Established
1981
Franchise Units
10
Minimum Investment
$250,000
Franchise Fee
$30,000
Total Investment Range
$650,000
Home Based
No
Description
Boardwalk Fries, Burgers & Shakes offers a nostalgic yet modern dining experience that transports guests to the iconic boardwalks of the East Coast. Founded in 1981 by brothers Dave and Fran DiFerdinando, the brand began with a singular focus: delivering the best fries, prepared fresh and served piping hot. Their commitment to quality quickly garnered a loyal following, leading to the introduction of hand-formed, never-frozen burgers and creamy shakes. Today, Boardwalk Fries, Burgers & Shakes stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic American comfort food, with over 750 locations internationally.
The franchise's success lies in its dedication to fresh ingredients, exceptional customer service, and a welcoming atmosphere that evokes the charm of seaside boardwalks. With a diverse menu that includes fresh-cut fries, gourmet burgers, and indulgent shakes, Boardwalk Fries, Burgers & Shakes caters to a wide range of tastes, making it a beloved destination for families, friends, and food enthusiasts alike.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
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Proven Track Record: With decades of operational excellence and a strong brand presence, Boardwalk Fries, Burgers & Shakes has established itself as a leader in the fast-casual dining sector.
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High-Quality Offerings: The brand's commitment to using fresh, never-frozen ingredients ensures a superior product that keeps customers coming back.
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Scalable Business Model: The franchise's streamlined operations and adaptable store formats make it suitable for various locations, from bustling urban centers to suburban communities.
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Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive extensive training and ongoing support, covering everything from site selection to marketing strategies, ensuring a smooth path to success.
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Strong Customer Loyalty: The brand's nostalgic appeal and consistent quality have cultivated a dedicated customer base, leading to repeat business and positive word-of-mouth referrals.
Background
- Founded: 1981
- Founders: Brothers Dave and Franco DiFerdinando
- Industry Category: Fast-Casual / Better Burger
- Franchise Units:10
- Market Presence: Nationwide presence with a concentrated footprint in the Mid-Atlantic and expanding rapidly across the Sun Belt and West Coast.
The story began when the DiFerdinando brothers realized that people would wait in long lines for the perfect fry. They spent years perfecting a proprietary process—involving specific potato types and a unique multi-stage cooking method—that ensures the fries stay crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside. After conquering the fry market, the brand expanded into a full-service fast-casual concept, adding premium burgers and shakes to complete the "American Dream" menu. Today, Boardwalk stands as a symbol of coastal relaxation and premium quality in the American dining sector.
Support Training
Boardwalk Fries, Burgers & Shakes is committed to the success of its franchisees through:
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Pre-Launch Support: Assistance with site selection, lease negotiation, and store design to ensure optimal location and layout.
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Comprehensive Training: A robust training program covering all aspects of operations, including food preparation, customer service, inventory management, and financial oversight.
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Marketing Assistance: Access to proven marketing strategies and materials to drive brand awareness and customer engagement.
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Ongoing Operational Support: Regular visits from field representatives to provide guidance, address challenges, and implement best practices.
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Technology Integration: Implementation of a custom POS system to streamline operations and enhance customer experience.
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Supply Chain Management: Partnerships with top-tier producers, suppliers, and distributors to ensure consistent product quality and availability.
Ideal Candidate
We are looking for builders, not just operators. The ideal Boardwalk franchisee fits the following criteria:
The Business-Minded Leader: You don't need 20 years of chef experience, but you do need a strong grasp of management, guest services, and team building.
Passion for the Brand: You understand the "Boardwalk Culture" and are committed to delivering an exceptional customer experience.
Financial Readiness: Candidates should possess the liquid assets and net worth necessary to not only open but successfully ramp up the business.
Community Focused: Successful owners are often those who want to integrate their business into local schools, sports teams, and community events.
Multi-Unit Ambition: While we welcome single-unit operators, we prioritize those with the vision to develop 3–5 units in a specific territory.
Financial Detail
| Category | Estimated Details |
| Total Investment Range | $250,000 – $650,000 (Varies by location & size) |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | $150,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $30,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% to 6% of gross sales |
| Marketing Fund | 1% to 2% of gross sales |
| Infrastructure Costs | Includes kitchen equipment, signage, and coastal-themed interior decor |
| Expected Break-Even | Typically 18–36 months (depending on performance and location) |
| Revenue Streams | In-store dining, Take-out, Third-party delivery, and Catering |