Chick-fil-A gets 100,000 franchise applicants but picks 200 per year

Key Points:

• Chick-fil-A is one of the most competitive franchises in the U.S., with about 100,000 applicants annually for around 200 owner-operator positions, according to Julian Good, a current franchisee.
• The franchise fee has remained $10,000 for the past 50 years, and prior experience with Chick-fil-A is not required, as over 25% of new operators come from diverse professional backgrounds outside the company.
• Unlike typical franchises, Chick-fil-A retains ownership of the restaurant, equipment, and real estate, meaning operators manage the business but do not build equity or sell the restaurant upon retirement.
• Operators focus on managing their restaurants, developing employees, and serving communities, with the business reverting back to Chick-fil-A when an operator retires, rather than being passed down or sold.
• Chick-fil-A restaurants are closed on Sundays as part of company culture, reflecting the founder’s intention to honor religious values and provide rest for employees.