- Founded in 1986
- Franchising Since 1991
- 700 US Franchises
- $202,059 - $668,967 Investment Range
- $942,354 Average Gross Revenue
- 6% Royalty Fee
- $24,500 Franchise Fee
Use the Pre-qualification tool to see how much funding you could qualify for and see if you can affor a Charleys franchise.
Get pre-qualified for financingCharleys, established in 1986, has grown into one of America's beloved fast-food franchises, specializing in made-to-order Philly cheesesteaks, gourmet fries, and signature lemonades. What began as a single location has evolved into a nationwide sensation, known for delivering an exceptional quick-service dining experience that combines quality ingredients with outstanding customer service.
At the heart of Charleys' success is their commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients and made-to-order preparation. Their signature Philly cheesesteaks feature premium graded beef, fresh-baked rolls, and real cheese, all grilled to perfection right in front of customers. The menu extends beyond traditional cheesesteaks to include innovative variations like buffalo chicken and teriyaki options, appealing to diverse taste preferences.
The brand distinguishes itself through its dedication to customer experience, with consistently positive reviews highlighting friendly staff, cleanliness, and efficient service. Their loaded fries, featuring various creative toppings, have become a customer favorite, while their fresh-made fruit lemonades offer a refreshing complement to any meal.
Charleys' business model emphasizes operational excellence, quality control, and customer satisfaction. The franchise provides comprehensive training and support systems, enabling franchisees to maintain consistent food quality and service standards across all locations. Their successful track record and growing presence in shopping malls, standalone locations, and other retail environments demonstrate the concept's versatility and appeal to diverse markets.
How much does it cost to start a franchise with Charleys?
- Franchise Fee
- $24,500
- Investment Range
- $202,059 - $668,967
- Investment Midpoint
- $435,513
- Minimum Cash Required
- $202,059
- Royalty Fees
- 6%
- Brand Fund
- 3%
The sandwich shop segment benefits from consistent consumer demand for quick-service options, with Philly cheesesteaks representing a differentiated menu position within the crowded fast-food landscape. The reported gross revenue of $942,354 trails the sub-sector average of $1,149,168, though this may reflect the brand's focus on accessible investment levels and operational efficiency.
With 761 units and 38 years of operation since 1986, Charleys demonstrates substantial system maturity and franchising experience. This extensive operational history suggests refined business processes, established supply chains, and proven unit economics across diverse markets.
The counter-service model offers operational simplicity with limited seating requirements and streamlined labor needs. However, investors should consider the competitive intensity within fast-casual dining and the importance of securing high-traffic locations for success.
Ideal candidates possess $200,000+ liquid capital with food service experience or strong operational backgrounds. The brand suits investors seeking established franchise systems with lower entry costs and proven market presence. Multi-unit development opportunities may appeal to experienced operators looking to scale within defined territories.
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See the Revenue Potential!
Curious about how much you could earn? The average gross sales data gives you a realistic view of the franchise's earning potential and success stories from existing franchisees.
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Financing Details
Franzy connects you with top-tier financing partners to help secure the funds to invest in a franchise like Charleys. Whether you're looking for a loan or exploring other financial products, our partners provide expert guidance to ensure you obtain the necessary capital. They specialize in offering solutions tailored to the needs of franchisees, making the process of securing financing smooth and straightforward.
Why Financing with Franzy Partners?
Choosing to finance through Franzy's partners ensures you get the best terms and support for your franchise investment. Our partners have extensive experience in the franchising industry and offer specialized financial solutions tailored to your needs. With competitive interest rates and flexible repayment options, you can find the right financing plan that fits your budget and goals. Our partners are committed to providing personalized guidance throughout the financing process, making it easier for you to secure the necessary funds and confidently move forward with your franchise venture.
Finance Partners
The franchise maintains positive customer satisfaction ratings across thousands of customer reviews, with some locations like Muscat demonstrating exceptional performance potential. Regional success appears strongest in densely populated urban and suburban areas, particularly in shopping centers and high-foot-traffic locations.
Market analysis suggests expansion opportunities in both domestic and international markets. Within the U.S., the franchise's strongest performance typically occurs in locations with high daytime population density and proximity to retail centers.
For prospective franchisees, ideal locations should prioritize:
- High-visibility retail corridors with substantial foot traffic
- Shopping centers or malls with strong anchor tenants
- Areas with diverse demographic mix and steady daytime population
- Regions with growing quick-service restaurant demand
With over 35 years of operational experience and a proven track record in various markets, Charleys continues to demonstrate strong potential for further expansion both domestically and internationally.
Access the detailed territory map to find prime locations and see where this franchise operates. This information is vital for understanding your market potential and exclusivity rights.
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Track Growth to Gauge Success!
See how this franchise is expanding over time. The net unit growth reveals the health and popularity of the brand—key indicators for a promising investment.
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Executive Team
Get to know the leadership behind Charleys. Learn about the experience and expertise of the executive team guiding Charleys's success. For more details, refer to Item 2 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).
Litigation
Review any legal actions or pending litigation involving Charleys. Understanding the legal history helps assess potential risks and the brand's business practices. For more details, refer to Item 3 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).
Bankruptcy
Review Charleys's bankruptcy history and any filings by key personnel or affiliates. This critical information provides transparency about the brand's financial stability and management. For more details, refer to Item 4 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).
Franchisor Assistance
Learn about Charleys's comprehensive support system for franchisees, including initial training programs and continuous operational assistance. Understanding the available resources and support structure is crucial for franchise success. For more details, refer to Item 11 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).
The information provided on this page is based on the latest Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) that is publicly available and that we have on record, which was issued in 2024. This information is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal, financial, or business advice. We make no guarantees or claims regarding the completeness or accuracy. For the most current and detailed information, we recommend consulting the franchisor directly for the most recent FDD and regarding any questions that you may have about the information provided.
- Founded in 1986
- Franchising Since 1991
- 700 US Franchises
- $202,059 - $668,967 Investment Range
- $942,354 Average Gross Revenue
- 6% Royalty Fee
- $24,500 Franchise Fee
Use the Pre-qualification tool to see how much funding you could qualify for and see if you can affor a Charleys franchise.
Get pre-qualified for financing
