Chick-fil-A's business model, which includes a famously low franchise fee, also presents one of the most competitive selection processes for owner-operators in the fast-food industry.
For over 50 years, the initial franchise fee to become a Chick-fil-A owner-operator has remained $10,000. However, this low entry cost is met with a highly selective process. Approximately 100,000 individuals apply each year for the roughly 200 available owner-operator positions, according to Julian Good, who owns a Chick-fil-A restaurant in St. Charles, Illinois, and discussed the model on the "Founder Talk" podcast.
This competition means that applicants without prior experience at Chick-fil-A can often face a waiting period of three to five years before an opportunity arises. The company states that its selection process looks for leaders committed to operating a restaurant full-time. Despite the long waits, previous company experience is not a prerequisite, as more than 25% of new owner-operators had no prior employment with Chick-fil-A or its affiliates.
Owner-operators come from diverse professional backgrounds, including manufacturing, health care, education, law enforcement, and retail. A distinctive aspect of the Chick-fil-A franchise model is that operators do not own the physical restaurant, equipment, or, in most cases, the real estate. Instead, Chick-fil-A retains ownership, meaning operators do not build equity in the business or have the option to sell it upon retirement. Operators are expected to focus their efforts on restaurant management, employee development, and community service.
Upon retirement, the business is returned to Chick-fil-A's ownership. The company also maintains its tradition of closing all locations on Sundays. This weekly closure is a significant part of the company's culture, described as a way to honor God and provide time for the team and community.
Chick-fil-A is also introducing new menu items, such as a Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Sandwich, to capitalize on the high-protein breakfast trend. This innovation blends traditional comfort food with what the company describes as functional nutrition.