1946
60
$200,000
$30,000
$550,000
No
Hot Dog On A Stick is one of America’s most recognizable and nostalgic quick-service brands, known for its bright red-and-yellow uniforms, fresh-squeezed lemonade, and delicious hand-stomped corn dogs. Founded on the sunny beaches of California, this brand has evolved from a single food stand into a nationwide franchise sensation that continues to capture hearts with its cheerful atmosphere and signature snacks. Offering a unique combination of classic American fun and operational simplicity, Hot Dog On A Stick has positioned itself as a high-traffic food franchise ideal for malls, entertainment venues, and high-footfall locations.
Over the decades, the brand has maintained its reputation for serving high-quality, freshly prepared comfort food while fostering a vibrant customer experience built around energy, color, and community. Whether it’s a hand-battered hot dog on a stick, crispy fries, or the brand’s world-famous lemonade, each item is crafted fresh in front of guests — making every visit a show in itself. With strong brand recognition, a loyal fan base, and decades of proven performance, Hot Dog On A Stick offers franchisees a low-barrier entry into the fast-growing snack and quick-service industry.
Investing in a Hot Dog On A Stick franchise means becoming part of an American classic with lasting appeal and strong market demand. The brand thrives on simplicity, fun, and high profitability through a focused menu and efficient operations. Franchise owners benefit from decades of operational know-how, an instantly recognizable brand identity, and ongoing support from a world-class franchise team.
Hot Dog On A Stick operates under Global Franchise Group (GFG), a leader in multi-brand franchising, which provides a powerful infrastructure, marketing expertise, and cross-promotional advantages with sister brands like Pretzelmaker and Marble Slab Creamery. This gives franchisees access to a larger support system and shared brand equity.
With flexible store formats, low overhead costs, and broad customer appeal, Hot Dog On A Stick franchises are ideal for entrepreneurs seeking a scalable food business with nostalgic charm and modern growth potential.
Hot Dog On A Stick was founded in 1946 by Dave Barham in Santa Monica, California. What began as a humble beachside hot dog stand quickly became a cultural icon, synonymous with sunshine, fun, and freshly made snacks. Over the years, the brand expanded across malls, theme parks, and airports, becoming one of America’s most beloved food court franchises.
Today, Hot Dog On A Stick operates under Global Franchise Group, LLC, which is part of FAT Brands Inc., a powerhouse in the restaurant franchising world with multiple successful QSR and fast-casual brands under its portfolio. The company continues to innovate with modernized store designs, mobile ordering, and an enhanced focus on experiential dining.
Founded: 1946
Founder: Dave Barham
Headquarters: Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Franchise Units: 60+ locations across the USA and international markets
Industry: Quick-Service / Snack & Beverage Franchise
Parent Company: FAT Brands Inc. (Global Franchise Group)
Hot Dog On A Stick offers franchisees comprehensive support from day one, ensuring a seamless setup and successful launch.
Pre-Launch Support:
Assistance with site selection, lease negotiations, and layout design.
Guidance in store construction, build-out, and equipment installation.
Help with permits, licenses, and vendor sourcing to ensure operational readiness.
Training:
Initial training program (2-3 weeks) at an existing location, covering store operations, staff management, product preparation, customer service, and safety standards.
Manager and employee onboarding programs to ensure consistent brand delivery.
Operational & Marketing Support:
Ongoing field support through a dedicated franchise consultant.
Access to proprietary POS systems, inventory controls, and operational manuals.
Marketing and advertising assistance, including local and national campaigns, social media strategies, promotional calendars, and loyalty programs.
Guidance for grand openings, community events, and digital brand-building.
Hot Dog On A Stick’s parent company also provides regular innovation workshops, new product rollouts, and regional franchise conferences, keeping franchisees ahead of market trends.
Hot Dog On A Stick is looking for enthusiastic, community-minded entrepreneurs who want to bring smiles and delicious food to their local markets. The ideal franchisee is someone who thrives in a lively, people-oriented environment and is passionate about delivering memorable guest experiences. While prior food service experience can be an asset, it’s not a requirement — the brand’s extensive training and support make it accessible to first-time business owners as well.
Key Qualities of an Ideal Franchise Owner:
Passionate and Energetic: Someone who loves interacting with customers and enjoys running a vibrant, fun food business that’s all about positivity and great service.
Hands-On Operator: Willing to be actively involved in daily operations, ensuring consistent quality and a cheerful atmosphere.
Business-Minded: Possesses strong leadership, management, and organizational skills, with the ability to oversee staff, inventory, and marketing activities effectively.
Financially Prepared: Has the financial stability to meet the initial investment and working capital requirements, along with the ambition to grow into multiple locations over time.
Customer-Focused: Understands the importance of maintaining a consistent brand image and providing top-tier service to keep guests coming back.
Community-Oriented: Enjoys participating in local events, school fundraisers, and community programs to strengthen local brand presence.
Preferred Backgrounds:
Experience in hospitality, retail, or restaurant management.
Entrepreneurs seeking a scalable, family-friendly food business.
Investors looking for an established, high-visibility brand with proven operational systems.
Ideal Locations:
Hot Dog On A Stick franchises perform best in high-traffic areas such as shopping malls, entertainment districts, airports, amusement parks, and busy downtown centers. Entrepreneurs located in metropolitan regions or tourist-heavy destinations will find exceptional growth potential.
Owning a Hot Dog On A Stick franchise offers a lucrative business opportunity within the QSR sector, with flexible investment options based on location and format.
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $350,000 – $550,000 |
| Minimum Investment Required | $200,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $30,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 6% of gross sales |
| Marketing Fee | 2% of gross sales |
| Working Capital | $30,000 – $50,000 |
| Equipment & Build-Out | $150,000 – $250,000 |
| Expected ROI | 20% – 25% annually (varies by location) |
| Break-Even Period | Typically 18–30 months |
| Revenue Streams | In-store sales, catering, takeout, events, branded merchandise |
