Carl’s Jr.
Financial Plan
Liquid capital
The amount you need to secure the necessary loans.
Total investment
Total Investment to launch the business, including initial fees ($25,000–$35,000)
The Concept
Carl’s Jr. was founded in 1941 by Carl and Margaret Karcher and grew from a hot-dog cart into one of the best-known West Coast burger brands. The first Carl’s Jr. restaurants opened in Anaheim in the 1950s, and the brand expanded substantially throughout California and the western United States. In 1997, CKE acquired Hardee’s, creating the corporate structure under which Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s operate today.
The brand is built around charbroiled burgers, particularly its Famous Star and Thickburger platforms, alongside chicken, breakfast and other indulgent QSR offerings. Carl’s Jr. currently reports more than 1,000 U.S. locations and an international presence spanning 28 countries. Like Hardee’s, the franchise program is increasingly oriented toward experienced multi-unit operators and larger development agreements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much liquid capital is required for Carl’s Jr.?
Carl’s Jr. currently requires prospective franchisees to have at least $300,000 in liquid assets and $1 million in net worth. Those requirements are substantially lower than Five Guys’ capital threshold but still position Carl’s Jr. as a relatively capital-intensive burger franchise.
How much does it cost to open a Carl’s Jr.?
The current official franchise site estimates $1.486 million to $3.1765 million per unit. The actual investment depends heavily on real estate, construction, restaurant format and market-specific costs.
What are the royalty and advertising fees?
The ongoing royalty is 4% of gross sales, while the advertising obligation is listed as up to 7%. The franchise fee ranges from $25,000 to $35,000 depending on the number of restaurants being developed or operated, and the development fee is $10,000 per unit.
Does Carl’s Jr. expect multi-unit development?
Yes. The current franchise program prefers a minimum of three restaurants in existing markets and five in new markets, with a target of 10 or more restaurants. Previous restaurant or franchise experience is preferred.
What support does Carl’s Jr. provide?
The company lists support in real estate, operations, franchise services, culinary/restaurant excellence and marketing/advertising. It also provides a 10-week franchise training program for franchise and senior management.
You represent Carl’s Jr.?
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