If you’ve been looking to open your own Cook Out franchise, we have bad news: Cook Out is privately owned and does not currently franchise. If you’re still interested in owning a burger restaurant, however, we have some great burger franchise alternatives.
All About Cook Out
Cook Out is a quick-serve burger concept that was first founded in Greensboro, NC, in 1989. Known for their drive-thru services and take-out seating, the chain eventually grew to offer dine-in services, offering affordable eats ranging from burgers to barbecue, wraps, and more in over 200 locations across 10 Southern states. Also well-known for their milkshakes, Cook Out boasts more than 40 flavors, including seasonal offerings. They are also known for their Cheerwine Float, a unique spin on a regional favorite. Cook Out locations keep flexible store hours, often staying open as late as 3am to serve hungry night owls.
In terms of franchise vs. chain restaurants, franchising combines the best aspects of a popular brand with the support and expert-driven guidance of a team that is invested in each of its franchise owner’s success. Since Cook Out doesn’t offer franchising, the brand can technically be considered a chain. There are, however, a variety of promising options that share some of the brand’s best qualities — variety, affordability, convenience — that are worth exploring for prospective franchise owners.
Checkers & Rally’s: Drive-Thru Burgers
Checkers and Rally’s used to be two separate double-drive-thru burger chains that merged into a single company in 1999. Both brands prioritize efficiency by serving only drive-thru customers with double lanes to accommodate higher volume while maintaining a minimal real estate footprint.
Franchising since 1989, the number of locations stands at 840, of which 254 are company-owned. All are located in the U.S.
The company promises a category-leading return on investment, which is not insignificant. Ideal franchise candidates are already multi-unit owners with a minimum net worth of $750,000 and $250,000 in liquid assets per location. The initial investment to own a Checkers or Rally’s franchise ranges between $724,523 and $2,009,400, with an ongoing combined royalty fee of 8.5%.
While existing franchise owners report satisfaction with the brand, the cost of entry may prove prohibitive for newer entrepreneurs.
Fatburger: A Hefty Order
Fatburger is known for their massive, loaded burgers cooked to order along with a selection of sandwiches, salads, and various sides. Founded in Los Angeles in 1952, the brand currently operates 183 locations, over half of which are located internationally.
With an emphasis on nostalgia, Fatburger boasts nearly six decades of successful burger industry experience to attract new franchisees. While Fatburger does not explicitly require previous ownership experience, they do suggest an entrepreneurial spirit and strong management and leadership skills for prospective franchisees. Fatburger requires a minimum net worth of $1.5 million and at least $500,000 in liquid assets.
The initial investment for owning a Fatburger franchise ranges between $459,169 and $1,076,000, with combined royalty fees of 10%. Fatburger may be a particularly appealing option for prospective multi-unit owners, as qualified candidates can secure exclusive development rights to multiple restaurants in a specified area.
Wayback Burgers: A Delicious Opportunity
Known for an honest, uncomplicated approach to burgers and franchising, Wayback Burgers serves delicious, cooked-to-order burgers, fries, hand dipped milkshakes, sandwiches and more while constantly innovating fresh ideas to stand out from the other fast-casual burger concepts. Wayback offers an affordable, unique menu while offering seasonal treats and limited-time offers (LTOs) to entice guests and keep franchise owners busy and successful.
Founded in 1991 and franchising since 2008, Wayback Burgers currently operates 170+ locations around the world with no signs of slowing down. With a net worth requirement of $300,000 and $125,000 in liquid capital, Wayback Burgers offers a much more accessible opportunity to prospective franchise owners than many of its competitors. Furthermore, no prior restaurant experience is required, as the Wayback team provides comprehensive training and ongoing support in all areas of restaurant ownership.
The initial investment to own a Wayback Burgers franchise ranges between $209,000 and $524,500, allowing for an affordable opportunity for enthusiastic entrepreneurs from all backgrounds to build their future with a winning brand.
Beyond the affordable investment and world-class support, the Wayback culture is what truly sets the brand apart. Community partnerships and charitable initiatives are at the heart of the Wayback mission, and our expert marketing team encourages franchise owners to get involved and form lasting relationships with both their guests and local organizations.
Learn More About Wayback Burgers Franchise
Whether you are a first-time business owner or a seasoned investor, Wayback Burgers provides the support and proven success to help you achieve your goals.
To learn more about franchising opportunities, get started with Wayback Burgers today.