
Are you an foodie with dreams of running your own food franchise?
Well, Hot dog!
Because the CRAVE Hot Dogs and BBQ franchise might just be the sizzling opportunity you’ve been searching for.
With that in mind, let’s break down the financial landscape of this emerging fast-casual dining concept.
CRAVE Hot Dogs and BBQ Franchise: Initial Investment Overview
From their franchise website:
“Hot dog franchise owners typically report never experiencing sluggish hot dog sales simply because everybody loves hot dogs!”
Let’s continue.
Embarking on a franchise journey is an exciting venture, and CRAVE Hot Dogs and BBQ offers a compelling opportunity in the fast-casual dining landscape. This comprehensive breakdown will dive deep into the financial aspects of joining the CRAVE family.
1. Brick and Mortar Locations: Building Your Restaurant Empire
Total Investment Range: $262,000 – $1,193,000
This substantial investment range reflects the versatility of CRAVE’s brick-and-mortar concept.
Specifically, the lower end might represent a smaller location in a less competitive market, while the higher end could indicate a premium spot in a high-traffic urban area.
Financial Prerequisites:
- Liquid Capital: Minimum $150,000
- This ensures you have working capital beyond the initial investment
- Covers initial inventory, staffing, and unexpected expenses
- Net Worth: Minimum $200,000
- Demonstrates financial stability and ability to support the business
- Franchise Fee: $45,000
- Includes initial brand rights and comprehensive training program
Breaking Down the Investment:
- Real estate costs
- BBQ Restaurant build-out and equipment
- Initial inventory
- Marketing launch expenses
- Working capital buffer
2. CRAVE Food Truck Option: Mobility Meets Culinary Innovation
Investment Highlights:
- Liquid Capital: $70,000
- Franchise Fee: $30,000
- Credit Score Requirement: 680 minimum
- Additional Qualification: Valid driver’s license
The food truck model offers a more flexible and potentially lower-risk entry point. With lower overhead and the ability to move to different locations, this option appeals to entrepreneurs seeking a dynamic business model.
Investment Breakdown:
- Food truck purchase or lease
- Initial equipment
- Branding and wrap design
- Initial food inventory
- Licensing and permit costs
More Financial Information for the CRAVE Hot Dogs and BBQ Franchise Opportunity
Franchise Fees: More Than Just a Number
Standard Fees:
- Brick and Mortar: $45,000
- Food Truck: $30,000
Unique Discount Opportunities:
- Multi-unit ownership discounts
- Substantial veteran discounts
- Over 90% of current franchisees are veterans or active-duty service members
- Reflects CRAVE’s commitment to supporting military community
Financing Strategies
The franchise development team at CRAVE Hot Dogs and BBQ understands that funding can be a significant hurdle for potential franchisees:
- SBA-approved status simplifies loan acquisition
- Partnerships with third-party lenders
- Flexible financing options
- Potential for phased investment approach
Here’s a partial look at the CRAVE Hot Dogs and BBQ franchise menu:

CRAVE Hot Dogs and BBQ Franchise: Comprehensive Support
Your franchise fee is a gateway to a robust support ecosystem:
Training Program: “Crave University“
- Two-week intensive training
- Covers all operational aspects
- Includes:
- Food preparation techniques
- Customer service protocols
- Technology system management
- Marketing strategies
- Followed by on-site training at your specific location
Operational Support from CRAVE
- Continuous guidance on daily operations
- Best practice sharing
- Access to franchisee network
- Regular performance reviews and improvement strategies
Technological Integration
- The CRAVE Hot Dogs and BBQ point-of-sale system
- Mobile app with features:
- Online ordering
- Delivery management
- Loyalty program
- Catering services integration
Market Potential and Industry Context
The fast-casual dining sector represents a $42.2 billion industry as of 2018, with continued growth projected. CRAVE’s unique positioning offers several competitive advantages:
- Customizable menu
- Dietary accommodation (vegetarian/vegan options)
- Technology-driven customer experience
- Family-friendly brand positioning
Ideal CRAVE Hot Dogs and BBQ Franchisee Profile: Beyond Financial Metrics
CRAVE seeks entrepreneurs who embody:
- Culinary passion
- Customer service excellence
- Strong leadership capabilities
- Entrepreneurial drive
- Financial preparedness
- Adaptability and innovation mindset
Transparency and Due Diligence
Important Considerations:
- Request comprehensive financial documentation
- Investigate current royalty fee structure
- Speak with existing franchisees
- Conduct market research in your specific location
- Consider long-term growth potential
Final Investment Perspective
The CRAVE Hot Dogs and BBQ franchise represents more than a financial investment—it’s an opportunity to build a community-focused, technology-enabled dining business.
Finally, if you’re interested in a unique food franchise, contact CRAVE’s franchise development team to get more specific information.
(Images of Crave menu and Crave Hot Dogs and Barbeque logo courtesy of the Crave consumer website)