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Steak n Shake by Biglari Restaurant

Information based on 2024 FDD
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Brand Highlights
  • Founded in 2005
  • Franchising Since 2005
  • 181 US Franchises
  • $316,000 - $1,344,419 Investment Range
  • $1,772,941 Average Gross Revenue
  • 5% Royalty Fee
  • $25,000 Franchise Fee
Pre-qualification Amount

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Brand Description

Steak 'n Shake by Biglari Restaurant is an iconic American dining establishment that masterfully blends the classic appeal of a 1950s diner with modern fast-casual convenience. Known for their premium steakburgers made from 100% pure beef and hand-dipped milkshakes, they've created a unique niche in the restaurant industry that sets them apart from typical fast-food chains.

The restaurant's signature offering is their 'Original Steakburger,' made with a proprietary blend of premium cuts that are smashed thin on a flat-top grill to create perfectly crispy edges while maintaining a juicy center. This commitment to quality extends to their legendary hand-dipped milkshakes, available in dozens of flavors and made with real ice cream.

What truly distinguishes Steak 'n Shake is their hybrid service model, combining the speed of quick-service with the comfort of a casual dining atmosphere. Many locations feature both traditional table service and modern self-service kiosks, allowing customers to choose their preferred dining experience. Their menu offers exceptional value through various promotions and combo deals, making premium burgers accessible to a wide customer base.

The brand has cultivated a loyal following through its consistent food quality, nostalgic atmosphere, and commitment to customer service. Recent technological upgrades and streamlined operations have improved efficiency while maintaining the classic charm that has made Steak 'n Shake a beloved American institution for decades. Whether serving families during dinner rush or late-night diners craving a premium burger and shake, Steak 'n Shake continues to deliver an experience that resonates with multiple generations of customers.

DID YOU KNOW?

How much does it cost to start a franchise with Steak n Shake by Biglari Restaurant?

$316,000
$1,344,419
Starting your own Steak n Shake by Biglari Restaurant franchise - famous for their hand-dipped milkshakes and steakburgers - requires a total investment between $316,000 and $1,344,419, which includes the $25,000 franchise fee plus all the equipment, real estate, and startup capital needed to bring this beloved American diner experience to your community.
Financial Summary
Franchise Fee
$25,000
Investment Range
$316,000 - $1,344,419
Investment Midpoint
$830,210
Minimum Cash Required
$316,000
Royalty Fees
5%
Brand Fund
1%
Brand Bragging Rights
89-year American heritage brand with proven market presence
Dual investment model: Traditional franchising and $10K partnership options
Investment requirements 70% below full-service restaurant sub-sector averages
Above-average gross revenue performance vs. sub-sector peers
Advanced technology integration with modernized restaurant prototypes
Multi-unit development opportunities across 325 active locations
Financial Analysis
Steak 'n Shake presents a unique dual-investment structure with traditional franchising requiring $316,000-$1,344,419 and an innovative $10,000 franchise partnership model for converting existing company-operated locations. This positions the brand as accessible across investment tiers, from entry-level to mid-tier within the full-service restaurant sector. The traditional investment falls significantly below sub-sector averages of $1.05M-$2.3M, offering competitive entry points for the hamburger restaurant category.

The full-service restaurant industry faces ongoing challenges from labor costs and changing consumer preferences toward fast-casual dining. However, Steak 'n Shake leverages its 89-year brand heritage while operating under its current franchise structure established in 2005. Recent modernization efforts, including new prototypes and technology integration, position it to adapt to evolving market demands within the nostalgic dining segment.

With 325 active units, the system demonstrates moderate scale with expansion opportunities. The reported gross revenue of $1,772,941 exceeds sub-sector averages of $1,596,338, though prospective investors should review individual unit performance data in the FDD.

Ideal candidates include experienced restaurant operators for traditional franchising or qualified business leaders for the partnership model. The dual structure accommodates varying capital availability and risk tolerance, with multi-unit development opportunities available for qualified investors.
Expected Investment Range
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Average Gross Sales
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Financing
Financing Details

Franzy connects you with top-tier financing partners to help secure the funds to invest in a franchise like Steak n Shake by Biglari Restaurant. 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
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FranFund

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CRF USA

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First Bank of the Lake

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Golden Capital Solutions

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Location Analysis
Steak 'n Shake maintains a strategic presence across multiple states, with widespread coverage throughout the Southeast and Midwest regions. The brand shows particularly strong presence in Georgia, Illinois, and Michigan, indicating successful market penetration in these core territories. The franchise's average rating of 3.64 across numerous customer reviews suggests consistent service quality, though there's room for improvement in customer satisfaction metrics.

The brand's geographic distribution reveals a calculated expansion strategy, with established clusters in major metropolitan areas across the Southeast and Midwest. This pattern suggests successful adaptation to regional dining preferences and strong brand recognition in these markets. Key success factors include locations near high-traffic areas and suburban communities with median household incomes above $50,000.

Ideal locations demonstrate proximity to retail centers, universities, and residential areas with strong daytime population. The franchise performs particularly well in mid-sized cities where competition from upscale casual dining is less intense. Expansion opportunities exist in underserved markets within existing territories, particularly in Florida and North Carolina, where current market presence indicates significant growth potential.

For prospective franchisees, optimal locations should feature high visibility from major thoroughfares, ample parking, and demographics showing a mix of families and young professionals. Markets with growing suburban populations and strong retail presence offer the most promising opportunities for new units.
Total US Locations325
Open Franchises181
Corporate Locations144
Average Sq. FootN/A
Territory Map

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Franchise Net Unit Growth
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Additional Information

Executive Team

Get to know the leadership behind Steak n Shake by Biglari Restaurant. Learn about the experience and expertise of the executive team guiding Steak n Shake by Biglari Restaurant's success. For more details, refer to Item 2 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).

Litigation

Review any legal actions or pending litigation involving Steak n Shake by Biglari Restaurant. 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 Steak n Shake by Biglari Restaurant'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 Steak n Shake by Biglari Restaurant'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).

Frequently Asked Questions
Disclaimer

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.

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