- Founded in 1932
- Franchising Since 1990
- 143 US Franchises
- $1,380,500 - $2,160,000 Investment Range
- $981,640 Average Gross Revenue
- 5% Royalty Fee
- $35,000 Franchise Fee
Use the Pre-qualification tool to see how much funding you could qualify for and see if you can affor a Krystal franchise.
Get pre-qualified for financingKrystal, an iconic Southern fast-food institution, has been serving its signature small, square hamburgers since 1932, becoming a beloved part of the region's culinary heritage. Known for their distinctive steamed buns and perfectly proportioned patties, Krystal has cultivated a loyal following that spans generations, making it one of the oldest quick-service restaurant chains in the United States.
What sets Krystal apart is their unique approach to classic American fare. Their famous Krystal burgers, often ordered by the sackful, feature a distinctive size and preparation method that creates a one-of-a-kind taste experience. Beyond their signature burgers, the menu includes a variety of Southern-inspired offerings such as chili dogs, crispy chicken sandwiches, and indulgent breakfast items that have become regional favorites.
The brand's commitment to innovation while maintaining its nostalgic appeal has helped it thrive in the competitive fast-food landscape. Krystal restaurants typically feature modern, efficient designs that honor the chain's heritage while embracing contemporary dining trends. Their business model emphasizes strong operational systems, comprehensive training programs, and a proven track record of brand recognition in the Southeast United States.
For potential franchisees, Krystal offers the opportunity to join a well-established brand with strong consumer loyalty and recognition. The company provides extensive support in areas such as site selection, training, marketing, and ongoing operational guidance. With a focus on growth and modernization while maintaining their historic charm, Krystal continues to adapt to changing consumer preferences while staying true to their Southern roots and time-tested recipes.
How much does it cost to start a franchise with Krystal?
- Franchise Fee
- $35,000
- Investment Range
- $1,380,500 - $2,160,000
- Investment Midpoint
- $1,770,250
- Minimum Cash Required
- $1,380,500
- Royalty Fees
- 5%
- Brand Fund
- 4.5%
The fast-food sector continues benefiting from consumer demand for convenient, affordable dining options, though faces headwinds from labor cost inflation and evolving health-conscious preferences. Krystal's 92-year operating history since 1932 demonstrates remarkable brand longevity, though the current 280-unit system suggests a more regional presence compared to national fast-food leaders.
The reported gross revenue of $981,640 falls below the sub-sector average of $1,596,338, which may reflect market positioning challenges or operational factors requiring careful evaluation. This revenue gap warrants thorough due diligence regarding unit-level economics and market dynamics.
Ideal investors should possess substantial liquid capital given the high investment threshold, along with multi-unit restaurant experience to navigate operational complexities. The brand's Southern heritage and distinctive menu positioning may perform best in markets with cultural affinity for the concept.
Prospective franchisees must carefully review the FDD to understand territory rights, ongoing fees, and operational requirements. The investment level demands experienced restaurant operators with sufficient capital reserves for working capital and initial marketing efforts.
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See the Revenue Potential!
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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 Krystal. 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 brand's highest concentration in the core southeastern states demonstrates a successful market fit in areas with strong quick-service restaurant demand and appreciation for Southern cuisine. This regional clustering enables efficient supply chain management and marketing synergies. However, the more limited presence outside the Southeast presents significant expansion opportunities, particularly in mid-Atlantic and Northeastern markets where similar quick-service concepts have found success.
Ideal locations for new Krystal franchises typically include areas with high traffic counts, proximity to commercial and residential zones, and demographics aligned with quick-service value propositions. The brand's success in southeastern states suggests particular strength in markets with a mix of suburban and urban populations, college towns, and areas with strong tourism activity. Prospective franchisees should focus on markets with similar characteristics to the core southeastern territory while considering untapped markets in the brand's existing multi-state footprint.
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 Krystal. Learn about the experience and expertise of the executive team guiding Krystal's success. For more details, refer to Item 2 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).
Litigation
Review any legal actions or pending litigation involving Krystal. 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 Krystal'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 Krystal'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 1932
- Franchising Since 1990
- 143 US Franchises
- $1,380,500 - $2,160,000 Investment Range
- $981,640 Average Gross Revenue
- 5% Royalty Fee
- $35,000 Franchise Fee
Use the Pre-qualification tool to see how much funding you could qualify for and see if you can affor a Krystal franchise.
Get pre-qualified for financing
