,500
- Initial Investment: $644,950 to $2,451,000
- Net Worth Requirement: $1,000,000
- Cash Requirement: $500,000
- Veteran Incentives: 50% off the development fee; license fee waived; royalty fee reduced for the first year
- Royalty Fee: 4%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 5.2%
- Term of Agreement: Up to 20 years
- Franchise Renewal: Yes