Established
1987
Franchise Units
145
Minimum Investment
$500,000
Franchise Fee
$30,000
Total Investment Range
$1,200,000
Home Based
No
Description
Back Yard Burgers is a well-established American fast-casual restaurant franchise that has carved its name in the competitive burger industry by offering flame-grilled, premium, made-to-order burgers. Unlike ordinary quick-service restaurants that rely on frozen patties and limited customization, Back Yard Burgers thrives on its reputation for high-quality ingredients, 100% Black Angus beef, chicken, turkey, and vegetarian options, all prepared fresh to suit customer preferences.
Founded on the concept of delivering “backyard grilled taste without the backyard hassle,” the brand has successfully created a loyal customer base by offering a blend of bold flavors, quick service, and an inviting dining experience. With decades of proven success in the United States, Back Yard Burgers continues to attract entrepreneurs looking for a strong, recession-resilient franchise in the fast-casual dining space.
As the burger industry in the USA grows beyond $130 billion annually, Back Yard Burgers positions itself as a franchise brand that combines the best of quick-service convenience and premium restaurant quality. Its strong brand recognition, unique menu innovation, and customer-first approach make it a franchise opportunity worth exploring for serious investors.
Why Invest in this Franchise?
Investing in a Back Yard Burgers franchise provides entrepreneurs with access to a brand that has stood the test of time while adapting to evolving consumer trends. The franchise offers:
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Proven Business Model – With decades of operational experience, Back Yard Burgers has refined a scalable, profitable system.
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Strong Consumer Demand – The burger remains America’s favorite food, with premium and customizable options driving growth.
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Brand Differentiation – Unlike generic fast-food brands, Back Yard Burgers markets itself as a premium, flame-grilled alternative.
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Flexible Footprint Options – Suitable for traditional dine-in restaurants, drive-thru, food courts, and non-traditional venues.
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Comprehensive Support – Extensive training, marketing assistance, and operational guidance to ensure franchisee success.
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Attractive ROI Potential – Franchisees can benefit from multiple revenue streams including dine-in, takeout, drive-thru, catering, and delivery services.
Background
- Founded: 1987
- Founders: Lattimore Michael
- Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina (Current)
- Industry Category: Fast-Casual / Better Burger
- Active Units: 145
- Market Presence: Primarily across the Southeast and Midwestern United States.
The Journey: Back Yard Burgers started in Cleveland, Mississippi, with a simple premise: give people a burger that tastes like it came off their own backyard grill. The brand quickly gained a cult following, leading to an expansion that eventually took the company public in the 1990s before transitioning back to private ownership. Today, under seasoned leadership, the brand focuses on a "back to basics" strategy—prioritizing food quality and guest experience. While the number of active units fluctuates as the brand optimizes its footprint, the core mission remains the same: being the go-to spot for an authentic, flame-grilled meal.
Support Training
Back Yard Burgers takes pride in equipping franchisees with the right tools to succeed. The brand offers:
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Pre-Launch Support:
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Site selection assistance and demographic analysis
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Restaurant design and construction guidance
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Supplier and vendor coordination for equipment and ingredients
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Training Programs:
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Comprehensive initial training for franchise owners and management teams
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Hands-on kitchen training for food preparation, operations, and quality control
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Customer service excellence workshops to maintain brand standards
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Operational Support:
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Ongoing business consultation and restaurant performance reviews
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Standardized operating manuals and technology support systems
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Inventory management and supply chain support
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Marketing Support:
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National and regional advertising campaigns
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Social media, PR, and digital marketing strategies
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Grand opening promotions and seasonal marketing materials
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Ongoing Assistance:
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Continuous product innovation and menu development
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Regular franchisee meetings, networking, and knowledge sharing
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Field support teams for day-to-day operational challenges
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Ideal Candidate
Back Yard Burgers seeks passionate entrepreneurs who are committed to delivering premium dining experiences. The ideal franchisee is:
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Business-Oriented: Preferably with experience in the restaurant, food service, or retail industry.
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Customer-Focused: Strong dedication to customer service and community engagement.
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Financially Capable: Able to meet investment requirements with adequate liquidity and creditworthiness.
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Hands-On Operator or Multi-Unit Investor: Suitable for both owner-operators and experienced investors looking to build a portfolio.
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Location Preference: High-traffic urban centers, suburban shopping areas, near universities, business hubs, or interstate highways.
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Passionate & Motivated: Genuine enthusiasm for food, hospitality, and building a long-term profitable business.
Financial Detail
| Category | Estimated Cost / Detail |
| Total Investment Range | $500,000 – $1,200,000+ |
| Minimum Cash Liquidity | $250,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $30,000 per unit |
| Royalty Fee | 5% of Gross Sales |
| Marketing Fund Fee | 1% – 2% of Gross Sales |
| Infrastructure/Construction | Varies by site (New build vs. Conversion) |
| Working Capital | Recommended 3–6 months of operating expenses |
| Revenue Streams | Dine-in, Drive-thru, Carry-out, and Third-party delivery |