1936
70
$500,000
$40,000
$1,500,000
No
The Big Boy franchise is one of America’s most iconic and beloved restaurant brands, recognized for its timeless menu, signature double-decker burgers, and the classic Big Boy mascot that has become a symbol of comfort dining. Established as a casual dining and family-friendly restaurant chain, Big Boy has carved its niche in the competitive foodservice industry by blending tradition with innovation.
With a legacy spanning decades, Big Boy continues to evolve while staying true to its roots — offering high-quality meals, an inviting atmosphere, and exceptional customer service. The brand’s market positioning as a nostalgic yet modern dining destination makes it a lucrative franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs seeking long-term profitability and growth in the booming U.S. restaurant industry.
Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Big Boy caters to families, professionals, and younger audiences looking for great food and memorable dining experiences. As a franchise partner, you’ll be part of a proven system with strong brand recognition, comprehensive training, and ongoing support.
Investing in a Big Boy franchise means joining a restaurant brand with enduring popularity and established trust in the American food market. Here’s why Big Boy stands out:
Strong Brand Recognition – The Big Boy name and mascot are instantly recognizable across generations.
Diverse Menu – From famous Big Boy burgers to all-day breakfasts and comfort classics, the menu appeals to a wide audience.
Flexible Formats – Options to open traditional dine-in restaurants, drive-thru models, or hybrid concepts.
Proven Business Model – Decades of operational success ensure franchisees benefit from a tried-and-tested system.
High Growth Potential – The casual dining industry in the USA continues to expand, making Big Boy a strong contender for sustained profitability.
Established Year: 1936
Founder: Bob Wian
Headquarters: Southfield, Michigan, USA
Franchise Units: Over 70+ operating restaurants across the USA and select international markets.
Industry Category: Casual Dining / Family Restaurant Franchise
Brand Journey: Big Boy started in Glendale, California, with Bob Wian’s first double-decker hamburger — a creation that became an instant hit. The restaurant expanded rapidly through franchising in the 1950s, becoming one of the most recognizable brands in American dining culture.
Ownership: Currently owned and operated by Big Boy Restaurants International LLC, the brand continues to modernize while maintaining its nostalgic appeal.
Market Presence: Big Boy remains a trusted household name, with strong brand loyalty in the Midwest, California, and expanding markets across the USA.
Big Boy offers extensive support to ensure franchisee success:
Pre-Launch Support – Site selection guidance, lease negotiation assistance, restaurant design, and construction support.
Comprehensive Training – Hands-on training for franchise owners, managers, and staff covering restaurant operations, food preparation, service standards, and POS systems.
Marketing Support – National and regional advertising campaigns, social media marketing, branding strategies, and promotional assistance.
Operational Support – Ongoing consultation from field experts, supply chain management, menu innovation, and quality assurance systems.
Technology & Systems – Access to Big Boy’s POS platforms, inventory management tools, and customer engagement programs.
Ongoing Assistance – Continuous training updates, marketing refreshers, and operational audits to maximize performance.
The ideal Big Boy franchisee is someone with a passion for hospitality and business growth. Qualities include:
Background & Experience – Prior experience in the restaurant, foodservice, or hospitality industry is preferred but not mandatory. Entrepreneurial drive is essential.
Investment Capability – Must meet the financial requirements for startup and ongoing operations.
Commitment to Quality – A strong dedication to customer service, community engagement, and maintaining Big Boy’s brand standards.
Leadership Skills – Ability to hire, train, and manage a strong restaurant team.
Location Preference – Ideal for high-traffic areas such as urban centers, suburban hubs, highway exits, and family-oriented neighborhoods.
Passion for Growth – Franchisees who are motivated to expand into multi-unit ownership are highly encouraged.
| Financial Category | Estimated Cost (USD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $500,000 – $1,500,000+ | Varies depending on restaurant size, format (dine-in, drive-thru, hybrid), and location. |
| Minimum Investment | $500,000 | Includes franchise fee, initial setup, and working capital. |
| Franchise Fee | $40,000 – $50,000 | Paid upfront for brand rights, training, and initial support. |
| Royalty Fee | 4% – 6% of Gross Sales | Ongoing fee for continued brand support and system benefits. |
| Marketing/Ad Fund Fee | 2% – 3% of Gross Sales | Contributes to national, regional, and digital marketing campaigns. |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out | $350,000 – $1,000,000 | Covers restaurant construction, kitchen setup, furniture, signage, and décor. |
| Working Capital | $50,000 – $150,000 | Ensures smooth day-to-day operations during the initial months. |
| Expected ROI | Within 2–4 years | Based on average performance and operational efficiency. |
| Break-Even Point | 18–30 months | Depends on location, management, and market demand. |
| Revenue Streams | Multiple – Dine-in, Drive-thru, Delivery, Catering | Provides diversified earning potential. |
