What Are Alternative Franchise Chains to Arby's Franchise
Considering alternatives to the Arby's franchise? If you're exploring the quick-service restaurant sector, understanding your options is key to making a sound investment. Discovering other popular brands and their unique offerings can help you find the best fit for your entrepreneurial journey and financial goals. Explore our comprehensive Arby's Franchise Business Plan Template to guide your initial research.
| # | Alternative Franchise Chain Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jersey Mike's Subs Franchise | Jersey Mike's is a top sandwich franchise alternative known for its explosive growth and exceptionally high Average Unit Volume (AUV), exceeding $13 million as of early 2025. It boasts authentic, fresh-sliced sub sandwiches and a strong, community-oriented culture, having expanded from roughly 750 units in 2014 to over 3,000 projected by the end of 2025. |
| 2 | Firehouse Subs Franchise | Firehouse Subs offers a unique, mission-driven brand identity with hot specialty subs, making it a strong alternative to Arby's, and benefits from immense corporate support as part of Restaurant Brands International (RBI). Its AUV was over $950,000 in 2024, demonstrating strong performance, and its brand story centers on supporting first responders, fostering a loyal customer base. |
| 3 | Potbelly Sandwich Shop Franchise | Potbelly Sandwich Shop differentiates itself with a unique, neighborhood-centric atmosphere featuring live music and a cozy decor, offering toasted sandwiches, salads, soups, and milkshakes. The brand is in a strategic growth phase, actively seeking multi-unit operators, and reported an AUV over $11 million for company-owned shops in 2023, showcasing its potential. |
Key Takeaways
- Numerous well-established fast-food franchises offer a similar quick-service sandwich model to Arby's, focusing on quality ingredients and rapid service, with the US quick-service sandwich franchise market valued at over $25 billion by early 2025.
- When considering alternatives to Arby's, entrepreneurs should evaluate brands based on menu diversity, brand strength, and consumer trends, with a lean towards customizable and perceived healthier options.
- Investment levels vary significantly, with some alternatives like Subway having lower entry points (starting as low as $250,000) compared to Arby's (starting over $750,000), though lower-cost options may have lower Average Unit Volumes (AUVs).
- Profitability in fast food franchises is contingent on brand selection, location, and operational efficiency, with average profit margins for QSR franchises hovering around 6-9% as of early 2025.
- Top sandwich franchise alternatives to Arby's include Subway, Jimmy John's, Jersey Mike's Subs, Firehouse Subs, and Potbelly Sandwich Shop, each offering different investment levels, operational models, and brand strengths.
What Alternative Arby's Franchise Unit Options Exist?
When exploring franchise opportunities similar to Arby's, the landscape offers a variety of well-established quick-service sandwich and deli-style concepts. These brands focus on quality ingredients and efficient service, making them strong Arby's franchise alternatives. The US quick-service sandwich franchise market is a substantial sector, projected to exceed $25 billion by early 2025. Leading brands within this space, such as Subway, Jimmy John's, and Jersey Mike's Subs, are often considered the best franchises like Arby's to invest in due to their strong brand recognition and proven operational systems.
What fast food franchises are similar to Arby's?
Numerous well-established fast-food franchises offer a similar quick-service sandwich model, focusing on quality ingredients and rapid service, making them strong Arby's franchise alternatives. These include brands specializing in sub sandwiches, deli-style offerings, and even other unique protein-focused menus beyond the typical burger chains.
By early 2025, the US quick-service sandwich franchise market is valued at over $25 billion, with major players like Subway, Jimmy John's, and Jersey Mike's Subs leading the segment. These brands represent some of the best franchises like Arby's to invest in due to their brand recognition and established systems.
When considering franchise opportunities similar to Arby's, entrepreneurs should evaluate brands based on menu diversity, brand strength, and consumer trends. As of 2025, consumer preference continues to lean towards customizable and perceived healthier options, a trend that many leading sandwich franchise alternatives capitalize on.
How to find Arby's franchise competitors?
Identifying competitors for an Arby's Franchise Unit involves researching brands within the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) sector, specifically those categorized as alternative sandwich shop franchises and deli concepts. Key resources include industry publications like QSR Magazine's Top 50 report and franchise disclosure documents (FDDs).
A thorough restaurant franchise comparison as of June 2025 reveals that direct competitors are not just other roast beef franchise concepts but any chain competing for the same lunch and dinner spending. This includes brands like Firehouse Subs and Potbelly Sandwich Shop, which have shown consistent unit growth of 2-4% annually between 2022 and 2024.
Analyzing market data from sources like FRANdata and the International Franchise Association provides detailed financial performance metrics. This data is crucial for potential investors looking for what are alternatives to buying an Arby's franchise and want to compare metrics like Average Unit Volume (AUV) and royalty structures.
Tips for Evaluating Sandwich Franchise Alternatives
- Analyze Unit Economics: Compare Average Unit Volumes (AUVs) and profitability metrics from FDDs of potential sandwich franchise alternatives. For instance, while Arby's reported an average annual revenue per unit of $1,321,907 in 2023, understanding the AUV of competitors is key for a comprehensive restaurant franchise comparison.
- Consider Consumer Trends: Franchises that adapt to evolving consumer preferences for healthier or customizable options often see sustained growth. As of 2025, this remains a critical factor in the success of fast food franchise opportunities.
- Evaluate Brand Strength and Support: Look for established brands with robust marketing support and a strong franchisee network. This is vital when considering the best franchises like Arby's to invest in, ensuring you have a solid foundation for growth.
For those interested in the specifics of the Arby's model, understanding how it operates can provide context for evaluating other opportunities. You can learn more about How Does Arby's Franchise Work?
What Are The Investment Level Alternatives?
When considering franchise opportunities similar to Arby's, understanding the spectrum of investment levels is crucial for aspiring entrepreneurs. While Arby's itself requires a significant capital commitment, several sandwich franchise alternatives offer different entry points.
What are the least expensive fast food franchises to start?
For those seeking the least expensive fast food franchises to start, particularly within the sandwich sector, options exist that are more accessible than a full-scale Arby's unit. As of 2025, brands like Subway can present a lower initial investment, especially for non-traditional locations, with some opportunities starting as low as $250,000. This contrasts with the estimated initial investment for an Arby's Franchise Unit, which ranges from approximately $750,000 to $25 million in early 2025. For example, a brand like Blimpie can have a total investment starting around $220,000, making it a more approachable entry into the market for many entrepreneurs. The franchise investment ROI for sandwich shops is heavily influenced by this initial outlay. Lower-cost options might provide a quicker route to profitability, though they may also have a lower Average Unit Volume (AUV) compared to premium brands. For instance, a lower-cost franchise might target an AUV of $450,000, whereas a higher-investment brand might aim for over $12 million.
Is it profitable to open a fast food franchise?
Yes, opening a fast food franchise can be highly profitable, but success hinges on strategic brand selection, optimal location, and efficient operational execution. The average profit margin for a Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) franchise in the U.S. hovers around 6-9% of sales as of early 2025, with top-performing units often exceeding 15%. An analysis of food franchise opportunities for entrepreneurs reveals that established brands with robust supply chains and strong marketing support typically yield more predictable returns. For instance, top-quartile franchisees of major sandwich brands often report net incomes well over $150,000 per year per unit. The profitability question is central to any sandwich chain franchise investment guide. An Arby's Franchise Unit reported an Average Unit Volume (AUV) of approximately $13 million in 2024, serving as a key benchmark when comparing the potential profitability of Arby's franchise alternatives. For context, the average annual revenue per unit for Arby's was reported at $1,321,907 in 2021, with the median at $1,257,204.
Key Considerations for Franchise Investment
- Investment Range: Arby's Franchise Units typically require an initial investment between $750,000 and $25 million.
- Lower Entry Points: Brands like Subway or Blimpie can offer initial investments starting from around $250,000 and $220,000 respectively, providing more accessible Arby's franchise alternatives.
- Profitability Factors: Profitability in fast food franchising depends on brand, location, and operations, with average QSR margins around 6-9%.
- AUV Benchmarking: Compare Average Unit Volumes (AUVs) of potential franchises to gauge revenue potential, noting that Arby's reported an AUV of approximately $13 million in 2024.
When evaluating franchise opportunities similar to Arby's, it's important to consider the financial disclosures. For instance, the initial investment for an Arby's Franchise Unit can range from $644,950 to $2,451,000, with a franchise fee of $37,500. Royalty fees are typically 4%, and marketing fees are around 2.22%. The required cash can range from $861,950 to $2,451,000, with a net worth requirement between $100,000 to $1,000,000. Understanding these figures is vital for assessing how different Arby's franchise competitors or alternative sandwich shop franchises align with your financial capacity. Exploring How to Start an Arby's Franchise in 7 Steps: Checklist can provide a baseline for comparison with other food franchise opportunities for entrepreneurs.
What Are The Top Sandwich Franchises?
When considering alternatives to an Arby's franchise, it's helpful to understand the competitive landscape of the sandwich sector. There are several strong players, each with a distinct model and investment profile.
What are the key differences between Arby's and Subway franchise models?
The fundamental differences between an Arby's Franchise Unit and a Subway franchise are rooted in their core offerings and operational strategies. Arby's is renowned for its slow-roasted meats, particularly beef, and a menu featuring a variety of hot sandwiches. In contrast, Subway centers on customizable, made-to-order submarine sandwiches, primarily using cold cuts. This divergence impacts everything from the supply chain and necessary kitchen equipment to the overall customer experience and the target demographic.
Financially, the initial investment for an Arby's Franchise Unit, starting upwards of $750,000 as of June 2025, is considerably higher than that of a typical Subway franchise, which can begin around $250,000. This disparity often reflects variations in real estate requirements, such as the prevalence of drive-thrus at Arby's locations, and the complexity of their kitchen setups. Regarding ongoing fees, Subway franchisees typically pay a combined royalty and advertising fee of 12.5% of gross sales (8% royalty, 4.5% ad fee). Arby's structure features a 4% royalty fee and an advertising fee of up to 4.2%, meaning franchisees may incur a lower ongoing percentage cost compared to Subway.
For those looking into the specifics of how an Arby's franchise works, understanding these operational and financial distinctions is crucial. You can find more details on this topic here: How Does Arby's Franchise Work?
What should I know about investing in a deli franchise vs Arby's?
Choosing between a traditional deli franchise and a concept like Arby's involves weighing different business models and customer appeals. Deli franchises often lean into a classic, artisan approach, featuring a wide array of freshly sliced meats and cheeses. This caters to a specific customer segment that values premium ingredients and a more traditional dining experience. While these concepts can offer higher profit margins on certain items, they may also present more complex operational challenges and potentially less widespread brand recognition than a national quick-service restaurant (QSR) chain.
For instance, as of 2025, established deli concepts such as McAlister's Deli, which is part of the same parent company as Arby's, are reporting average annual revenues exceeding $11 million. This financial performance positions them as a compelling alternative within the broader sandwich franchise market. The real estate and build-out requirements for a deli concept can often be comparable to those for an Arby's Franchise Unit. However, the more intricate menu at a deli might necessitate more skilled labor, which is a vital consideration when assessing long-term operational costs for alternative sandwich shop franchises.
Key Considerations for Deli Franchises vs. Arby's
- Menu Complexity: Delis often have more diverse and fresh-cut ingredients, requiring different preparation and staff training compared to Arby's focused roast beef model.
- Customer Base: Deli franchises typically target customers seeking a more premium, perhaps sit-down experience, while Arby's leans towards the fast-casual QSR market.
- Operational Costs: The need for skilled deli slicer operators and potentially more varied inventory management can impact labor and food costs in a deli franchise.
When evaluating franchise opportunities similar to Arby's, understanding these nuanced differences is key to making an informed investment decision.
Subway Franchise
How does Subway compare as an Arby's alternative?
When considering franchise opportunities similar to Arby's, Subway stands out as a primary, lower-cost sandwich franchise alternative. It boasts a global presence far exceeding that of Arby's, with over 20,000 locations in the U.S. as of early 2025. This provides unparalleled brand recognition in the submarine sandwich category, making it a strong contender for those seeking established franchise systems.
The initial investment for a Subway franchise is substantially lower. In 2025, this investment typically ranges from $248,400 to $571,100, positioning it among the more accessible fast food franchise opportunities for new entrepreneurs. This contrasts sharply with the higher investment required for an Arby's Franchise Unit, which can range from $644,950 to $2,451,000.
While Subway's Average Unit Volume (AUV) has historically been lower than Arby's, averaging around $500,000 in recent years, the brand is undergoing significant transformation. These efforts include menu updates and store remodels, all aimed at boosting unit-level economics. This makes it a key point in any restaurant franchise comparison, especially for those interested in alternative sandwich shop franchises.
What is Subway's market position in 2025?
In 2025, Subway continues to hold its position as the largest sandwich chain by unit count. However, it faces intense competition that has impacted its market share over the past decade. The brand is currently in a multi-year turnaround plan following its 2023 acquisition by Roark Capital, the same parent company that owns Arby's. This shared ownership structure is an interesting dynamic for those exploring franchising options besides Arby's.
Subway's strategy centers on improving franchisee profitability through menu innovation, such as the 'Subway Series' menu, and operational simplification. System-wide sales in North America showed a reported increase of 59% in 2023, a positive trend the company aims to sustain through 2025. This focus on franchisee success is crucial for investors evaluating their franchise investment ROI for sandwich shops.
For investors looking beyond Arby's, Subway presents a case study of a legacy brand actively working to regain its dominant market position. It offers a different risk/reward profile compared to more stable or aggressively growth-focused brands. Understanding the differences between Arby's and Subway franchise operations is key to making an informed decision about these Arby's franchise alternatives.
| Metric | Subway (Est. 2025) | Arby's (2023 Data) |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Investment Range | $248,400 - $571,100 | $644,950 - $2,451,000 |
| Franchise Fee (Initial) | Varies (typically lower than Arby's) | $37,500 |
| AUV (Approximate) | Around $500,000 | $1,321,907 (Average) |
| US Locations (Early 2025) | Over 20,000 | Over 2,300 |
Tips for Evaluating Sandwich Franchises:
- Research Brand Performance: Look into recent sales growth, franchisee satisfaction, and ongoing investment in brand development.
- Analyze Investment Costs: Compare initial investment ranges, franchise fees, and ongoing royalty and marketing fees across different brands.
- Understand Market Position: Consider a brand's current market share, competitive landscape, and plans for future growth.
- Assess Profitability Potential: Review available financial performance data, considering both average and median revenue per unit.
Jimmy John's Franchise
When exploring Arby's franchise alternatives, Jimmy John's emerges as a significant contender in the sandwich QSR space. It offers a distinct operational model and a strong brand presence that appeals to a broad customer base.
How much does it cost to open a Jimmy John's franchise?
To open a Jimmy John's franchise, you can anticipate an initial investment ranging from $395,500 to $671,500 as of June 2025. This figure includes a franchise fee of $30,000 to $35,000. This investment level positions Jimmy John's as a mid-tier option compared to other sandwich franchises. For context, it's more costly than a Subway franchise but less than a new Arby's unit requiring a drive-thru.
The primary cost drivers in this investment include:
- Real estate and build-out: $150,000 - $350,000
- Equipment: $80,000 - $110,000
- Initial marketing expenses: Variable
This information is crucial for anyone developing a sandwich chain franchise investment guide.
Is Jimmy John's a strong Arby's franchise competitor?
Jimmy John's is indeed a formidable competitor to Arby's, primarily due to its well-known 'Freaky Fast' delivery service and a focused menu emphasizing quality ingredients. This emphasis on speed and operational efficiency directly targets the same quick-service restaurant (QSR) customer segment.
As of early 2025, Jimmy John's boasts over 2,600 locations. It's worth noting that Jimmy John's is owned by Inspire Brands, the same parent company as Arby's. While this shared ownership creates interesting market dynamics, it also underscores Jimmy John's strength as a fast food franchise opportunity. The brand's Average Unit Volume (AUV) was approximately $980,000 in 2023, making it one of the best franchises like Arby's to invest in, offering a compelling alternative with a business model that prioritizes delivery and catering.
| Franchise | Estimated Initial Investment | AUV (2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Jimmy John's | $395,500 - $671,500 | ~$980,000 |
| Arby's (New Build) | $644,950 - $2,451,000 | ~$1,321,907 |
Tips for Evaluating Sandwich Franchise Alternatives
- Analyze unit economics: Compare AUVs, but also look at profit margins and operational costs for franchises similar to Arby's.
- Consider the operational model: Assess whether a delivery-focused model (like Jimmy John's) or a more traditional dine-in/drive-thru model (like Arby's) aligns better with your investment goals and local market.
- Research brand growth and support: Look into the franchisor's track record in franchisee support, marketing initiatives, and overall system growth when considering franchise opportunities similar to Arby's.
Jersey Mike's Subs Franchise
When exploring Arby's franchise alternatives, Jersey Mike's Subs stands out as a leading option in the competitive sandwich market.
Why is Jersey Mike's a top sandwich franchise?
Jersey Mike's has earned its reputation as a premier sandwich franchise due to its impressive growth trajectory and exceptionally high Average Unit Volume (AUV). The brand is widely recognized for its commitment to authentic, fresh-sliced sub sandwiches and a strong, community-focused operational culture.
As of early 2025, Jersey Mike's AUV is among the highest in the entire sandwich segment, surpassing $13 million. This financial performance is highly competitive, often exceeding the AUV of an Arby's Franchise Unit, making it a compelling choice for astute investors looking for robust returns.
The brand's expansion is nothing short of remarkable, growing from approximately 750 locations in 2014 to a projected 3,000+ locations by the close of 2025. This rapid and consistent expansion is a strong indicator of the brand's market strength and sustained consumer demand, positioning it as a prime candidate among franchise opportunities similar to Arby's.
What is the investment for a Jersey Mike's?
The initial investment required to open a Jersey Mike's Subs franchise in 2025 typically ranges from $430,000 to $1,400,000. This broad range accounts for variations in real estate costs, site selection, and the specific size of the retail space.
The franchise fee is set at $18,500, which is generally considered moderate when compared to other leading franchise brands. However, prospective franchisees must have substantial liquid capital, with a requirement of at least $100,000, and a minimum net worth of $300,000.
In a comprehensive restaurant franchise comparison, Jersey Mike's represents a significant investment opportunity. Its high AUV and strong brand momentum justify the higher potential cost, offering a compelling argument for its premium positioning relative to other sandwich franchise alternatives.
| Investment Range | $430,000 - $1,400,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $18,500 |
| Liquid Capital Required | $100,000 |
| Net Worth Required | $300,000 |
| Projected AUV (Early 2025) | Over $13 Million |
Tips for Evaluating Sandwich Franchise Alternatives
- Analyze AUV trends: Look for franchises with consistently growing Average Unit Volumes, indicating strong market acceptance.
- Review franchisee testimonials: Understand the day-to-day realities and support systems from existing owners.
- Scrutinize the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD): Pay close attention to the fee structure, required investment, and operational requirements. For instance, while exploring franchise opportunities similar to Arby's, compare royalty fees and marketing contributions.
For a deeper dive into the specifics of the Arby's brand, consider reviewing What are the Pros and Cons of Owning an Arby's Franchise? Understanding the nuances of different brands, including their financial benchmarks and growth strategies, is crucial for making an informed investment decision in the highly competitive fast food franchise opportunities sector.
Firehouse Subs Franchise
Is Firehouse Subs a good investment alternative to Arby's?
When considering franchise opportunities similar to Arby's, Firehouse Subs stands out as a compelling alternative. This brand offers a distinct mission-driven identity focused on community support, particularly for first responders, which resonates strongly with customers. Its menu of hot specialty subs directly competes with Arby's core offerings, making it a direct contender in the fast-casual sandwich space.
Financially, Firehouse Subs demonstrated strong unit-level performance, with an Average Unit Volume (AUV) reported at over $950,000 in 2024. This financial robustness, coupled with a unique brand story that fosters customer loyalty, positions it as a solid choice for those exploring Arby's franchise alternatives. As a part of Restaurant Brands International (RBI), Firehouse Subs benefits from significant corporate backing, including extensive marketing support and optimized supply chain management, enhancing its appeal among sandwich franchise alternatives.
For those curious about how the Arby's franchise works and seeking comparable ventures, understanding these alternatives is key. Firehouse Subs offers a different flavor of success in the competitive quick-service restaurant market.
What are the Firehouse Subs franchise costs and fees?
Opening a Firehouse Subs franchise represents a mid-to-high-level investment within the sandwich QSR sector. As of June 2025, the total estimated investment to launch a unit ranges from $412,000 to $1,100,000. This figure encompasses various startup expenses, from initial real estate acquisition to grand opening marketing.
The initial franchise fee is set at $20,000. Ongoing financial commitments include a royalty fee of 6% of gross sales and an advertising fund contribution of up to 5% of gross sales. These fees are competitive within the premium sandwich franchise segment, and when weighed against the brand's strong AUV and corporate support, they offer a clear picture for potential franchisees evaluating alternative sandwich shop franchises.
Key Considerations for Franchise Investment
- Investment Range: Be prepared for an initial investment between $412,000 and $1,100,000 for Firehouse Subs.
- Ongoing Fees: Factor in a 6% royalty and up to 5% for advertising into your operational budget.
- Brand Strength: The brand’s mission-driven approach and affiliation with RBI are significant advantages when considering franchising options besides Arby's.
| Investment Category | Firehouse Subs (Estimated June 2025) | Arby's (FDD Data) |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $20,000 | $37,500 |
| Total Estimated Investment | $412,000 - $1,100,000 | $644,950 - $2,451,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 6% | 4% |
| Marketing Fee | Up to 5% | 2.22% |
When comparing what fast food franchises are similar to Arby's, Firehouse Subs presents a strong case. Its focus on a high-quality, specialized product, combined with a supportive franchisor structure, makes it an attractive option for entrepreneurs looking for best franchises like Arby's to invest in.
Potbelly Sandwich Shop Franchise
When exploring franchise opportunities similar to Arby's, Potbelly Sandwich Shop presents a compelling alternative for entrepreneurs seeking a unique niche within the fast-casual dining sector. Potbelly differentiates itself through a distinct neighborhood-centric atmosphere, often featuring live music and a cozy, inviting decor that sets it apart from the standard quick-service restaurant (QSR) environment. Its menu focuses on toasted sandwiches, fresh salads, hearty soups, and hand-dipped milkshakes, offering a different flavor profile than a roast beef franchise.
What makes Potbelly a unique franchise opportunity?
Potbelly's uniqueness stems from its strong brand identity, which emphasizes a community-focused experience. This approach has helped it carve out a specific space in the competitive sandwich franchise market. For those considering franchising options besides Arby's, Potbelly's current growth trajectory is particularly noteworthy. In 2025, the brand is actively pursuing multi-unit operators through its 'Franchise Growth Acceleration Initiative.' This strategic focus makes it a timely food franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs eager to expand with an established yet evolving brand.
The financial performance of Potbelly's model is also a key differentiator. In 2023, the average unit volume (AUV) for its company-owned shops exceeded $11 million, underscoring the potential scalability and profitability of the Potbelly concept. This strong AUV makes it a particularly attractive option for those evaluating a deli franchise versus Arby's, especially when looking for a proven and scalable system.
What is the financial outlook for a Potbelly franchise?
The financial outlook for a Potbelly franchise in 2025 appears robust, bolstered by positive same-store sales growth, which was over 87% in 2023. The company is also strategically re-franchising certain locations to enhance operational efficiency, a move that often signals a commitment to supporting franchisee success.
For aspiring franchisees, the initial investment to open a Potbelly restaurant typically ranges from $585,000 to $960,000, with an initial franchise fee of $40,000. The ongoing royalty fee is set at 6% of gross sales. This investment level, coupled with the strong AUV figures, suggests a solid franchise investment ROI for sandwich shops.
For investors weighing different franchising options besides Arby's, Potbelly offers a distinct brand experience and a clear pathway for multi-unit development. Understanding the investment required for Arby's can provide a helpful benchmark; for instance, the initial investment for an Arby's franchise can range from $644,950 to $2,451,000, with a franchise fee of $37,500. Comparing these figures can help in assessing the best fit for your investment goals.
Tips for Evaluating Sandwich Franchises:
- Analyze Unit Economics: Look beyond initial investment to understand average unit volumes, profitability margins, and payback periods. Potbelly's AUV of over $11 million (company-owned) is a strong indicator, but always review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) for franchisee-specific data.
- Assess Brand Differentiation: Consider how the brand stands out in the market. Potbelly's neighborhood feel and unique atmosphere are significant differentiators compared to more generic fast-food models.
- Evaluate Growth Strategy: Franchises in a strategic growth phase, like Potbelly's focus on multi-unit operators in 2025, can offer significant expansion opportunities for capable franchisees.
| Franchise | Initial Investment Range | Franchise Fee | Royalty Fee | Average Unit Volume (AUV) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Potbelly | $585,000 - $960,000 | $40,000 | 6% | Over $11 million (company-owned, 2023) |
| Arby's (Benchmark) | $644,950 - $2,451,000 | $37,500 | 4% | $1,321,907 (Average, 2023) |