Interested in owning a burger shop franchise? Learn how a Johnny Rockets franchise compares to a Wayback Burgers franchise, so you can make the best investment choice for you.
The Johnny Rockets Story
Johnny Rockets was founded in Los Angeles in 1986 and started franchising the following year. The brand bills itself as serving up “Burgers, Shakes, Fries & Fun!” The name itself comes from two Americana ideals: Johnny Appleseed and the classic Oldsmobile Rocket 88. With over 250 locations currently in operation internationally, Johnny Rockets’ fast-casual model leans on the nostalgia of a 1950s diner with a timeless menu and inviting atmosphere.
Johnny Rockets offers both single-unit and multi-unit investments in traditional locations and alternative venues including theme parks, airports, sports arenas, etc. They even have an option for stationery or mobile food trucks.
When looking at what a Johnny Rockets franchise costs, it can vary depending on location, size, and other factors, but you’re looking at a substantial amount upfront. This includes franchise fees, real estate, construction, equipment, and initial operating capital. The total upfront cost to own a Johnny Rockets franchise will run between $507,138 and $1,685,888. This does not include ongoing costs, such as the 6% royalty fee. Prospective franchisees are expected to possess a net worth of $1,500,000 and liquid cash availability of $500,000.
What About Wayback Burgers
Wayback Burgers started as a humble hamburger stand in Delaware in 1991. With a focus on authentic simplicity and well-crafted, quality food, the brand began franchising in 2008 and has since expanded to over 170 locations across the globe.
As a growing franchise, Wayback Burgers takes pride in transparency and support, offering detailed cost breakdowns and financial guidance to prospective franchisees. With our commitment to honest, uncomplicated food and a culture of hard work and guest service, we have positioned ourselves as a brand that customers can count on.
Owning a Wayback Burgers franchise requires an initial investment of $209,000 to $698,000. Prospective franchise owners are asked to possess a net worth of $400,000 to $500,000 and $200,000 to $250,000 in cash-on-hand. Qualified veterans are also offered $5,000 off the initial franchise fee as an incentive. The ongoing royalty fee for Wayback Burgers is 5%.
Let’s look at a side-by-side financial comparison between Johnny Rockets and Wayback Burgers:
| Johnny Rockets | Wayback Burgers | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | |||
| Franchise Fee | $50,000 | $35,000 | |
| Initial Investment | |||
| Initial Investment | $507,138 – $1,685,888 | $209,000 – $698,000 | |
| Ongoing Royalty Fee | |||
| Ongoing Royalty Fee | 6% | 5% | |
| Net Worth Requirement | |||
| Net Worth Requirement | $1,500,000 | $400,000 – $500,000 | |
| Cash Requirement | |||
| Cash Requirement | $500,000 | $200,000 – $250,000 | |
Based on these numbers alone, Wayback Burgers offers a more attainable franchising opportunity. But what else makes the investment more compelling than Johnny Rockets?
A Better Burger
Wayback Burgers emphasizes a philosophy that combines honest, delicious, simple food with a strong work ethic and excellent guest service. Wayback Burgers and Johnny Rockets may share a similar nostalgic flair, but Wayback Burgers also continues growing and adapting with new technologies and menu developments to provide the best experience for both diners and franchise owners. Whether through our proprietary Wayback app which allows customers to easily access our menu, order, and collect rewards, or advancements in the way we train and support our staff, Wayback Burgers has an appreciation for the past with an eye toward the future.
The leadership team at Wayback Burgers understands what it’s taken us to grow from a single hamburger stand into an international success. Our franchisees know they can rely on us for comprehensive training and ongoing marketing and operational support.
To learn more about franchising with Wayback Burgers, get started.