- Founded in 2003
- Franchising Since 2006
- 14 US Franchises
- $724,133 - $1,983,750 Investment Range
- $2,361,580 Average Gross Revenue
- 6% Royalty Fee
- $28,000 Franchise Fee
Use the Pre-qualification tool to see how much funding you could qualify for and see if you can affor a The Counter franchise.
Get pre-qualified for financingThe Counter is an innovative fast-casual restaurant concept that revolutionizes the traditional burger experience through unprecedented customization. Founded in 2003, this unique franchise has established itself as a pioneer in the 'build-your-own' burger movement, offering customers millions of possible combinations to create their perfect burger.
At the heart of The Counter's appeal is its commitment to quality ingredients and culinary creativity. Guests can choose from a variety of premium proteins including beef, bison, turkey, chicken, and plant-based options like the Impossible™ Burger, making it an inclusive destination for all dietary preferences. The customization experience extends to an extensive selection of artisanal buns, fresh toppings, signature sauces, and premium add-ons, allowing customers to craft their ideal burger experience.
The Counter's modern, industrial-chic atmosphere creates a welcoming environment that appeals to a diverse clientele, from families to young professionals. The restaurant's commitment to quality extends beyond just burgers, featuring creative sides like parmesan fries, sweet potato fries, and crispy onion strings, along with indulgent hand-spun shakes.
What sets The Counter apart is its ability to cater to modern dietary trends and preferences, offering gluten-free, vegan, and protein-style options. The franchise has successfully expanded internationally, with locations across the United States and presence in countries like Ireland, Japan, and Saudi Arabia, demonstrating its universal appeal and strong business model. For entrepreneurs looking to enter the thriving fast-casual restaurant sector, The Counter offers a proven concept that combines customization, quality, and contemporary dining trends.
How much does it cost to start a franchise with The Counter?
- Franchise Fee
- $28,000
- Investment Range
- $724,133 - $1,983,750
- Investment Midpoint
- $1,353,942
- Minimum Cash Required
- $724,133
- Royalty Fees
- 6%
- Brand Fund
- 3%
The reported gross revenue of $2,361,580 substantially outpaces the sub-sector average of $696,569, though prospective investors should conduct thorough due diligence on unit-level performance variations. With only 16 units operating since establishment in 2003, The Counter represents a boutique franchise system with 21 years of brand heritage and limited scale compared to major burger chains. This smaller footprint may indicate selective growth strategies but also suggests reduced brand recognition and system infrastructure.
The fast-casual burger segment benefits from consumer demand for premium, customizable dining experiences, though faces intense competition from established players. The Counter's focus on gourmet ingredients and creative burger construction aligns with industry premiumization trends, particularly appealing to affluent demographics seeking experiential dining.
Ideal investors should possess substantial liquid capital given the high investment threshold, restaurant industry experience, and patience for brand building in competitive markets. The limited unit count suggests potential territory availability but requires careful market analysis.
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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 The Counter. 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 Counter's fast-casual concept has found particular success in urban and suburban locations, with a notable presence in areas like their Vintage Business Centre location. Their geographic distribution demonstrates strength in markets combining business districts and residential areas, particularly in locations with strong foot traffic and proximity to retail centers. The brand has established a balanced presence across the country, from coastal regions like California and Washington to midwestern states like Illinois and Indiana, with varying levels of market penetration in each region.
Expansion opportunities exist in underserved markets, particularly in states with limited presence such as Hawaii, Iowa, and Connecticut. Ideal new locations should target areas with higher median household incomes, strong daytime population density, and proximity to commercial centers. The brand's proven success across diverse markets over its 20-year history suggests strong potential for continued strategic expansion in markets with similar demographic profiles.
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 The Counter. Learn about the experience and expertise of the executive team guiding The Counter's success. For more details, refer to Item 2 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).
Litigation
Review any legal actions or pending litigation involving The Counter. 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 The Counter'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 The Counter'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 2003
- Franchising Since 2006
- 14 US Franchises
- $724,133 - $1,983,750 Investment Range
- $2,361,580 Average Gross Revenue
- 6% Royalty Fee
- $28,000 Franchise Fee
Use the Pre-qualification tool to see how much funding you could qualify for and see if you can affor a The Counter franchise.
Get pre-qualified for financing
