Joel Libava
If you’d like to know how much a Wingstop franchise is, the cost and fees associated with opening a location (or 3) of this chicken wing business, read this post. It’s chock full of details.
Wingstop is a Fast-Growing Food Franchise
If you’re eyeing a Wingstop chicken wing franchise, you’re potentially looking at one of the fastest-growing players in the quick-service restaurant space.
From a recent Press Release:
“2024 results demonstrated the strength and staying power of our strategies we are executing against, translating into another record year, opened 349 net new restaurants – a remarkable 15.8% growth rate, demonstrating the strength of our unit economics and confidence in our strategies by our Brand Partners,” said Michael Skipworth, President and Chief Executive Officer.
Skipworth continues…
“As we enter 2025, we remain confident in the strategies we are executing and the opportunities in front of us as we work towards our goal of becoming a Top 10 Global Restaurant Brand.”
But before you start dreaming about those signature sauces and loyal customers, let’s talk numbers – the cost of a Wingstop franchise, because this investment isn’t chicken feed.
Wingstop Franchise Cost: Here’s The Bottom Line Up Front
Want the quick numbers? Here’s what you need to have ready to buy a Wingstop franchise:
- Minimum net worth: $1.2 million
- Liquid capital requirement: $600,000
- Total investment range: $315,310 to $975,000
- Wingstop franchise fee: $20,000 per store
- Development fee: Additional $10,000 per store
But here’s the kicker – you can’t just open one store.
That’s because the franchise executives in charge of Wingstop require a minimum 3-store commitment for new territories. So multiply those numbers accordingly when planning your investment.
P.S. in my experience, you should plan on opening at least 3 units when you’re talking about fast food franchises like Wingstop. Otherwise, it may not be worth it, profit-wise.
Breaking Down Wingstop Franchise Costs
Let’s dive deeper into what these numbers mean for your entrepreneurial journey.
Try My Free Franchise Buying Calculators Now!
For starters, the initial investment range of $315,310 to $975,000 covers everything you need to get your doors open:
- Real estate and leasehold improvements
- Equipment and fixtures
- Initial inventory
- Training expenses
- Opening advertising and promotional costs
Think of it as buying a complete business system, not just a brand name.
And speaking of systems, Wingstop’s focus on takeout and delivery means you might be looking at smaller storefronts compared to traditional restaurants – a potential advantage when it comes to real estate costs.
How Much is a Wingstop Franchise? The Ongoing Costs And Fees
Your relationship with Wingstop doesn’t end after the initial investment. Here’s what you’ll need to budget for ongoing operations:
- Royalty fee: 6% of gross sales
- National advertising fund: 4% of gross sales
- Local advertising: Up to 1% of gross sales
- Additional fees: Website maintenance ($25/month), potential training fees, and non-reporting penalties
Wingstop Franchise Profits
But what about franchisee profit?
How much can you make as a Wingstop franchise owner?
With regards to franchisee earnings and profit, I have a simple philosophy.
I don’t go into those numbers. That’s for you to do. Why?
Because it’s your money. Plus, it’s not like I own a Wingstop franchise or 3.
That said, it shouldn’t be difficult for you to find out how much Wingstop franchisees make.
That is, as long as you ask the franchisees the right way.
Bluntly, you can’t ask them how much they’re making right out of the gate. You need to ease into it. Want to learn how? Go here.
Is Wingstop Worth the Investment?
Let’s get real – these are significant numbers we’re talking about. Wingstop franchise costs are up there.
But consider this: there are over 1,500 Wingstop franchises open worldwide and the company continues to grow at a good rate.
Additionally, Wingstop, as a franchise opportunity, has proven its resilience and ability to adapt, especially with its strong digital ordering system and efficient takeout model.
Here’s what makes Wingstop franchises particularly interesting:
- Lower overhead due to smaller footprint requirements
- Strong digital presence reducing front-of-house staffing needs
- Proven track record of growth
- Simple menu focusing on what they do best – wings
The Fine Print
Before you start counting your wing sauce bottles, there are some important caveats to consider when looking at buying a Wingstop franchise:
- There’s no absentee ownership. You must be actively involved in this fast food business
- Wingstop may be perfect for hands-on small business owners, not passive investors
- Previous multi-unit restaurant management experience preferred
- Franchise ownership background is a plus
- Territory requirements include a 3-store minimum commitment
- Territory size is based on population density and drive times
Wingstop Franchise Cost And Opportunity: The Bottom Line
Is the cost of a Wingstop franchise worth it?
If you have the capital, experience, and drive to manage a multi-unit fast food operation, the opportunity looks pretty good.
But remember – this isn’t just about having deep pockets.
Success in the franchise world requires operational expertise, dedication to the brand’s systems, and a commitment to hands-on management.
So, if you’re ready to dive into the world of chicken wings with both feet (and both wings), Wingstop might just be the franchise opportunity you’ve been looking for.
Finally, as always, I encourage you to do your homework – talk to existing franchisees, review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) thoroughly, and consult with professionals before making your decision.
Because when it’s all said and done, you want to make sure all your ducks (or in this case, wings) are in a row.
(Images of the Wingstop restaurant, interior, and menu items courtesy of the Wingstop franchise website)
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