Established
2004
Franchise Units
300
Minimum Investment
$250,000
Franchise Fee
$30,000
Total Investment Range
$600,000
Home Based
No
Description
Thai Express is a globally recognized fast-casual Thai restaurant brand known for delivering bold, authentic flavors with the speed and consistency modern consumers expect. Built around freshly prepared dishes, customizable spice levels, and a contemporary dining experience, Thai Express has carved out a strong position in the international fast-casual Asian food segment.
For the U.S. market, Thai Express represents a compelling blend of authenticity and scalability. The brand successfully balances traditional Thai recipes with Western dining preferences, making it approachable for a broad customer base while still delivering a true Thai taste experience. Its menu typically includes popular favorites such as Pad Thai, curries, stir-fried noodles, fried rice, soups, and bowls—designed for dine-in, takeout, and delivery demand.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
Investing in Thai Express offers franchisees entry into the fast-growing Asian fast-casual segment—one of the most resilient and in-demand categories in the restaurant industry.
Key investment highlights include:
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Globally proven brand with decades of operating experience and international recognition
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Strong consumer demand for Thai and Southeast Asian cuisine in the U.S.
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Streamlined operations model designed for speed, consistency, and cost control
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Flexible footprint options suitable for food courts, inline retail, and urban locations
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High repeat customer potential driven by customizable flavors and menu variety
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Balanced menu mix supporting dine-in, takeout, and third-party delivery channels
Background
Established Year: 2004
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Founders: MTY Group founders and culinary leadership team
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Ownership: MTY Food Group (global restaurant franchising company)
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Industry Category: Fast-Casual Dining / Asian & Thai Cuisine
Thai Express was founded with the vision of making authentic Thai cuisine accessible, affordable, and fast. The brand originated in Canada and rapidly expanded through a franchise-led growth strategy, establishing a strong footprint across North America and international markets.
Backed by MTY Food Group, one of the world’s leading multi-brand restaurant franchisors, Thai Express benefits from institutional-grade systems, supply chain strength, and brand governance. Today, the brand operates 300+ franchise units globally, with an established and growing presence in the United States.
Support Training
Thai Express offers a comprehensive franchise support system designed to guide owners from initial onboarding through long-term operations.
Pre-Launch Support
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Site selection guidance and location evaluation
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Restaurant layout, design, and branding standards
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Equipment specifications and supplier coordination
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Assistance with permitting and pre-opening planning
Training Programs
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Structured initial training covering food preparation, operations, and quality control
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Hands-on kitchen and operational training
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POS systems, inventory management, and cost controls
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Staff recruitment and training frameworks
Operational Support
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Standardized operating procedures and recipe systems
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Ongoing operational audits and performance reviews
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Access to experienced field support teams
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Continuous menu development and product updates
Marketing & Brand Support
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National and regional brand marketing strategies
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Launch marketing support for new units
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Digital marketing guidance and promotional campaigns
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Brand assets, signage, and promotional materials
Ongoing Support
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Franchise business coaching and performance benchmarking
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Supply chain and purchasing efficiencies
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Access to proven best practices across the system
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Ongoing education and system updates
Ideal Candidate
Thai Express is best suited for entrepreneurs and investors who are passionate about food, hospitality, and scalable business models.
Ideal candidates typically include:
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Multi-unit operators or first-time franchise owners with strong business acumen
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Investors seeking a semi-absentee or owner-operator model
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Individuals with restaurant, retail, or operations management experience
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Entrepreneurs comfortable following proven systems and brand standards
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Candidates with sufficient capital and a growth mindset
Location preferences:
High-traffic urban areas, shopping centers, food courts, mixed-use developments, and densely populated suburban markets across the U.S. are particularly well suited for the Thai Express concept.
Financial Detail
| Investment Component | Estimated Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $30,000 – $45,000 |
| Total Investment Required | $250,000 – $600,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital Required | $150,000 – $200,000 |
| Infrastructure & Build-Out Cost | $120,000 – $280,000 |
| Kitchen Equipment & Fixtures | $60,000 – $120,000 |
| Furniture, Signage & Décor | $25,000 – $60,000 |
| Technology & POS Systems | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Initial Inventory & Supplies | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Marketing & Grand Opening Budget | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Working Capital (3–6 Months) | $30,000 – $75,000 |
| Royalty Fees | 5% – 6% of Gross Sales |
| Brand / Marketing Fee | 2% – 3% of Gross Sales |
| Estimated Break-Even Period | 18 – 30 Months |
| Expected ROI Timeline | 2.5 – 4 Years |
| Franchise Term | 10 Years (Renewable) |
| Revenue Streams | Dine-In, Takeout, Delivery, Catering |
