Established
2009
Franchise Units
7
Minimum Investment
$857,200
Franchise Fee
$40,000
Total Investment Range
$1,303,000
Home Based
No
Description
JL Beers is one of those rare restaurant brands that manages to feel handcrafted, local, and authentic—yet operates with the discipline and consistency of a strong franchise system. Known for its award-winning burgers, fresh-cut fries, kettle-cooked chips, and an impressive lineup of craft beers, JL Beers has built a loyal following across the Upper Midwest. The concept blends the energy of a casual burger joint with the sophistication of a craft-beer bar, creating a destination where guests enjoy great food, cold beer, and a fun, social atmosphere.
The brand’s growth has been steady and intentional, driven by a commitment to quality, operational efficiency, and community-centric hospitality. As more U.S. markets shift toward elevated fast-casual dining and craft-beer culture continues to surge, JL Beers stands out as a franchise positioned for meaningful expansion. For entrepreneurs who want to build a business rooted in great food, memorable experiences, and a strong brand identity, JL Beers offers an attractive opportunity.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
Choosing a JL Beers franchise means investing in a proven restaurant concept that is both unique and in demand. Here’s why savvy investors find this brand compelling:
-
A Distinct Positioning in the Burger Industry: JL Beers is not “just another burger chain.” Its craft-beer focus, chef-crafted burgers, and fun bar-style environment create a differentiated dining experience.
-
Strong Consumer Trends: Americans continue to spend heavily on specialty burgers and craft beer—two categories that consistently outperform many traditional fast-casual segments.
-
Operational Systems That Work: Since launching its first location in 2009 and franchising in 2013, the company has refined its model for scalability and repeatability.
-
High Guest Loyalty: The brand benefits from strong repeat business, driven by fresh ingredients, local beer selections, and a signature menu.
-
Territory Growth Potential: JL Beers’ established footprint is still limited, meaning investors have early-mover opportunity in many U.S. regions.
-
Full Franchise Support: From training and site selection to marketing and ongoing field support, franchisees receive comprehensive help every step of the way.
Background
JL Beers began its journey in 2009 when the first restaurant opened in Fargo, North Dakota. What started as a small, handcrafted burger-and-beer concept quickly gained traction for its fresh-ground burgers, crispy fries and chips, friendly atmosphere, and an unmatched selection of craft beers. The brand stood out from the beginning by blending fast-casual dining with a fun, bar-centric experience—something that resonated strongly with local communities.
As demand grew, the company formalized its franchise program, and in 2013, JL Beers Franchising, Inc. was established to expand the brand across the United States. The franchise system was built on a foundation of operational simplicity, efficient kitchens, a focused menu, and an inviting guest environment. These elements allowed the brand to scale steadily without compromising quality.
Today, JL Beers operates a mix of company-owned and franchise-owned restaurants across states such as North Dakota, Minnesota, and South Dakota. The system includes 7 company-operated units and a small but growing number of franchise-operated locations, making JL Beers an emerging brand with strong potential for broader national growth.
The chain belongs to the fast-casual restaurant and craft-beer bar category, serving guests who want premium burgers, fresh sides, and a rotating list of local and regional beers. With a strong Midwest presence and rising nationwide interest in craft beer and elevated burger concepts, JL Beers is positioned as a promising expansion brand for investors looking to enter the hospitality and foodservice industry.
Support Training
JL Beers offers a structured and hands-on support model designed to help franchisees open smoothly and operate successfully.
Pre-Launch Support
-
Guidance on site selection, demographics, traffic flow, and ideal trade areas
-
Assistance in lease review and construction guidelines
-
Detailed design specifications for layout, bar format, signage, and atmosphere
-
Vendor and supplier onboarding
Initial Training
-
Classroom training covering operations, brand standards, food preparation, craft-beer service, health and safety protocols
-
On-site training at an operating store, including hands-on learning for staff management, customer service, POS systems, merchandising, product preparation, and bar operations
-
Training typically includes over 100 hours of combined instruction and practical experience
Marketing Support
-
Grand-opening marketing blueprint
-
Social media and digital templates
-
Local store marketing strategies
-
Brand-approved promotional programs
Ongoing Support
-
Regular field visits from franchise support representatives
-
Operational reviews, performance tracking, and cost-control coaching
-
Updates on new menu items, craft-beer sourcing trends, and system-wide promotions
-
Access to operations manuals and ongoing training resources
Ideal Candidate
JL Beers is a great fit for investors who love hospitality and understand the energy of a casual, social, beer-driven dining concept. The ideal franchisee is:
-
Passionate About Food & Craft Beer: A genuine love for burgers, flavor innovation, and beer culture helps drive guest satisfaction.
-
Experienced in Business or Management: While restaurant experience helps, many successful operators come from leadership, operations, or entrepreneurial backgrounds.
-
Hands-On and People-Focused: This is a business built on atmosphere and guest interaction—owners who enjoy being part of the experience thrive.
-
Financially Prepared: JL Beers requires a high-quality build-out and kitchen/bar setup, making strong financial capability important.
-
Committed to Brand Standards: Consistency in food quality, beer presentation, service, and ambiance is key.
-
Interested in Multi-Unit Growth: The franchisor encourages expansion into multiple territories for stronger long-term returns.
Financial Detail
Initial Franchise Fee: Approx. $40,000
Estimated Total Investment (Lease Location):
$857,200 – $1,303,000
Includes construction, kitchen equipment, bar setup, furniture, décor, signage, opening inventory, training, and working capital.
Estimated Total Investment (Owned Building):
$1,375,000 – $2,235,000
Costs vary by land purchase, construction, and local regulations.
Additional Cost Breakdown (Typical Ranges):
-
Equipment, Fixtures & Furniture: High-six-figure range
-
Opening Inventory: $20,000–$30,000
-
POS & Technology Systems: $20,000–$25,000
-
Working Capital (First 3 Months): Variable by market
Ongoing Fees:
-
Royalty Fee: 4% of gross sales
-
Marketing/Advertising Fee: Typically around 0.5% (varies per FDD)
Revenue Streams:
-
Burgers, fries, chips, and sides
-
Craft beer (draught, bottled, canned)
-
Craft cocktails
-
Soft drinks & specialty beverages
-
Retail merchandise
-
Optional catering or private events
Break-Even & ROI:
Break-even can vary widely depending on lease terms, operational efficiency, local labor costs, and sales volume. Many franchise owners model a multi-year payback period typical for full restaurant concepts. Historic data from franchise research platforms reports average unit revenues exceeding $1.2 million, giving franchisees a solid foundation for profitability with effective management.