What Are Alternative Franchise Chains to Five Guys Burgers and Fries Franchise
Considering alternatives to the Five Guys Burgers and Fries franchise? You're not alone in exploring the vibrant burger market for your next venture. Discover compelling franchise opportunities that offer similar appeal, robust support, and strong growth potential, helping you navigate your path to successful ownership. Explore our comprehensive Five Guys Burgers and Fries Franchise Business Plan Template to kickstart your research.
| # | Alternative Franchise Chain Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mooyah | Mooyah operates in the 'better burger' fast-casual sector, mirroring Five Guys with its focus on high-quality, customizable burgers and real ice cream shakes. It offers a slightly more playful brand image and emphasizes family-friendly dining, making it a direct competitor and attractive alternative. |
| 2 | Culver's | Culver's blends fast-casual burger concepts with a quick-service drive-thru model, featuring its signature ButterBurgers and Fresh Frozen Custard. Its exceptional unit-level economics, with reported AUVs exceeding $32 million, position it as a highly lucrative burger franchise investment, distinct from Five Guys. |
| 3 | Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers | Freddy's thrives on a nostalgic 1950s diner theme, serving cooked-to-order steakburgers and frozen custard, which has fueled its rapid expansion. With strong average unit volumes and an efficient operational model, it presents a compelling and growing investment opportunity for those seeking burger franchises similar to Five Guys. |
Key Takeaways
- Alternative burger franchises to Five Guys include Smashburger, Mooyah, The Habit Burger Grill, and Culver's, each offering distinct market positioning and menu variations within the fast-casual burger segment.
- Investment levels for burger franchises vary significantly, with Five Guys requiring an estimated $310,000 to $725,000, while other options like Checkers/Rally's offer more affordable models starting around $270,000 for non-traditional units.
- Key metrics for comparing burger franchises include initial investment, royalty rates, and Average Unit Volume (AUV), with Five Guys having a 6% royalty fee and an AUV of approximately $13 million.
- Business model differences are notable, with Five Guys focusing on a limited menu and no drive-thrus, while brands like Culver's and Freddy's integrate drive-thrus which contribute significantly to their sales.
- Specific alternatives like Smashburger offer a gourmet burger experience with investments between $647,850 and $1,554,800, while The Habit Burger Grill, backed by Yum! Brands, requires a higher net worth and liquid asset threshold for multi-unit development.
What Alternative Five Guys Burgers and Fries Franchise Unit Options Exist?
What are the top burger franchise alternatives?
For entrepreneurs seeking franchise opportunities in the burger sector, several strong alternatives exist beyond the Five Guys Burgers and Fries Franchise Unit. These brands are carving out their own niches within the competitive 'fast casual burger franchises' landscape. Among the top 'burger franchise alternatives' to consider are Smashburger, Mooyah, The Habit Burger Grill, and Culver's. Each offers a unique approach to the 'gourmet burger franchise' model, presenting prospective franchisees with a diverse range of 'burger chain franchise opportunities'.
When evaluating 'five guys franchise competitors', market presence is a key differentiator. While Five Guys boasts over 1,800 locations globally, understanding the expansion of other brands is crucial. As of June 2025, Culver's has successfully expanded to over 980 units, and The Habit Burger Grill, now a subsidiary of Yum! Brands, operates more than 380 locations. These figures highlight varying growth trajectories and the availability of different territories for new franchisees looking at 'other popular burger franchises to consider'.
How do competitors' menus compare to Five Guys?
Menu strategy is a significant factor in how 'burger franchises like five guys' differentiate themselves. A Five Guys Burgers and Fries Franchise Unit is recognized for its focused menu, emphasizing customizable burgers and fresh-cut fries. In contrast, The Habit Burger Grill offers a more expansive menu. This includes their signature chargrilled burgers, unique items like the Ahi Tuna Filet, and a variety of fresh salads, which can appeal to a broader customer demographic seeking diverse options.
Culver's, a notable 'five guys alternative franchise investment', has built its brand identity around distinct core offerings: its signature ButterBurgers and its fresh frozen custard. This focused menu approach has proven highly effective. According to industry analyses from Q1 2025, Culver's achieves an impressive average unit volume (AUV) of over $32 million. This demonstrates a successful 'burger franchise business model comparison' where a strong, unique menu drives significant revenue.
Key Considerations for Choosing a Burger Franchise
- Market Saturation: Research existing burger franchises in your desired territory.
- Investment Level: Compare initial investment requirements, which for Five Guys range from $256,200 to $591,250, and consider 'affordable burger franchise opportunities'.
- Menu Differentiation: Assess how a franchise's menu stands out from competitors.
- Brand Recognition: Evaluate the strength and appeal of the brand to consumers.
- Growth Potential: Look at the franchise's expansion rate and available territories for 'investing in a burger franchise besides five guys'.
Exploring 'franchise opportunities in the burger industry' beyond the most obvious choices can lead to discovering exceptional 'best burger franchises to invest in'. Understanding the nuances of each 'burger franchise business model comparison' is vital for making an informed decision. For those curious about the specifics of the Five Guys model, exploring What are the Pros and Cons of Owning a Five Guys Burgers and Fries Franchise? can provide valuable context when looking for 'franchise options similar to five guys'.
What Are The Investment Level Alternatives?
When exploring 'burger franchise alternatives', understanding the range of investment levels is crucial. While a premium brand like the 'Five Guys Burgers and Fries Franchise Unit' sets a certain benchmark, many other 'burger chain franchise opportunities' cater to different financial capacities.
What is a typical burger franchise investment?
The initial investment for a burger franchise can vary significantly. For a brand like Five Guys, the estimated range is between $310,000 and $725,000, according to their 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). This positions it at the higher end for 'gourmet burger franchise' concepts. Other 'franchise options similar to five guys' can also present varied financial commitments. For instance, a Mooyah franchise investment typically falls between $480,000 and $700,000. Smashburger, another competitor, can require an investment ranging from $650,000 to over $15 million, reflecting differences in scale, location, and build-out needs as of 2025.
Are there affordable burger franchise opportunities?
Certainly, for those looking for 'affordable burger franchise opportunities' or a 'burger franchise with lower startup cost', several options are available. Brands like Checkers/Rally's offer more accessible entry points, with traditional unit investments starting around $850,000, and non-traditional models potentially beginning as low as $270,000, based on their 2025 FDDs. When considering 'investing in a burger franchise besides five guys', Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers presents a strong contender. Their investment range is approximately $800,000 to $19 million. Notably, Freddy's reported an Average Unit Volume (AUV) exceeding $19 million in 2024, making it a compelling choice for investors balancing initial outlay with potential returns among the 'top rated burger franchises for sale'.
Key Considerations for Investment Levels
- Understand the Total Investment: Beyond the initial franchise fee, factor in build-out costs, equipment, initial inventory, working capital, and training expenses. The FDD provides a detailed breakdown.
- Analyze ROI Potential: While lower startup costs are attractive, always evaluate the potential return on investment. Look at Average Unit Volumes (AUVs) and profitability metrics from existing franchisees.
- Compare Fees: Beyond the initial investment, compare ongoing royalty fees and marketing fund contributions. For example, the royalty fee for a new unit is 6% and the marketing fee is 2%.
How Do You Compare Burger Franchise Models?
What metrics are key for a burger franchise comparison?
When evaluating different burger franchise opportunities, creating a 'burger franchise comparison chart' is essential. Key metrics to consider include the initial investment, which for this particular brand ranges from $256,200 to $591,250, the franchise fee, and ongoing royalty rates. For instance, as of June 2025, the royalty fee is 6%, a figure that can significantly impact your long-term profitability compared to competitors who might charge 5% or less. Another critical metric is the sales-to-investment ratio. With an Average Unit Volume (AUV) of approximately $1.1 million against an average investment of around $423,725 (midpoint of the range), the ratio is about 2.6:1. Comparing this to a competitor's ratio is crucial when looking at the 'best burger franchises to invest in'.
What are the major business model differences?
The primary differences in a 'burger franchise business model comparison' often lie in operational focus. This brand emphasizes operational simplicity with a focused, high-quality menu and typically no drive-thrus. In contrast, many other 'burger chain franchise opportunities' integrate a drive-thru model, which, according to 2024 QSR reports, can account for over 65% of their total sales. This makes drive-thru focused franchises a compelling option for different investment strategies.
Real estate strategy is another key differentiator. This brand often prefers high-traffic, end-cap, or inline locations in urban and suburban centers. Other 'burger franchise alternatives' might focus on smaller footprint, double drive-thru models, which can significantly lower real estate costs. This is a key factor when searching for a 'burger franchise with lower startup cost'. Understanding these nuances helps in identifying the 'best burger franchises to invest in' that align with your investment goals.
Tips for Comparing Burger Franchises
- Analyze Royalty Fees: Even a 1% difference in royalty fees can translate to tens of thousands of dollars annually, impacting your bottom line.
- Calculate Sales-to-Investment Ratio: A higher ratio generally indicates a more efficient use of capital.
- Evaluate Operational Models: Consider whether a drive-thru or a dine-in focused model better suits your market and operational preferences.
- Research Real Estate Requirements: Smaller footprints or drive-thru focused models often lead to lower initial real estate investment.
For those interested in understanding the financial aspects of a specific franchise, you can explore How Much Does a Five Guys Burgers and Fries Franchise Owner Make?. This can provide valuable context when comparing different 'burger franchise opportunities' and evaluating potential returns on investment.
Alternative Franchise Chain: Smashburger
What is the Smashburger franchise opportunity?
Smashburger stands out as a significant 'gourmet burger franchise' option, distinguished by its signature 'smashing' technique that creates a uniquely textured burger patty. As of June 2025, the brand is actively seeking multi-unit developers in key territories, positioning itself as a notable contender among 'five guys franchise competitors'.
Backed by Jollibee Foods Corporation, Smashburger benefits from robust corporate support and considerable international growth potential. With over 230 locations, it's frequently mentioned in discussions about 'what burger franchises are growing', particularly appealing to investors interested in a sophisticated brand identity.
What is the investment and AUV for Smashburger?
The initial 'burger franchise investment' for a Smashburger unit, according to its 2025 FDD, falls within the range of approximately $647,850 to $1,554,800. This investment level categorizes it among the premium 'fast casual burger franchises', aligning it with other high-end concepts in the market.
While Smashburger does not publicly disclose a definitive AUV in its FDD, industry estimates and franchisee reports from 2024 suggest that the AUV for established units can range between $900,000 and $12 million. This figure is vital for prospective franchisees when calculating their potential return on investment.
For comparison, the initial investment for a Five Guys Burgers and Fries franchise can range from $256,200 to $591,250. You can learn more about the specifics of this investment by reading How Much Does a Five Guys Burgers and Fries Franchise Cost?
Considering Smashburger as a Franchise Alternative
- Market Position: Smashburger offers a differentiated product with its unique patty preparation, appealing to consumers seeking a higher-quality burger experience.
- Brand Strength: Being part of the Jollibee Foods Corporation portfolio provides a layer of stability and access to resources that can be advantageous for franchisees.
- Growth Potential: The brand's active pursuit of multi-unit developers indicates a strong growth trajectory and potential for market expansion.
| Key Financial Metrics | Smashburger (Approx. 2025 FDD/2024 Estimates) | Five Guys Burgers and Fries (2023 FDD Data) |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Investment Range | $647,850 - $1,554,800 | $256,200 - $591,250 |
| Estimated AUV | $900,000 - $12,000,000 | $1,182,254 (Average Annual Revenue per Unit) |
| Franchise Fee | (Not specified in provided data) | $25,000 |
| Royalty Fee | (Not specified in provided data) | 6% |
When exploring 'burger franchise alternatives', Smashburger presents a compelling case for investors looking for 'franchise opportunities in the burger industry' with a focus on a premium product. It's one of the 'other popular burger franchises to consider' for those who find the investment profile aligns with their financial goals and market ambitions, offering a different approach compared to more established 'burger chains like Five Guys'.
Alternative Franchise Chain: The Habit Burger Grill
When exploring 'burger franchise alternatives', The Habit Burger Grill emerges as a compelling option for those looking beyond the traditional burger-centric model. It's a strong 'five guys alternative franchise investment' because it offers a more diverse menu, featuring not just burgers but also salads, sandwiches, and shakes. This wider selection can attract a broader customer base and potentially lead to more consistent traffic throughout the day, a key consideration when evaluating 'burger chain franchise opportunities'.
Since its acquisition by Yum! Brands in 2020, The Habit Burger Grill benefits from significant corporate backing. This affiliation provides franchisees with access to robust support systems in areas like marketing, supply chain management, and operational expertise. For investors prioritizing stability and a well-established support structure, this makes it one of the 'top rated burger franchises for sale'.
Financial Requirements for The Habit Burger Grill
Investing in The Habit Burger Grill involves a different financial profile compared to some other burger franchises. As of 2025, prospective franchisees looking to sign multi-unit development agreements, typically for a minimum of three stores, must meet a minimum net worth requirement of $3 million, with at least $15 million in liquid assets. These figures position it as a premium choice within the 'burger chain franchise opportunities' landscape.
The total initial investment for a single unit is estimated to range between $14 million and $18 million. This investment includes a 5% royalty fee and a 45% marketing fee. These financial benchmarks are reflective of the brand's positioning as a more upscale option in the 'burger franchise investment' market.
| Minimum Net Worth (Multi-Unit) | $3 million |
| Minimum Liquid Assets (Multi-Unit) | $15 million |
| Total Initial Investment (Single Unit) | $14 million - $18 million |
| Royalty Fee | 5% |
| Marketing Fee | 4.5% |
Tips for Evaluating Burger Franchise Alternatives
- Compare Fee Structures: Always compare royalty and marketing fees across different 'burger franchise alternatives'. For instance, The Habit's 5% royalty and 4.5% marketing fee differ from other brands.
- Analyze Menu Diversity: Consider franchises with broader menus, like The Habit, which can offer more stable revenue streams than highly specialized concepts.
- Assess Corporate Support: For investors new to franchising, brands with strong corporate backing, such as those under Yum! Brands, can provide invaluable resources and reduce operational risk.
- Review Unit Economics: While The Habit's investment is higher, understanding its average revenue potential is crucial for assessing its viability as a 'gourmet burger franchise'.
When considering 'franchise options similar to Five Guys', The Habit Burger Grill presents a different investment tier. While the initial capital outlay is significantly higher than many other 'burger franchise alternatives', the financial requirements reflect a different market segment. For context, the average initial investment for a Five Guys franchise unit can range from $256,200 to $591,250, with a 6% royalty fee and a 2% marketing fee, according to available data.
This stark difference in financial commitment means potential franchisees should carefully align their investment capacity with the brand's requirements. For those seeking 'burger franchises like Five Guys' but with a potentially higher growth ceiling and a more diversified offering, The Habit Burger Grill is a significant consideration within the 'franchise opportunities in the burger industry'.
Alternative Franchise Chain: Mooyah
Is Mooyah a franchise like Five Guys?
Yes, if you're asking 'is there a franchise like Five Guys', Mooyah is a strong contender. It competes directly in the 'better burger' fast-casual market. Mooyah focuses on high-quality ingredients, customizable burgers, fresh-cut fries, and real ice cream milkshakes. This positioning makes it one of the most direct 'franchise options similar to Five Guys'.
Mooyah has been recognized for its growth and franchisee satisfaction. As of mid-2025, it had nearly 100 locations either open or in development. The brand often presents a slightly more playful image and emphasizes a family-friendly dining atmosphere, setting it apart as one of the 'burger franchises like Five Guys' with a distinct personality.
What are Mooyah's investment and royalty fees?
The estimated initial investment for a Mooyah franchise, based on its 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), ranges between $477,918 and $693,868. This investment range is competitive and can be slightly lower than that of a 'Five Guys Burgers and Fries Franchise Unit', making it an attractive choice for those exploring 'burger franchise alternatives'.
Mooyah's financial structure includes a royalty fee of 6% of gross sales and a 2% contribution to the brand development fund. The initial franchise fee is $40,000. These figures are consistent with industry standards for established 'fast casual burger franchises', offering a clear financial framework for potential investors looking for 'burger chain franchise opportunities'.
| Key Financials | Mooyah (2025 FDD Est.) | Five Guys (Industry Benchmarks) |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Investment Range | $477,918 - $693,868 | $500,000 - $1,000,000+ |
| Franchise Fee | $40,000 | $25,000 - $40,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 6% of Gross Sales | 6% of Gross Sales |
| Marketing Fee | 2% of Gross Sales | 2% of Gross Sales |
Tips for Evaluating Burger Franchise Alternatives
- Compare Unit Economics: Look beyond initial investment. Analyze average annual revenue per unit and profitability metrics to understand potential ROI. For instance, while the FDD data for one franchise shows an average annual revenue of $1,097,710, it's crucial to compare this with other 'burger franchises like Five Guys'.
- Understand Brand Positioning: Evaluate how each brand appeals to its target market. Mooyah's family-friendly approach differs from the more adult-oriented vibe of some competitors.
- Review Franchisee Satisfaction: Seek out testimonials and data on franchisee success and satisfaction. High franchisee satisfaction often correlates with strong franchisor support and a sound business model, making them good 'burger franchises to invest in'.
- Assess Growth Trajectory: Investigate which 'burger franchises are growing' and why. Mooyah's expansion of nearly 100 units by mid-2025 indicates market acceptance.
When considering 'investing in a burger franchise besides Five Guys', Mooyah presents a compelling case as one of the 'other popular burger franchises to consider'. It offers a similar fast-casual burger experience but with its own unique brand identity and competitive investment structure, making it a noteworthy option for those seeking 'affordable burger franchise opportunities'. This makes it a direct answer to the question, 'is there a franchise like Five Guys' that might be a better fit for your investment goals.
Alternative Franchise Chain: Culver's
When considering What are the Pros and Cons of Owning a Five Guys Burgers and Fries Franchise?, it's important to explore other strong players in the burger sector. One such compelling option is Culver's, offering a distinct approach to the fast-casual burger market.
How does Culver's compare to Five Guys?
Culver's carves out a unique niche among burger franchise alternatives. It successfully blends the popular fast-casual burger concept with the efficiency of a quick-service restaurant (QSR) model, notably featuring a drive-thru. Their menu, centered around signature ButterBurgers and Fresh Frozen Custard, establishes a strong brand identity that minimizes direct overlap with the core offerings of a Five Guys Burgers and Fries Franchise Unit. This differentiation makes it an interesting choice for those looking for franchise options similar to Five Guys but with a unique twist.
Financially, Culver's demonstrates impressive unit-level economics. With a reported average unit volume (AUV) exceeding $32 million in 2024, Culver's stands out as one of the 'best burger franchises to invest in'. This performance figure is notably higher than many other 'burger franchises like Five Guys', highlighting its strong market presence and customer appeal.
What does it take to open a Culver's?
Opening a Culver's restaurant represents a significant 'burger franchise investment'. The total estimated cost for a new unit, as of June 2025, ranges from $25 million to $60 million. This substantial investment is largely attributed to the requirement for land acquisition and new construction, as Culver's typically operates from standalone buildings equipped with a drive-thru.
Culver's mandates that franchisees be owner-operators, meaning they must be actively involved in the day-to-day management of the business. The initial franchise fee is set at $55,000. Furthermore, the ongoing royalty fee is 4% of gross sales. While this royalty rate is lower than many competitors, it helps to partially offset the considerable initial investment required for this 'burger chain franchise opportunity'.
| Metric | Culver's (Estimated 2025) | Five Guys (Based on FDD Data) |
|---|---|---|
| Estimated Initial Investment | $25M - $60M | $256,200 - $591,250 |
| Franchise Fee | $55,000 | $25,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 4% | 6% |
| Average Unit Volume (AUV) | $32M+ (2024) | $1,097,710 (Avg. Annual Revenue) |
Tips for Evaluating Burger Franchise Alternatives
- Analyze Unit Economics: Always look beyond the initial investment and compare AUVs and profit margins to understand true earning potential.
- Understand the Operating Model: Determine if the franchise requires owner-operator involvement or if semi-absentee ownership is viable, aligning with your personal investment goals.
- Compare Royalty Structures: Lower royalty fees can significantly impact long-term profitability, especially for high-volume locations.
Alternative Franchise Chain: Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
When exploring burger franchise alternatives, one name that consistently emerges as a strong contender is Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers. This brand has carved out a significant niche in the fast-casual dining sector, offering a distinct experience that appeals to a broad customer base.
Why is Freddy's a Growing Burger Franchise?
Freddy's is certainly among the burger franchises that are growing, with an impressive expansion trajectory. By mid-2025, the franchise is projected to operate over 530 locations. Its success can be attributed to a carefully crafted concept that blends a nostalgic 1950s diner ambiance with a menu focused on made-to-order steakburgers, hot dogs, and, of course, frozen custard. This unique combination has proven to be a highly effective and scalable business model, making it a compelling choice for investors looking for burger franchise opportunities.
Furthermore, Freddy's demonstrates strong financial performance. In 2024, the brand reported an Average Unit Volume (AUV) exceeding $19 million. This robust sales figure, coupled with an efficient operational framework that notably includes a high-performing drive-thru, positions Freddy's as an attractive option for those considering investing in a burger franchise besides Five Guys.
What Are the Startup Costs for a Freddy's?
For entrepreneurs interested in this particular burger chain franchise opportunity, understanding the investment is crucial. According to Freddy's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), the estimated initial investment to open a franchise unit can range from $799,281 to $1,931,189. This broad range accounts for several factors, including the specific real estate chosen and the construction method for either an inline or a standalone restaurant.
Regarding ongoing fees, Freddy's charges a royalty fee of 4.5% on gross sales. This rate is competitive within the franchise opportunities in the burger industry. The combination of strong unit economics, as evidenced by their AUV, and a reasonable royalty structure makes Freddy's a financially sound five guys alternative franchise investment.
Key Considerations for Freddy's Franchise Investment
- Nostalgic Appeal: The 1950s diner theme is a significant draw for customers.
- Menu Differentiation: Steakburgers and frozen custard offer a unique selling proposition.
- Operational Efficiency: A strong drive-thru performance contributes to higher sales volumes.
- Financial Performance: AUV exceeding $19 million in 2024 indicates strong revenue potential.
- Investment Range: Be prepared for a significant initial investment, with detailed breakdowns available in the FDD.
When evaluating burger franchises like Five Guys, Freddy's presents a solid alternative. Its growth, financial metrics, and unique brand positioning make it a noteworthy option for potential franchisees. For a deeper dive into how other franchises operate, you can explore How Does the Five Guys Burgers and Fries Franchise Work?
| Initial Investment Range | $799,281 - $1,931,189 |
| Royalty Fee | 4.5% of Gross Sales |
| Projected Locations by Mid-2025 | Over 530 |
| 2024 Average Unit Volume (AUV) | Over $19 Million |
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