1981
750
$174,500
$30,000
$626,000
No
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.
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.
High-Quality Offerings: The brand's commitment to using fresh, never-frozen ingredients ensures a superior product that keeps customers coming back.
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.
Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive extensive training and ongoing support, covering everything from site selection to marketing strategies, ensuring a smooth path to success.
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.
Established Year:
Boardwalk Fries, Burgers & Shakes was founded in 1981 at the White Marsh Mall in Maryland, USA. The founders, Dave and Fran DiFerdinando, started with a simple concept—serving freshly prepared, high-quality fries—and gradually expanded their menu to include burgers and shakes.
Founders & Brand Journey:
The DiFerdinando brothers had a vision of bringing a classic boardwalk food experience to communities across America. Beginning as a single fry stand, the brand quickly gained popularity due to its focus on fresh ingredients, exceptional service, and a nostalgic boardwalk-style dining experience. Over the decades, the company evolved into a nationally recognized brand, expanding both domestically and internationally, while maintaining the charm and quality that made it a local favorite.
Franchise Units:
Today, Boardwalk Fries, Burgers & Shakes boasts over 750 locations globally, with the majority concentrated in the United States. Each location carries the brand’s signature style and menu offerings, creating a consistent experience for customers regardless of geography.
Ownership & Corporate Structure:
Boardwalk Fries, Burgers & Shakes is privately held, focusing on sustainable growth and franchisee success. The company supports franchise partners with comprehensive operational, marketing, and training programs to ensure brand standards are maintained.
Market Presence in the USA:
The franchise has a strong presence in high-traffic malls, shopping centers, and urban/suburban locations across the United States. Its niche in fast-casual dining and focus on American comfort food—fries, burgers, and shakes—positions it uniquely in the competitive quick-service restaurant industry.
Industry Category:
Boardwalk Fries, Burgers & Shakes belongs to the fast-casual dining sector, specializing in nostalgic American comfort food with a modern, scalable franchise model. The brand competes with other fast-casual and quick-service restaurants but differentiates itself through quality, customization, and the iconic boardwalk-inspired ambiance.
Company Milestones:
1981: First store launched in Maryland.
1980s–1990s: Expansion into regional malls and shopping centers.
2000s: Introduction of franchise program, scaling to multiple states.
2010s–Present: Over 750 locations internationally, with ongoing focus on innovation in menu and store experience.
Brand Values & Philosophy:
The company emphasizes freshness, quality, and customer satisfaction. It combines a nostalgic boardwalk theme with modern operational efficiency, ensuring that each customer enjoys a memorable dining experience.
Boardwalk Fries, Burgers & Shakes is committed to the success of its franchisees through:
Pre-Launch Support: Assistance with site selection, lease negotiation, and store design to ensure optimal location and layout.
Comprehensive Training: A robust training program covering all aspects of operations, including food preparation, customer service, inventory management, and financial oversight.
Marketing Assistance: Access to proven marketing strategies and materials to drive brand awareness and customer engagement.
Ongoing Operational Support: Regular visits from field representatives to provide guidance, address challenges, and implement best practices.
Technology Integration: Implementation of a custom POS system to streamline operations and enhance customer experience.
Supply Chain Management: Partnerships with top-tier producers, suppliers, and distributors to ensure consistent product quality and availability.
The success of a Boardwalk Fries, Burgers & Shakes franchise depends largely on the commitment, skill set, and mindset of the franchisee. The brand seeks individuals who are not only financially capable but also aligned with its core values and operational philosophy.
1. Financial Capability:
Prospective franchisees should have a minimum liquid capital of $500,000 and a net worth of at least $1,400,000.
Must be prepared for a total initial investment ranging from $174,500 to $626,000, which includes franchise fees, infrastructure, marketing, and working capital.
Ability to sustain operational expenses during the initial months and plan for a break-even period typically within 12–24 months.
2. Business Background and Experience:
Previous management or business ownership experience, preferably in the food & beverage, retail, or hospitality sectors, is highly advantageous.
Familiarity with operational management, staff training, customer service, and financial oversight ensures smoother day-to-day operations.
Ability to understand and implement brand standards, operational systems, and marketing strategies provided by the franchisor.
3. Passion and Commitment:
A strong passion for delivering high-quality food and excellent customer service.
Willingness to personally invest time and effort in the business, especially during the launch phase.
Commitment to upholding the brand’s reputation, values, and standards consistently.
4. Entrepreneurial Mindset:
Goal-oriented and driven, with the vision to scale by potentially operating multiple locations.
Openness to learning and adopting franchisor guidance, including pre-launch support, operational procedures, and marketing programs.
Ability to analyze market trends and adapt strategies to maximize profitability.
5. Location & Market Understanding:
Ideally, franchisees should have a good understanding of their local market and demographics, choosing locations with high foot traffic, shopping centers, or urban/suburban areas aligned with the brand’s target audience.
Willingness to engage with the local community, creating brand loyalty and repeat customer base.
6. Personal Attributes:
Strong leadership skills to manage teams effectively.
High level of integrity, professionalism, and customer-centric mindset.
Resilient, adaptable, and capable of handling operational challenges proactively.
Summary:
The ideal Boardwalk Fries, Burgers & Shakes franchisee is a financially capable, experienced, and passionate entrepreneur who is committed to the brand’s vision, willing to actively manage the business, and eager to grow within the fast-casual dining market. Franchisees who meet these criteria are best positioned to succeed and achieve long-term profitability.
| Category | Details / Range |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $174,500 – $626,000 |
| Minimum Investment Required | $174,500 |
| Franchise Fee | $30,000 |
| Royalty Fees | Percentage of gross sales (exact terms in FDD) |
| Marketing Fee / Budget | Allocated by franchise agreement; additional local marketing encouraged |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out Cost | Varies by location and store format |
| Working Capital | Recommended to cover initial 3–6 months of operations |
| Expected ROI | Varies based on location and operational efficiency; potential for strong returns |
| Break-Even Time | Typically 12–24 months |
| Franchise Units (Worldwide) | 750+ |
| Revenue Streams | Core menu sales (fries, burgers, shakes), catering services, branded merchandise, seasonal promotions |
| Financial Requirements for Franchisee | Minimum liquid capital: $500,000; Minimum net worth: $1,400,000 |
