Established
1941
Franchise Units
600
Minimum Investment
$300,000
Franchise Fee
$35,000
Total Investment Range
$2,120,000
Home Based
No
Description
Carl's Jr. is one of America's most iconic fast-food brands, known for its premium-quality burgers, hand-breaded chicken, and crave-worthy menu items served with bold, edgy branding. A Carl’s Jr. franchise allows entrepreneurs to enter the highly competitive quick-service restaurant (QSR) space backed by decades of brand loyalty, marketing expertise, and operational support.
Background
Founded in 1941 by Carl Karcher in Anaheim, California, Carl’s Jr. has grown into a global QSR powerhouse under CKE Restaurants Holdings, Inc. With an emphasis on flavor, innovation, and bold marketing, Carl’s Jr. continues to expand across the United States and internationally. The brand boasts a strong track record of innovation, including offering the first charbroiled burger and pioneering late-night drive-thru service.
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Founded: 1941
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Parent Company: CKE Restaurants Holdings, Inc.
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Headquarters: Franklin, Tennessee, USA
Support Training
Carl’s Jr. offers comprehensive franchise support to ensure operational success:
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Initial training program (6-10 weeks) covering operations, marketing, HR, and food safety
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On-site restaurant opening support
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Ongoing field support through regional operations teams
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National and local marketing programs
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Technology and POS system training
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Real estate and construction assistance
Ideal Candidate
Carl’s Jr. is looking for franchisees who are passionate about foodservice, committed to operational excellence, and financially capable of managing multi-unit operations. Ideal candidates include:
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Multi-unit restaurant operators
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Experienced QSR or foodservice professionals
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Entrepreneurs with strong business acumen
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Investors seeking scalable growth with a proven brand
Financial Detail
Franchise Fee: $35,000
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Total Investment Range: $1,600,000 – $2,120,000
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Minimum Liquid Capital Required: $300,000
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Minimum Net Worth: $1,000,000
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Royalty Fee: 4% of gross sales
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Marketing Fee: 4% of gross sales (ad fund)