1851

LAST UPDATED: December 2023FRANCHISE WEBSITE:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.captaindsfranchising.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-captain-ds-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2724729" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.captaindsfranchising.com/</a>&nbsp;NUMBER OF LOCATIONS:&nbsp; 500+REPORTED COST TO GET IN:&nbsp; $898,600 to $1,354,200REPORTED ROI (Item 19):&nbsp;N/A<a href="https://www.captaindsfranchising.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-captain-ds-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2724729" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Captain D's</a> is a fast-casual seafood franchise known for serving a variety of fried and grilled seafood dishes in a family-friendly setting.<h3>How Many Captain D’s Locations Are There?</h3>Captain D's began in 1969 when it opened as "Mr. D’s Seafood and Hamburgers" in Donelson, Tennessee, with a mission to offer quality seafood at reasonable prices. By 1973, due to the widespread popularity of its affordable seafood, the chain expanded to 15 locations across the United States. In 1974, the company underwent a significant transformation, changing its name to Captain D’s Seafood, and focusing exclusively on classic fish, shrimp and side dishes. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Captain D’s continued to evolve, adapting its logo and building design, and experimenting with new menu items. It became a go-to, family-friendly destination for seafood enthusiasts.In 2012, Captain D’s rolled out a coastal ambiance redesign to enhance its experience for guests. Today, with over 500 locations, the brand remains committed to providing quality food, affordable prices and excellent service.&nbsp;Captain D's ambitious expansion plan aims to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.restaurantdive.com/news/franchise-spotlight-captain-ds-leans-into-flexible-formats-as-it-aims-for-1k-units/650116/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-captain-ds-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2724729" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">surpass 1,000 units</a>. The company targets opening between 25 and 40 locations annually, with a focus on both new and legacy franchisees. Expansion efforts include Colorado, Florida, Michigan, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio and Texas.&nbsp;<h3>What Is the Captain D’s Business Model?</h3>Key elements of the Captain D’s business model include:&nbsp;Menu Focus on Seafood:&nbsp;Captain D's specializes in seafood offerings, including fish, shrimp and various side dishes..Affordability: The business model aims to make seafood accessible to a broad customer base, positioning Captain D's as an affordable dining option.Training and Development:&nbsp;To ensure the success of new franchisees, Captain D's places a strong emphasis on training. General managers undergo a minimum of six weeks of training, while assistant managers complete a minimum of four weeks at certified training stores across the U.S. Additionally, trainers visit new restaurants for at least two weeks after opening.Real Estate Selection: Captain D's uses a combination of its real estate team's expertise and analytical data to select ideal locations. The company assesses different demographics to understand how well a restaurant will perform in a particular region. Members of Captain D's corporate team visit potential sites before approving them.Flexible Prototypes: The company has developed flexible restaurant prototypes to cater to various community needs. The introduction of different kitchen designs allows franchisees to choose a prototype that best suits their target market, whether it's a larger dine-in community or one more focused on drive-thru services.Innovations in Drive-Thru:&nbsp;Captain D's has embraced innovations in its drive-thru services. The introduction of double drive-thrus, featuring two menu boards, has proven successful, serving more cars daily and reducing drive-thru times. The company is also considering deploying staff with tablets outside to enhance the ordering process.Express Model and Conversions:&nbsp;The company introduced a smaller unit, Captain D’s Express, which only offers drive-thru and pickup services. This model, about half the size of the larger prototype, provides additional flexibility. Captain D's has also achieved success in converting existing locations from other brands such as Church’s Chicken, Burger King, Taco Bell and Bojangles.Franchisee Criteria:&nbsp;While the company has seen success with multi-unit franchisees, it is open to single-unit operators with restaurant experience. Captain D's prefers operators who have established geographical territories, are engaged with their communities and have a strategic approach to expansion.<h3>How Much Can Captain D’s Franchise Owners Make?</h3>Captain D’s average unit volume is $1,303,559. The average earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, and restructuring or rent costs (EBITDAR) is $372,153.&nbsp;<h3>How Much Does It Cost To Open Captain D’s?</h3>The total investment ranges from $898,600 to $1,354,200. Below is a breakdown of costs.&nbsp;<ul><li>Franchise and Development Fee: $35K</li><li>Real Estate: Costs Vary by Area</li><li>Building and Leasehold Improvements: $550K–$815K</li><li>Training Expenses: $25K–$46K</li><li>Equipment: $201,600–$292,100</li><li>Computer Systems: $25K–$34,100</li><li>Inventory: $6K–$8K</li><li>Miscellaneous Opening Expenses: $5K–$9K</li><li>Insurance: $11K–$25K</li><li>Additional Funds — Three Months: $40K–$90K</li></ul><h3>What Is the Franchise Fee for Captain D’s?</h3>The franchise fee is $35K.&nbsp;<h3>Who Is the Leadership of Captain D’s?</h3><ul><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-greifeld-84065754/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-captain-ds-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2724729" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Philip M. Greifeld</a> — CEO and President</li><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-bailey-a64b628/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-captain-ds-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2724729" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Steve Bailey</a> — Senior Manager of Franchise Development</li><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevebielewicz/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-captain-ds-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2724729" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Steve Bielewicz</a> — Senior Director of Franchise Development</li><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/bindimenon/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-captain-ds-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2724729" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Bindi Menon</a> — Chief Marketing Officer</li><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/keith-canseco-7b45202/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-captain-ds-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2724729" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Keith Canseco</a> — Senior Director of National Marketing</li><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-reed-99463a2b/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-captain-ds-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2724729" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Brad Reed</a> — Chief Development Officer</li><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-castle-5bb9248/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-captain-ds-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2724729" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Andrew Castle</a> – Chief Operating Officer&nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-mcanally-62455a10/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-captain-ds-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2724729" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Sean McAnally</a> — Chief Information Officer</li></ul><h3>What Helpful Articles Can I Read to Learn More About Captain D’s?</h3><ul><li><a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/franchises/directory/captain-ds/282176?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-captain-ds-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2724729" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Start a Captain D's Franchise in 2023</a></li><li><a href="https://www.restaurantdive.com/news/franchise-spotlight-captain-ds-leans-into-flexible-formats-as-it-aims-for-1k-units/650116/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-captain-ds-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2724729" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Captain D’s leans into flexible prototypes, pushes toward 1K units</a></li><li><a href="https://www.franchisetimes.com/franchise_news/nyc-franchisees-to-introduce-captain-d-s-to-manhattan-market/article_5d2d7e90-888e-11ee-8a71-77c5eaa44358.html?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-captain-ds-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2724729" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">NYC Franchisees to Introduce Captain D's to Manhattan Market</a></li><li><a href="https://www.nrn.com/fast-casual/captain-d-s-expands-popular-express-prototype-opening-third-location-st-louis-missouri?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-captain-ds-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2724729" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Captain D’s expands with popular express prototype</a></li><li><a href="https://www.franchising.com/news/20230914_captain_ds_opens_in_moss_point_mississippi.html?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=franchise-deep-dive-captain-ds-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2724729" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Captain D’s Opens in Moss Point, Mississippi</a></li></ul>Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. You should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice. Nothing contained on this site constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offer to buy or sell any franchises, securities, or other financial instruments in this or in any other jurisdiction in which such solicitation or offer would be unlawful under the franchise and/or securities laws of such jurisdiction. All content in this article is information of a general nature and does not address the detailed circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Nothing in the article constitutes professional and/or financial advice, nor does any information in the email constitute a comprehensive or complete statement of the matters discussed or the law relating thereto. You alone assume the sole responsibility of evaluating the merits and risks associated with the use of any information or other content in this article before making any decisions based on such information or other content.

Franchise Deep Dive: Captain D’s Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data

1851 Franchise

This franchise has a rich history dating back to 1699 when it opened with the goal of offering quality seafood at a reasonable price point. 

franchise-deep-dive-captain-ds-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data

Crust Pizza Co.

Crust Pizza Co. Spreading Through the Southwest - 1851 Franchise

Crust Pizza Co. Targets Southeast U.S. for Expansion

crust-pizza-co-southeast-expansion

Seniors Helping Seniors®

Nathan Peterson Turns Passion for Helping Others into a Purpose-Driven Business with Seniors Helping Seniors Franchise

seniors-helping-seniors-franchise-caldwell-nathan-peterson

Famous Dave's

Famous Dave’s Fires Up Third Annual All-Star BBQ Series This May, Leading Up to the 2025 World Food Championships

famous-daves-fires-up-third-annual-all-star-bbq-series-this-may-leading-up-to-the-2025-world-food-championships

HomeTeam Inspection Service

From Air Force Veteran to Entrepreneur: Danny Hemchand Builds a Thriving Home Inspection Business

air-force-veteran-danny-hemchand-home-inspection-business

HomeTeam Inspection Service Reports Record-Breaking Performance in Q1, Continues National Expansion

hometeam-inspection-q1-2025-growth-expansion

Buying a Franchise Masterclass

 Franchise Opportunities

Get Support Buying a Franchise

How to Buy a Franchise White Paper

How to Buy a Franchise

How to Sell Franchises

How to Grow a Franchise

Find a Franchise Supplier

1851 Franchise Opportunities

Franchisor News

Franchisor Power Rankings

FranCamp Mastermind Summit

Franchise Resources

What ALEC-Laffer's Report Means for Franchising

Website Awards

Power Rankings

About 1851

Advertise on 1851

Contact 1851 Editorial

Terms of Use

1851 Login

GROWTH CLUB LOGIN

facebook

instagram

twitter

linkedin

youtube

Eli Lilly GLP-1 Lawsuits - Mounjaro - Zepbound - 1851 Franchise Agg

Eli Lilly Sues Telehealth Startups Over GLP-1 Knockoffs, Escalating Legal Battle

eli-lilly-glp-1-lawsuits

The Future of Franchising: Trends and Predictions for 2025 and Beyond

the-future-of-franchising-trends-and-predictions-for-2025-and-beyond

Restaurant Business: Crumbl Cools Its Expansion, Refocuses on Profitability

restaurant-business-crumbl-cools-its-expansion-refocuses-on-profitability

Franchise Face-Lifts: Why Major Restaurant Brands Are Betting Big on Remodels

franchise-face-lifts-why-major-restaurant-brands-are-betting-big-on-remodels

How New Tariffs Are Causing Price Hikes and Surcharges for U.S. Businesses and Franchises - 1851

Tariffs Prompt Price Hikes, Surcharges as Businesses (and Franchises) Brace for Rising Costs 

tariffs-prompt-price-hikes-surcharges

DonutNV Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2025

franchise-deep-dive-donutnv-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data

Lindora’s New President Discusses Franchise Growth and the Future of Health and Wellness

lindoras-new-president-discusses-franchise-growth-and-the-future-of-health-and-wellness

Church's Texas Chicken - Franchise Deep Dive - Growth Club - 1851 Franchise

Church’s Texas Chicken Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2025

churchs-franchise-deep-dive

Trua Senior Living Locators CEO Discusses Franchising Success and a Clinical Approach to Senior Placement

trua-senior-living-locators-ceo-discusses-franchising-success-and-a-clinical-approach-to-senior-placement

Franchisee spotlight image with Randy and Sandy Craft, Children's Lighthouse logo on blue background

The Crafts’ Successful Journey from New Parents to Children’s Lighthouse Franchisees

the-crafts-successful-journey-from-new-parents-to-childrens-lighthouse-franchisees

Most Profitable Restaurant Franchises To Own in 2025 - 1851 Franchise

The Most Profitable Restaurant Franchises to Own in 2025

most-profitable-restaurant-franchises-to-own

Franchise Success Stories: Inspiring Tales from the Front Lines

franchise-success-stories

Image of building outline hovering over person's hand

How To Choose the Right Franchise: A Step-by-Step Guide to Success

how-to-choose-the-right-franchise-step-by-step

Amateur Bodybuilder and Business Partner Bring Passion for Fitness to World Gym Franchise in Fulton, New York

amateur-bodybuilder-and-business-partner-bring-passion-for-fitness-to-world-gym-franchise-in-fulton-new-york

Franchise Deep Dive: Captain D’s Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data

MORE STORIES LIKE THIS