2013
350
$124,500
Inquire
$498,500
No
Charlie Graingers is a fast-casual restaurant franchise that brings classic American comfort food to communities across the United States. With a focus on high-quality, homemade dishes served in a nostalgic, Americana-inspired setting, Charlie Graingers has carved out a unique niche in the competitive restaurant industry. The brand's commitment to quality, simplicity, and community engagement has made it a popular choice for both customers and franchisees.
Proven Business Model: Charlie Graingers offers a streamlined menu and efficient operations, leading to lower overhead costs and higher profitability.
Strong Brand Recognition: With numerous locations and a loyal customer base, Charlie Graingers has established itself as a trusted name in the fast-casual dining sector.
Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive extensive training and ongoing support, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge to succeed.
Community-Centric Approach: The brand's commitment to community involvement fosters strong local ties and customer loyalty.
Established: 2013 (originally founded as Peacock Alley in 1939)
Founders: Louis North (Founder), Jason Nista (CEO), Greg George (Director of Development)
Franchise Units: Over 350 commitments across the southeastern United States
Headquarters: Wilmington, North Carolina
Industry Category: Fast-Casual Dining
Ownership: Privately owned and operated
The journey of Charlie Graingers began in 1939 when Mr. & Mrs. Charlie Grainger opened "Peacock Alley" in Wilmington, NC, serving up legendary homemade food. In 2012, Louis North purchased the site of the original Peacock Alley, demolished the dilapidated structure, and rebuilt the restaurant. By 2013, the new establishment began serving the same world-class hot dogs and southern cooking as the original. In 2015, the name was changed to Charlie Graingers to honor the legendary founder.
Charlie Graingers ensures that every franchisee receives comprehensive support to maximize the chances of success. This support spans pre-launch, operational, marketing, academic, and ongoing assistance.
Before opening a location, franchisees get guidance on:
Site Selection & Lease Negotiation: Assistance in choosing the right location based on demographics, visibility, and foot traffic.
Restaurant Design & Build-Out: Consultation on layout, interior design, and brand-compliant décor to create the signature Charlie Graingers atmosphere.
Equipment & Supplier Guidance: Recommendations for kitchen equipment, furniture, and approved vendors.
Regulatory Compliance: Support in navigating permits, health inspections, and local regulations.
Franchisees and their management teams receive structured training programs:
On-Site Training: Hands-on instruction in food preparation, menu execution, and service standards.
Management Skills: Training in staffing, inventory management, cost control, scheduling, and day-to-day operations.
Point-of-Sale & Technology: Guidance on using proprietary software for sales tracking, inventory, and customer management.
Charlie Graingers provides franchisees with tools to attract and retain customers:
Brand Marketing Materials: Access to national and local promotional materials, signage, menus, and social media assets.
Digital Marketing Guidance: Strategies for social media campaigns, local SEO, and email marketing to engage the community.
Promotional Campaigns: Assistance in planning grand openings, seasonal promotions, and community events.
Franchisees gain knowledge to maintain brand consistency and operational excellence:
Workshops & Webinars: Training on emerging trends in the fast-casual restaurant industry, customer experience, and menu innovations.
Employee Training Programs: Guidance on onboarding staff, standard operating procedures, and delivering high-quality service.
Even after opening, franchisees are never left alone:
Field Support Visits: Regular visits from regional managers to monitor operations, provide feedback, and suggest improvements.
Operational Assistance: Help with staffing, supply chain issues, and troubleshooting daily challenges.
Continuous Learning: Access to updated training modules and best practices as the brand evolves.
Franchisee Network: Opportunity to collaborate and learn from other Charlie Graingers franchise owners.
Charlie Graingers seeks franchisees who are passionate, capable, and committed to growing the brand while delivering high-quality dining experiences. The ideal franchisee aligns with the company’s values, understands the restaurant business, and is prepared to invest both time and resources into the venture.
Love for Food: Franchisees should have a genuine enthusiasm for high-quality, classic American cuisine.
Customer Service Focused: Commitment to delivering excellent dining experiences that reflect the brand’s standards.
Brand Ambassador: Eager to represent Charlie Graingers in the community and uphold its reputation.
Management Experience: Prior experience in running a business, restaurant, or retail operation is beneficial but not mandatory.
Financial Understanding: Ability to manage budgets, costs, payroll, and other operational financials.
Decision-Making Skills: Capable of making informed operational and strategic decisions that impact profitability and growth.
Engagement: Interested in building strong local connections, participating in events, and fostering customer loyalty.
Local Market Insight: Ability to understand local customer preferences and adapt marketing strategies accordingly.
Investment Readiness: Access to sufficient capital to cover the initial investment ($124,500 – $498,500), working capital, and operational costs.
Long-Term Commitment: Prepared for the time and financial commitment required to establish and grow a successful location.
Growth Potential: Interested in operating in areas with strong demand for fast-casual dining.
Flexibility: Willing to consider locations based on market research and franchise recommendations, rather than strictly personal preference.
Motivated & Self-Driven: Franchisees should be proactive in learning, problem-solving, and growing the business.
Team Leadership: Ability to recruit, train, and manage a motivated team of employees.
Adaptability: Open to feedback and capable of implementing brand standards effectively.
| Financial Category | Details / Range |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $124,500 – $498,500 |
| Minimum Investment | $124,500 |
| Franchise Fee | Not publicly disclosed (varies by location) |
| Royalty Fee | Not publicly disclosed |
| Marketing Fee | Not publicly disclosed |
| Franchise Units | Over 350 commitments across the USA |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out Cost | Varies depending on location and restaurant size; part of total investment range |
| Working Capital | Included in total investment estimate, to cover initial operational costs |
| Expected ROI | Not publicly disclosed, depends on location, operations, and market conditions |
| Break-Even Time | Not publicly disclosed; typically 2–3 years for similar fast-casual franchises |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Food & beverage sales, catering services, seasonal promotions, delivery & takeout |
