burger and fries business plan

Burger Restaurant Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business ideas » Hospitality, Travel & Tourism » Restaurant » Burger Restaurant

Are you about starting a burger restaurant? If YES, here’s a complete sample burger restaurant business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE to get started .

Okay, so we have considered all the requirements for starting a burger restaurant. We have analyzed and drafted a sample burger restaurant marketing plan backed up by actionable guerrilla marketing ideas for burger restaurants. So let’s proceed to the business planning section.

Why Start a Burger Restaurant Business?

Generally, burger restaurants are chain and franchised restaurants that mainly sell burgers but may also sell alcoholic and other beverages. Burger restaurant formats range from fast-food to full-service. Right from the beginning, burgers have been a staple American snack.

Burger restaurants don’t need to make anything other than really good burgers and really good fries. They are quite easy to make and don’t take much time to get ready. All you need is meat, buns, and fresh ingredients and you can make a wonderful burger in minutes, while other restaurants may need several minutes to prepare and serve their dishes.

Within the years, burger restaurants have improved. The days of simple cheeseburger with lettuce, tomato, and ketchup has long gone.

The industry is currently relishing an era of gourmet burgers and endless flavour profiles. So, just because you’re running a burger restaurant doesn’t mean that your food should be plain or simple. Most burger places today offer special sauces, gourmet toppings, and unexpected combinations.

This is indeed a business you should consider if you’re looking to venture into the food industry. With a burger business, you don’t have to worry about limiting your market to only meat lovers as there are many excellent veggie patties hitting menus everywhere that will please any veggie-lover out there.

In this modern age, it is very common to see lamb burgers, pork burgers, and even bison burgers. People who don’t eat beef can try a juicy chicken burger; if you’re pescatarian, you’ll love a salmon burger. Irrespective of your dietary restriction, there is a burger that comfortably suits your appeal. Read on as we put together a sample business plan for a burger restaurant.

A Sample Burger Restaurant Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

The burger industry of this modern era is nothing near the industry some two decades back. Hamburger franchises have spread across the united states and have continued to explore innovative ways to turn their customers into loyal burger-fanatics.

But when it comes to a good hamburger, Americans are known to be very careful and selective. A report has it that 75% of burger-lovers rank the quality of the meat as the first or second most important attribute to their burger. Second in line were toppings, ranked either first or second place by 42% of consumers.

Although the price and affordability of the burger is considered, high-quality ingredients are still very important in producing a successful burger business. Americans to a very large extent live on burgers and are known to go for the best.

Statistics show that nearly 80% of consumers eat at fast food restaurants at least once a month, and 34% of kids in the US eat fast food every day – and that’s not including the massive number of people eating at fast casual restaurants.

Burger in the United States is now seen a food that represents patriotism and festivity. They are always present at large family gatherings, particularly Fourth of July and Memorial Day celebrations. Given the timelessness of this All-American classic, it’s no wonder that the hamburger stands as one of the few “recession-proof” foods in the United States.

But note that with America’s fight against obesity, e-coli concerns, mad cow disease, and the recent go-green campaign, the burger industry has its own share of challenges and threats. Yet statistics has it that Americans tastes are becoming more diverse and varied.

Burger has always remained top in the minds of Americans, and the reason for this longevity is most times attributed to its widespread appeal. Burgers are affordable, portable, and customizable and they can be served gourmet-style or as a rustic yet classic go-to food.

2. Executive Summary

Star Burger will offer the people of San Diego an exciting menu of burgers, sandwiches, salads, desserts and coffee beverages. We plan to make use of a system that is entirely new to the industry to provide excellent services and products in a convenient and time-efficient way.

Star Burger will provide its customers with the opportunity to drive up and place their order of well-prepared burgers and sandwiches of different flavours and toppings. We also plan to offer our clients well blended lemonade, coffees, teas, and other custom drinks to go down with our unique burger and sandwiches. We will also offer soft drinks, fresh-baked pastries and other confections.

We at Star Burger plan to reach our targeted audience by deploying Drive-through facilities and Mobile Restaurants to satisfy the various urge of the people of San Diego, California. We believe that these facilities will be designed to manage the two-sided traffic and dispense customer-designed, specially ordered burgers and sandwiches in less time than when they visit other businesses.

Star Burger hopes to provide the people of San Diego with quality products and an extensive menu of delicious items, to make sure we get our customers’ loyalty, as well as good publicity coverage and media support.

We decided to become a Drive-through cafe between the mountains, attracting several million dollars through an initial public or private offering that would allow Star Burger to open fifteen to twenty facilities per year in all metropolitan communities in the North, Midwest, and South.

Star Burger will be registered as a Limited Liability Corporation, but all membership shares for now will be owned by Sampson and Nicky Shepard, and we also plan to leverage a portion of the shares to raise capital. Our plan at Star Burger is to sell 100 membership units to family members, friends, and angel investors.

Each membership unit at Star Burger is priced at $3,087 with a minimum of five units per membership certificate, or a minimum investment of $61,740 per investor. We have plans to ensure that irrespective of the amount of share units bought, Sampson and Nicky Shepard will maintain ownership of no less than 51% of Star Burger.

3. Our Products and Services

Star Burger is a San Diego burger and assorted sandwich restaurant serving during lunch time hour as well as early evening. We would operate weekdays from 9-7 pm. Our bread is chosen for several reasons: it is unique, healthy, and versatile.

We have prepared a menu that will give each customer the choice to enjoy our burgers and never get tired. We will attract 35% new customers a year after the second year and will reach profitability by the end of year two. Below are the products we plan to offer to our customers:

• Classic Gourmet Burgers: Cheese, Lettuce, Tomato, and Onion
• BBQ Bacon Burgers: BBQ Sauce, Bacon, Cheese, and Grilled or Fried Onions
• California Burgers: All the Classic Toppings and Avocado
• Hawaiian-Inspired Burgers: Lettuce, Tomato, Pineapple, and Sautéed Mushrooms
• Savoury Veggie Burgers: Veggie Patty, Lettuce, Tomato, Grilled Onions, & Sautéed Mushrooms
• Super Spicy Burgers: Spicy Beef, Spicy Mayo, Jalapeños, and Your Choice of Cheese
• Salmon Burgers
• Sandwiches with filling options: tofu pate, falafel, hummus, baba ganouj, tabouli, turkey, ham, chicken, pesto, assorted vegetables and assorted cheeses Drinks: lemonade, coffees, blended teas, and soft drinks

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Star Burger’s vision is to establish a restaurant that will provide unique and assorted services to the people of San Diego and the State of California.
• Our mission at Star Burger is to provide the finest, healthiest and best tasting burgers and sandwiches in San Diego. Star Burger will offer the finest customer service; no customer will leave dissatisfied.

Our Business Structure

We at Star Burger plan to establish a business structure that is transparent and simple, since most of our personnel will be involved in production and there will be a relatively low headcount in management. We plan to establish three functioning units within Star Burger: Production, Sales and Marketing, and General and Administrative.

Star Burger Production unit will involve our Customer Service Specialists, who will be taking care of our Drive-through and Mobile Restaurants and attending to the needs of our customers. Our Sales and Marketing will take care of the promotion and scheduling of the Mobile Restaurant, as well as the promotion of the Drive-through and the Community Contribution program.

General and Administrative will take care of the facilities, equipment, inventory, payroll, and other basic, operational processes. Due to our goal to establish a unique burger restaurant in the United States, we took our time to lay out the various roles of our employees and what we need, and they include;

Chief Executive Officer

• Chief operating officer
• Chief financial officer
• Chief information officer
• Director of marketing
• District and facilities managers

Customer Service Specialists

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

• Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counselling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results and developing incentives
• Creating, communicating, and implementing the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Tasked with fixing prices and signing business deals
• Tasked with providing direction for the business
• Creates, communicates, and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Tasked with signing checks and documents on behalf of Star Burger
• Evaluates the success of the organization

Chief Operating officer

• Tasked with overseeing the smooth running of the business
• Part of the team that determines the quantity of products that are to be produced daily
• Make lists and budget for all supplies
• Oversee the entire business process
• Map out strategy that will lead to efficiency amongst workers
• Tasked with training, evaluation and assessment of the workforce
• Ensures operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; calling for repairs.
• Ensures that the bakery meets the expected safety and health standard at all times.

Chief Financial officer

• Tasked with preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports
• Tasked with financial forecasting and risks analysis
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting
• Tasked with developing and managing financial systems and policies
• Tasked with administering payrolls
• Ensures compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for the organization
• Serves as internal auditor for the organization

Chief Information officer

• Provide technological guidance within an organization.
• Supervise information system and communications network.
• Develop and implement a customer service platform to serve the organization in every aspect.
• Design, establish, and maintain a network infrastructure for local and wide area connectivity and remote access.
• Participate in vendor contract negotiations for all new computer equipment and software purchased for the corporation.
• Create a cost-benefit analysis as well as supporting a detailed definition of data requirements and departmental workflows.
• Oversee Internet and computer operations.
• Takes care of the day-to-day operations of the information technology department including directing staff, who support administrative computing, networking, user services, telecommunications and other information technology functions.
• Propose hardware/software solutions to accomplish Star Burger’s business objectives.

Director of sales and marketing

• Takes care of external research and coordinate all the internal sources of information to retain the organizations’ best customers and attract new ones
• Model demographic information and analyse the volumes of transactional data generated by customer purchases
• Identifies, prioritizes, and reaches out to new partners, and business opportunities et al
• Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for increasing sales
• Represents the Star Burger in strategic meetings
• Helps increase sales and growth for Star Burger

District and facilities manager

• Monitor the P&L reports for each store and develop effective ways to fill in any gaps between actual performance and Star Burger projections
• Prioritize store performance issues to make certain that the issues most directly affecting profitability are addressed first
• Immediately address any lapses in compliance with corporate policies or local, state and federal laws
• Act as a coach to the store managers and as a resource to each store employee to help inspire success
• Ensures that all contacts with customer (e-mail, walk-In centre, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
• Through interaction with customers on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the Star Burger ’s products
• Takes care of administrative duties assigned by the store manager in an effective and timely manner
• Consistently stays abreast of any new information on Star Burger, promotional campaigns etc. to make sure accurate and helpful information is supplied to customers when they make enquiries.
• Tasked with cleaning the stand at all times
• Makes sure that toiletries and supplies don’t run out of stock
• Any other duty as assigned by the CEO.

6. SWOT Analysis

Our goal at Star Burger is to create a unique restaurant that sees to the need of the people. We also decided to get our SWOT Analysis, which brings to light our strengths and threats in the industry. We at Star Burger hired a business consultant to do this analysis for us because we believe an external firm will not compromise the information and chances of Star Burger in the Industry.

We were able to note our business strengths, weakness, opportunities and also the threats that we are likely going to be exposed to in the industry and our business location. Clearly summarized below is the result of our SWOT Analysis;

Our detailed SWOT analysis has identified three keys that will be instrumental to our success at Star Burger. First and foremost, our design and implementation of strict financial controls, which will be very crucial, since the restaurant industry is quite competitive.

Secondly, we will be offering high-quality fresh and healthy food to clearly stand out from our competition in San Diego. We have already put in place effective, targeted marketing campaigns to support the opening of the restaurant.

Our weakness according to the SWOT analysis will be the time it will take the people of San Diego to know where we are and what we offer.

People go about their daily activities and most times tend not to discover the new business in town unless the business establishes a direct marketing Plan. We at Star Burger plan to start advertising even before we open up our shops, at least to make sure that our brand is known.

• Opportunities

Indeed the opportunities available to Star Burger are limitless. The food and restaurant industry is a recession-proof industry that will always keep growing because people will always want food as it helps keep us alive and sane. People may no always have the time to cook due to their schedule, and will always decide to grab a burger and a cup of lemonade or coffee on their way to work.

Our threat at Star Burger is the fact that we are competing with already established restaurants in San Diego, California, and also there are other entrepreneurs who are likely going to launch similar business within the location of our business.

But with our unique workforce and plans, we have all it takes to dominate the industry and take up enough market share.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trend

Burgers in this new age are indulgent and upscale with a variety of toppings, including goat cheese, truffle oil, foie gras, aolis, marmalades, sautéed spinach, havarti, candied bacon and other healthy and exotic toppings. Burger blends are all the rage extending beyond traditional chuck, to include short rib, brisket, oxtail, rib eye, flank and much more.

A report has it that 2018 is the year for everything from giant, premium burgers to sliders and mini-portions, from bold Mexican and Asian flavours to Korean, Greek, Cajun, and more. International flavours are hot and growing, and the burger is the perfect vehicle to test drive and transport many flavours.

Report also has it that restaurants are beefing up menu language to highlight protein grams and adding protein topper boosters such as pastrami, bacon and pepperoni, as well as including lettuce wrapped options to increase the protein to carb ratio.

In line with the trend for more protein, eggs are topping off many burgers for 2018. Also the largest age segment of the American population is driving burger trends now and certainly into the future with their desire for global flavours, snack-sized portions (sliders), and healthy options and toppings.

From emphasizing and bolstering “protein” on menus, consumer geared messaging is also focused on other health oriented topics and features, including grass fed, organic, natural, gluten free, naked (no bun), and more.

We at Star Burger plan to always work with customers on additional blends, which can include anything. Burger epitomizes the perfect vehicle to adapt to new trends and international flavours. As a business’s that wants to become a market leader in the United States, we will focus our energy at working with customers to develop new blends and visions

8. Our Target Market

Our plan at Star Burger is to focus on two different market audiences: Commuters and Captive Consumers. We have taken our time to strategically design our business to access both of these markets. Commuters are defined as any one or more individuals in a motorized vehicle traveling from point “A” to point “B.”

Star Burger’s greatest concentration will be on commuters heading to or from work, or those out on their lunch break. While our Captive Consumers market audience would include those who are tethered to a campus environment, or in a restricted entry environment that does not give the right to free movement.

This will include high school and college campuses, where there is limited time between classes, and corporate campuses where the same time constraints are involved like special events–such as carnivals, fairs or festivals–where there is an admission price to enter the gate, but exiting would mean another admission fee, or where refreshments are an integral part of the festivities.

Our target market at Star Burger will also be the mobile individual who has more money than time, and excellent taste in choice of food, but no time to prepare them.

Our competitive advantage

Our competitions at Star Burger exist in many forms. They include fast food that takes the form of the traditional restaurants like McDonald’s, Burger King, and Wendy’s, as well as healthier alternatives like Subway . There are also three different delis located in San Diego that serve deli style sandwiches. These delis serve very basic, standard deli fare; generally sliced deli meats.

But we at Star Burger know that with the unique offerings we bring, we can dominate the market especially with a business that can provide a substantial value proposition where a customer does not have to find a parking place, exit the vehicle, stand in line to order, wait for the burger to be produced, pay a premium price for average product, find a place to sit, clean up the previous customer’s mess, then enjoy their lemonade or coffee… That’s if they have much time to spend.

Star Burger business concept is to establish a restaurant that gives a customer the opportunity to drive up, place the order, receive a high quality product at a competitive price, and drive away, without spending much time and energy. We at Star Burger plan to provide an important community value for patronizing our business.

For every purchase a customer makes from us, we plan to donate up to 6% of the sale to the local charity selected by the customer.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Star Burger is a new restaurant with a unique plan to achieve success and become an industry leader. That is why we will be providing our products in the most convenient and efficient way available–either at one of our two-sided Drive-through shops, or at one of our Mobile Restaurant.

This will give us an advantage over our competitors because customers won’t need to find a parking place, wait in a long line, jockey for a seat, and clean up the mess left by a previous patron. Our goal at Star Burger is to provide enough income to be able to run our business and still move on with our charity aspect. We plan to generate income by offering the following products to the people of San Diego:

10. Sales Forecast

Star Burger will open its doors for business by having two Drive-through locations in operation. We plan to open our first location in the second month of this plan and be fully operational beginning on the 1st day of November, and our second Drive-through will open six months later.

We will also add two more Drive-through locations in our second year and, and an additional seven Drive-through facilities in our third year. We at Star Burger plan to deploy one mobile unit in the fourth quarter of the first fiscal year. Deploy a second and a third mobile unit within our second fiscal year.

Using our detailed research and analysis, we expect to boost revenue from the commerce portion of our website, where it will sell Star Burger t-shirts, sweatshirts, insulated lemonade mugs, pre-packaged coffee beans, and other premium items. Although we are not expecting this to be a significant profit centre immediately, but it is a major part of the marketing plan.

We at Star Burger estimate that our total first year sales should reach $399,678. Our second year will see sales increase to $1,085,430. The third year, with the addition of such a significant number of outlets, we will see sales increase to $3,765,215.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

With so many burger franchises and independent restaurants already open, marketing is one of the most important aspects of opening a burger restaurant. We at Star Burger understand this, which is why we will be placing our Drive-through stands in business locations of very high visibility and great ease of access.

Our Restaurants and stands will be located on high traffic commuter routes and close to shopping facilities so as to attract customers going to or from work, or while they are out for lunch, or on a shopping expedition. Our Drive-through will be very simple, astounding, and eye-catching.

We also plan to implement a low cost advertising/promotion campaign which could involve drive-time radio, but not much more. Star Burger will also establish good business relationships with schools, charities and corporations to provide significant free publicity because of our community support program.

We believe that if we give out charitable contributions to these institutions, they will get the word out to their students/faculty/employees/partners about Star Burger.

We also plan to leverage the use of word of mouth advertising method, which is the greatest advertising program any business organisation can use. The media in San Diego will be more than willing to promote the charitable parts of Star Burger and give us the opportunity for more exposure each moment Star Burger contributes to charity.

The internet is a powerful marketing tool we at Star Burger cannot afford to overlook. We plan to create an optimized website to capture local searches and also establish a strong social media presence to easily boost sales. When we first open, we plan to create a local press release, run grand opening specials to draw in potential customers, and even invite local food bloggers to come try a free meal in exchange for a review.

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

Our plan at Star Burger is to gather enough brand awareness to leverage the product line into other regions and gain inquiries from potential inventors. To achieve this goal, we plan to do the following;

• Star Burger will spend $1,200 per month on public relations services for the next year. We intended to build awareness and carry out product information insertions, reviews, etc. We believe that a school fundraising program or our other charity programs will generate a fair amount of publicity on its own and will, perhaps, minimize–or even eliminate–the need for a publicist.
• Star Burger will also spend $800 per month concentrating on drive time Radio advertising. We plan to experiment with different stations, keeping careful track of results. As with the school fundraising program, we expect the stand and signage to be a substantial portion of our advertising.
• List our business on yellow pages ads (local directories)
• Leverage on the internet to promote our business
• Engage direct marketing approach
• Encourage word of mouth marketing from loyal and satisfied clients

12. Our Pricing Strategy

We haven’t gone back on our promise to leave no stone unturned in our quest to achieve our business goal. We at Star Burger have put plans in place to boost our income, which may include posting specials on high-profit items at the drive-up window.

We also plan to give out free burger coupons to those who have purchased a certain number of burgers or something similar.

Our management have been able to develop window sales techniques such as our sellers asking if the customer would like a new flavour or toppings with any drink of their choice. We believe that our pricing will be comparable to the competition in the market, but with the value-added feature of immediate, drive-through service and convenience.

• Payment Options

Our payment options at Star Burger will be all inclusive and acceptable because we understand that different people prefer different payment options. Here are the payment options that we will make available to our clients;

• Payment by cash
• Payment via Point of Sale (POS) Machine
• Payment via online bank transfer (online payment portal)
• Payment via Mobile money

We have also chosen banking platforms that will help us achieve our plans with little or no issues. Our bank account numbers will be made available on our website and promotional materials to clients who may want to deposit cash or make online transfer for our service.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

First and foremost, many factors in our modern America will decide the amount we will need to successfully launch Star Burger. These factors may include our location, the size of the business we want to start i.e. the number of outlets/stands et al, and of course the state of the economy as at when we intend starting the business.

We at Star Burger have conducted an extensive research and have come up with how we intend to spend our startup capital, and they include;

• The Fee for registering the business in the United States – $750
• The budget for legal fees, insurance, permits and license – $30, 000
• The amount needed to build a two standard shop and renovation of the facility inclusive – $60,000
• The Cost for the purchase of kitchen / production equipment and gadgets (industrial ovens, fridges, smoke detector, TVs, microwave oven, mugs, Foils, Sound System, tables and chairs et al) – $25,000
• The Cost for supply of bread and other inventories for a month – $120,000
• The Cost of Launching a Website – $600
• The cost opening party – $5,000
• Additional Expenditure (Business cards, Signage, Adverts and Promotions et al) – $100,000

Going by the report from our research and feasibility studies, we will need an average of $350,000 to start Star Burger.

• Generating Startup Capital for Star Burger

Star Burger will be established as a Limited Liability Company with Sampson and Nicky Shepard as its owners. This couple has a combined 25 years’ experience in the food and burger industry, and they hope to build a successful business. We hope to raise our startup fund through the following ways;

• Generate part of the start – up capital from personal savings and sell of stocks
• Source for soft loans from family members and friends
• Generate fund from Angel Investors

Note : We have been able to raise $200,000 from the personal savings of our founders and we are almost at the verge of completing the money needed as capital from a reliable Angel investor with an eye for startup businesses.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

We at Star Burger believe that as time and seasons change, we will be offering products that will enhance sales and satisfy our customers’ desires. We also plan that during summer months, we will subsidize frozen drinks like lemonade, as well as soft drinks, and other cold beverages.

We at Star Burger have taken our time to research our local regulatory agencies and what licenses we need. These requirements we believe will vary by location, but we have a strong relationship through Mr. Sampson Shepard with the state chamber of commerce and health department and we plan to stay on the right side of the law.

We have put plans in place to get our business license, which legally allows us to make sales and collect sales tax, and a food handling certification, which we have acquired. We have also obtained the needed permits for construction and we are also expecting an inspection from the health department.

We at Star Burger also understand the importance of insurance for our business. We have contracted an insurance lawyer to help us get property insurance, which will help protect our building and surrounding property, providing coverage for fire, hail, or accidental damage.

We expect this type of policy to cover expensive commercial kitchen equipment , so we will be able to replace pieces damaged under covered circumstances.

We also plan to obtain liability insurance, as it covers legal fees and any damages that may be awarded as a result of a legal action against our business from any accidents or injuries. We will also offer worker’s compensation insurance to provide peace of mind to both the management and our employees, as it helps cover medical bills that may arise from employee injuries.

Our Drive-through stands will be manufactured by Lintel Construction. Our Mobile Restaurant and equipment will be supplied by Guarantee Savage.  Star Burger computer equipment and Internet connectivity will be provided by Nicklaus Communications.

Checklist/Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check: Completed
• Business Incorporation: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts various banks in the United States: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Leasing, renovating and equipping our facility: Completed
• Generating part of the startup capital from the founder: Completed
• Applications for Loan from our Bankers: In Progress
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging and Promotional Materials: Completed
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the Needed software applications, furniture, office equipment, electronic appliances and facility facelift: In progress

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• Vegetarian Restaurant Business Plan [Sample Template]
• Snack Bar Business Plan [Sample Template]
• Korean Restaurant Business Plan [Sample Template]
• Fine Dining Restaurant Business Plan [Sample Template]
• How Much Does It Cost to Start a Burger Restaurant?

How to Start a Burger Business

Main Sections In This Post Steps To Starting A Burger Business Points to Consider Knowledge Is Power Featured Video

This post offers a comprehensive step-by-step guide for starting a burger business, including examples and samples.

Our “Knowledge Is Power” section provides up-to-date Search Results.

These resources are valuable for both startup and established businesses. If you find this post helpful, please consider sharing and bookmarking it for future reference.

Let’s get started with the steps.

The Steps to Take To Start Your Burger Business

Below are the steps to starting a burger business.

Each step is linked to a specific section, allowing you to jump to your desired section or scroll to follow the steps in order.

• An Overview of What You’re Getting Into
• Burger Business Overview
• Researching Your Burger Business
• Looking at Financials
• Creating Your Mission Statement
• Creating A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
• Choose a Burger Business Name
• Register Your Company
• Create Your Corporate Identity
• Writing a Business Plan
• Banking Considerations
• Getting the Funds for Your Operation
• Software Setup
• Business Insurance Considerations
• Supplier and Service Provider Considerations
• Setting Your Prices
• Physical Setup
• Creating a Website
• Create an External Support Team
• Hiring Employees
• Getting Customers Through the Door

1. An Overview of What You’re Getting Into

Passion drives success in any endeavor, and the same holds for owning and operating a burger business.

When genuinely passionate about your business, it becomes more than just a means to make money; it’s a labor of love.

Passion equips you with the resilience needed to navigate challenges.

Instead of seeking an exit strategy when problems arise, you actively seek solutions because you care deeply about the business’s success.

This enthusiasm is contagious and can inspire your team and attract loyal customers.

Consider a scenario where financial concerns are nonexistent. If you’d still choose to start and run a burger business for free, it’s a clear indicator of your passion.

It demonstrates that you’re driven by a genuine love for the industry and the satisfaction of serving delicious burgers to people.

Conversely, if your answer is no, it’s an opportunity for introspection. What else would you prefer to do if money were not a concern?

Pursuing that path might be a more fulfilling choice.

In conclusion, passion is the linchpin of success in the burger business. It fuels your determination, problem-solving skills, and resilience.

Your willingness to run the business even without financial worries is a litmus test of your true passion for the venture. When passion drives you, your odds of success significantly improve.

For More, See How Passion Affects Your Business . Also, see Considerations Before You Start Your Business to identify critical points for a new business owner.

2. Gaining an Overview of Owning a Burger Business

Next, let’s spend some time on key issues to give you an overview of what to expect from owning and running your business.

a.) A Quick Overview of Owning a Burger Business

A burger business is a food service establishment specializing in creating and selling burgers, a famous and iconic American fast-food item.

These businesses range from small, independent burger joints to large franchise operations. They typically offer various burger options, sides, and beverages to cater to diverse customer preferences.

Running and managing a burger business entails a multitude of day-to-day tasks to ensure smooth operations and customer satisfaction:

• Menu Planning: Create and maintain a menu that includes various burger options, sides (e.g., fries, salads), beverages, and potentially special promotions or seasonal items.
• Food Procurement: Source high-quality ingredients, such as beef patties, buns, vegetables, and condiments, while managing inventory levels to minimize waste.
• Food Preparation: Oversee the kitchen staff responsible for cooking burgers and preparing other menu items to ensure consistent quality and adherence to food safety standards.
• Customer Service: Train and manage front-of-house staff to provide excellent customer service, handle orders, address customer inquiries or complaints, and maintain a clean dining area.
• Quality Control: Regularly inspect food preparation processes, maintain food safety protocols, and ensure that each burger meets quality standards.
• Staff Management: Hire, train, and schedule employees, including cooks, servers, and cashiers, to ensure adequate coverage during peak hours.
• Financial Management: Monitor daily sales, expenses, and profit margins while keeping track of invoices, payroll, and budgeting.
• Marketing and Promotion: Develop marketing strategies to attract and retain customers, including social media campaigns, loyalty programs , or special promotions.
• Maintenance and Sanitation: Oversee the cleanliness and maintenance of the restaurant, including equipment, dining areas, and restrooms, to meet health and safety standards.
• Inventory Management: Keep track of inventory levels for food and supplies, placing orders as needed to prevent shortages or overstocking.
• Compliance: Ensure compliance with local health codes, food safety regulations, and labor laws, and keep up with any necessary permits or licenses.
• Financial Reporting: Prepare regular financial reports, including profit and loss statements and cash flow analyses, to assess the business’s financial health.
• Community Engagement: Build relationships with the local community through sponsorships, events, or charitable activities.

In essence, managing a burger business requires a blend of culinary expertise, efficient operations, customer service finesse, and business sense to provide quality food and a pleasant dining experience while ensuring profitability and compliance with various regulations.

b.) Burger Business Models

Burger businesses come in various setups, each with its unique business model catering to different customer preferences and market niches.

Here are some typical burger business setups and their associated business models:

• Fast Food Chains (Franchise Model): Fast-food chains like McDonald’s and Burger King operate on a franchise model. Franchisees pay for the rights to use the brand, recipes, and support from the franchisor. This model offers a proven system, established branding, and ongoing corporate support.
• Independent Burger Joints: Independent burger restaurants are standalone businesses. They have complete creative control over their menu, branding, and operations. The success depends on their ability to create a unique selling proposition (USP) and build a loyal customer base.
• Gourmet Burger Restaurants: Gourmet burger businesses focus on premium ingredients, unique flavor combinations, and a higher price point. They cater to customers seeking an elevated dining experience, often in a sit-down restaurant setting.
• Food Trucks and Mobile Vendors: Burger food trucks are a mobile and cost-effective option. They offer flexibility in choosing locations and can tap into different customer demographics, attending events, and busy urban areas.
• Delivery-Only Ghost Kitchens: With the rise of online food delivery platforms, some burger businesses operate solely as ghost kitchens, preparing food exclusively for delivery orders. This model reduces overhead costs related to physical dining spaces.
• Build-Your-Own Burger Concepts: These businesses allow customers to customize their burgers by choosing from a variety of ingredients and toppings. The model emphasizes personalization and caters to those who enjoy creating their burgers.
• Burger Bars and Pubs: Often found in bars and pubs, these businesses incorporate burgers into their broader menu. They cater to customers looking for a burger, drinks, and a casual atmosphere.
• Health-Conscious Burger Joints: These businesses focus on healthier burger options, using lean meats, alternative proteins, and whole-grain buns. They cater to health-conscious consumers seeking guilt-free indulgence.

Choosing the suitable business model from the beginning is crucial, as switching your model later is more challenging.

It requires rebranding, retraining staff, and potentially alienating existing customers.

Identifying a business model that aligns with your vision and target market is essential for a smoother, more planned startup phase.

Understanding your strengths, market demand, and competition will guide you in selecting the most suitable burger business setup.

c.) Making Your Burger Business Stand Out

Ideas to Make a Burger Business Stand Out:

• Signature Burger Creations: Develop unique and mouthwatering signature burgers exclusive to your business. Creative and inventive flavor combinations can attract burger enthusiasts seeking something new and exciting.
• Customization Options: Offer a build-your-own burger option, allowing customers to choose from a range of toppings, sauces, and bun choices. Personalization enhances the dining experience and caters to diverse tastes.
• Gourmet Ingredients: Elevate your burgers by using high-quality, gourmet ingredients such as artisanal cheeses, truffle aioli, or locally sourced organic produce.
• Healthy Alternatives: Include healthier burger options, such as lean turkey or veggie patties, gluten-free buns, and fresh, crisp salad toppings. This appeals to health-conscious diners.
• Plant-Based Products: Incorporate plant-based burger options, like Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger, to cater to the growing demand for vegetarian and vegan choices.
• Unique Sides: Offer innovative side dishes like loaded sweet potato fries, mac ‘n’ cheese bites, or gourmet onion rings. Memorable sides can enhance the overall dining experience.
• Burger Challenges: Create eating challenges, like a massive burger eating contest, and reward winners with prizes or recognition. This can generate excitement and word-of-mouth buzz.
• Local Sourcing: Emphasize locally sourced ingredients and support local producers. This aligns with sustainability trends and connects your business to the community.
• Themed Nights: Host themed burger nights or events, such as “Taco Burger Tuesdays” or “Burger and Beer Fridays.” These promotions can attract a loyal following.
• Interactive Dining: Implement a DIY burger station at the table, allowing customers to assemble their burgers. It adds an element of fun and engagement to the dining experience.
• Seasonal Specials: Introduce seasonal burger specials with fresh, in-season ingredients. This keeps the menu dynamic and encourages repeat visits.
• Food Challenges: Create epic burger challenges for adventurous eaters, complete with a giant-sized burger, a mountain of fries, and a time limit. Promote these challenges as a fun and viral marketing opportunity.
• Local Art and Décor: Decorate your restaurant with local art, memorabilia, or a unique theme that reflects the community’s culture. It creates a distinctive atmosphere and sense of place.
• Loyalty Programs: Implement a loyalty program that rewards frequent customers with discounts, freebies, or exclusive offers. Repeat business is vital for success.
• Online Presence: Maintain an active and engaging online presence through social media, a user-friendly website, and online ordering options. Encourage customers to share their burger experiences on platforms like Instagram.

d.) Add-ons for a Burger Business

• Gourmet Milkshakes: Offer a variety of indulgent milkshake flavors that pair perfectly with burgers, such as cookies and cream, salted caramel, or Nutella.
• Craft Beer Selection: Complement your burgers with a curated selection of craft beers on tap or in bottles—partner with local breweries.
• Burger of the Month Club: Start a subscription service where customers receive a unique burger creation each month, encouraging ongoing patronage.
• Delivery and Catering Services: Expand your reach by offering delivery services and catering for events, parties, and corporate gatherings.
• Burger-Making Kits: Create DIY burger-making kits with pre-measured ingredients, allowing customers to recreate their favorite burgers at home.
• Merchandise: Sell branded merchandise like T-shirts , caps, or burger-themed accessories to promote your brand and generate additional revenue.
• Sauces and Condiments: Bottle and sell your signature sauces, condiments, or spice blends for customers to enjoy at home.
• Cooking Classes: Host cooking classes or workshops where customers can learn to make their burgers and perfect their grilling skills.
• Burger-themed Events: Organize special events like “Burger and Blues” nights with live music or “Burger and Brews” festivals showcasing local beers.
• Burger Food Truck: Extend your reach by operating a burger food truck , allowing you to participate in festivals, food events, and catered functions.
• Online Merchandise Store: Create an online store where customers can purchase branded merchandise and sauces, expanding your customer base beyond the local area.
• Burger Loyalty App: Develop a mobile app that rewards loyal customers with points for each purchase, eventually leading to discounts or free items.
• Burger Challenges and Prizes: Organize burger-eating challenges and offer prizes or discounts to winners, attracting competitive eaters and adventurous diners.
• Monthly Subscription Box: Offer a monthly subscription box that includes exclusive burger creations, sauces, and other gourmet burger-related items.
• Virtual Cooking Classes: Host virtual cooking classes where customers can learn to make your signature burgers from the comfort of their homes, expanding your reach to a global audience.

Incorporating these add-ons into your burger business can enhance customer engagement, boost revenue, and create a memorable dining experience that sets you apart from competitors.

e.) Pros and Cons of Owning a Business

Owning a business offers numerous advantages, but ignoring the potential challenges can lead to unforeseen issues.

It’s crucial to assess both the benefits and drawbacks to prepare effectively and minimize surprises, ensuring a more successful entrepreneurial journey.

For more, see Pros and Cons of Starting a Small Business.

f.) Challenges You Could Face When Starting and Operating a Burger Business

Challenges When Starting a Burger Business:

• High Competition: The burger industry is saturated with competitors, from established fast-food chains to local burger joints. Standing out in a crowded market can be challenging.
• Initial Costs: Starting a burger business entails significant startup costs, including equipment, licensing, permits, and marketing expenses. Securing funding can be a hurdle.
• Location Selection: Choosing the right location is critical. Picking a spot with insufficient foot traffic or in a saturated area can lead to slow sales.
• Regulatory Compliance: Navigating health codes, food safety regulations, and permits can be complex and time-consuming, potentially delaying the opening.
• Supply Chain Challenges: Sourcing consistent, quality ingredients can be complex, impacting the taste.
• Staffing Issues: Hiring and retaining skilled kitchen staff, servers, and cashiers is a perpetual challenge in the restaurant industry.
• Brand Building: Establishing a strong brand identity and attracting an initial customer base can be slow and require persistent marketing efforts.

Challenges When in Full Operation:

• Quality Consistency: Maintaining consistent food quality can be demanding, affecting customer satisfaction and reputation.
• Customer Retention: Sustaining a loyal customer base amid changing tastes and preferences requires ongoing effort and innovation.
• Operational Efficiency: Ensuring smooth day-to-day operations, from order processing to kitchen management, is an ongoing challenge.
• Health and Safety: Following strict food safety standards and hygiene protocols is paramount to avoid health violations.
• Rising Costs: Managing fluctuating food and labor costs can strain profitability, necessitating frequent menu adjustments or price increases.
• Competition Dynamics: Continuously adapting to shifts in the competitive landscape and consumer trends is essential to stay relevant.
• Employee Turnover: High staff turnover rates can disrupt operations and increase training costs.
• Market Saturation: Sustaining growth when the market is saturated can be difficult, requiring creative marketing and expansion strategies.
• Online Reviews and Social Media: Managing online reviews and social media presence is crucial, as negative feedback can harm your reputation.

Navigating these challenges requires dedication, adaptability, and a keen understanding of the burger business.

Successful owners continually assess and adjust their strategies to thrive in a dynamic and competitive industry.

g.) Questions You Need to Consider for Your Burger Business

Before starting your burger business, it’s vital to address these key questions:

• Business Model: Define your burger business model, whether it’s a gourmet burger joint, fast-food franchise, or something unique.
• Skills and Staffing: Evaluate your skills and determine if you can manage and operate the business effectively. Decide whether you’ll hire employees or work solo.
• Management: Clarify your role – will you actively manage the business or hire a dedicated manager?
• Customer Acquisition: Develop a strategy to attract customers, considering marketing, location, and pricing.
• Customer Retention: Plan how to maintain a loyal customer base through quality, consistency, and excellent service.
• Funding: Explore financing options for startup costs and ongoing expenses.
• Profitability Timeline: Understand when you can expect to turn a profit and how to support yourself during the early stages.
• Product and Service Offering: Define your menu and consider customer demand.
• Competitive Edge: Identify what sets you apart from competitors – gourmet ingredients, unique recipes, or exceptional customer service.
• Positioning: Determine if you want your burger business to be perceived as a high-end, average, or budget-friendly option. Your positioning will influence branding and pricing.

Answering these questions will provide a solid foundation for your burger business, helping you navigate challenges and build a successful operation.

3. Research

Inside information burger business research.

Before embarking on starting your burger business, thorough research is essential.

Quality information equips you with the knowledge to understand what you’re getting into, preventing surprises.

Experienced burger business owners are valuable sources of reliable information. Their insights, gained through years of experience, can be priceless.

To connect with the right people, you can follow a comprehensive approach detailed in the article “An Inside Look Into the Business You Want To Start.”

This article provides ideas and strategies for finding and approaching experienced individuals in the burger business.

It’s crucial to gain insights, learn from their expertise, and make informed decisions as you pursue your venture.

See An Inside Look Into the Business You Want To Start for all the details.

Supply, Demand, and Your Location

Assessing market demand for your burger business in your chosen location is vital for success.

Here are some simple strategies to help you gauge demand effectively:

• Surveys and Questionnaires: Create surveys or questionnaires to distribute within the target area. Ask residents and potential customers about their burger preferences, dining habits and whether they feel a market gap.
• Competitor Analysis: Thoroughly research existing burger businesses in the area. Analyze their customer traffic, menu, pricing, and customer reviews. Identify what sets them apart and where they may be falling short.
• Local Demographics: Study the demographics of the neighborhood or town. Understand the age groups, income levels, and lifestyles of the residents. This information can help tailor your menu and marketing strategies to meet their specific preferences.
• Trends and Seasonal Patterns: Research seasonal trends and eating habits in your chosen location. Understand when burger consumption peaks and whether some specific events or holidays could impact your business.
• Social Media Listening: Monitor social media platforms and local forums to discuss burgers and dining preferences. This can provide valuable insights into what locals seek in a burger joint.
• Focus Groups: Organize focus groups with individuals from the area to taste-test your burgers and provide feedback. This can help refine your menu and identify potential areas for improvement.
• Pilot Testing: Consider a soft launch or pop-up event to test the waters before committing to a permanent location. This allows you to gauge initial demand and gather feedback while minimizing risk.
• Collaborations and Partnerships: Partner with local businesses or events to introduce your burgers and gather feedback from potential customers. Collaborations can also help you establish a presence and generate buzz in the community.
• Online Tools: Utilize online market research tools and platforms that provide data on consumer behavior, preferences, and trends in your target location.
• Local Networking: Attend community events, join local business associations, and network with residents and entrepreneurs. Building local connections can offer valuable insights into the demand for your burger business.

By employing these simple strategies, you can better understand market demand in your chosen location.

Remember that demand can evolve, so ongoing research and adaptability are key to staying attuned to your customers’ needs and preferences.

For more, see the Demand for Your Products and Services and Choosing The Best Location for Your Business.

Target Audience

Understanding your target audience is invaluable. It enables you to tailor your products, services and offers to meet their needs and preferences.

This targeted approach fosters customer satisfaction and loyalty, as you provide what they truly desire rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.

Target Market Ideas for a Burger Business:

• Burger enthusiasts seeking unique flavors.
• Families looking for affordable dining options.
• Health-conscious individuals seeking customizable, healthier burger choices.
• Local residents looking for a convenient, go-to burger spot.
• Office workers in need of quick, satisfying lunches.
• Vegans and vegetarians seeking plant-based burger options.
• Students seeking budget-friendly meal choices.
• Tourists exploring the local food scene.
• Event planners and caterers in need of burgers for parties and gatherings

For more, see How To Understand Your Target Market.

4. Looking at Financials:

Understanding the numbers and making good decisions is a crucial factor in succeeding.

You will struggle to manage a successful operation without putting in the time and effort to understand and monitor the financials of your burger business.

Let’s look at startup costs, operating costs and profits.

Start-Up Costs:

Accurate estimation of startup costs is critical for a smooth transition from planning to opening your burger business.

Underestimating can lead to financial roadblocks while overestimating can deter potential investors. Costs depend on size, location, staffing, equipment, and business model.

To estimate effectively, create a detailed list of requirements and gather price quotes, adjusting as new considerations arise during research.

While sample estimates provide a foundation, each setup is unique, making exact cost prediction elusive.

Your business model plays a significant role. Online ventures generally entail lower expenses than brick-and-mortar counterparts.

Careful research and accurate estimates are fundamental. This process ensures you can assess the viability of starting your burger business without unwelcome financial surprises.

Sample Startup Cost For a Burger Business 

The purpose of the list below is to focus on the items in the list more than the numbers because these are general samples, and your figures will be different.

Sample Estimated Startup Costs for a Mid-Sized Burger Business in the USA:

• Lease/Rent for Location:  $2,000 – $5,000 per month
• Renovation and Interior Setup:  $20,000 – $50,000
• Kitchen Equipment (new/used):  $30,000 – $75,000
• Furniture and Seating:  $10,000 – $25,000
• Initial Inventory (food and supplies):  $5,000 – $15,000
• Licenses and Permits:  $1,000 – $3,000
• Marketing and Promotion:  $3,000 – $10,000
• Website Development:  $2,000 – $5,000
• Point-of-Sale System:  $5,000 – $10,000
• Insurance (General Liability, Workers’ Comp):  $2,000 – $6,000
• Initial Salaries and Wages:  $5,000 – $15,000
• Uniforms and Safety Gear:  $1,000 – $3,000
• Utilities and Deposits:  $1,000 – $3,000
• Professional Services (legal, accounting):  $2,000 – $6,000
• Miscellaneous (office supplies, signage):  $2,000 – $5,000
• Contingency Fund (10% of total):  $19,300 – $52,500 (10% of the total)

Total Estimated Startup Costs (Lower Value): $83,300 Total Estimated Startup Costs (Upper Value): $223,500

These rough estimates vary significantly based on location, market conditions, and specific business choices.

It’s crucial to conduct thorough research and obtain detailed quotes to create a precise budget for your burger business.

For more, refer to my article on Estimating Startup Costs.

Monthly Operating Costs:

Managing monthly expenses for your burger business is crucial for sustainability. Variables like staffing, location, and marketing impact costs significantly.

Whether you run a lean operation or employ an entire team will influence your monthly outlay.

Prime, high-traffic locations often demand higher rents. Other expenses like loan repayments, marketing, and unexpected repairs can strain finances.

To ensure your business runs efficiently and weather revenue fluctuations, minimize non-essential expenses without compromising quality, service, or productivity.

Effective cost management is vital to maintaining profitability and long-term success.

SAMPLE list of estimated monthly expenses for a MID-sized burger business

Again, the purpose of the list below is to focus on the item in the list more than the numbers. The numbers are a general idea, and your numbers and list will differ. 

Sample Estimated Monthly Expenses for a Mid-Sized Burger Business in the USA:

• Rent/Lease:  $4,000 – $8,000
• Utilities (electricity, water, gas):  $800 – $1,500
• Insurance (General Liability, Workers’ Comp):  $500 – $1,000
• Loan Payments:  $2,000 – $4,000
• Payroll (including wages and taxes):  $6,000 – $12,000
• Inventory (food and supplies):  $3,000 – $6,000
• Marketing and Advertising:  $1,500 – $3,000
• Repairs and Maintenance:  $500 – $1,000
• Professional Services (legal, accounting):  $500 – $1,000
• Point-of-Sale System Fees:  $200 – $400
• License and Permit Renewals:  $100 – $300
• Cleaning and Janitorial Services:  $300 – $600
• Contingency Fund (10% of total):  $2,900 – $6,400 (10% of the total)

Total Estimated Monthly Expenses (Lower Value): $21,000 Total Estimated Monthly Expenses (Upper Value): $43,800

These approximate figures can vary based on location, business volume, and specific choices.

Accurate financial planning and ongoing expense management are crucial for the sustainability of your burger business.

Profit margins in a burger business depend on how it’s managed. High overhead can squeeze profits, even with robust sales.

Accurate profit estimation is challenging due to numerous variables. Your unique business setup and operational choices make you the best judge of potential profit.

Positioning, whether high-end or discount, influences profit margins. Estimate profit by calculating cost per sale, monthly sales volume, and deducting overhead costs.

Balancing sales volume and profit per sale is critical. While high profit per sale matters, generating enough sales to cover expenses and yield a healthy profit is equally essential.

Your approach to running the business will ultimately determine the net profit, emphasizing the importance of careful financial planning and effective cost management.

For More, See Estimating Profitability and Revenue.

Final Thoughts on Financials 

The financial management of a burger business is crucial. Beyond essential record-keeping for tax and legal compliance, it’s vital to actively monitor profits and expenses and generate reports to identify trends.

These financial insights enable timely action. For instance, if you observe a sudden drop in sales, you can investigate the cause promptly—market changes, product/service issues, or new competitors.

Without vigilant financial monitoring, critical issues might go unnoticed until they escalate.

Regularly assessing your burger business’s financial health empowers you to make informed decisions, address challenges proactively, and maintain the financial stability necessary for long-term success.

Consider revisiting Step 3. Researching your burger business , where there is a technique to get inside information, will benefit you in this step.

5. Create Your Mission Statement

A mission statement that serves as a compass, defining the purpose of your burger business.

It articulates your core objectives, guiding your actions and reminding you of the primary value you aim to deliver to customers and the community.

It is a focal point, ensuring your business remains aligned with its intended goals.

Examples of Mission Statements for a Burger Business:

• “Our mission is to craft mouthwatering, high-quality burgers that bring joy to every bite, enriching the dining experience of our customers and fostering a sense of community through exceptional food.”
• “At XYZ Burgers, our purpose is to serve delicious, locally sourced burgers that satisfy appetites while promoting sustainability and supporting local farmers.”
• “We are dedicated to creating a burger haven where innovation meets tradition, offering diverse flavors that tantalize taste buds and create lasting memories for our patrons.

For more, see How To Create a Mission Statement.

6. Creating A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

A Unique Selling Proposition (USP) is a distinctive element that sets your burger business apart from competitors.

It identifies and creates a unique edge that makes your business special and appealing to customers.

It’s a clear message communicating your business’s exceptional value and experience.

Examples of USPs for a Burger Business:

• “Our farm-to-table approach ensures that every burger is made with locally sourced, organic ingredients, providing a healthier and more sustainable dining choice.”
• “Burger Bliss: Choose from our exclusive selection of gourmet burger creations or build your own masterpiece with a variety of unique toppings and sauces.”
• “Speedy Satisfaction: We guarantee that your made-to-order burger will be ready in under five minutes, providing a quick and delicious meal without compromising quality.”
• “Burger Fusion: Experience a fusion of international flavors with our globally inspired burger menu, bringing a world of tastes to your plate.”
• “Burgers for Everyone: Catering to diverse dietary preferences, we offer a comprehensive menu with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, ensuring every customer finds a burger they love.

7. Choose a Business Name

Selecting the right business name is a pivotal decision. It should be catchy, industry-appropriate, easy to remember, and unlikely to change.

Rushing this process is ill-advised, as the chosen name will likely stay with your company throughout its existence.

Additionally, securing a matching domain name is crucial for your online presence, and verifying name availability is essential to avoid legal complications.

30 Ideas for Burger Business Names:

• Burger Bliss Bistro
• JuicyBite Burgers
• FlavorFusion Grill
• Gourmet Grillhouse
• BurgerCrafters
• SizzleStack Burgers
• The Burger Haven
• BurgerMania Delights
• SavoryScape Burgers
• PattyPerfection Grill
• BurgerBoulevard
• PrimeBite Burgers
• BurgerNest Express
• WholesomeBun Bistro
• GrillMaster Creations
• ClassicEats Burgers
• GrillGusto Gourmets
• HeavenlyBurger Hub
• TasteTrove Burgers
• UrbanFlavors Grill
• SimplySavor Burgers
• EpicBite Grillhouse
• BurgerUtopia Delights
• Smokin’Stack Burgers
• ArtisanBun Bistro
• BigBite Burgers & Fries
• GrubHub Grill
• BurgerFusion Station
• The BurgerCraft Cafe
• BiteJoy Burgers

This list can serve as a starting point to inspire your creativity and help you craft a distinctive and memorable name for your burger business.

For more, see the following articles:

• How To Register a Business Name
• Registering a Domain Name For Your Business

8. Register Your Company

Ensuring the legality of your burger business is paramount. It’s advisable to consult with a legal professional to ensure you have the correct setup for tax benefits and liability protection.

Common types of registrations for a burger business include:

• Business Structure Registration:  Decide on your business structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation) and register it accordingly.
• Employer Identification Number (EIN):  Obtain an EIN from the IRS for tax purposes.
• State Business Registration:  Register your business with the state where you operate.
• Sales Tax Permit:  If applicable, obtain a sales tax permit to collect and remit sales tax.
• Health Department Permits:  Ensure compliance with health codes and obtain necessary permits for food safety.
• Food Service License:  Obtain a license specifically for serving food.
• Alcohol License (if serving alcohol):  If your burger business serves alcohol, secure the required licenses.
• Sign Permit:  Depending on local regulations, you may need a permit for outdoor signs.
• Zoning Permits:  Verify zoning laws and obtain permits if needed.
• Fire Department Clearance:  Comply with fire safety regulations and obtain clearances as necessary.

Navigating the legalities of your burger business can be complex, making professional guidance invaluable.

Ensure you have the appropriate registrations, permits, and licenses to operate legally and smoothly.

Registration:

• How to Register Your Business
• How To Register a DBA
• How to Register a Trademark
• How to Get a Business License

Business Structures:

• How to Choose a Business Structure
• Pros & Cons of a Sole Proprietorship
• How To Form an LLC
• How To Register a Business Partnership
• How To Form a Corporation
• How To Choose a Business Registration Service

9. Create Your Corporate Identity

A Corporate ID is a visual representation of your business, comprising elements like your logo, business cards, website, signage, stationery, and promotional materials.

Maintaining a consistent, professional design across these components is crucial to leave a lasting and impressive impression on new and existing customers.

It fosters brand recognition and trust, establishing a solid and cohesive identity for your burger business.

You can see our pages for an overview of your logo , business cards , website , and business sign , or see A Complete Introduction to Corporate Identity Packages.

10. Writing a Business Plan

A business plan is a fundamental document used when seeking financing or investors, and it serves as a guiding framework during both the startup and operational phases of your burger business.

Crafting an effective business plan demands time, effort, and careful consideration. It’s a process of envisioning your fully operational business and detailing the steps to get there.

Creating a comprehensive plan pays off, as it clarifies startup requirements and operational strategies.

When developing your business plan, you have several options. You can create it from scratch by enlisting professional help, templates, or business plan software.

Regardless of the approach, your active participation is crucial to effectively communicating your business’s nature and management strategy.

Furthermore, be prepared for potential changes. Business plans and operations can evolve as you gain experience or market dynamics shift.

Regularly reviewing and adapting your plan remains valuable for guiding your burger business toward success.

Flexibility and readiness to adjust are key attributes of a well-prepared entrepreneur.

Business Plan Template for a Burger Business

Note: Adapt this template to your specific needs. Each section should be highly detailed and professional.

1. Executive Summary:

• Brief overview of your burger business.
• Mission and vision statement.
• Key goals and objectives.
• Business name, location, and legal structure.
• Founders’ background and roles.

2. Business Description:

• Detailed description of your burger business concept.
• Unique Selling Proposition (USP).
• Target market analysis.
• Competitive analysis.
• Industry overview.

3. Market Research:

• Market size and growth potential.
• Customer demographics and psychographics.
• Market trends and dynamics.
• SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats).

4. Products and Services:

• Comprehensive menu and pricing.
• Special offers (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options).
• Quality standards and sourcing.

5. Marketing and Sales Strategy:

• Marketing plan detailing advertising, promotions, and branding.
• Sales strategy, including channels and tactics.
• Customer acquisition and retention strategies.

6. Management and Organization:

• Team structure and roles.
• Founders’ and key employees’ profiles.
• Advisory board or consultants.

7. Financial Projections:

• Detailed financial statements (income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement).
• Sales forecasts.
• Break-even analysis.
• Start-up costs and funding requirements.
• Budget for at least the first three years.

8. Funding Request (if applicable):

• Specify the amount of funding needed.
• Explain how the funds will be used.
• Offer potential investors a return on investment.

9. Appendix:

• Supporting documents such as resumes, market research data, legal documents, and other relevant information.

Ensure that each section is meticulously researched and well-documented.

A comprehensive and professional business plan is a crucial tool for securing funding, guiding your operations, and ensuring the long-term success of your burger business.

See How to Write a Business Plan for information on creating your business plan.

11. Banking Considerations

Opt for a nearby bank with a small business focus. A dedicated business account clearly separates personal and business transactions, simplifying expense tracking and tax preparation.

Cultivate a professional rapport with your banker for financial advice and streamlined services.

Additionally, having a merchant account or online payment service facilitates card payments, enhancing sales and customer convenience.

For more, see How to Open a Business Bank Account. You may also want to look at What Is a Merchant Account and How to Get One.

12. Getting the Funds for Your Operation

When seeking financing for your burger business, explore options like traditional lenders, private loans, investors, or selling personal assets.

Additionally, investigate potential government grants to support your venture.

Considerations when meeting with a loan officer:

• Clearly explain your business plan and funding needs.
• Demonstrate your commitment and passion for the business.
• Be prepared to discuss your creditworthiness and collateral.
• Inquire about interest rates, terms, and repayment options.
• Ask about any additional fees or requirements.

Sample list of documents needed to apply for a NEW business loan:

• Business plan with financial projections.
• Personal and business credit reports.
• Income tax returns (personal and business).
• Bank statements.
• Legal documents (e.g., business licenses, contracts).
• Collateral information.
• Personal financial statements.
• Resumes of key team members.
• Reference letters or recommendations.
• Any available financial statements or history for an existing business (if applicable).

Having these documents ready showcases your readiness and professionalism when meeting with a loan officer, increasing your chances of securing the necessary funding for your burger business.

For more, see the following:

• Getting a Small Business Loan
• SBA Small Business Grants
• Search: Burger Business Start-up Loans
• Search: Grants For a Burger Business

13. Software Setup

Selecting the right software for your burger business is critical, as it’s easier to implement a program from scratch than to switch systems after your data is in another program.

Look for established software providers with a history of dependable support and consider trying demos before making a final decision.

Reviews and forums offer insights from others’ experiences.

Additionally, research software for expense tracking and tax document preparation.

Consulting with your bookkeeper or accountant can aid in selecting the ideal accounting software for your needs.

Types of software for burger business management and operations:

• Point of Sale (POS) System:  For order processing, sales tracking, and inventory management.
• Inventory Management Software:  To track and manage ingredient supplies.
• Employee Scheduling Software:  For staff management and scheduling.
• Accounting Software:  To handle financial transactions, bookkeeping, and tax preparation.
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software:  To manage customer data and marketing efforts.
• Online Ordering and Delivery Software:  For managing online orders and deliveries.
• Payroll Software:  To process employee payroll efficiently.
• Marketing and Social Media Management Tools:  To promote the business.
• Reservation and Booking Systems (if applicable):  For managing reservations and bookings for dine-in customers.

Choosing the right software tools can streamline operations and enhance efficiency in your burger business.

Check out Google’s latest search results for software packages for a burger business.

14. Get The Right Business Insurance

Having the right insurance in place before any business activity is crucial. Consider comprehensive coverage to protect customers, employees, yourself, and your property.

Professional liability insurance can safeguard against potential lawsuits, and interruption insurance provides a lifeline in case of an involuntary shutdown due to incidents.

To ensure adequate coverage, seek guidance from a competent insurance broker.

They can assess your specific needs and help you select insurance that provides comprehensive protection for your burger business, giving you peace of mind and financial security in case of unforeseen events.

For more, see What to Know About Business Insurance . You can also browse the latest Google search results for burger business insurance .

15. Suppliers and Service Providers

Choosing suitable suppliers and service providers is vital for a burger business’s success.

Here’s a list of items and services a burger business might require from them:

• Fresh ingredients (beef, vegetables, buns, condiments).
• Beverages (soft drinks, juices, milkshakes).
• Packaging materials (containers, bags, napkins).
• Kitchen equipment and appliances (grills, fryers, refrigerators).
• Cleaning supplies and equipment.
• Food distribution and delivery.
• Waste disposal and recycling services.
• Maintenance and repair of kitchen equipment.
• Pest control services.
• Accounting and bookkeeping services.
• Marketing and advertising support.
• Business insurance coverage.

Establishing solid relationships with suppliers is essential.

Reliable suppliers offer competitive pricing, ensuring you can maintain affordability and quality for your customers while maximizing your profit margins.

Treating suppliers and service providers fairly and respectfully fosters a positive working relationship that benefits all parties involved.

For More, See How To Choose a Supplier.

16. Setting Prices

Researching pricing for your burger business is essential for several reasons.

If your prices are too high, you risk losing potential customers to more affordable competitors.

On the other hand, if your prices are too low, while you may attract more customers, it could lead to financial difficulties due to inadequate profit margins.

Striking a balance is crucial. Align your pricing with your current market while emphasizing the value your burger business offers.

Understand your target audience’s price range for quality burgers and align your pricing strategy accordingly.

This ensures that you attract customers and generate sufficient profit to cover your expenses and sustain your business in the long run.

• Setting the Price of Your Products and Services
• Search Results for Pricing Strategies for a Burger Business.

17. Physical Setup

When starting your burger business, one of the initial tasks is purchasing products.

Focus on offering your customers’ desired items, ensuring you provide variety and value.

Controlling your inventory is crucial—excessive stock ties up capital that could be used elsewhere, while insufficient stock leads to lost sales.

Efficiently displaying products is critical; experimentation and recording different setups help identify what works best.

Expiry Dates:

Managing overstock for sale and supplies requires attention to expiry dates when applicable.

Avoid carrying products with approaching expiration dates, striking a balance between supply and demand.

The layout of a burger business should optimize customer flow and staff efficiency.

Key elements include a well-organized kitchen, order counter, dining area (if applicable), and a designated area for takeout or delivery orders. Prioritize a functional and ergonomic design to streamline operations.

Effective signage is vital. Your primary business sign should be prominent and eye-catching.

Additional signage at parking lots, exits, and particular areas enhances customer experience and professionalism.

Clear, well-designed signs convey essential information to customers.

Office Setup:

Running a burger business demands time and effort, making an organized office crucial for productivity.

Ensure your office has the tools and resources needed for efficient business management.

This includes computers, phones, accounting software, filing systems, and other necessary equipment.

A well-organized office allows you to handle administrative tasks, financial management, and customer communication effectively, contributing to the overall success of your burger business.

See Here are Considerations for The Setup of Your Office for tips and ideas to make your office work for you. Also, have a look at our article About Company Signs.

18. Creating a Website

Having a website for your burger business is essential.

It serves as the primary point of contact and enables you to showcase key information about your operation.

Unlike a social media account, a website is under your ownership and control when you host and register a domain name.

Moreover, your website can be a potent marketing tool.

By regularly blogging about the burger industry, offering valuable tips, and sharing insights tailored to your customer base, you can build trust and establish yourself as an expert.

This helps attract and retain customers, making your burger business more credible and appealing to your target audience.

For more, see How to Build a Website for Your Business .

19. Create an External Support Team

An external support team of professionals is a valuable asset for your burger business.

These individuals provide advice and services but are not part of your payroll.

Their services can be utilized for various needs, such as projects, tasks, contractual work, hourly consultations, or on a retainer basis.

While you may already collaborate with some individuals, recognizing them as part of your team emphasizes their significance.

Expanding your team gradually allows you to build professional relationships and establish a network of reliable experts over time.

A well-rounded team may include accountants, lawyers, financial advisors, marketing specialists, technical experts, and consultants.

Having a strong external support team ensures you can rely on their expertise and assistance whenever needed, enhancing the overall success and stability of your burger business.

For more, see Building a Team of Professional Advisors for Your Business.

20. Hiring Employees

The following are job positions or outsourced services you may want to consider as your burger business grows:

• Burger Chef:  Responsible for preparing and cooking burgers to maintain quality and consistency.
• Kitchen Staff:  Assist the chef with food preparation, cooking, and maintaining kitchen hygiene.
• Server/Cashier:  Take customer orders, handle transactions, and ensure a smooth dining experience.
• Waitstaff: Serve food and drinks, and interact with customers in a dine-in setting.
• Delivery Driver:  If offering delivery services, hire drivers to fulfill orders promptly.
• Inventory Manager:  Oversee stock levels, order supplies, and manage inventory.
• Marketing Specialist:  Develop and implement marketing strategies to attract customers.
• Accountant/Bookkeeper:  Manage financial transactions, taxes, and financial reporting.
• Cleaning Crew:  Maintain cleanliness in the kitchen, dining area, and restroom facilities.
• Maintenance Technician:  Handle equipment repairs and general maintenance.
• Human Resources Manager:  If your staff grows, this role becomes essential for hiring and personnel management.
• Customer Service Representative:  Manage customer inquiries, feedback, and complaints.
• Social Media Manager:  Oversee online presence, engage with customers, and handle social media marketing.
• Delivery Coordinator:  If offering delivery, coordinate delivery orders and drivers.
• Health and Safety Inspector:  Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Legal Counsel:  Consult with legal experts for business-related matters.
• Food Quality Inspector:  Ensure food quality and safety standards are met.
• Website Developer/Designer:  Maintain and update the business website.
• IT Support Specialist:  Provide technical support for POS systems and equipment.
• Event Coordinator:  If hosting events, hire someone to plan and coordinate them.
• PR Specialist:  Manage public relations and communications with the media.

Consider outsourcing certain services or hiring staff as your burger business expands to ensure smooth operations and maintain quality service.

For more, see How and When to Hire a New Employee.

21. Getting Customers Through the Door

When you have reached this step, your business is set up and ready to go, with one more final step, which is important: getting customers through the door.

There are numerous ways to do this, like advertising, having a grand opening , word of mouth, etc.

Let’s dig a little deeper into the following sections.

Marketing Considerations

To effectively market your burger business, especially in the early stages, consider these simple methods to get the word out:

• Social Media: Create and regularly update social media profiles on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X. Share mouthwatering burger images, engage with followers, and run promotions to attract attention.
• Local SEO: Optimize your website for local search keywords so your business appears in local search results. Claim your Google My Business listing to enhance visibility.
• Online Reviews: Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews on Yelp, Google, and TripAdvisor platforms. Positive reviews build trust and attract potential customers.
• Email Marketing: Collect customer email addresses and use email marketing campaigns to share promotions, updates, and special offers.
• Networking: Attend local events, join business associations, and network with other local businesses. Word-of-mouth referrals can be powerful.
• Community Involvement: Get involved in community events or sponsor local sports teams. It’s a way to build goodwill and get your brand recognized.
• Loyalty Programs: Create a loyalty program for repeat customers, offering discounts or free items after a certain number of visits.
• Engage in Content Marketing: Share informative and engaging content related to burgers, recipes, and food culture on your website or blog. This positions you as an authority in the field.
• Flyers and Brochures: Distribute promotional materials in your local area, such as flyers and brochures, to attract nearby customers.
• Collaborations: Partner with local influencers, food bloggers, or complementary businesses to co-promote each other.
• Customer Referral Program: Encourage existing customers to refer friends and family by offering incentives for successful referrals.
• Google Ads: Use targeted Google Ads to reach potential customers searching for burger-related keywords in your area.
• Traditional Advertising: Consider placing ads in local newspapers or magazines and using radio spots if your budget allows.

Remember that consistency is key in marketing.

Continuously engage with your audience, analyze what works, and refine your strategies as your burger business grows.

See How To Get Customers Through the Door and our marketing section to provide ideas to help you bring awareness to your business.

Sample Ad Ideas:

• Bite into burger perfection at [Your Burger Business Name]. Irresistible flavors await you.
• Explore burger bliss at [Your Burger Business Name]. Unleash your taste buds with our mouthwatering creations.
• Discover the ultimate burger experience at [Your Burger Business Name]. Taste the difference today.
• Calling all burger enthusiasts! Dive into deliciousness at [Your Burger Business Name].
• Indulge in burgers crafted to perfection at [Your Burger Business Name]. Love at first bite!

These display ads emphasize the exceptional taste and experience your burger business offers, enticing potential customers to try it.

Collaborations and partnerships can be a powerful way to expand the reach of your burger business and attract new customers.

Here are some businesses you could approach for mutually beneficial partnerships:

• Local Breweries: Partner with local breweries to offer burger and beer pairings. They can refer their customers to your burger business, and you can recommend their brews to your patrons.
• Fitness Centers: Contrary to the stereotype, many fitness enthusiasts enjoy a good burger occasionally. Work with local gyms or fitness centers to offer exclusive post-workout burger deals.
• Food Trucks: Collaborate with complementary food trucks for joint events, such as gourmet fries or dessert trucks. Cross-promote each other to attract diverse food lovers.
• Event Planners: Partner with event planners for catering services at weddings, parties, and corporate events. They can refer clients to your catering service, and you can recommend their event planning expertise.
• Local Hotels: If your burger business is in a tourist area, team up with nearby hotels to offer dining discounts to their guests. In return, they can suggest your restaurant as a dining option.
• Food Bloggers and Influencers: Build relationships with local food bloggers and influencers. Invite them to try your burgers and share their experiences on social media, reaching their followers.
• Delivery Services: If you offer delivery, collaborate with food delivery apps like Uber Eats or DoorDash to expand your customer base. They can feature your burgers to their users.
• Community Events: Participate in local festivals, farmers’ markets, and community events. Engaging with the community can help build your reputation and attract event-goers to your business.
• Local Schools and Colleges: Offer student discounts or special promotions to nearby educational institutions—partner with them to cater school events.
• Non-Profit Organizations: Support local or non-profit organizations through fundraising events or donations. They can endorse your business to their supporters.

When approaching these potential partners, emphasize the benefits of collaboration, such as increased foot traffic, shared marketing efforts, and mutual support.

Consider what you can offer them in return, whether it’s referral fees, cross-promotion, or special discounts for their customers.

Building strong partnerships can lead to long-term success and a steady flow of new customers to your burger business.

Points To Consider

Next, let’s review essential points for more tips, insights, and considerations before starting your burger business.

We will cover sections, including skills to consider, points to focus on, and equipment.

Then you’ll reach the “Knowledge Is Power,” section, where you will want to use the resources for valuable information.

Hours of Operation:

Hours of Operation for a Burger Business:

• Regular Business Hours  are the core hours when you serve customers and maintain daily operations. Typically, this might be from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
• Preparation Time: Allow at least 1-2 hours before regular hours for prep work like chopping, marinating, and setting up the kitchen.
• Cleaning and Closing: After regular hours, allocate 1-2 hours for thorough cleaning, restocking, and closing procedures.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Some maintenance tasks may require occasional closure or extended hours, so plan accordingly.
• Special Events: If you host special events or promotions, adjust your hours to accommodate them.

Balancing regular hours with these considerations ensures a well-managed burger business

Equipment and Supplies

A List of Equipment and Supplies to Consider for a Burger Business:

Equipment for a Burger Business:

• Grill: A commercial-grade grill for cooking burgers, ranging from flat-tops to charbroilers.
• Deep Fryer: For cooking fries, onion rings, and other fried items.
• Range: Used for sauces, heating buns, and other stove-top tasks.
• Oven: To bake or broil items like chicken or specialty burgers.
• Refrigeration: Walk-in coolers, reach-in freezers, and refrigerated prep tables for storing ingredients.
• Food Prep Surfaces: Stainless steel worktables for preparing ingredients.
• Exhaust Hood: Required for proper ventilation and smoke removal.
• Sinks: Multiple sinks for washing hands, dishes, and utensils.
• Food Warmers: To keep burgers and sides at serving temperatures.
• Bun Toaster: For toasting burger buns.
• Cutting Boards: Hygienic surfaces for chopping and prepping.
• Meat Grinder: For custom burger blends.
• Patty Press: Ensures consistent burger sizes.
• Food Processor: For chopping vegetables and making sauces.
• Shelving: Storage racks for dry goods and supplies.
• Cash Register or POS System: For processing orders and payments.
• Ordering System: Allows customers to place orders efficiently.
• Fry Cutter: Cuts uniform fries.
• Storage Containers: For ingredient storage.
• Burger Flippers and Tongs: Essential for grilling.
• Heat Lamps: Keep food warm until served.
• Sauce Dispensers: For condiments like ketchup and mayo.
• Burger Baskets and Wrappers: Presentation and serving.
• Safety Equipment: Fire extinguishers, first-aid kits, and safety signage.
• Dishwasher or Dishwashing Station: For cleaning dishes and utensils.
• Cleaning Supplies: Including sanitizers and detergents.
• Trash Bins: Both for customers and kitchen staff.
• Utensils: Knives, spatulas, ladles, and other kitchen tools.
• Smallwares: Plates, bowls, cups, and cutlery for dine-in customers.
• Seating and Tables: If you offer dine-in services.
• Ice Maker: For drinks and cooling items.
• Beverage Dispensers: For serving drinks.
• POS Printer: For generating order tickets.
• Security Cameras: To ensure safety and monitor operations.
• Bun Warmer: Keeps burger buns fresh and warm.
• Timer and Alarms: Helps with cooking consistency.
• Mop Sink and Cleaning Area: Dedicated space for cleaning and sanitation.
• Exterior Signage: Attract customers with an appealing sign.

Remember, the specific equipment needs may vary based on your burger business’s size, menu, and concept.

Always consider local health and safety regulations when choosing equipment.

Key Points To Succeeding in a Burger Business

To succeed in operating a burger business, several key points must be considered:

Focusing on a Niche: Specialize in a particular aspect of the burger industry, whether it’s gourmet burgers, vegetarian options, or a unique regional twist.

Building a Customer Base: Establishing a loyal customer base is challenging during the startup phase. Consistently deliver quality products and excellent service to build trust and customer loyalty.

Building Relationships: Forge strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and employees. Engaging with your community and creating a welcoming atmosphere can set you apart.

Offer What Customers Want: Provide products and services that cater to your target market’s preferences. Gather customer feedback and address legitimate concerns to improve and adapt your products and services.

Customer Service: Prioritize exceptional customer service; happy customers are more likely to return and recommend your business.

Hiring the Right Team: Build a competent and motivated team for various positions within your business. The right staff is instrumental in providing quality service.

Effective Management: Manage staff effectively, treat them with respect, and foster a collaborative work environment to enhance retention.

Cash Flow Management: Monitor and manage cash flow to ensure the business remains financially stable.

Cost Control: Keep costs in check without compromising quality or service, maximizing profitability.

Adapt to Change: Stay updated with industry trends, evolving business processes, and technology changes.

Handling Revenue Fluctuations: Prepare for fluctuations in revenue by maintaining financial reserves or having strategies in place to ride out lean times.

Competition: Be prepared to deal with both new and existing competition, continuously improving to stay competitive.

Effective Marketing: Implement effective marketing strategies, either independently or with professional assistance, to increase brand visibility and attract customers.

Incorporating these strategies into your burger business operations will help ensure its success and long-term sustainability.

Focusing on your skill set is vital before venturing into a burger business. Evaluating your abilities ensures you possess the necessary skills for success.

If a crucial skill is lacking, options include learning it or hiring someone proficient. Essential skills for a burger business owner include:

• Culinary Expertise: Proficiency in food preparation and burger recipes.
• Business Management: Financial acumen, operations oversight, and strategic planning.
• Customer Service: Building positive relationships with customers.
• Marketing: Promoting the business effectively.
• Food Safety: Ensuring food handling and storage compliance.
• Leadership: Managing a team effectively.
• Adaptability: Navigating the dynamic food industry.
• Problem-Solving: Addressing issues promptly and efficiently

Knowledge Is Power if You Use It!

Harness the power of knowledge in your industry. Explore abundant information through the provided links for startup and operational insights.

Trends and Statistics

Examining industry trends and statistics for a burger business aids in informed decision-making, identifying opportunities, and staying competitive in the dynamic market.

See the latest search results for trends and statistics related to the burger industry.

Burger Associations

Trade associations provide valuable benefits such as industry updates and networking opportunities, enhancing knowledge and connections within the field.

See the search results on burger associations and the benefits of Joining the Chamber of Commerce.

The Top Burger Businesses

Analyzing an existing burger business can inspire ideas, reveal industry gaps for a competitive edge, or highlight overlooked services provided by competitors.

See the latest search results for the top burger businesses.

The Future of the Burger Industry

Researching the industry’s future is crucial for prospective burger business owners, providing insights to adapt, innovate, and stay competitive in an evolving market.

See the search results for the future of the burger industry.

Find a Burger Business For Sale

Buying an existing business has its pros and cons.

Acquiring an established burger business offers several advantages: immediate revenue generation, skipping the challenging startup phase, familiarity with the business’s workings, knowledge of financial performance, an existing customer base, and a built reputation.

However, it comes with downsides. The upfront cost is often higher due to the value of goodwill, which includes the customer base.

Making significant changes to an established operation can risk losing loyal customers, presenting challenges. Additionally, when you buy a business , you inherit its positive and negative reputation.

While there may not be an exact burger business for sale, exploring opportunities in the same industry can lead to viable alternatives.

Research and careful consideration are crucial when purchasing an existing business or starting from scratch. Use the provided link to explore potential opportunities within the industry.

The latest search results for a burger business for sale and others in the same category.

Franchise Opportunities Related to a Burger Business

Owning a burger franchise has advantages and drawbacks that warrant careful consideration before diving into this venture.

• Proven Business Model: Burger franchises come with a well-established and tested business plan provided by the corporate office, reducing the risk of failure.
• Reputation and Marketing: You benefit from the franchise’s existing reputation and marketing efforts, which can attract customers more quickly than starting from scratch.
• In-depth Knowledge: You gain comprehensive knowledge about the burger business through training and support from the corporate office, ensuring you’re well-prepared.
• Corporate Support: Franchisees receive ongoing support and guidance from the corporate office, which can be invaluable for resolving issues and improving operations.
• High Initial Costs: Acquiring a burger franchise can be expensive due to franchise fees, equipment purchases, and other startup expenses.
• Limited Autonomy: Major changes to the menu or business operations require approval from the corporate office, limiting your creative control.
• Product and Service Restrictions: You must adhere strictly to approved products and services, limiting your ability to introduce innovative offers.
• Contractual Obligations: You’re bound by the terms of the franchise agreement, which may restrict your ability to adapt to local market conditions.
• Ongoing Fees: Franchisees must pay ongoing fees to the corporate office, affecting profitability.

While not all opportunities may align perfectly with a burger business, exploring franchises within the same industry can yield viable alternatives.

Researching thoroughly and weighing these pros and cons is essential for making an informed decision about entering the burger franchise business.

See the latest search results for franchise opportunities related to this industry.

Customer Expectations

Reviewing search results on customer expectations for burgers offers valuable insight from a customer’s perspective, enabling you to meet and surpass their desires.

This research uncovers potential issues and opportunities, ensuring comprehensive preparation.

See the search results related to customer expectations for burgers.

Expert Tips

Examining expert tips enhances skills, offering new insights for experts and novices. Experts may discover better methods, while novices gain valuable knowledge for improvement.

See the latest search results for burger preparation to gain tips and insights.

Burger Business Insights

Analyzing tips and insights helps generate innovative ideas and avoid pitfalls in your burger business, contributing to industry expertise.

See the latest search results about insights into running a burger business.

Burger Publications

Publications are a crucial means of staying informed and gathering new ideas realted to the industry.

See the search results for burger publications.

Burger Forums

Burger forums foster industry connections and customer insights. Engage in discussions to build relationships and better understand your customers’ perspectives.

See the latest search results related to burger forums.

Online or local courses are valuable for honing burger business skills and knowledge and enhancing expertise.

See the latest courses that could benefit a burger business owner . Also, see our management articles for tips and insights for managing your business.

Burger Blogs

Subscribing to leading hamburger blogs provides fresh ideas and industry updates.

Subscribe, filter for value, and build a valuable collection of informative sources.

Look at the latest search results for top hamburger blogs to follow.

Burger News

News is a valuable source to stay updated on burger-related media stories, offering insights into trends, controversies, and developments in the burger industry.

See the latest results for burger news.

Watching YouTube videos on burger preparation can enhance your culinary skills.

YouTube videos related to burger preparation.

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Home » Sample Business Plans » Food

French Fries Business Plan [Sample Template]

Since the arrival of fast food restaurants, a lot of entrepreneurs have become millionaires. If you  are considering becoming a millionaire  in the food industry, one of the coolest ways of making money is to open a French fries food production company.

Although this type is profitable, but at the same time you can run at a loss if your business is not well positioned and managed. It is important to state that loads of food related business cum fast food restaurants close shops simple because they failed to conduct detailed market survey and feasibility studies before launching the business.

Your ability to re – strategize and always ramp up your service deliveries will help you stay competitive. It is important to point out that French Fries food business is one the businesses that can’t go out of fashion simply because people eat food on a daily basis.

Depending on the scale you want to start, the startup capital for this type of business can be considered to be moderate. As a matter of fact, you can start your own French fries’ food business and then grow it big within a short period of time by reinvesting your profits back to the business.

If you are ready to take a journey into this industry, then this type of business is what you truly want to do after you must have done your findings. You will also need  is to write a good business plan. Below is a sample French fries food restaurant business plan templates that will help you successfully write yours with little or no stress;

A Sample French Fries Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

French fries food business belongs to the Snacks Food Production industry and operators in this industry primarily produces snack foods such as potato and corn chips, pretzels, roasted and salted nuts, nut butters, popcorn and other related snacks.

Most players in this industry do not produce cookies, crackers, bakery products, cereal or granola bars et al. French fries are generally served hot, either soft or crispy, and are usually eaten as part of lunch or dinner or by themselves as a snack, and they generally appear on the menus of fast food restaurants.

If you are a close observer of happenings in the Snack Food Production industry, you will agree that the industry has profited from increased demand over the last half a decade. As the economy, has continued to experience growth, discretionary income levels have ascended.

Hence, renewed consumer spending has increased sales of potato and tortilla chips, along with nuts and seeds. With improvement in the economic conditions, the industry is expected to rake more revenue. Expected increases in per capita disposable income will aid some consumers to trade up to premium brands and product segments, helping drive revenue growth.

In addition, as consumers demand more healthy versions of existing snacks, players in the industry are expected to introduce a wider variety of products. The Snack Food Production industry is a thriving sector of the economy of the united states, United Kingdom, France, Italy, and Canada and in most country of the world.

Statistics has it that in the United States of America, The Snack Food Production industry generates a whooping sum of well over $38 billion annually from more than 2,851 registered snack food production outlets / franchise scattered all around the United States of America.

The industry is responsible for the employment of well over 53,204 people. Experts project The Fast Food Restaurants industry to grow at a 3.6 percent annual rate from 2011 to 2016. ConAgra, Snyder’s Lance and PepsiCo are the leaders in The Fast Food Restaurants industry; they have the lion market share in the industry.

Over and above, the French fries food production line of business is a profitable industry and it is open for any aspiring entrepreneur to come in and establish his or her business; you can chose to start on a small scale in a street corner like the average mom and pop business or you can chose to start on a large scale with several outlets in key cities all across the United States of America.

2. Executive Summary

Golden Fingers French Fries is a standard and registered chain of fast food restaurant that with strong bias in the production of French fries that will be located in one of the busiest roads in Long Beach – California but hope to spread out via franchising to key cities in the United States with the first 5 years of operations.

We are at the final stage of leasing a facility along a major road that is big enough to fit into the design of the kind of fast food restaurant that we intend launching and the facility is located in a corner piece directly opposite the largest residential estate in Long Beach – California.

Golden Fingers French Fries will be involved in the sale of French fries / potato chips, nuts and seeds, peanut butter, tortilla and corn chips, other chips, other snacks, water, juice, and sodas et al in our restaurant and when customers order for it to be delivered to them in any location around us.

Basically, we will be involved in operating quick-service restaurants, operating fast food services, operating drive-thru and take-out facilities in our chains of fast food outlets that will be scattered all across major cities in the United States and Canada.

We are aware that there are several large and small scale French fries food business scattered all around Long Beach – California, which is why we spent time and resources to conduct our feasibility studies and market survey so as to offer much more than our competitors will be offering.

We have delivery service options for our customers, and our outlet is well secured with the various payment options. Golden Fingers French Fries will ensure that all our customers are given first class treatment whenever they visit any of our chains of fast food outlets.

We have a CRM software that will enable us manage a one on one relationship with our customers no matter how large the numbers of our customers’ base may grow to. We will ensure that we get our customers involved when making some business decisions that directly affect them.

We are aware of the trend in the snacks food production / fast food industry and we are not only going to operate a system where our customers would have to come to our fast food restaurant to make purchase or whatever they want, but we will also operate an online fast food restaurant and our customers can place orders for our foods, snack and drinks online and they will get it delivered to their houses or any location they want us to deliver the goods to within Long Beach – California.

Golden Fingers French Fries is a family business that is owned by Jason Kennedy and his immediate family members. Jason Kennedy is a French fries specialist; he has a B.Sc. in Food Science and a Diploma in Business Administration, with well over 6 years of experience in the restaurant and fast food industry, working for some of the leading brand in the United States.

Although the business is launching out with just one outlet in Long Beach – California, but there is a plan to open other outlets via franchising all around California and in other key cities in the United States of America and Canada.

3. Our Products and Services

Golden Fingers French Fries is in the snacks production industry to service a wide range of clients and of course to make profits, which is why we will ensure we go all the way to make available a wide varieties of French fries and snacks in our outlets always.

We will ensure that we do all that is permitted by the law of the United States to achieve our aim and ambition of starting the business. Our product and service offerings are listed below;

• Operating quick-service restaurants
• Operating fast food services
• Operating drive-thru and take-out facilities
• Potato chips
• Nuts and seeds
• Peanut butter
• Tortilla and corn chips
• Other chips
• Other snacks
• Sale of Chicken and Chips
• Sale of beverages, such as water, juice and sodas

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our vision is to become the leading French fries food production company – brand in Long Beach – California.
• Our mission is to establish chains of fast food restaurants that will make available a wide variety of French fries, snacks and soft drinks at affordable prices to the residence of Long Beach – California and other cities in the United States of America and Canada where we intend opening our chains of French fries food outlets.

Our Business Structure

Golden Fingers French Fries®, LLC do not intend to start a fast food restaurant business just like the usual mom and pop business around the street corner; our intention of starting a fast food restaurant business is to build a standard business in Long Beach – California.

Although our French fries food outlet might not be as big as ConAgra, Snyder’s Lance and PepsiCo et al, but will ensure that we put the right structure in place that will support the kind of growth that we have in mind while setting up the business.

We will ensure that we hire people that are qualified, honest, customer centric and are ready to work to help us build a prosperous business that will benefit all the stakeholders (the owners, workforce, and customers). As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our senior management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of ten years or more.

In view of that, we have decided to hire qualified and competent hands to occupy the following positions;

• Chief Executive Officer (Owner)
• Restaurant Manager
• Human Resources and Admin Manager
• Chef / Kitchen Workers

Sales and Marketing Manager

Information Technologist

• Accountants / Cashiers
• Customer Services Executive
• Van Drivers / Deliverers

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer – CEO (Chief Florist):

• Heightens  management’s effectiveness
• Accountable for fixing prices and signing business deals
• Liable for providing direction for the business
• Creates, communicating, and implementing the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization
• Reports to the board

Admin and HR Manager

• In control for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
• Preserves office supplies by checking stocks; placing and expediting orders; evaluating new products.
• Ensures operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; calling for repairs.
• Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; participating in professional organizations.
• Defines positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
• Transmits out staff induction for new team members
• Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
• Responsible for arranging travel, meetings and appointments
• Manages the smooth running of the daily office activities.

Restaurant Manager:

• Responsible for managing the daily activities in the restaurant (kitchen inclusive)
• Ensures that the restaurant facility is in tip top shape and conducive enough to welcome customers
• Interfaces with third – party providers (vendors)
• Reports to the Chief Executive Officer
• Handle any other duty as assigned by the CEO

Chef / Kitchen Staff

• Responsible for producing French fries / potato chips, nuts and seeds, peanut butter, tortilla and corn chips, other chips, other snacks as supervised by the kitchen supervisor
• In authority of carrying out all casual or unskilled jobs in the restaurant
• Responsible for packaging French fries / potato chips, nuts and seeds, peanut butter, tortilla and corn chips, other chips, other snacks meant for delivery
• Handles any other duty as assigned by the restaurant manager
• Manages external research and coordinate all the internal sources of information to retain the organizations’ best customers and attract new ones
• Models demographic information and analyze the volumes of transactional data generated by customer purchases
• Identifies development opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts; participates in the structuring and financing of projects; assures the completion of development projects.
• Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients
• Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for expanding increase sales
• Document all customer contact and information
• Represent the company in strategic meetings
• Manages the organization website
• Handles ecommerce aspect of the business
• Responsible for installing and maintenance of computer software and hardware for the organization
• Manages logistics and supply chain software, Web servers, e-commerce software and POS (point of sale) systems

Accountant / Cashier:

• Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports; analyzes financial feasibility for the most complex proposed projects; conducts market research to forecast trends and business conditions.
• Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis.
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting
• Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
• Responsible for administering payrolls
• Ensures compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for the organization
• Serves as internal auditor for the organization

Waiters / Waitress

• Promptly attends to customers in a friendly and professional manner
• Ensures that un-occupied tables are always set and ready for customers
• Pulls out chairs for customers as they arrive
• Handle any other duty as assigned by the Chief Operating officer / restaurant manager

Van Drivers / Sandwich Deliverers:

• Delivers customer’s orders promptly
• Deliver correspondence for the restaurant
• Runs errand for the organization
• Any other duty as assigned by the floor / line manager
• Responsible for cleaning the shop facility at all times
• Ensure that toiletries and supplies don’t run out of stock
• Cleans both the interior and exterior of the store facility
• Handle any other duty as assigned by the shop manager.

6. SWOT Analysis

Our intention of starting just one outlet of our fast food restaurant in Long Beach – California is to test run the business for a period of 2 to 5 years to know if we will invest more money, expand the business and then open other outlets all over California and Key Cities in the United States of America and Canada.

We are quite aware that there are several fast food and French fries food outlets all over Long Beach – California and even in the same location where we intend locating ours, which is why we are following the due process of establishing a business.

We know that if a proper SWOT analysis is conducted for our business, we will be able to position our business to maximize our strength, leverage on the opportunities that will be available to us, mitigate our risks and be welled equipped to confront our threats.

French fries / potato chips, nuts and seeds, peanut butter, tortilla and corn chips, other chips, other snacks employed the services of an expert HR and Business Analyst with bias in fast food line of business to help us conduct a thorough SWOT analysis and to help us create a Business model that will help us achieve our business goals and objectives.

This is the summary of the SWOT analysis that was conducted for Golden Fingers French Fries

Our location, the business model we will be operating on (physical chains of fast food restaurants with active online presence), varieties of payment options, wide varieties of French fries, snacks and soft drinks and our excellent customer service culture will definitely count as a strong strength for Golden Fingers French Fries.  So also, we have a management team that has what it takes to grow startup business from survival to profitability within the shortest time – frame.

A major weakness that may count against us is the fact that we are a new French fries food – business and we don’t have the financial capacity to compete with multi – million dollars chains of fast food restaurants with strong bias for French fries like ConAgra, Snyder’s Lance and PepsiCo et al.

• Opportunities:

The fact that we are going to be operating our fast food restaurant in one of the busiest streets in Long Beach – California, provides us with unlimited opportunities to sell our French fries / potato chips, nuts and seeds, peanut butter, tortilla and corn chips, other chips, other snacks, water, juice, and sodas et al to a large number of people.

We have been able to conduct thorough feasibility studies and market survey and we know what our potential clients will be looking for when they visit our fast food restaurant; we are well positioned to take on the opportunities that will come our way.

Just like any other business, one of the major threats that we are likely going to face is economic downturn. It is a fact that economic downturn affects purchasing / spending power. Another threat that may likely confront us is the arrival of a new French fries food production business or fast food restaurant in same location where ours is located.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

In this era when the online community is growing rapidly, you would do your business a who if you create your own online presence. One of the easiest ways to get people to see you as an expert in your line of business is to blog constantly about French fries and fast foods generally.

You may also want to leverage on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, and others to publicize your French fries food outlet. You can as well go ahead to open an online portal where people can place order from French fries / potato chips, nuts and seeds, peanut butter, tortilla and corn chips, other chips, other snacks, water, juice, and sodas et al.

You must ensure that your delivery system is efficient if you intend to do well with your online fast food business. So also, keeping consumers’ appetites satisfied, fast food restaurants / franchises have created new menu options that capitalize on the trend of increasing awareness of the health risks associated with a high-fat diet.

The industry has also thrived by developing products at price points attractive enough to weather the slow recovery, resulting in strong revenue growth. As a result of this, these trends are expected to continue and contribute to revenue growth going forward.

8. Our Target Market

One thing about French fries / potato chips, nuts and seeds, peanut butter, tortilla and corn chips, other chips, other snacks, water, juice, and sodas et al is that you can hardly find someone who don’t patronize them. As a matter of fact, most fast food restaurants now have menu designed specifically for veg and others depending on their food preferences.

In view of that, we have positioned our fast food restaurant to service the residence of Long Beach – California and every other location where our chains of fast food outlets will be located in key cities all over the United States of America and Canada.

We have conducted our market research and we have ideas of what our target market would be expecting from us. We are in business to retail our products to the following groups of people;

• Event Planners
• Vegetarians
• Corporate Organizations
• Corporate Executives
• Business People
• Sports Men and Women

Our competitive advantage

A close study of the snacks food production / fast food industry reveals that the market has become much more intensely competitive over the last decade. So , you have to be highly creative, customer centric and proactive if you must survive in this industry.

We are aware of the stiffer competition and we are well prepared to compete favorably with other chains of fast food restaurants in Long Beach – California.

Golden Fingers French Fries®, LLC is launching a standard French fries food production business that will indeed become the preferred choice of residence of Long Beach – California and other cities where we intend opening our chains of fast food outlets.

Our fast food outlet is located in a corner piece property on a busy road directly opposite one of the largest residential estates in Long Beach – California. We have enough parking spaces that can accommodate well over 20 cars per time.

One thing is certain, we will ensure that we have a wide variety of French fries / potato chips, nuts and seeds, peanut butter, tortilla and corn chips, other chips, other snacks, water, juice, and sodas et al available in our shop at all times. It will be difficult for customers to visit our fast food outlets and not make a purchase of French fries / potato chips, nuts and seeds, peanut butter, tortilla and corn chips, other chips, other snacks, water, juice, and sodas et al.

One of our business goals is to make Golden Fingers French Fries®, LLC a one stop fast food restaurant. Our excellent customer service culture, online options, various payment options and highly secured facility will serve as a competitive advantage for us.

Lastly, our employees will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category (startups French fries food production / fast food restaurants) in the snacks food production / fast food industry, meaning that they will be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and achieve all our aims and objectives.

We will also give good working conditions and commissions to freelance sales agents that we will recruit from time to time.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Golden Fingers French Fries is in operation to operate a standard and secured fast food restaurant business in Long Beach – California. We are in the snacks food production / fast food industry to

10. Sales Forecast

One thing is certain when it comes to fast food restaurant business, if your fast food restaurant is centrally positioned, you will always attract customers cum sales and that will sure translate to increase in revenue generation for the business.

We are well positioned to take on the available market in Long Beach – California and we are quite optimistic that we will meet our set target of generating enough income / profits from the first six month of operations and grow the business and our clientele base.

We have been able to critically examine the snack food production / fast food industry and we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast. The sales projections are based on information gathered on the field and some assumptions that are peculiar to similar startups in Long Beach – California.

Below is the sales projection for Golden Fingers French Fries®, LLC, it is based on the location of our business and other factors as it relates to French fries shop start – ups in the United States;

• First Fiscal Year-: $120,000
• Second Fiscal Year-: $250,000
• Third Fiscal Year-: $750,000

N.B: This projection is done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown and there won’t be any major competitor offering same products and customer care services as we do within same location. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

Before choosing a location for Golden Fingers French Fries, we carried out  a detailed market survey and feasibility studies in order for us to be able to be able to penetrate the available market and become the preferred choice for residence of Long Beach – California.

We have detailed information and data that we were able to utilize to structure our business to attract the numbers of customers we want to attract per time. We hired experts who have good understanding of the snacks food production / fast food industry to help us develop

In other to continue to be in business and grow, we must continue to sell our French fries, snacks and drinks which is why we will go all out to empower or sales and marketing team to deliver. In summary, Golden Fingers French Fries will adopt the following sales and marketing approach to win customers over;

• Open our French fries food production outlet in a grand style with a party for all.
• Introduce our French fries food production outlets by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to corporate organizations, schools, event planners, households and key stake holders in Long Beach – California
• Ensure that we have a wide variety of French fries, snacks and soft drinks in our restaurant at all times.
• Make use of attractive hand bills to create awareness and also to give direction to our fast food restaurant
• Position our signage / flexi banners at strategic places around Long Beach – California
• Position our greeters to welcome and direct potential customers
• Create a loyalty plan that will enable us reward our regular customers
• Engage on road shows within our neighborhood to create awareness for our fast food restaurant.

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

Despite the fact that our fast food restaurant is well located, we will still go ahead to intensify publicity for the business. We are going to explore all available means to promote Golden Fingers French Fries.

Golden Fingers French Fries has a long-term plan of opening chains of fast food outlets in various locations all around California and key cities in the United States and Canada which is why we will deliberately build our brand to be well accepted in Long Beach before venturing out.

As a matter of fact, our publicity and advertising strategy is not solely for winning customers over but to effectively communicate our brand. Here are the platforms we intend leveraging on to promote and advertise Golden Fingers French Fries;

• Place adverts on community based newspapers, radio stations and TV stations.
• Encourage the use of word of mouth publicity from our loyal customers
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Snapchat, Badoo, Google+ and other platforms to promote our business.
• Ensure that our we position our banners and billboards in strategic positions all around Long Beach – California
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas in and around our neighborhood
• Contact corporate organizations, households, religious centers, schools and event planners et al by calling them up and informing them of Golden Fingers French Fries®, LLC and the products we sell
• Advertise Golden Fingers French Fries®, LLC business in our official website and employ strategies that will help us pull traffic to the site
• Brand all our official cars and delivery vans and ensure that all our staff members and management staff wears our branded shirt or cap at regular intervals

12. Our Pricing Strategy

Pricing is one of the key factors that gives leverage to fast food restaurants, it is normal for consumers to go to places where they can purchase / order French fries / potato chips, nuts and seeds, peanut butter, tortilla and corn chips, other chips, other snacks, water, juice, and sodas et al at cheaper price which is why big players in the snacks food production / fast food industry will continue to attract loads of consumers.

We know we don’t have the capacity to compete with bigger and well – established chains of snacks food production outlets like ConAgra, Snyder’s Lance and PepsiCo et al, but we will ensure that the prices of all the products that are available in our fast food restaurant are competitive with what is obtainable amongst fast food restaurant within our level.

We are aware that there are contracts for supply of fast foods and soft drinks by government establishments, NGOs, corporate organizations or big religious organization; we will ensure that we abide by the bidding pricing template when we bid for such contracts.

• Payment Options

The payment policy adopted by Golden Fingers French Fries®, LLC is all inclusive because we are quite aware that different customers prefer different payment options as it suits them but at the same time, we will ensure that we abide by the financial rules and regulation of the United States of America.

Here are the payment options that Golden Fingers French Fries®, LLC will make available to her clients;

• Payment via bank transfer
• Payment with cash
• Payment via credit cards / Point of Sale Machines (POS Machines)
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via check
• Payment via mobile money transfer
• Payment via bank draft

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will enable our client make payment for the purchase of products without any stress on their part. Our bank account numbers will be made available on our website and promotional materials to clients who may want to deposit cash or make online transfer for our products and services.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

In setting up any business, the amount or cost will depend on the approach and scale you want to undertake. If you intend to go big by renting a place, then you would need a good amount of capital as you would need to ensure that your employees are well taken care of, and that your facility is conducive enough for workers to be creative and productive.

This means that the start-up can either be low or high depending on your goals, vision and aspirations for your business. The tools and equipment that will be used are nearly the same cost everywhere, and any difference in prices would be minimal and can be overlooked.

As for the detailed cost analysis for starting a French fries food outlet / fast food restaurant; it might differ in other countries due to the value of their money. These are the key areas where we will spend our start – up capital;

• The total fee for registering the business in the United States of America – $750.
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits as well as the accounting services (software, P.O.S machines and other software) – $1,300.
• Marketing promotion expenses for the grand opening of Golden Fingers French Fries®, LLC in the amount of $3,500 and as well as flyer printing (2,000 flyers at $0.04 per copy) for the total amount of – $3,580.
• The cost for hiring Business Consultant – $2,500.
• Insurance (general liability, workers’ compensation and property casualty) coverage at a total premium – $2,400.
• The cost for payment of rent for 12 month at $1.76 per square feet in the total amount of $105,600.
• The cost for construction of a fast food restaurant (kitchen inclusive) – $100,000.
• Other start-up expenses including stationery ( $500 ) and phone and utility deposits ( $2,500 ).
• Operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $100,000
• The cost for Start-up inventory (food ingredients, drinks and packaging materials et al) – $80,000
• Storage hardware (bins, rack, shelves, food case) – $3,720
• The cost for counter area equipment (counter top, sink, ice machine, etc.) – $9,500
• Cost for store equipment (cash register, security, ventilation, signage) – $13,750
• Cost of purchase of distribution vans – $50,000
• The cost for the purchase of furniture and gadgets (Computers, Printers, Telephone, TVs, Sound System, tables and chairs et al) – $4,000.
• The cost of Launching a Website – $600
• The cost for our opening party – $10,000
• Miscellaneous – $10,000

We would need an estimate of two hundred and fifty thousand dollars ( $250,000 ) to successfully set up our French fries food outlet in Long Beach – California. Please note that this amount includes the salaries of the entire staff member for the first month of operation and the amount could be more or lower.

Generating Funds / Startup Capital for Golden Fingers French Fries®, LLC

Golden Fingers French Fries®, LLC is a private business that is solely owned and financed by Jason Kennedy and his immediate family members. They do not intend to welcome any external business partners which is why he has decided to restrict the sourcing of the start – up capital to 3 major sources.

These are the areas we intend generating our start – up capital;

• Generate part of the start – up capital from personal savings
• Source for soft loans from family members and friends
• Apply for loan from my Bank

N.B: We have been able to generate about $100,000 ( Personal savings $80,000 and soft loan from family members $20,000 ) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $150,000 from our bank. All the papers and document have been signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited with the amount.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

The future of a business lies in the numbers of loyal customers that they have, the capacity and competence of the employees, their investment strategy and the business structure. If all of these factors are missing from a business (company), then it won’t be too long before the business close shop.

One of our major goals of starting Golden Fingers French Fries®, LLC is to build a business that will survive off its own cash flow without the need for injecting finance from external sources once the business is officially running.

We know that one of the ways of gaining approval and winning customers over is to retail our French fries / potato chips, nuts and seeds, peanut butter, tortilla and corn chips, other chips, other snacks, water, juice, and sodas et al a little bit cheaper than what is obtainable in the market and we are well prepared to survive on lower profit margin for a while.

Golden Fingers French Fries®, LLC will make sure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that our staff welfare are well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and retraining of our workforce is at the top burner.

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of three years or more. We know that if that is put in place, we will be able to successfully hire and retain the best hands we can get in the industry; they will be more committed to help us build the business of our dreams.

Check List / Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check: Completed
• Business Registration: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
• Securing Point of Sales (POS) Machines: Completed
• Opening Mobile Money Accounts: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Leasing of facility and remodeling the restaurant (kitchen inclusive): In Progress
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Generating capital from family members: Completed
• Applications for Loan from the bank: In Progress
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: In Progress
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the Needed furniture, racks, shelves, computers, electronic appliances, office appliances and CCTV: In progress
• Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business both online and around the community: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement (License): Secured
• Opening party / launching party planning: In Progress
• Compilation of our list of products that will be available in our shop: Completed
• Establishing business relationship with vendors – suppliers of potato, ingredients, coffees and soft drinks: In Progress

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500+ business plans and financial models

How to write a Fast Food Business Plan: Complete Guide

• January 3, 2023
• Food & Beverage

50 million Americans (37% of the US population) consume fast food daily: the US is undeniable the biggest market for fast food worldwide. Yet, before you can open your own fast food restaurant, you will first need to prepare a solid business plan.

Indeed, a business plan is mandatory for any business that seeks funding from private investors or to get a loan from a bank (like a SBA loan ).

In this article we go through, step-by-step, all the different sections you need in the business plan for a fast food restaurant . Use this template to create a complete, clear and solid business plan that get you funded.

1. Fast Food Executive Summary

The executive summary of a business plan gives a sneak peek of the information about your business plan to lenders and/or investors.

If the information you provide here is not concise, informative, and scannable, potential lenders and investors will lose interest.

Though the executive summary is the first and the most important section, it should normally be the last section you write because it will have the summary of different sections included in the entire plan.

Why do you need a business plan for a fast food?

The purpose of a business plan is to secure funding through one of the following channels:

• Obtain bank financing or secure a loan from other lenders
• Obtain private investments from investment funds, angel investors, etc.
• Obtain a public or a private grant

How to write your fast food’s executive summary?

Provide a precise and high-level summary of every section that you have included in the business plan of your fast food restaurant. The information and the data you include in this section should grab the attention of potential investors and lenders immediately.

Also make sure that the executive summary doesn’t exceed 2 pages in total: it’s supposed to be a summary for investors and lenders who don’t have time to scroll through 40-50 pages, so keep it short and brief.

The executive summary usually consists of 5 major sub-sections:

• Business overview : start by introducing your fast food restaurant, where it is located, how big it is (space, seating arrangement, counters, etc.) and give a brief of the fast food items (a sample menu) that you want to sell as well as their average prices. Also, mention whether you plan to open an independent fast food restaurant or a franchise restaurant instead.
• Market overview : should contain an overview of the expected market size , target audience, and demography. Also provide here a quick overview of your competitors
• People : first, introduce your fast food’s management. Provide a brief (no more than a couple of sentences each) of the experience and track record of the team. Also, speak about your hiring plans: in other words, how you intend to run the business (what are the different teams and how many employees will you hire?)
• Financial plan : how much profit and revenue do you expect in the next 5 years? When will you reach the break-even point and start making profits ? You can also include here a chart with your key financials (revenue, gross profit, net profit )
• Funding ask : what loan/investment/grant are you seeking? How much do you need? How long will this last?

Fast Food Financial Model

Download an expert-built 5-year Excel financial model for your business plan

2. Fast Food Restaurant Business Overview

In this section of the business plan, you will provide details about your fast food restaurant.

You must answer here some important questions that potential investors and lenders often ask about your business and operations. Here are some examples of questions you must answer:

• What is the rationale behind your opening a fast food restaurant today?
• What’s the fast food restaurant’s location and why did you select that location?
• Why did you select the type of fast food restaurant you want to open?
• What will be the food items you will offer?
• What will be your pricing strategy and why?
• What is your expected customer footfall?
• What will be the legal structure of your company?

a) History of the Project

Any business overview must start with explaining the history of the project. There are 2 components here:

• Passion & experience of the business owner
• Rationale behind starting a fast food restaurant today

Passion & experience

You may or may not have prior experience. If you have experience, speak about it and how it will help you to run your business. For instance, you may have been a regional manager of a leading fast food brand for 5 years, and now you want to start your own fast food restaurant and use your knowledge to run it more efficiently.

Is there a certain problem (or perhaps, a set of problems) that your fast food restaurant will try to solve when it comes into existence? For example, there may not be any fast food restaurant offering tacos and burritos while there are enough restaurants offering burgers, fries, chicken sandwiches, pizzas, etc.

But that’s not all! The market must be suitable for a business to exist and thrive. For instance, if you are trying to open your fast food restaurant offering tacos and burritos in an area where there isn’t enough demand for those food items, you may run into losses.

Similarly, if the major chuck of the target audience is between the age group of 15 to 25 with limited income, offering high-priced food will not provide the price/value relationship they seek. Offering pricey food will only stretch their budget.

The rationale behind your project must be backed up by a thorough analysis of the industry in the area where you plan to open your fast food restaurant. This is what we will cover under Market Overview further below.

b) Business Model

This section of the Business Overview should explain what type of business model and fast food restaurant you want to open. For example:

• Will you open a franchise or an independent restaurant instead?
• Will you buy an existing fast food restaurant and do some remodeling, or will you start a new fast food restaurant and design it from scratch?
• Will you go for a traditional brick-and-mortar store or will you settle for a mobile vending model to reduce overhead?

What are the different types of fast food restaurants?

There are multiple types of fast food restaurants. Some of them that you may consider include, but are not limited to:

• Burgers & Fries : In this type of fast food restaurant, you will specialise in burgers and fries, but you can also sell shakes, smoothies, etc.
• Tacos & Burritos : you may go for variations like Mexican-American fusion or original Mexican soft corn tortillas for example here
• Chicken : Your specialty may be chicken based. For instance, you can sell fried chicken, chicken sandwiches, etc.

Apart from food-based selection, you can also choose whether you want to open a sit-in restaurant, drive-through or food truck instead.

c) Products & Services

It is needless to say that the products that you will sell through your fast food restaurant will depend on the type of restaurant you are opening. So give here an overview of the menu you will offer your customers. Yet, if there are too many products, highlight the main ones and save the rest for the appendix instead.

Another important thing that you must mention is how you are going to source the products. For example, if you are opening a burger and fries restaurant, will you be baking the buns yourself or buying mass-produced buns?

Finally, a fast food restaurant is all about delivery speed. People visiting these restaurants are busy and usually don’t have the luxury of sitting for long durations. You can still add a few services like mobile and laptop charging areas (those who visit your restaurant), home or office delivery for super-busy folks who can’t step in, etc.

d) Pricing Strategy

This is where you will provide an overview of your pricing strategy. For instance, you may sell the products at a lower price point than your competitors because you enjoy a bulk purchase discount from the product supplier.

Again, product quality matters. For example, if you are using organically farmed products, you may charge higher than your competitors. Similarly, if you are creating something super unique, you may charge extra. The size and quantity also factor in. Think of the Quadruple Bypass Burger or the Octuple Bypass Burger of the Heart Attack Grill which cost $20.25 and $29.80 per burger.

Your pricing strategy will also significantly depend on the spending capability of the target audience in your area of operation. 

For example, if you are trying to sell super high-quality fast food products in a neighborhood where the target audience is major students, teens, and day laborers with no, limited, or fixed income, highly-priced products may not sell well. Thus, you must always factor in the spending power of your target audience while developing your pricing strategy.

Pricing table

It’s always good practice to create a pricing table to provide price ranges for your products. Yet, you don’t need to provide exact pricing for each product.

For example, if you are selling different variants of beef burgers, you don’t need to list each burger. Instead, just mention something like: Beef burgers – $7.50 to $15.50.

Offering a pricing chart is important as it will allow investors to tie your pricing strategy with your financial projections later on.

e) Legal Structure

Finally, your business overview section should specify what type of business structure you want. Is this a corporation or a partnership (LLC)? Who are the investors? How much equity percentage do they own? Is there a Board of Directors? If so, whom? Do they have experience in the industry?

3. Fast Food Market Overview

A complete understanding of the market where you want to operate is important for the success of your business. That’s also something you must showcase in your business plan.

For example, if you are trying to sell high-calorie burgers to a health-conscious target audience, you will probably fail. Similarly, if you are trying to sell high-priced food items to day laborers with very limited income, they will most likely not buy from you.

Therefore, you must cover here 3 important areas:

• Industry Size & Growth : how big is the fast food industry in your area? What is its growth rate (or decline rate) and what are the factors contributing to its growth or decline?
• Competition Overview : how many competitors are there? How do they compare vs. your business? How can you differentiate yourself from them?
• Customer Analysis : who is your target audience? What type of fast food products do they prefer? How regularly do they eat fast food? How much do they spend on fast food per month?

a) Fast Food Industry Size & Growth

How big is the fast food industry in the us.

According to Zippia , the US fast food industry market size in 2021 was worth $297 billion, and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.1% over 2020-2027.

When it comes to the number of fast food restaurants, there were 197,653 in 2021: that’s an average annual turnover of $1,500,000 per restaurant..!

How big is the fast food industry in your area?

After getting a clear picture of the fast food industry in the US as a whole, narrow down to your location. Yet, you may not find this information anywhere (at least not for free). In that case, you can use our guide to estimate the TAM, SAM, and SOM for your business. Here is an example of how to do it:

We know the average annual turnover per fast food restaurant is around $1.5 million. Therefore, if the area where you want to open your fast food restaurant has 30 competitors (say, in a 10-mile radius), you can assume the fast food industry in your area is worth approximately $45 million .

How fast is the fast food industry growing in your area?

Looking at public information online, we know that the US fast food market grew from $209 billion in 2011 to $295 billion in 2019: that’s an average of 5.14% per year..!

What about where you live? US national averages can be a great addition to your business plan, yet they don’t necessarily help to assess the fast food industry where you want to open your store.

For example, the industry might be growing in the US, but declining in your region for a number of reasons (decreasing population or disposable income, etc.).

As you likely won’t find this information online, you can instead rely on the number of fast food restaurants to calculate the average growth rate of the industry in your area.

For example, if the region had only 21 fast food restaurants in 2011 and 30 in 2019, you can assume that the average annual growth rate of the fast food industry in the area is 5.4%, in line with the US average.

b) Fast Food Competition Overview

Studying your competitors’ business models is vital. You need to understand what makes them successful or why they fail. A clear understanding of their fast food offerings, marketing strategies, etc., will allow you to provide a better service.

If your competitors are offering nearly the same products & services, then what is their market share and how do they market their products & services to attract new customers?

It is always a good idea to do some research (if necessary, physically visit your competitors without revealing your business intentions) and create a comparative table summarizing their product & service offerings, marketing strategies, target audience, etc.

Here is a sample table that you can use:

Fast Food Restaurant SWOT Analysis

SWOT stands for Strength, Weakness, Opportunities, and Threats. This analysis will help lenders and investors better understand how you compare vs. competitors as well as the overall risk and reward profile of your business.

Here is a sample that you can use as a reference:

• Strengths : Worked as a regional manager at a leading taco & burrito chain for 5 years; master’s degree in business administration from a reputed institute
• Weaknesses : Startup cost, no initial brand reputation
• Opportunities : Industrial and office area with a high concentration of day laborers, contract workers, and immigrants with low income looking for low-priced yet filling food
• Threats : Well-established brands are introducing a specialized line of low-cost food offerings to capture the target market

c) Customer Analysis

This is the sub-section where you will provide a detailed analysis of your target audience.

Some important points that you must include in your customer analysis include:

• Age and gender distribution (you can get local demographic data from census.gov )
• Average monthly income and disposable income
• Average spend on fast food (per month or per year)
• Types of fast foods they prefer
• The expected price range for fast food
• Inclination towards loyalty programs & free perks
• Things they dislike about existing fast food restaurants and what they expect to be improved

You can add as many data points as required to validate your business decision. The idea here is to display your deep understanding of the target audience and their needs, preferences, and expectations. This knowledge can help you to tailor your products & services to attract new customers.

4. Sales & Marketing Strategy

This is the segment where you outline your customer acquisition strategy. Try to answer the following questions:

What is your Unique Selling Proposition (USP)?

• What are the different marketing strategies you will use?
• How do you intend to track the success of your marketing strategy?
• What is your CAC or customer acquisition cost?
• What is your marketing budget?
• What introductory promos and offers do you intend to provide for attracting new customers?

What marketing channels do fast food restaurants use?

A few marketing channels that fast food restaurants typically use are:

• PPC ads, Instagram / Facebook ads, etc.
• Social media content
• Billboards & signages
• Loyalty programs
• Pamphlets & flyers

It is not necessary to use all channels. Instead, you can start by focusing on a few of them, and include other marketing strategies later.

Also, you must have a fair and nearly accurate estimate of your marketing budget. Failure to display a well-planned and adequate budget for advertising and marketing may lead to investors losing confidence.

In other words, how do you differentiate yourself vs. competitors? This is very important as you might need to win customers from competitors.

A few examples of USPs are:

• Product quality : you may be offering higher quality products vs. your competitors, for example, burger buns made from fertilizer-free organically grown wheat
• Location : your restaurant may be located closer to your target audience and/or closer to a busy street where new potential customers can see your signage
• Price : your products may be cheaper vs. competitors
• Uniqueness : you may be the only taco restaurant (in an area with high population of Mexican migrants) that uses authentic Mexican-style soft corn tortillas

Your USP will depend on your business model, competitor analysis , and target audience. Whatever your USP be, it should be clear and appeal to your target audience.

5. Management & People

You must address 2 things here:

• The management team and their experience
• The organizational structure : different team members and who reports to whom

Small businesses often fail because of managerial weaknesses. Thus, having a strong management team is vital. Highlight the experience and education of senior managers that you intend to hire to oversee your fast food business.

First, describe their duties, responsibilities, and roles. Also, highlight their previous experience and explain how they succeeded in their previous roles.

If they have specialized training and experience (such as a professional degree in business management, managerial experience in a leading fast food chain, a proven track record of designing & executing successful marketing campaigns for famous restaurants leading to a measurable increase in ROI, etc.), add that information.

Organization Structure

Even if you haven’t already hired a general manager, administrative staff, busboy, cashier, chef, kitchen helpers, and other relevant staff members, you must provide a chart of the organizational structure defining hierarchy and reporting lines.

6. Financial Plan

The financial plan is perhaps, with the executive summary, the most important section of any business plan for a fast food .

Indeed, a solid financial plan tells lenders that your business is viable and can repay the loan you need from them. If you’re looking to raise equity from private investors, a solid financial plan will prove them your fast food is an attractive investment.

There should be 2 sections to your financial plan section:

• The startup costs of your project (if you plan to start a new fast food, renovate your restaurant, etc.)
• The 5-year financial projections

a) Startup Costs

Before we expand on 5-year financial projections in the following section, it’s always best practice to start with listing the startup costs of your project. For a fast food, startup costs are all the expenses you incur before you open your fast food and start making sales . These expenses typically are:

• The leasing deposit for the space (if you rent) or to buy the real estate (if you buy)
• Renovations and improvements
• Equipment & appliances
• Furniture & tableware

Of course, the startup costs depend on a number of factors, like the size of your restaurant, its location, the facilities, the menu, etc.

On average, it costs $89,000 to $266,000 to open a casual pizzeria (1,500 sq. ft.) in the US. In comparison, a 150-seats restaurant will cost more: $484,000 to $685,000.

Note that these costs are for illustrative purposes and may not be fully relevant for your business. For more information on how much it costs to open and run a restaurant, read our article here .

b) Financial Projections

In addition to startup costs, you will now need to build a solid 5-year financial model for your fast food restaurant.

Your financial projections should be built using a spreadsheet (e.g. Excel or Google Sheets) and presented in the form of tables and charts in the business plan of your fast food.

As usual, keep it concise here and save details (for example detailed financial statements, financial metrics, key assumptions used for the projections) for the appendix instead.

Your financial projections should answer at least the following questions:

• How much revenue do you expect to generate over the next 5 years?
• When do you expect to break even?
• How much cash will you burn until you get there?
• What’s the impact of a change in pricing (say 15%) on your margins?
• What is your average customer acquisition cost?

You should include here your 3 financial statements (income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statement). This means you must forecast:

• The number of covers (customers or orders) over time ;
• Your expected revenue ;
• Operating costs to run the business ;
• Any other cash flow items (e.g. capex, debt repayment, etc.).

When projecting your revenue, make sure to sensitize pricing, cost of raw materials (food supplies) and your sales volume. Indeed, a small change in these assumptions may have a significant impact on your revenues and profits.

7. Use of Funds

This is the last section of the business plan of your fast food restaurant. Now that we have explained what your fast food’s business model and concept are, what is your menu, your marketing strategy, etc., this section must now answer the following questions:

• How much funding do you need?
• What financial instrument(s) do you need: is this equity or debt, or even a free-money public grant?
• How long will this funding last?
• Where else does the money come from? If you apply for a SBA loan for example, where does the other part of the investment come from (your own capital, private investors?)

If you raise debt:

• What percentage of the total funding the loan represents?
• What is the corresponding Debt Service Coverage Ratio ?

If you raise equity

• What percentage ownership are you selling as part of this funding round?
• What is the corresponding valuation of your business?

Use of Funds

Any business plan for a fast food restaurant should include a clear use of funds section. This is where you explain how the money will be spent.

Will you spend most of the loan / investment in paying your employees’ salaries and the inventory? Or will it cover mostly the cost for the lease deposit and the renovation?

For the use of funds, we also recommend using a pie chart like the one we have in our financial model template where we outline the main expenses categories as shown below.

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Fast Food Restaurant Business Plan

Start your own fast food restaurant business plan

Fresin Fries

Executive summary executive summary is a brief introduction to your business plan. it describes your business, the problem that it solves, your target market, and financial highlights.">, opportunity.

There is  an increasing demand for snack-type fast food, to be consumed while window shopping and walking around inside a shopping mall.

Fresin Fries will entice youngsters to bring their friends and family with our innovative environment, fresh-cut Belgian fries, and selection of unique signature dipping sauces.

Fresin Fries intends to cater to the bulk of teenagers and youngsters in Singapore. We have chosen this group for several important reasons. It is our goal to be "the extraordinary fast food place" and we believe that the age group from 15 to 25 is the primary age where brand building efforts could take place. They are on limited or fixed incomes and seek a value/price relationship that will not stretch their budgets.

Our secondary target is between the ages of 25 and 37, which are a heavy lounge/restaurant user group. They are more flexible in budgets and seek more than a value/price relationship.

Competition

Our main competitors in this segment are any food outlets within the 300 meter radius along the Orchard Road. In our location, there are Tori-Q, Pizza Walker, Starbucks, Bread Talk, and Rotiboy. 

Our customers will have the total experience when visiting our outlet(s) and website as they will learn about this fascinating new "pop culture." We will sell merchandise from pre-packaged sauces and t-shirts, to potato cutters, all with our official brand attached to them.

Expectations

This plan is prepared to obtain a location for the initial launch of this concept. We plan to finance the costs with two investments of $100,000 total, one at startup and the other at the beginning of the second year. We expect strong growth for all three years, and profitability beginning in the third year.  

Financial Highlights by Year

Financing needed.

The company is owned by the original 4 founders, who each will contribute $25,000 for the same amount of share, 25%, and $100,000 in paid-in capital at the start. This will cover start-up requirements. We expect to contribute a second $100,000 at the beginning of the second year. 

Problem & Solution

Problem worth solving.

There is an  increasing demand for snack-type fast food, to be consumed while window shopping and walking around inside a shopping mall. 

Our Solution

Our main focus will be serving high-quality food at a great value. Fries will strive to be a premier local fast food brand in the local marketplace. We want our customers to have the total experience when visiting our outlet(s) and website as they will learn about this fascinating new “pop culture.” We will sell merchandise from pre-packaged sauces and t-shirts, to potato cutters, all with our official brand attached to them.

Target Market

Market size & segments.

We are targeting young Singaporeans as our primary market. Orchard Road is the place to meet and hang out after school. Due to heavy extra-curricular activities among Singapore’s youth, it is common for high schoolers to have lunch inside shopping malls, and not at home. They tend to flock to fast food joints inside shopping malls across Orchard Road.

Our secondary market segment is the "Working Singaporeans." With so many shopping malls in the vicinity, Orchard Road is the haven for shoppers and job seekers alike. In the new Paragon Shopping Centre, there are more than 8,000 workers currently working as sales persons and boutique staff. There are more than 10 major shopping malls across Orchard Road, including Ngee Ann City, the biggest shopping mall in the nation, employing more than 50,000 workers.

Lastly, Orchard Road is also the destination for tourists staying in the area. The Meritus Mandarin, Crown Prince Hotel, the Hilton, and Popular Hotel are a few of the biggest accommodations in Singapore. Tourists will stroll Orchard Road, hunting for the latest trend in fashion and have no time to stop for a full meal during shopping. Fresin Fries is the alternative for a quick bite while shopping the fancy boutiques in the area

Current Alternatives

More details on our competitors: 

Tori-Q Tori-Q is locally owned franchise who sells Japanese BBQ skewers. Established in 1998, Tori-Q had expanded its operation into neighboring countries, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. Tori-Q is popular among local teenagers as it offers fast service to its customers. Commonly, Tori-Q outlets are rather small, and can only serve a maximum of 6 guests. It is a choice for those who are in a hurry and would like to grab a quick lunch on the way.

Pizza Walker Pizza Walker is a joint venture positioned as gourmet pizza joint in Singapore. Most of its retail outlets are decorated with welcoming ambience, such as flowers and see-through kitchens. Pizza Walker is a good place to hang out, and the place is always full during lunch hour. It has more than enough tables to serve a maximum of 55 guests. Its specialty is all-you-can-eat pizza!

Starbucks Starbucks’ strategy entering the lunch market had made some impact in Singapore. Usually, a lunch menu in Singapore consists of "fried and BBQ stuff" such as roast pork with rice or the Big Mac. Starbucks is one of the first food retailers that popularized "light and healthy" alternatives such as salad or lean sandwich as an options for Singapore’s lunch accommodations.

Bread Talk As the most successful franchiser in Singapore, Bread Talk is surely becoming a threat for most food retailers. Bread Talk not only rented most of the retail space along Orchard Road, but now they are doing delivery to offices and apartments nearby. Bread Talk outlets usually consist of a huge see-through kitchen, and bread trays ready for pick-up by customers, with three or four cashiers at front, to speed up the queue. Rumor has it that Bread Talk sold more than 35,000 breads each day in just one of their retail outlets.

Rotiboy A Malaysian franchise. Rotiboy is quite popular in the region as it is now expanding into several cities in Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines. Rotiboy offers simplicity for quick lunch franchiser, and often considered alternatives for its long queueing rivals.

Our Advantages

We will provide a combination of excellent food at value pricing, with fun packaging and atmosphere. Fresin Fries is the answer to an increasing demand for snack-type fast food, to be consumed while window shopping and walking around inside a shopping mall.

Keys to Success

This is what it will take to make us successful: 

• Create a unique, innovative, entertaining menu that will differentiate us from the rest of the competition.
• Control costs at all times, in all areas and implement a conservative approach to growth policy. Although, we provide more than enough fund to open more than one outlet, we want to be on the safe side of the business.
• Sell the products that are of the highest quality, as well as keeping the customers happy with all of our product categories from food to store merchandising.
• Provide 100% satisfaction to our customers and maintaining the level of excellent services among other competitors.
• Encourage the two most important values in fast food business: brand and image, as these two ingredients are a couple of main drivers in marketing communications.
• Get access to high-traffic shopping malls near the target market.
• Promote good values of company culture and business philosophy.

Marketing & Sales

Marketing plan.

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The sales strategy is to build and open new locations in order to increase revenue. However, this plan will be implemented when the one "market tester" outlet showed potential growth. As each individual location will continue to build its local customer base over the first three years of operation, the goal of each store is shown on the graph as well as annual sales of our flagship store 

Locations & Facilities

Fresin Fries locations will range in size from 50 – 70 meter square and will seat from 15 – 25 guests. Our first location will be on the larger end of this range. The location will feature its own originality in merchandise display and other brand building attributes. We will equip the outlet with modern furniture and aim for cleanliness and an open feeling. We are currently looking at several possible sites in shopping malls along Orchard Road.

The space selection will be chosen based upon the following criteria:

• Community size: minimum of 800,000 people within a radius of 8 kilometers.
• Tourist destination.
• Easy access.
• Large percentage of teenagers in the community.

All of these qualities are consistent with Fresin Fries’ goal of providing a top quality fast food experience. We want "word-of-mouth" to be our best form of marketing, where our customers value our brand as something exciting and cannot wait to tell their friends and neighbors. And of course these days word of mouth is amplified word of mouth, via social media. 

Milestones & Metrics

Milestones table, key metrics.

Our key metrics that will help us succeed are: 

• Detailed operational metrics for the flagship operations. We need to make the sales forecast and gross margin, plus sales per square foot. The original has to be running smoothly and be operationally solid before we go to second location. 
• Sales per employee. We need to watch this variable very closely. We can’t expand without making sure that this model works with the planned amount of employees. 

Ownership & Structure

Fresin Fries is a privately held company. It will be registered as a Limited company, with ownership 25% – Guy Fry, 25% – Sam Sauce, 25% – Carl Cone, 25% – Harry Hip.

Management Team

Guy Fry and Sam Sauce have more than 10 years of experience in the food industry. Both are currently employed as Corporate Staff of Company A.

Sam Sauce holds an MBA degree from University V. A true entrepreneur by heart, his latest entrepreneurial project is a diamond store in the heart of Singapore.

Guy Fry holds a BA degree in Graphic Design from the Academy of Arts. His projects are widely varied from product design to brand development of several reputable companies.

Harry Hip holds a MS degree from Institute Y. He completed several projects and served as project manager for multi-national companies in Singapore.

Carl Cone holds a BS degree from University Z, majoring in Management and Information Technology. Prior to his return to Singapore, he has held several management positions in a U.S.-based IT company.

Personnel Table

Financial plan investor-ready personnel plan .">, key assumptions.

• Status quo regarding regulation
• No major change in macro-economic or political situation. 
• We assume our product, product quality, and social media marketing will generate healthy growth in buzz and steady increase in sales
• We assume efficient management of multiple sites
• We will make the first site work before moving to the second. 
• We will not add sites while any site is not working well
• We expect expansion will cause a loss in our second year, but that it will be an acceptable loss and we will have working capital to finance it. 

Expenses by Month

Net profit (or loss) by year, use of funds.

Our startup funding of $100,000 will cover both startup expenses and initial assets. specifically:

Startup expenses of $54,500 incurred before launch: 

These pre-launch, pre-revenue expenses show up in our financials as negative retained earnings in the Balance Sheet at launch. 

• Legal: $3,000
• Furniture and interior: 17,000 (We discussed calling these assets, but we think we can legitimately expense them instead; that’s better for tax treatment)
• Rent: $15,000. We need five weeks in the location for fixup and such before we launch. 
• Branding: $3,500. Includes imagery, website, logo, social media accounts, etc.
• Location fixup: $10,000
• Other: $2,000
• Total: $50,500

Current assets required:

• Cash: $50,000 to cover early deficits, working capital, etc. 
• Inventory: $10,000
• Plates, napkins, etc. $4,000 (other current assets in starting balance) 

Long-term Assets

• Kitchen and fixtures: $22,000

Total Startup Costs: 

• $54,500 in expenses incurred before launch
• $86,000 in assets required at launch, including $50K cash reserve. 
• Total: $140,500 startup cost

Sources of Funds

Investment will be in equal parts from all four founders. We expect to invest $100,000 to start and an additional $100,000 at the beginning of the second year. We plan to avoid commercial borrowing. 

Projected Profit & Loss

Projected balance sheet, projected cash flow statement.

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How to Start a Burger Business

• Small Business
• Setting Up a New Business
• Starting a Business
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How to Start Your Own Coffee Drive-Thru

How to open an american diner, how to start a buffet restaurant.

• How to Develop a Marketing Strategy for a Restaurant
• How to Market and Sell a New Spaghetti Sauce

Starting a burger business requires following almost the exact same steps as starting a pizza or fried chicken or Tex-Mex eatery. In fact, you’ll use the same “4 Ps” you would use to launch a shoe or pet sitting or gift basket business.

A review of the marketing mix components of Product, Price, Place and Promotion will help you apply them to a new burger business so you can decrease your risks and increase your chances for success.

Develop Your Product

Depending on where you plan to launch, consumers might have dozens of hamburger choices, from national fast-food chains to boutique burger restaurants to at-home burger making. With easy food delivery services, people have even more access to a burger 24/7.

To be successful, you’ll need to create a unique selling proposition or differential, which gives people a reason to buy your burger instead of the competition.

Taste isn’t enough. Many consumers buy food because it’s cheap, conveniently located, has other menu items people want or offers adult beverages. Some eateries with average food and boring decor are wildly successful because they offer customers a chance to watch sporting events, meet with friends and have a good time. Quick, courteous service is another selling point for many restaurants.

Start with your burger’s ingredients. What type of beef will you use? If it’s high-end, that might be your hook, but you need to make sure people can taste a unique difference with your beef and be willing to pay for it. What type of buns will you use? How about condiments? Will you have many different burger combinations or just a few basic choices, along with other menu items?

Make sure to test your product with objective potential customers. Don’t ask friends and family what they think – they’ll want to be supportive and tell you everything’s fantastic. In addition to serving testers your burgers, serve them other items you might not even be selling, just to keep them objective about their feedback.

If you will primarily rely on sit-down customers, rather than deliveries and pickups, remember that location and decor are part of the product.

Price Your Product

Once you’ve come up with a burger and menu you think is unique, figure out what it will cost to make your burgers. This means contacting suppliers of all of the ingredients you plan to use for your menu items to learn your cost to make each meal.

You’ll need to have a budget for running a restaurant completed before you can set prices, because the customer’s cost for a meal will have to cover your overhead (e.g., rent, insurance, marketing, labor) and desired profit, explains RestaurantReport .

Learn what your competitors are charging to see what you can likely charge for your burgers, sides, drinks and meals. Add your food, overhead and profit costs to determine what prices you’ll need to set. Compare them to your competition. If your prices are higher, do you have a unique enough product people will want to pay extra for? Can you serve 1/4-pound patties instead of 1/2-pound patties? Can you buy cheaper beef?

Remember, the more orders you sell, the lower your overhead cost for each order. Create three different sales scenarios (optimistic, realistic and pessimistic) to see where you might need to set your prices.

Choose Your Place

Location used to be, by far, the most important aspect of the restaurant business. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on dining out, more people are having food delivered. This means you might not have to locate in a high-rent district to compete. You’ll still want to locate near your target customers, however, to make it easy for them to pick up and cost-effective for you to offer delivery.

You also have the option of starting out with a food truck, which offers a lower commitment than signing a multiyear lease. This would allow you to move to different high-traffic locations, do further testing on new products, and start to build a name for yourself.

Create a Promotions Plan

Decide how you’re going to promote your burger business. Your options can include social media, local print publications, using coupon packet companies, local radio and TV and outdoor advertising, such as billboards. Look at where and how your competition is advertising. Don’t necessarily assume you should follow what McDonald’s and Burger King are doing – people who buy your burgers might be choosing you for different reasons than when they buy fast food.

Other Things to Consider

Make sure you thoroughly understand your state’s health rules and regulations for food establishment. Write a detailed business plans that helps you spot and eliminate and potential problems, recommends SmartyCents . Use resources like the blog at KaTom Restaurant Supply, which provides detailed equipment and cost breakdowns for opening a burger joint. Meet with an attorney to help you cover your legal liabilities, which will include incorporating, buying the right insurance and following all local, state and federal laws pertaining to your business.

• SmartyCents: How to Write a Business Plan the Right Way
• RestaurantReport: Food And Menu Pricing For Your Restaurant
• MasterCard International: The Plan

Steve Milano is a journalist and business executive/consultant. He has helped dozens of for-profit companies and nonprofits with their marketing and operations. Steve has written more than 8,000 articles during his career, focusing on small business, careers, personal finance and health and fitness. Steve also turned his tennis hobby into a career, coaching, writing, running nonprofits and conducting workshops around the globe.

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How to Start Your Own Burger Joint (The Cheap Way)

Want to open a burger joint on a budget? I’m here to help you take a bite out of this $100 billion dollar industry . In the US, there are nearly 50,000 burger joints nationwide.

If you want to start a burger joint without risking your entire life savings, continue reading as I explain the steps you’ll need to open.

Page Contents

Write Your Burger Business Plan

How much can you make with a burger joint, how much will it cost to open a burger joint, burger menu: what type of burgers work best, get your ingredients, supplies, and equipment, find a restaurant location, burger truck or restaurant, the dining area and drive-thru, raising money, set up shop and grand opening, marketing your burger shop.

Want to sell burgers?

A business plan is the most important thing you need to work on before proceeding with the rest. Remember, a business plan is the heart of your business, and all your decisions should be backed data gathered in the plan. Do your research and be as detailed as possible.

Prepare an executive summary of what your business will be about. This part is where you introduce your business to potential investors so you need to include some basic information about the business. Next is your marketing plan. Let your investors know how you plan to market the business and compete with the already established brands. Aside from your marketing plan, you need to give an overview of your operating plan – how you plan to work with your staff to ensure that the burger joint will be up and running and that you are meeting the needs and wants of your customers.

Any business will need financial analysis. This is extremely important because in this part, you will explain how you will go about financing all the expenses to keep your business running. Explain in detail all the materials and products that need to be bought and taken care of, as well as how much you will be allotting for staff’s salary, and how much you need to sell to get back your profit.

Write a SWOT analysis so you know what to expect in terms of your business’ weaknesses, threats, and how you can maximize the strengths and opportunities to ensure it will turn out to be a success.  

You can expect to make $1,000 – $10,000 per day in gross sales operating a burger joint. The typical burger joint will bring in anywhere from $200,000 – $1.5 million in gross revenues. The gross revenue numbers will be determined by the number of customers you can bring in and how fast you can crank out patties. The establishments that hit the upper range of sales are usually franchise burger joints that have optimized their cooking and serving process.

Before you open a burger joint, I recommend working backwards and figuring out how many sales you’d need per day to make the venture worth the investment. I also want you to consider whether or not that number is feasible. Sure… I’d love to sell 10,000 burgers in a day, but the reality is that volume isn’t going to be possible in a small business.

Take a look at how much my friends burger joint Ancho Honey makes per unit: 

• Burger patty: $1.30
• Seeded Brioche Bun: $0.68
• 2 Slices of American Cheese: $0.22
• Caramelized onion, lettuce, tomato, burger sauce: $0.50 (approx.)

Total Cost Per Burger: $2.70

Menu Price:  $8.00

As you can see, if you were able to sell 200 burgers per day, you could generate $1,600 in gross sales and $1,060 in gross profit before expenses like labor, insurance, and rent. Keep in mind that most burger joints will boost their profits further by offering a side of French fries or a soft drink with every burger you sell. Adding a few appetizers or desserts like milkshakes is another smart option to boost average order values.

Burger to go.

The success of a burger joint isn’t solely dependent on good cooking. It’s a combination of different factors such as great location, quality service, outstanding marketing, and creativity.  

Like any other business, opening a burger joint will cost you big bucks. Renting a space, purchasing furniture and kitchen needs, stocking burger ingredients, and putting your plans to life are just some of the things that are included in your list of total expenses when opening your burger joint.

Commercial space – If you don’t have your own space, you’re most likely to rent or buy one in order to open your business. Depending on the location and its proximity to the bus stop, train station, schools, and other important points, it can go up, or way higher. For example in Los Angeles, the average rent is $2.95 per square foot. So, for 2,000-square foot space, expect to pay up to $5,900 every month. Don’t forget that if you’re renting, you most likely have to pay a deposit the value of a three to six months lease. Keep in mind that lease payments vary significantly depending on region.

Related Reading: 201 Burger Slogans and Caption Ideas Perfect for Social Media Marketing 

Renovations and décor – Beautifying your place is going to cost you a lot but you can save by choosing less expensive materials. Depending on your burger joint’s concept, you can also save on décor by going for a minimalist design with less extravagant design pieces to fill up your space. Redoing the wall paint, tiles, and windows can go from $5,000 to more than $50,000.

Another way to save money on renovations is going for essentials only. Maybe you want to add a TV in your burger joint, but that can wait. Focus on what’s important and do the rest when there’s extra money. You can also save money by looking for a property that is already built for a food business. This way, having features like a customized kitchen can save you dollars instead of buying one that can cost as much as $250,000.

Hey ma! Look what I made.

Obtaining license and permits – Before you can get your business going, you must obtain legal permits and licenses. The costs of permits and licenses differ depending on what state you’re in but usually, it is between $50 to $100.

Ordering and payment technology (POS systems) – Keep track of orders, inventory, and payment by getting a Point-of-Sale (POS) system or something similar that costs about $20,000.

Signage and advertising – Once your burger joint is up, you’d want to make a splash and have signage and advertising materials to let everyone know your business is open. These things usually cost around $20,000 to $30,000.

Utilities – To keep your business open, you have to pay for utilities such as electricity, water, phone, and internet connection. You would be looking to pay $2,500 a month for these.

Food and beverage supply – The cost for food and beverage would depend on what you would be selling to your customers. Finding a local supplier that sells fresh ingredients can save you money since you will be going back and forth, buying from them almost every month, or depending on how often you need to restock your supply.

Whether you’re opting for a big, fatty burger or looking to offer vegan burgers, it all depends on your target market. Who do you want to attract? Do you want to go with the average target market of people who love big, fatty burgers, or do you want a more exclusive audience of healthy eating people who watch what they eat?

Both the big, fatty burgers and vegan burgers have their own target market. It’s up to you to decide what market you’re willing to go for. If you want to compete with McDonald’s, Burger King, and Wendy’s, then you have to make sure you are offering more than the usual big, juicy burgers they are already offering the market.

Related Reading: 250+ Creative Burger Shop Business Names

What’s great about vegan burgers is that there aren’t a lot of burger joints that offer them. This can be a good selling point especially since you also have an exclusive market to sell to. Either way, researching the types of burgers you will offer starts with knowing what your competitors are selling. What can you improve and what else is missing?

Start from there and work towards creating different burger types that you know will suit your market, whether it’s for the average people who love greasy, juicy burgers or the health-conscious, vegan lovers who are looking for better options for their lifestyle choice.

Sourcing for ingredients, supplies, and equipment means doing a lot of research on good and efficient suppliers in the market. Allot time to go around and check out suppliers that can give you a good deal instead of rushing to purchase everything you need last minute.

Outside the Krush Burger truck.

Work in a timeline so you have a better idea of when everything must be set and final. Ask other business owners for tips or recommendations for markets and suppliers where you can save money without sacrificing quality and service. It’s okay to go back and forth and spend time meeting with distributors so know you’re paying for quality and won’t have any regrets in the future.

Because you are opening a restaurant, your main priority should be ensuring you are using quality ingredients not just for your customers but for your reputation as well. It is always best to buy ingredients in bulk to save money but avoid overbuying things and have ingredients spoiling by having an organized list of things you need for a specific time frame.

When it comes to equipment, purchase first those that are essential to keep your restaurant going. Anything extra can be bought later on. Invest in good equipment to avoid repairs or replacements in the future.

Location is key to the success of your business. You need to find one where there is good foot traffic, at the same time, it should not be buried in a sea of competitors that are already serving the market. What you don’t want to happen is squeezing your burger joint in a busy business street where there are four to five other burger joints in place.

Depending on your location, some places cost more than others but you have to remember that you can always adjust your budget on some other things. A location for your business should be under the list of non-negotiables.

Franchise or Independent Restaurant? If you can’t decide whether to open a franchise or independent restaurant, know that the different risks and potential rewards vary. Although one is not proven to be more successful than the other, it all depends on how much control and freedom you want to have while running your restaurant business.

It boils down to the type of owner you are, what sacrifices you are willing to take and how much work you’re willing to fork out to make your business a success. Keep in mind that the possibility of failure whether it’s a franchise or independent restaurant is prevalent either way. But deciding which type of ownership you choose can give you better chances of success along the way.

Independent Ownership As an independent restaurant owner, all responsibilities fall on you. Your decision on all things about the restaurant can make or break your business. You may consider being an independent restaurant owner if you have researched everything you need about the concept of your business, you don’t want to undergo the tedious approval process, and you want to grow a brand of your own starting from scratch.

Franchise Ownership If you are buying a franchise restaurant, you are handed over a business that’s already proven to work. From branding to marketing, most of these franchise businesses have everything set and planned for you. Consider a franchise restaurant if you don’t mind waiting for franchise approval, corporate scandals that involve big franchise businesses, and want the branding, marketing, and reputation of the business to be set beforehand.  

Opting to open a burger truck will obviously cost you less than opening a restaurant, given that renting a bigger space is equivalent to spending more money. Obviously, there are pros and cons in choosing a truck over a restaurant and if you originally wanted to open a restaurant, downsizing to a burger truck can be difficult to accept. However, there are some good benefits to opting for a burger truck!

Ever consider a burger bus?

Operating a burger truck means you will need less staff to work for you because there will be limited space in your work area. This also means you have to pay fewer people, too! Some of the usual restaurant materials such as tables and chairs will also be out of the list as customers will only be getting their orders for take-out.

If you really want to open a burger joint but are not willing to spend too much money, I say go for the burger truck because either way, you will still be selling burgers! With a truck, you can also stay at a certain location for days, and drive out to a different one. All you have to do is ensure that your marketing plan will highlight the pros of having a burger truck where you can park and go anytime, anywhere!    

Pre-pandemic, we are all about dining in and enjoying food outside of our homes. As the world adjusts to the pandemic, we realized the convenience of drive-thru and how it became the new norm not just in the fast-food industry, but independent restaurants have started setting up drive-thru areas as well. A report by Bluedot stated that three in four Americans are visiting drive-thrus more often than before the pandemic started.

If you can’t decide whether to have a drive-thru area for your burger joint, you might want to consider the following things:

Convenience – Drive-thrus are very convenient for the customers. They order, pay, and get their food without having to leave their cars, all completed within a span of a few minutes.

Increase capacity – Dining areas have limited capacity and although you can have a waiting area for customers, not everyone is willing to wait long lines just to dine in. Having a drive-thru area allows for customers to continuously line up, get served their food immediately.

Revenue stream – A drive-thru system is an added revenue stream for your business no matter how you look at it. As a business owner, you are always looking for ways to make more money, and with a drive-thru system in place, it will always be a good choice.  

Deciding to start or continue a business requires a chunk of money whether it’s a franchise or independent restaurant. If you think your budget is still lacking, here are some ways you can raise money to keep your restaurant growing.

Crowdfunding – GoFundMe is a popular crowdfunding website that is used by entrepreneurs, investors, and the general public. It is easy to operate and adding a nice description of what your business idea is or how the money can help grow your business, you can reach out to people worldwide and help raise money. You can also ask friends and family to help raise awareness of your crowdfunding efforts.

Related Reading: 57 Critical Fast Food Industry Statistics and Trends

Venture Capitalists – Venture capitalists are professionals who provide financial support to start-ups and emerging companies that show high potential for growth. Just keep in mind that venture capitalists provide financial help with high rates of return instead of taking a share of your company or business.

Angel Investors – Here’s a favorable option to raise money for your burger joint. Angel investors, those who helped in funding Google and Yahoo, provide capital for start-ups in exchange for ownership equity or convertible debt.

Microloans – Loans are some of the most common ways business owners can raise money for growing or expanding their businesses because they have medium to low interest rates, have shorter payment periods and come with fewer strings attached.  

Inside a burger shop.

Setting up your shop involves working with professionals. If you want to make sure your shop looks great, opt to have an architect and interior designer to help you design how it will look from the inside out. Once everything is done, prepare your marketing materials and start advertising the grand opening. Social media is a good way to start making noise about your shop.

Post about the grand opening, your menu, what the shop looks like, opening hours, and more. Give a teaser on the burger menu so the people will know what to expect when they order. Some businesses offer discounts on opening day to attract more people too.

Make a digital and traditional advertising plan to get the word out about your burger joint. If you operate a burger business, you’re serving a small market within only 2 – 4 miles of a location. How can you get in front of local consumers like this? You could accomplish this through targeted promotion on social like Facebook or YouTube. You could also get the word out through mailers, coupons, and special promotions that attract new diners.

Like I mentioned earlier, the success of your burger shop isn’t solely dependent on how good your burger tastes. How you market your business will affect how people see your brand and will help them decide whether it’s a good decision to make an effort to visit your shop or not.

Doing any type of business is always a risk and with how much money is needed to open one, you would want to make sure everything is well thought of and all your efforts will not go to waste.

Want to start your own food business?

Hey! 👋I’m Brett Lindenberg, the founder of Food Truck Empire.

We interview successful founders and share the stories behind their food trucks, restaurants, food and beverage brands. By sharing these stories, I want to help others get started.

If you liked this story, sign up for our newsletter that includes our food business startup kit and most popular interviews sent straight to your inbox.

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About the Author: Brett Lindenberg

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BizFundingResource.com

Burger Restaurant Business Plan and SWOT Analysis

Burger Restaurant Business Plan, Marketing Plan, How To Guide, and Funding Directory

The Burger Restaurant Business Plan and Business Development toolkit features 18 different documents that you can use for capital raising or general business planning purposes. Our product line also features comprehensive information regarding to how to start a Burger Restaurant business. All business planning packages come with easy-to-use instructions so that you can reduce the time needed to create a professional business plan and presentation.

Your Business Planning Package will be available for download after your purchase.

Product Specifications (please see images below):

• Bank/Investor Ready!
• Complete Industry Research
• 3 Year Excel Financial Model
• Business Plan (26 to 30 pages)
• Loan Amortization and ROI Tools
• Three SWOT Analysis Templates
• Easy to Use Instructions
• All Documents Delivered in Word, Excel, and PDF Format
• Meets SBA Requirements

People love burgers, and burger restaurants have remained one of the most popular forms of eatery within the United States over the past 100 years. In fact, many bar and grill restaurant and related types of eateries often feature burgers as their primary item. It is embedded in the American culture. These businesses typically remain popular even during times of economic recession given the moderate pricing points associated with the sale of this type of cuisine. The startup cost associated with a new burger restaurant can vary greatly but usually these businesses have a startup cost ranges anywhere from $100,000 to $300,000 depending on the location, whether or not real estate will be purchased in conjunction with the business launch, and how many employees will be at the restaurant at the onset of operations. The gross margins generated from the sale of a burger is typically around 70% and beverage sales typically range anywhere from 70% to 90% depending on whether or not alcohol is served on the premises. One of the ways that many burger restaurants will seek to have their revenues expanded greatly is by offering an expansive bar. A qualified attorney should be consulted as it relates to the acquisition of a liquor license in any given state given that these prices can vary greatly. It is not uncommon in certain jurisdictions that have a liquor license cost more than $200,000, although in some places the fees can be as little as $2,500.

Given the economic security as well as the large amount of assets that are purchased in order to develop a burger restaurant, most financial institutions are willing to provide a small business loan for this type of venture. Of course, a burger restaurant business plan is going to be required. This business plan should feature a three-year profit and loss statement, cash analysis, balance sheet, breakeven analysis, and business ratios page. Among restaurants within the United States, more than $700 billion of revenue is generated each year among more than 2 million businesses. The industry employs 14 million people.

An expansive demographic analysis should be developed in order to specifically target people that frequently go to restaurants. Although the vast majority of Americans enjoy a hamburger from time to time, it is imperative that the entrepreneur develop this profile so that can be used in conjunction with the company’s marketing plan. Frequently, his full-scale competitive analysis is also developed in order to ensure that the business is not launching its operations in a heavily saturated market. One of the things is often discussed within the competitive analysis is how the burger restaurants operations will be different from that of other companies within the target market. Given the ubiquitous nature of this type of cuisine, most entrepreneurs that want to start this type of business typically need to find a way to differentiate themselves from other restaurants within the target market.

A burger restaurant SWOT analysis typically developed as well. As it relates to strengths, burger restaurants are always able to produce high-margin revenues from the sale of hamburgers to the general public. The low pricing point provides for a substantial amount of economics thing power.

For weaknesses, there are always a substantial number of competitors in any given market that provide very similar products. There are often unofficial competitions among these restaurants to determine who has the best burger. As such, a strong marketing plan needs to be developed for this type of company.

For opportunities, many burger restaurants will develop an associated mobile food truck that allows the business to make sales from outside of their retail location. This can be a very strong investment for these types of businesses given the fact that they will frequently attend food fairs, tradeshows, and other events worth thousands of people will see the signage affixed to the mobile food truck on a regular basis. Is not only increases sales but also boosts the visibility of the business significantly. Some burger restaurants will also develop on-site catering operations.

A major economic recession could impact the amount of sales that are made given that people may pull back on enjoying food from outside of their homes. However, the low pricing point associated with burgers, fries, and related beverages is low and only a severe economic recession would cause an issue for this type of business.

A burger restaurant marketing plan should also be developed in order to ensure that people can find business quickly. Foremost, most people at start this type of restaurant frequently will seek to acquire a highly visible retail location it will be seen by thousands if not tens of thousands of people on a daily basis. Most importantly, expansive signage should be attached to the burger restaurant in order to drive initial traffic. Prior to the onset of operations, many entrepreneurs will distribute flyers for free or heavily discounted food in order to have people come to location to try the offerings.

A presence on the Internet is absolutely mandatory for this type of business has many people especially tourists will seek to use their mobile devices and computers to find eateries. The company should have a mobile friendly website that is listed among all major search engines. Additionally, many entrepreneurs will seek to have e-commerce driven functionality implanted into the website so that people can place orders directly for food through the Internet. This is especially important if there’s going to be a substantial amount of volume during busy lunch and dinner hours. This type of e-commerce functionality, while slightly expensive, can provide users with a great degree of convenience as it relates to placing their orders. The company’s website should be listed among the social platform as well including FaceBook, Twitter, and Instagram for photos. Many of these social media platforms now allow for reviews to be left for any restaurant that they have been to. Over time, a strong number of reviews can drastically boost the reputation of the business. Many burger restaurants will also maintain profiles on popular food review websites such as Yelp and TripAdvisor.

Burgers are a ubiquitous form of cuisine within the United States. These types of food products will continue to remain popular and an entrepreneur that has extensive experience in the food service industry can develop these businesses to enjoy a substantial degree of profitability. These businesses can be readily expanded by not only integrating mobile food operations and catering operations, but also by establishing subsequent locations in other target markets.

How to Start a Burger Business That Stands Apart

The restaurant world has given way to unlimited streams of brands and offerings. Certain brands stand out by making a “better burger.”

Eighty-five percent of customers love or like burgers, according to foodservice industry research firm Datassential, QSR Magazine reports . And, get this: this recent research also found that burgers outrank 99 percent of the thousands of other foods in the firm’s FLAVOR database. It is no wonder, then, that over the last several decades, the restaurant world has birthed a seemingly limitless cavalcade of brands and offerings. And for some time now, certain brands have sought to stand out from the crowd by making a “better burger.” It’s a trajectory that makes a burger restaurant more competitive not only against lower-quality burger places but also casual dining restaurants with better-quality fare.

This trend continues in earnest, making it more challenging to create a signature identity . But the good news for the consumer is heightened variety, with everything from blended patties to higher quality plant-based burgers to exotic varieties of toppings and flavor profiles. Today’s dining public is open-minded and hungry for variations. And that means major opportunity for creative burger purveyors who can offer something exciting and different.

First-time entrepreneurs with a sizzling vision for quality burgers may have the food pictured in their minds, but the learning curve to making it happen, as a moneymaking burger business, can be steep. In addition to the patties and buns, there are plenty of nuts and bolts, so to speak. Let’s take a look at how to turn burger business building dreams into reality.

What Are My Options?

Deciding on the type of concept for a burger business may start with two threshold factors: (1) an entrepreneur’s available budget/capital and (2) a determination of what unique twist on burgers the market in question needs. A third important factor is whether the entrepreneur wants to create a new concept out of thin air or open a franchise location with an existing brand.

The options available most likely will range from fast food burger joints to fast-casual — or maybe even a food truck. If you decide to go with a franchise, rather than attempt to go it on your own, both fast food and fast-casual categories include a wide range of franchises at initial investment costs from relatively inexpensive to pretty pricey.

The business model will be important in setting the establishment apart in the market. Study the landscape of competition in the area and what they offer—and what they don’t. Perhaps fast food chains are everywhere, but higher quality, more creative options may be harder to find. That presents a window of opportunity. A thriving burger business succeeds with not only a fresh-to-market brand but a fresh product, which is of crucial importance in establishing a real point of difference.

If you open a franchise location of an existing chain, you’ll get a ton of assistance in site selection, construction or lease guidance, and more. But if you go it on your own as an independent, you’ll have several decisions to make, such as determining the best location. If you’re in a bad location, you may be cooking your burgers in a vacuum.

A food truck could be a viable choice if you want to move from one spot to another and compare — and combine — success in a variety of locations. The initial investment is less, though licensing can be very tricky, depending on the municipality, and ordinances may vary from spot to spot within the same town as you truck around. And if you develop loyal customers, they may have to figure out where you are from day to day.

If you do elect to open a brick-and-mortar business, you’ll have to decide whether to lease or purchase. Obviously, less investment on the front end is necessary for a lease, as opposed to buying, but leasing may be more restrictive as to how extensively you’re allowed to modify to the building. If you lease a space that was another restaurant previously, you may not have to modify it as much as you would if converting from a different business format.

When you’re a first-time burger restaurant operator, you may get up and rolling and hone your operating system to a science, only to realize another location would be more beneficial and give you more traffic. This is when leasing could be advantageous. If you’ve signed a short-term lease of five to ten years, you could have the option to move to a shiny new location sooner rather than later. This is especially favorable when the real estate market lulls; if you own the building, you may be stuck there a lot longer than you’d like.

If you are an independent operator finding your way on your own, make sure you work with a trustworthy commercial real estate broker. If you open a location of a franchised brand, you will be able to take advantage of the company’s relationships with brokers who are familiar with the particular business model and can better find just the right property for your needs.

What Type of Equipment, Space, and Other Stuff Do I Need to Get Started?

It’s a big advantage to have a focused culinary theme such as burgers; because the operator can produce most menu items using a relatively small arsenal of versatile equipment. In the June 2019 issue of Restaurant Startup & Growth magazine, commercial kitchen expert Stephani Robson, a senior lecturer in the School of Hotel Administration at Cornell University, describes a pizza restaurant she visited, which is a great analogy for burger operators. The pizza business would finish most of its menu items — including chicken breasts and much more — in its pizza oven. This versatility saved space in the kitchen and equipment costs.

Whether your burger business uses a char-broiler or griddle (whether gas-powered or electric) for its patties, chances are you’ll be using that same cooking surface for a number of other menu items. Other equipment you’ll likely need, KaTom Restaurant Supply advises , may include commercial refrigeration and freezers, a commercial dishwasher, a vegetable slicer, a French fry cutter, a commercial fryer, a hamburger press, and more. And depending on your business model, you may need furniture for guest dining as well as soda machines and front-of-house equipment for presentation of napkins, condiments, etc.

Space is something to think about during the site selection phase; when you are choosing your venue. In her advice in Restaurant Startup & Growth, Robson shares a rule of thumb: the back of the house in a table-service, non-fine-dining concept should not consume more than a third of the total restaurant space. The kitchen could take up more of the total space if the chosen concept is heavily drive-through-centric, with less need for in-store dining.

Should I Open a Franchise Location or an Independent Burger Business?

If you decide to open a franchise location instead of an independent concept, the cost of entry may be quite low or very high, depending on the chain brand with which you opt to partner. The Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) enables you to evaluate any franchise, with a breakdown and range of the initial investment costs under Item 7. According to the 2019 Entrepreneur list, the initial investment amounts for the top five restaurant franchises range from $229,000 to $4.7 million, making the average initial investment for a single unit around $2.5 million.

But there is an ever-growing number of better-burger brands out there that cost a lot less upfront than the biggest franchise chains do. For example, fast-casual chain Wayback Burgers — whose menu attracts guests with several delectable cooked-to-order specialty burgers, sandwiches, chicken, hot dogs, hand-dipped shakes, and more — looks for franchise candidates with at least $100,000 in liquid capital. The company grew tremendously in 2018 and keeps expanding, as QSR Magazine reported .

Going independent and becoming a franchisee each have pros and cons. If you start a business yourself, you call all the shots — but those calls may not come from a strong foundation of wisdom, market insight, and support. Especially if you don’t have a background in restaurant ownership or management, you’ll make honest mistakes along the way. You will have learned a lot, but at a cost, with a steeper learning curve.

And while you may believe you have some idea who your biggest competitors will be, a franchise brand has methods to strategically determine their biggest competitors.

A franchise relationship with an existing brand enables you to capitalize on growth trends and get running more quickly and smoothly . And this ties in directly with another question:

How Can My Burger Business Stand Apart From Others?

Let’s circle back to the type of food and service you decide to go with. As mentioned earlier, most burger business concepts are fast food or fast-casual. The latter is a balance of the traits of quick-serve restaurants (QSR or “fast food”) and full-service casual dining. This type of restaurant combines the convenience of fast food with an elevated atmosphere and typically higher quality ingredients. Fast-casual concepts are leading growth in the restaurant industry, according to industry research firm Technomic, as reported by Restaurant Business. In fact, fast-casual is the only restaurant segment to grow traffic in the past five years , per QSR Magazine. Especially if you are a millennial entrepreneur, a fast casual-franchise may be a good fit .

And what better way to stand out than to introduce your area to a new fast-casual brand that is a break from the norm? Continual creativity will keep a burger restaurant relevant to customers, giving them reasons to keep coming back. Not just for familiar menu favorites but for special limited-time-offer (LTO) items and on-trend burger variations. In recent years, burgers have been one heck of a culinary canvas, with no artistic limits, drawing from culinary trends and flavor profiles outside of what one used to think of as a simple cheeseburger.

Wayback Burgers’ had a bona fide hamburger hit with an LTO in early 2019. The Cajun-themed Big Easy Burger was topped with a remoulade sauce, bacon, and cheese. And later this year, Wayback Burgers will introduce a German-inspired pretzel bun. The chain also realizes the importance of trends such as offering the freedom of customization — a big demand of today’s consumers — and quality plant-based options. The Wayback Burgers Veggie Burger combines both those trends, allowing guests to start with a Gardenburger patty (made with natural vegetables and grains) and customize it to their liking. The same option is available for beef burgers and chicken sandwiches.

Little differences add up to big motivation for people to take their business to unique burger restaurants. Wayback Burgers is deft at creating innovative, enticing tweaks on familiar concepts and, for example, even has its own special condiment , Wayback Gold sauce — a blend of barbecue sauce and mustard — for dipping chicken tenders, beer-battered onion rings, house-made chips, French fries, and more.

But standing out is about more than the flavors of the menu; it requires ongoing innovation. Wayback Burgers has introduced a special delivery vehicle with on-site cooking capabilities for a uniquely fresh delivered product. And the brand’s app allows customers to purchase cooked-to-order burgers and other items — and monitor rewards points and more — much more conveniently.

Certainly, a 100 percent new, independent burger business stands a good chance of standing out from the pack, but opening a location of a fast-rising chain such as Wayback Burgers — which has already honed points of difference in the burger world and continues to evolve, based on research and experience — puts the franchisee on a powerful path to success. This is especially so when the concept’s offering is new to consumers in your market but already crafted into an attractive brand package, backed by marketing and promotional programs .

If you are a first-time business owner looking for guidance, systems, and support, or a seasoned entrepreneur looking for your next investment opportunity, check out Wayback Burgers.

About Wayback Burgers

Founded in 1991 in Newark, Delaware, Wayback Burgers is a Connecticut-based fast-casual franchise with a reputation for cooked to order burgers and thick, hand-dipped milkshakes, served in an environment that hearkens back to a simpler place and time — when customer service meant something and everyone felt the warmth of the community.

The burger franchise brand offers qualified candidates the opportunity to open and operate a business in the highly sought-after fast-casual sector with a small footprint and a big upside. Wayback Burgers currently operates in 30 states with over 166 locations nationally and internationally in Argentina, Brunei, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Canada, and Malaysia. Wayback offers initial training and ongoing support for all its franchisees and works diligently on finding innovative ways to offer franchisees the opportunity to increase revenue while adding value to the customer experience. For more information on how to get started, visit https://waybackburgers.com/franchising/ .

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Fast Food Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Business Plan Outline

• Fast Food Business Plan Home
• 1. Executive Summary
• 2. Company Overview
• 3. Industry Analysis
• 4. Customer Analysis
• 5. Competitive Analysis
• 6. Marketing Plan
• 7. Operations Plan
• 8. Management Team
• 9. Financial Plan

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries is a new fast food start-up located in St. Louis, Missouri. The menu will include a variety of exceptionally large burgers that are freshly made using locally sourced meat and vegetables from local St. Louis establishments. There is also a wide variety of different types of french fries to accompany the delectable burgers. The fast food restaurant will be located in a busy intersection of a highly trafficked area of St. Louis. It will be surrounded by big box retail and grocery shopping, chain restaurants, and other businesses that are frequented by locals.

The design of Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries will be comfortable and convenient in order to attract all residents of St. Louis. The demographic will be residents of the community that come from all different backgrounds and income levels. It will be family-friendly, trendy, and offer a seating area that is able to accommodate multiple seating options. Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries will also include a drive-thru for those who elect to take their food and drinks to go.

Products Served

The following are the products to be offered by Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries:

• Just a Plain Ol’ Big Burger
• Avocado Big Burger
• Veggie Big Burger
• Double Bacon Big Burger
• Green Chile Hot n’ Spicy Big Burger
• Kiddos Big Burger
• Traditional French Fries
• Curly Fries
• Sweet Potato Fries
• Parmesan Herb Fries
• Spicy Sriracha Fries
• Assorted non-alcoholic beverages

Customer Focus

Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries will target all residents living in and around St. Louis. It will appeal to students, families, retirees, white collar, blue collar, and government employees. Because the food is moderately priced compared to other fast food establishments, all income levels will be able to enjoy the delicious offerings of Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries.

Management Team

Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries is owned and operated by best friends, Jay Brusco and Ray Coleman. Jay is the culinary component of the business, a local chef that has had a successful culinary career working at various fine dining restaurants. Ray is the business component as he has been successful as a wealth manager in St. Louis. The two friends have dreamed of opening up their own business for the past five years and have worked and studied strategy in order to ensure a thriving and sustainable fast food operation.

Jay will manage the kitchen operations of Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries. He will train and oversee the cooks, manage inventory, place food and drink orders, deal with the local food vendors, and ensure the highest customer satisfaction with the food.

Ray will oversee all administrative, accounting, and tax obligations for the business. He will train the cashiers on proper cash handling and customer service. Ray will also ensure that the highest level of customer service is being met daily and for every customer who walks in the door and goes through the drive-thru.

Success Factors

The following success factors will set Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries apart from the competition:

• Fresh made to order burgers that are locally sourced from St. Louis meat and vegetable establishments.
• The buns are baked on-site daily and are the softest and most flavorful bun in town.
• Convenient location: Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries will be located in a highly-trafficked intersection that is easy to drive in and out of on any given day.
• Customers get bang for their buck. The menu items will be typical of bistro-type dishes and sizes served at a fast food price.

Financial Highlights

Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries is seeking $165,000 in debt financing to open its start-up fast food restaurant. The funding will be dedicated for the build-out and design of the restaurant, kitchen, and drive-thru as well as  cooking supplies and equipment, working capital, three months worth of payroll expenses and opening inventory. The breakout of the funding is below:

• Fast Food Restaurant Build-Out and Design – $80,000
• Kitchen supplies and equipment – $40,000
• Opening inventory – $5,000
• Working capital (to include 3 months of overhead expenses) – $15,000
• Marketing (advertising agency) – $25,000

The following graph outlines the pro forma financial projections for Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries:

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Five Guys Burgers & Fries Franchise

At Five Guys Burgers & Fries, the burgers are different than what you get at most fast-food restaurants. Five Guys cooks and prepares burgers to order and no two burgers are alike. In fact, Five Guys proclaims that there are 250,000 possible ways to order a burger at the restaurant. Their lineup of condiments and burger sides are the best in the business, with the usual mayo, mustard, ketchup, lettuce, pickle, tomato, and onion, but you can have your onions raw or grilled, and you might want to add green pepper, jalapenos or grilled mushrooms. Some folks just load on the works, but most pick and choose—it’s all fine with Five Guys because they view hamburgers as an art form. More about the cost of owning a Five Guys Burger & Fries franchise below.

Facts & Figures

Five Guys Burgers and Fries uses only fresh ground beef in their burgers, and their restaurants don’t even have freezers, only coolers, so nothing is ever frozen. They use only peanut oil in cooking their menu items, which are all trans-fat free. Of course, Five Guys serves menu items other than their variety of burgers, such as hot dogs, including Kosher and a bacon cheese dog, sandwiches like grilled cheese and veggie. In addition to their regular fries, Five Guys serve Cajun style. They also serve just plan peanuts in bulk, no charge.

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Five Guys Burgers & Fries Franchise Opportunities – History

Five Guys was founded in 1986 with its first store location in Arlington, Virginia, and quickly became a Washington, D.C.-area favorite. It was Jerry and Janie Murrell who gave their four sons a choice: start a business or go to college. The Murrell brother chose a carryout burger joint and opened their first location with their parents’ guidance. Customers in the area voted the burger Number One in the D.C. area. Within a year and a half, Five Guys expanded to more than 300 franchise units, drawing national attention. Now, 25 years later, there are more than 900 Five Guys locations throughout the nation, with plans for 1,500 locations in development.

Five Guys Burgers & Fries Franchise Cost, Initial Investment and Requirements

Burgers & Fries Franchise Income

The total investment to open a Five Guys Burgers & Fries restaurant franchise is between $152,000 and $360,000, with liquid assets available of $150,000. The franchise fee is $25,000.

Five Guys Burgers & Fries Franchise Business Opportunities: Other Information

Having received numerous awards in the cities where it opens franchises, Five Guys Burgers & Fries is one of the most dependable, fast-rising franchise opportunities available, and for a still-reasonable cost. The restaurant chain is rated one of the most talked-about burger brands online.

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Burger Lovers Business Plan

Burger lovers business plan presentation, free google slides theme and powerpoint template.

We’ve created a really delicious free template for business owners, especially hamburger restaurants. Its design will help you present a convincing business plan to investors and higher-ups. They’ll be ordering burgers during the 5-minute break!

You can bet catching everyone’s eyes will be an easy task thanks to the mouth-watering pictures we have included in our slides. If you feel like your speech should be full of enthusiasm, we’ve got the perfect palette for this, composed of yellow, black and a bit of white. The backgrounds play around with rectangles and the layouts aren’t complicated at all. Both fonts have no serif, maximizing the readability on screens and making it so easy for you to reach your audience. Do you like what’s on the menu, then?

Features of this template

• A geometric slide design with appetizing pictures and a focus on yellow and black colors
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How To Start A French Fries Business

Straight from northern France and Belgium, French fries are becoming more popular, with their demand on a constant rise. The above fact makes opening a French fries business a lucrative business. It also requires little investment with sometimes a very high return.

To guarantee the success of your French fries shop, read through our well-researched steps and procedures that must guide the opening of a French fries business.

Table of Contents

Is It Profitable to Open a French Fries Business?

Opening a French fries shop is a profitable project because the initial investment pays off quickly. Indeed, the star of your snack is the fries. This potato product takes very little preparation time and is inexpensive to purchase. With the wonderful organization of your chip shop, you will not need to hire employees. It is up to you to stand out from your competitors by offering quality fries and products.

Everyone loves fries; students, tourists, travelers, those who do not want fries at home, or those who are simply unequipped with a deep fryer. Hence, making a fortune out of this business, as well as other businesses in the food industry, starts with building customer loyalty.

How to Open a French Fries Business

Now let us get into the nerve of war and find out what steps to take when opening a French fries shop.

Below are key questions you will get answers to:

• What are the requirements needed to open a French fries shop?
• What budget do I need to open a chip shop?
• What is the best location to open a chip shop?

Let’s learn about “How To Start A French Fries Business” in detail:

#1: Get Trained for Your French fries Business

Catering is one area that does not require specific training in most regions. So you do not need a diploma to open your chip shop. However, it is advisable to take some training to guarantee the success of your snack business.

For the good management of your business, it is advisable to consider training in accounting and/or management.

For food safety and out of respect for your customers, it is mandatory to take hygiene training. Indeed, the catering sector is very strict at this level. In the US, the FDA in the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) offers a guide on who can provide training for the food industry.

Those outside the US can look up in their region for professional training open to caterers.

#2: Set Out your Budget

The financial implication of starting a French fries business is not too much. Count around $5,000 for a kiosk, and the professional kitchen equipment to be expected. In the US, a custom outdoor or indoor kiosk can cost as low as $2000. You can either buy outright or lease the kiosk. They come with fitted appliances and accessories suitable for preparing French fries.

Some custom French fries kiosks come with:

• Cables for gas or electricity
• A professional fridge
• Plates for snacking meats
• Professional deep fryers, etc.

You may also consider getting an improvised kiosk which may cost less, but we recommend the custom kiosk.

#3: Find a location for your French fries business

Finding the perfect location is the key to the success of your French fries business. To do this, you will need to carry out a market survey.

Here are some questions you will need to find answers to:

• How many French fries shops are in the region you want to set up?
• Who are they?
• Are they successful ? If so, why?
• What is the number of inhabitants compared to the number of existing French fries shops?

For this last question, try not to go below the average; one French fries shop for every 2,000 residents.

If the above math shows that the number of residents surpasses the number of shops, then you can set out to the next step.

#4: Carve a name for yourself through Branding and Packaging

To attract your potential customers, invest your best into branding. You can start by:

• Choosing a unique business name
• Designing a professional logo
• Incorporating Colors
• Getting a Signage

From a practical standpoint, try to find a location that allows you to:

• Provide parking
• Seating space, etc

#5: Get your business registered

The administrative formalities are also important to open your shop legally. In particular, register your business according to the business registration requirements of your location.

What Equipment Do I Need for a French fries shop?

You will then need to equip your French fries shop with vital equipment used for cooking the fries. Below are the must-have French fries pieces of equipment:

The professional fryer

There are mainly 2 types of professional fryers depending on the power source; electric or gas fryer. Both models perform equally well and are suitable for intensive use.

For a food truck, it is better to choose a gas fryer because of the quick heat-up time. Gas fryers also have the advantage of being used, more easily, outdoors than an electric fryer.

Some models of deep fryers offer a large capacity with several wells to cook the French fries. For ease of cleaning, go for stainless with a drain valve to make it easier to drain the frying oil .

French fries cutter

No need to cut your potatoes by hand. The French fries cutter makes this tedious task easier. With this kitchen utensil, the cut will be clean and precise. Depending on the model, you can ensure a flow of 4 to 5 kg of fries per minute. The French fries cutter, therefore, offers you a considerable yield while saving time on your service.

The fries warmer

To keep French fries warm, custom chips warmer is an essential piece of equipment to have in your French fries shop. With its infrared heating lamps, it will keep your fries at the right temperature all day without altering the taste or texture.

Congratulations, you now have all the information you need to open a successful French fries business. All you have to do is to follow the above steps religiously and start making a fortune without further delay.

Related article: How to start a popcorn business Tips for Starting a Chocolate Business

Exploring Five Guys' Marketing Strategy

Five Guys, the renowned American burger chain, has made a name for itself not only through its delicious burgers and fries but also through a strategic and effective marketing strategy . In this article, we will delve into the various aspects of Five Guys' marketing approach, from its brand positioning to its offline and online marketing techniques. Additionally, we will examine the impact of this strategy on customer loyalty , brand recognition, and market positioning. Finally, we will explore potential future marketing directions for Five Guys, including digital marketing innovations and sustainability initiatives.

Understanding the Five Guys Brand

The history of five guys.

Before we dive into the marketing strategy of Five Guys, it is important to grasp the brand's roots. Five Guys was founded in 1986 by the Murrell family in Arlington, Virginia. What started as a humble family-owned burger joint quickly gained popularity for its fresh, customizable burgers and unlimited toppings. The company's dedication to quality ingredients and a simple menu paved the way for its success.

The Murrell family's passion for burgers and commitment to providing a memorable dining experience played a significant role in shaping the brand. They believed that a great burger should be made with fresh, never frozen beef, and cooked to perfection. This dedication to quality resonated with customers, who soon became loyal fans of Five Guys.

As the popularity of Five Guys grew, the brand expanded its reach beyond Arlington. The Murrell family decided to franchise the business, allowing others to share in their vision and passion for great burgers. This decision proved to be a turning point for Five Guys, as it allowed the brand to rapidly expand and gain a foothold in the competitive fast-food industry.

Related: KFC Marketing Strategy: A Comprehensive Analysis

Core Values and Brand Identity

Central to Five Guys' marketing strategy is its strong brand identity and core values. From the start, the company has focused on offering high-quality, made-to-order burgers that are cooked to perfection. By prioritizing freshness, taste, and simplicity, Five Guys has managed to carve out a unique position in the highly competitive fast-food industry. This commitment to excellence is deeply ingrained in the brand's culture and is evident in every aspect of its marketing efforts.

Five Guys takes pride in its commitment to using only the freshest ingredients. The brand sources its beef from trusted suppliers who share their dedication to quality. The buns are baked fresh daily, ensuring that each burger is served on a soft and delicious foundation. The toppings, ranging from classic lettuce and tomato to more adventurous options like grilled mushrooms and jalapenos, are carefully selected to complement the flavors of the burger.

Another key aspect of Five Guys' brand identity is its focus on simplicity. The menu is intentionally kept small, with the emphasis placed on perfecting a few core items rather than offering an overwhelming array of choices. This approach allows Five Guys to maintain consistency and ensures that each burger is made with the same attention to detail and quality.

Five Guys' commitment to excellence extends beyond the food itself. The brand prides itself on providing exceptional customer service, creating a welcoming and friendly atmosphere in its restaurants. The staff is trained to deliver a personalized experience, going above and beyond to ensure that every customer leaves satisfied. This dedication to customer satisfaction has helped Five Guys build a loyal customer base and establish itself as a trusted and beloved brand.

Related: Liquid Death Marketing Strategy Case Study: Slaying the Beverage Industry with Killer Branding and Marketing

The Role of Social Media in Five Guys' Marketing

In today's digital age, social media plays a crucial role in any marketing strategy , and Five Guys is no exception. The brand has successfully utilized platforms like Instagram and Twitter to enhance its marketing efforts and connect with its target audience .

Leveraging Instagram for Brand Visibility

When it comes to visual marketing, Five Guys has found great success on Instagram. The platform allows the brand to showcase mouth-watering images of its burgers, fries, and other offerings. By carefully curating visually appealing content, Five Guys has not only increased brand visibility but also created a community of enthusiastic burger lovers who proudly share their Five Guys experiences online.

Through Instagram, Five Guys has managed to capture the attention of its target audience and tap into the power of user-generated content. By encouraging customers to share their own photos and experiences with the brand, Five Guys has effectively turned its customers into brand ambassadors. This organic form of marketing not only helps spread the word about Five Guys but also builds trust and credibility among potential customers.

Moreover, Five Guys understands the importance of engaging with its Instagram followers. The brand actively responds to comments, questions, and feedback, fostering a sense of connection and loyalty among its online community. By taking the time to engage with its followers, Five Guys shows that it values its customers and is committed to providing excellent service both online and offline.

Related: Exploring Popeyes' Successful Marketing Strategy

Engaging Customers through Twitter

In addition to Instagram, Five Guys has also embraced Twitter as a means to connect directly with its customers. The brand understands that Twitter is a platform where conversations happen in real-time, making it an ideal channel for customer engagement .

By actively monitoring and responding to customer inquiries, feedback, and even occasional humorous banter, Five Guys has fostered a sense of engagement and loyalty among its fanbase. This personalized approach to social media has not only strengthened customer relationships but also generated positive word-of-mouth, further bolstering the brand's image.

Furthermore, Five Guys uses Twitter as a platform to share updates about new menu items, promotions, and special offers. By keeping its followers informed and engaged, Five Guys ensures that its customers feel valued and included in the brand's journey.

In conclusion, Five Guys recognizes the power of social media in today's marketing landscape. By leveraging platforms like Instagram and Twitter, the brand has successfully increased brand visibility, fostered customer engagement, and built a loyal community of burger enthusiasts. As social media continues to evolve, Five Guys remains committed to staying at the forefront of digital marketing, ensuring that its message reaches and resonates with its target audience.

Offline Marketing Techniques of Five Guys

Five Guys, the renowned burger chain, has not only embraced the digital marketing era but also recognizes the enduring power of offline marketing techniques . In addition to their successful online campaigns, Five Guys employs a variety of strategies to engage with customers and promote their brand in the physical world.

In-Store Promotions and Advertisements

While digital marketing has become increasingly prevalent, Five Guys understands the importance of in-store promotions and advertisements. They have mastered the art of enticing customers through special deals and limited-time offers. Whether it's a mouthwatering combo meal or an innovative burger variation, Five Guys knows how to captivate taste buds and keep customers coming back for more.

Step into any Five Guys outlet, and you'll be greeted by a feast for the eyes. The strategic placement of posters, banners, and vibrant menu boards serves as a constant reminder of the brand's delicious offerings. The carefully crafted visuals not only showcase their menu items but also create an inviting and visually appealing dining experience. It's hard to resist the temptation when you're surrounded by such appetizing displays.

Community Engagement and Local Events

Five Guys understands the importance of building strong connections with the local community. They actively engage in various community events, sponsorships, and charitable initiatives. By supporting local causes and giving back, Five Guys not only strengthens its brand image but also fosters a sense of loyalty among its customers.

Whether it's sponsoring a local sports team or participating in a charity run, Five Guys goes above and beyond to connect with the community. They understand that by actively engaging in local events, they can create a positive association with their brand in the minds of customers. This community-centric approach not only benefits the community but also helps Five Guys build a loyal customer base that appreciates their commitment to making a difference.

Moreover, Five Guys understands that people love to support businesses that share their values and actively contribute to the betterment of society. By aligning themselves with local events and causes, Five Guys showcases their dedication to the community and positions themselves as a brand that cares.

In conclusion, Five Guys' offline marketing techniques complement their digital efforts and play a vital role in their overall marketing strategy. Through in-store promotions, visually appealing advertisements, and active community engagement, Five Guys continues to captivate customers and create a lasting impression in the physical world.

The Impact of Five Guys' Marketing Strategy

Customer loyalty and retention.

Through its consistent delivery of quality burgers and engaging marketing efforts, Five Guys has managed to foster customer loyalty and retention. By establishing a sense of trust and satisfaction, the brand has created a loyal following that keeps coming back for its renowned burgers. This dedicated customer base acts as a powerful marketing tool, as satisfied customers often recommend Five Guys to friends and family, thereby increasing brand reach organically.

Brand Recognition and Market Position

Five Guys' marketing strategy has undoubtedly played a significant role in boosting its brand recognition and strengthening its market position. The brand's unwavering commitment to quality, combined with its innovative marketing tactics, has allowed it to stand out in a saturated market. Today, Five Guys is recognized as a top contender in the fast-food industry and has successfully positioned itself as a go-to choice for burger enthusiasts across the globe.

Future Marketing Directions for Five Guys

Potential digital marketing innovations.

As technology continues to advance, Five Guys has several opportunities to explore digital marketing innovations. From personalized mobile apps that offer exclusive discounts and rewards to interactive online ordering systems, the brand can further enhance the customer experience and create a seamless digital presence. By adopting cutting-edge marketing technologies, Five Guys can continue to stay ahead in the fast-food industry.

Sustainability and Ethical Marketing Initiatives

In recent years, consumers have become increasingly conscious of sustainability and ethical considerations. Five Guys can leverage this trend by incorporating sustainability initiatives into its marketing strategy. This could include promoting eco-friendly packaging solutions, sourcing local ingredients, and partnering with organizations focused on environmental conservation. By aligning itself with ethical values, Five Guys can attract an even wider audience and solidify its position as a socially responsible brand.

In conclusion, Five Guys' marketing strategy consists of a well-rounded approach that encompasses both online and offline techniques. By understanding the brand's history, core values, and leveraging the power of social media, Five Guys has successfully built a loyal customer base. Additionally, the brand's offline marketing techniques, community engagement, and in-store promotions have contributed to its overall success. Moving forward, Five Guys has the opportunity to capitalize on digital marketing innovations and incorporate sustainability initiatives to further strengthen its market presence and cater to evolving consumer demands. With its relentless commitment to quality and innovative marketing strategies, Five Guys continues to thrive in the competitive fast-food industry.

About the Author

Hi, I'm Justin and I write Brand Credential. I started Brand Credential as a resource to help share expertise from my 10-year brand building journey. ‍ I currently serve as the VP of Marketing for a tech company where I oversee all go-to-market functions. Throughout my career I've helped companies scale revenue to millions of dollars, helped executives build personal brands, and created hundreds of pieces of content since starting to write online in 2012.

As always, thank you so much for reading. If you’d like more personal branding and marketing tips, here are more ways I can help in the meantime:

• Connect with me on LinkedIn .
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How to Start a French Fries Business in the Philippines

Any Filipino who has live their whole life in the Philippines know just how much of a food junkie they can be. From fried siomai to the world famous French fries (that were not really invented in France!), Filipinos find a way to stuff themselves all afternoon with these delectable meriendas.

French Fries are undoubtedly consumed the most by everyone in the country. In each and every corner of the mall, to nearby transportation terminals, you would not be able to avoid seeing a French fry stall that is hounded by hungry customers.

Indeed, there is a lot of money to be made when you make your own French fries. However, we all know that there are popular franchises available already to make things easier for you, why not choose that? Unfortunately, while they are able to provide you with years’ worth of experience and knowledge in the business and the equipment necessary to run the stall, it is nothing compared to running things your own way! Yes, with franchised businesses, you must follow the rules and procedures however the higher ups see fit.

Moreover, the profit and royalties that goes toward the franchiser, often in a large percentage. What results is a reduced potential for income, and long return of investment. So what if I tell you that it is relatively easy to do things your way?

If you are interested in how to start a French fries business in the Philippines, then keep reading on to know what you need before you establish one to ensure your successful venture in a very profitable business.

Choose the best location for the business

Location is the most important aspect in starting your own french fries business in the philippines.

A French fries business is ideal at malls (food courts), beaches (beachfront), parks (activity centers), and especially at schools in the cafeteria. Your best bet is staying somewhere where cheap food is lacking and merienda is mostly sought after!

This is where schools and office buildings offer the highest profitability in terms of area location. Depending on the school, whether it is elementary, secondary, or tertiary, a good French fries business can profit from a large location with thousands of people at any given day.

Come up with a business plan

A business is no good without a business plan! Continuing with the war metaphor, a strategy cannot be formed without a map of the warfare. While most think that small businesses such as a French fries business do not require a business plan, this is farther than the truth. Whether you are a big time megacorporation, or a small time mom and pop store, it is essential to have a business plan.

The business plan usually covers the aspects of goals, competitors, target market, location, and competitive advantages that your business may provide compared to the rest of the competition.

You can think of the business plan as a guide and a road map toward the right direction where you should go to be able to maximize your potential for success and profitability!

Register your business

Your french fries business should get its own name.

A business should always comply with the necessary requirements, such as registering the name at the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) if you are the sole proprietor, or to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) if you plan on having a partnership or corporation.

Invest in the right equipment

Equipment that you should look out for are a cutting machine (optional) for the potatoes, deep frying machine, a stand for your business, strainers for oil and flavored powder.

Non-stock supplies should also be considered as they are perishable and used up. They will often be needed to be bought frequently such as the cooking oil, salt, pepper, flavored powder, and sauces.

Get in the good sides of their suppliers and you will be taken cared of properly!

Maintain good practices

A customer that eats food is the most “nitpicky” of its kind. Be careful with your equipment, and always clean them at the end of the day to make them spotless. This reduces the possibility of them breaking down.

Practicing good hygiene such as wearing gloves and washing your hands (or your employees), are a good way to reduce the likelihood of food sickness and liability that may incur due to carelessness.

2 responses to “How to Start a French Fries Business in the Philippines”

Looking for french fries frying machine for a cart business.

May I know how much would it cost to make french fries business with own brand name here in Philippines?

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Restaurants, Food and Drink

Restaurants, food and drink | san jose: the bay area’s first burger pit opened in 1953. the last one is closing tuesday, founder's motto — 'good food at reasonable prices' — rings true for 71 years.

When the Burger Pit opened for lunch at noon earlier this week, 29 customers were queued up in the line that snaked from the register to the front door. Less than an hour later, 25 more eager eaters had arrived at this restaurant that’s been a fixture on San Jose’s Blossom Hill Road since 1964. And then more.

“It’s been this way for two months,” said the aptly named owner, Paul Berger, who arrived at 8 a.m. and wouldn’t get a chance to sit for even a few minutes until 3 p.m. He’d actually given his devoted clientele a year’s worth of notice that his lease would be up in April 2024. Many hoped it wouldn’t come to this conclusion, but Tuesday, April 23, is the last day for the last remaining location.

When the last Steerburger leaves the grill that night, the South Bay-based Burger Pit chain — which at various times boasted restaurants in Sunnyvale, Los Gatos, Saratoga, Milpitas, Fremont and south to Santa Cruz, Capitola, Salinas — will end its run.

With his lease up and the landlord raising the rent by nearly 70%, Berger said “there’s no way” to continue. The pandemic was rough on the restaurant, and he still needs to repay some loans.

“After 71 years, it will be done,” he added ruefully. “It’s time.”

His father, Oakland native Albert Berger, and a few business partners launched the business in 1953 as the Burger Bar. That walk-up stand at First and Keyes streets in downtown San Jose famously sold a bag of 10 burgers for a buck — an appealing deal for hungry students at then-San Jose State College. The first location to be called a Burger Pit opened in Cupertino in 1956.

“We were before McDonald’s and everybody,” Berger said, noting that his father, an ice cream salesman for Swift & Co., met Ray Kroc when the McDonald’s founder was selling ice cream mixers.

“(Kroc) and I had the same idea,” the senior Berger told the Mercury News in a 1991 interview, “but he had more brains than I did. More brains, more money and more backing.”

What Berger did have was a motto that he instilled in his staff and family: “Good food at reasonable prices.” After his retirement in 1986 and death in 1998, son Paul, who became a manager after studies at Santa Clara University and a stint in the military, took over the business and maintained that philosophy. Today, Burger Pit’s half-pound Steerburger — with tomato, onions, pickles, leafy lettuce and condiments — goes for $9.99, only a few bucks more than the much smaller Quarter Pounder.

That affordability is prized, especially in these inflationary times.

“The food’s great, and the price is right,” said Howard Shirley, a neighborhood resident who has eaten here for decades with fellow retiree Doug Carman, from the Berryessa area. They waited in line for Shirley’s current favorite, Flat-Iron Steak with baked potato and garlic bread ($17.99; the Lunch Steak is just $11.59 and the Ribeye Steak Sandwich $12.59) and Carman’s go-to burger (“I haven’t found any better. Quality meat”).

During these final weeks, Berger, 75, isn’t just selling lots of burgers and steaks. The restaurant goes through 10 gallons of the mild beef-and-bean chili every day. That’s one of the recipes customers have been requesting from Berger — to no avail.

“The chili recipe is going in my casket with me,” he said. However, he offered one hint for home cooks: He adds an “unconventional ingredient” that he said thickens the mixture but doesn’t change the color. (And no, it isn’t flour or cornstarch.)

Diners have been clamoring for the blue cheese salad dressing recipe too. “The blue cheese has teriyaki glaze and horseradish in it. I think that’s what gives it its zip,” he divulged. (And yes, he said that on the record.)

Customers also have been buying memorabilia off the walls and shelves. A huge shipment of commemorative coffee mugs sold quickly.  Berger’s keeping most of what remains, including the black-and-white snapshots of Burger Pits through the years and a large collage of newspaper ads they ran in the San Jose Mercury and San Jose News back in the day.

The morning after the restaurant closes, Berger will start selling the kitchen equipment, restaurant fixtures and any remaining food and keepsakes. He’s hoping San Jose’s preservationists will be interested in his donation of the iconic Burger Pit sign, with its steer-head initial B and its neon tubes currently protected by plastic.

Besides the nostalgic “time machine” feel of this place and its comfort food, customers say they will miss the conviviality most of all.

Shirley and Carman made this pilgrimage not just for lunch but to say goodbye to the Pit’s employees and thank them for their service. Manager Jody Millermon will be retiring after 29 years with the company. Other long-timers include dining room staffer Jose Zamora and cooks Rob Wilson and George Yang.

Karen Boettcher has been eating here since she was young enough to draw pictures with the crayons that Burger Pit always provided to keep young customers occupied. “It’s like an old friend is leaving us,” she said.

Other regulars making final visits included a group of about 40 retired Santa Clara County sheriff’s deputies, who have met up here on the third Thursday of every month for nearly two decades; a Corvette club that counts Berger among its members; and students and alumni from Pioneer High School just down the street.

“Sad” summed up nearby resident Connie Engh’s feelings. She and her husband have dined here since the 1970s. “The staff is fantastic, so kind,” she said.

“It’s been our home away from home. I’m going to miss it a lot.”

Details: For its final days, this last Burger Pit will be open its usual hours, noon to 8 p.m. Midafternoon is the best time to try to avoid the very long lines. The post-closing sale will start at 9 a.m. April 24 and run daily through April 30. The restaurant is located at 1349 Blossom Hill Road, at Kooser Road; 408-269-8062.       .

Biographical information reported by former Mercury News staffers Mike Cassidy and Mack Lundstrom contributed to this article.

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If you're a fan of ButterBurgers, cheese curds and frozen custard, you're going to want to keep reading.

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Contributing: Jessica Rodriguez, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X  @GabeHauari  or email him at [email protected].