Established
2011
Franchise Units
7
Minimum Investment
$500,000
Franchise Fee
$40,000
Total Investment Range
$1,200,000
Home Based
No
Description
Few restaurant brands blend celebrity appeal, authentic family roots, and operational scalability quite like Wahlburgers. What began as a family burger concept built by the Wahlberg brothers has evolved into a nationally recognized fast-casual restaurant franchise with strong brand equity across the United States.
At its core, Wahlburgers is about more than burgers. It’s about hospitality, neighborhood energy, and delivering a chef-inspired menu inside a comfortable, upbeat dining environment. The concept combines premium burgers, house-made sauces, fresh ingredients, craft beverages, and a full bar in many locations—positioning the brand between traditional QSR and polished casual dining.
Thanks to national television exposure, strong media recognition, and a built-in celebrity narrative, Wahlburgers stands out in a crowded burger market. The brand appeals to families, young professionals, sports fans, and food enthusiasts alike. Its approachable menu and lively atmosphere make it suitable for malls, lifestyle centers, entertainment districts, casinos, airports, and high-traffic suburban corridors.
Background
Established: 2011
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Founders: Mark Wahlberg, Donnie Wahlberg & Chef Paul Wahlberg
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Headquarters: United States
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Industry: Fast-Casual / Casual Dining Restaurant Franchise
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Active Units: Approximately 7+ locations across the U.S. and select international markets
Wahlburgers launched its first restaurant in Hingham, Massachusetts in 2011. The concept quickly gained national attention, especially after being featured in the A&E reality series “Wahlburgers,” which highlighted the family dynamic and restaurant growth journey.
Over the years, the brand expanded across multiple states, entering high-visibility markets including Las Vegas, Orlando, Chicago, and major airport locations. Strategic partnerships with hospitality and entertainment groups further accelerated expansion.
Ownership has evolved through strategic investment partnerships to support scalable franchising and international growth, while maintaining brand alignment with the Wahlberg family’s vision.
Support Training
Wahlburgers provides comprehensive franchise support designed to reduce risk and streamline launch.
Pre-Launch Support
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Site selection guidance and demographic analysis
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Lease negotiation assistance
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Architectural design standards and layout planning
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Construction guidance
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Vendor sourcing and approved supplier network
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Equipment procurement assistance
Training Program
Franchisees and management teams undergo structured training that may include:
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In-restaurant operational training
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Culinary preparation standards
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Food safety & quality control systems
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POS system training
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Inventory and cost control management
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HR and staffing best practices
Training typically includes classroom instruction combined with hands-on kitchen and service experience.
Marketing & Brand Support
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Grand opening marketing plan
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National brand campaigns
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Digital marketing guidance
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Social media assets
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PR support leveraging brand recognition
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Local store marketing toolkit
Ongoing Operational Support
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Field operations consultants
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Performance benchmarking
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Menu innovation updates
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Supply chain management
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Ongoing training refreshers
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Technology and systems updates
Ideal Candidate
Wahlburgers seeks franchise partners who are both financially qualified and operationally capable.
Business Background
Ideal candidates may include:
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Experienced multi-unit restaurant operators
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Hospitality group investors
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Casino or entertainment venue operators
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Retail developers
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High-net-worth individuals with strong management teams
Personal Traits
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Passion for hospitality
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Community engagement mindset
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Strong leadership and team-building skills
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Commitment to brand standards
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Long-term growth vision
Financial Capability
Candidates should have:
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Strong liquidity
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Net worth sufficient for multi-unit expansion
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Access to capital for development agreements
Location Preference
Prime markets include:
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High-traffic urban centers
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Tourist destinations
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Sports & entertainment districts
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Airports
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Upscale suburban corridors
Financial Detail
| Investment Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $40,000 – $50,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $500,000 – $1,200,000 |
| Kitchen Equipment & Fixtures | $400,000 – $800,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures & Décor | $150,000 – $350,000 |
| Technology & POS Systems | $25,000 – $60,000 |
| Initial Inventory | $25,000 – $50,000 |
| Licenses & Permits | $10,000 – $35,000 |
| Pre-Opening Marketing | $25,000 – $75,000 |
| Insurance | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Training Expenses | $15,000 – $40,000 |
| Working Capital (3–6 Months) | $150,000 – $300,000 |
| Estimated Total Investment | $1.5 Million – $3.5+ Million |