LAST UPDATED: January 2026
FRANCHISE WEBSITE: https://www.zaxbys.com/franchise
NUMBER OF LOCATIONS: 969
REPORTED COST TO GET IN: $1,445,000 - $3,810,500
REPORTED ROI (Item 19): $2,782,488 (average gross revenue for franchises, FY 2024)
Zaxby's is a fast-casual restaurant chain specializing in fried chicken fingers, wings, sandwiches and salads, known for its distinct sauces. The brand offers a fast-casual dining experience that feels more like a sit-down restaurant than a traditional fast-food joint.
Established in Georgia in 1990 by Tony Townley and Zach McLeroy, Zaxby’s began franchising in 1994 and today operates nearly 1,000 locations in the United States.
Mission: Zaxby's’s mission is to consistently create encore experiences that enrich lives, one person at a time, building a loyal, repeat clientele.
Vision: Zaxby’s is working toward becoming a national brand while elevating its “People First” culture and core values across the system.
Franchising with Zaxby's offers several key benefits that make it an attractive opportunity for prospective franchisees:
Zaxby's provides franchising opportunities in the United States with a focus on locations in the Southeast, Deep South, Southwest and Midwest (with additional market availability to come). Visit the Zaxby’s website for more information on current franchising opportunities.
Initial Costs: The estimated initial investment required to begin operation of a Zaxby's franchise ranges from $1,445,000 to $3,810,500. The 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) breaks these costs down as follows:
| Type of Expenditure | Min | Max |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $35,000 | $35,000 |
| Lease Deposit & Payment | $10,000 | $19,000 |
| Utility Deposits | $0 | $9,000 |
| Building | $640,000 | $1,300,000 |
| Sitework | $150,000 | $990,000 |
| Architect & Engineer | $45,000 | $110,000 |
| Permits & Licenses | $2,000 | $150,000 |
| Accounting & Legal Fees | $500 | $25,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment Package | $445,000 | $497,000 |
| Technology System | $60,500 | $217,500 |
| Signage | $23,000 | $245,000 |
| Insurance | $1,000 | $17,000 |
| Printing/Business Supplies | $300 | $1,000 |
| Initial Marketing Contribution | $5,200 | $10,000 |
| Initial Inventory | $5,000 | $22,000 |
| Uniforms | $1,500 | $5,000 |
| Training Expenses | $10,000 | $25,000 |
| Pre-Opening Payroll | $10,000 | $37,000 |
| Additional Funds (3 Months) | $1,000 | $96,000 |
Initial Franchise Fee: The initial franchise fee for a Zaxby's franchise is $35,000, which is due in full upon the signing of the Franchise Agreement. Partnering with VetFran, Zaxby’s offers a discount on the initial franchise fee for qualified veterans.
Ongoing Fees: Zaxby's franchisees are responsible for the following ongoing fees, according to the 2024 FDD:
| Type of Fee | Amount |
| Royalty | 6% of gross sales/week |
| Marketing Contribution | Up to 4% of gross sales/week |
| National Marketing Contribution | 1.5% of gross sales/week |
| Co-op Marketing/Multi-DMA Advertising | Up to 3% of gross sales/week |
| Technology Services Fee | $0.06/transaction/week |
| Zax Rewardz Program | $0.075/dollar of gross sales/week |
ROI Potential: According to the brand’s 2025 FDD, the 776 franchised restaurants operating for the entirety of FY 2024 reported the following gross revenues:
Average | Median | High | Low | |
| Top Quartile (194) | $3,889,984 | $3,771,700 | $6,348,725 | $3,279,430 |
| Second Quartile (194) | $2,971,499 | $2,980,076 | $3,258,258 | $2,712,252 |
| Third Quartile (194) | $2,458,132 | $2,460,485 | $2,708,495 | $2,202,511 |
| Bottom Quartile (194) | $1,810,336 | $1,924,081 | $2,202,465 | $1,000,042 |
| Total (776) | $2,782,488 | $2,710,373 | $6,348,725 | $1,000,042 |
Zaxby's provides comprehensive training to its franchisees through a structured program designed to ensure successful operations. The training is divided into three key components: a mandatory initial training program (mandatory for designated principal or key operator) lasting from three to eight weeks (must conclude no later than 21 days prior to restaurant opening), a new franchise immersion program (also mandatory) and additional training as deemed necessary by franchisor.
Zaxby's offers comprehensive operational support to its franchisees, ensuring they have the necessary resources and guidance to run successful centers. This support includes access to the confidential operations manual as well as a proven system. The franchisor also provides feedback regarding site selection and will review/approve architects and construction design plan. Brand and marketing support will be provided from a national marketing fund which all franchisees contribute to, funding some advertising, branding, marketing and promotional efforts.
Zaxby's equips its franchisees with a suite of technology tools designed to streamline operations and enhance the management of their centers. These tools include computer equipment and software tailored to the needs of Zaxby’s franchisees, supported by a technology fee (funding some POS-related costs as well as platform upkeep) levied per transaction. The franchisor also provides certain help desk support for various components of the Technology System and digital platform at no additional cost.
While the franchisor’s 2025 FDD does not specifically state requirements in regards to a required net worth or amount of liquid capital, a credit review and background check is required as part of the pre-qualification process.
Zaxby’s requires that franchise owners possess a good moral character as determined by the franchisor in its sole discretion and requires that franchisees have the aptitude and ability to operate the restaurant.
Franchisees should be prepared to commit substantial time and resources to establish and manage their centers. If the franchisee is an entity (like an LLC or corporation), an owner must be designated as the "designated principal” (and must be approved by the franchisor with at least a 25% ownership interest in the entity).
An individual must be designated as the "key operator (and must be approved by the franchisor). The key operator should have full control over the day-to-day activities (including operations) of the franchisee's restaurants in the same geographic area and must devote full time and best efforts to supervising the operation of these restaurants and not engage in any other business requiring substantial management responsibility.
At least four certified managers (one general manager and three others) must be maintained at all times, with one providing personal, on-premises supervision whenever the restaurant is open.
The franchisee is responsible for obtaining financing from third parties. The franchisee's ability to get financing will depend on factors such as the availability of financing generally, the franchisee's creditworthiness, collateral the franchisee may have and the lending policies of financial institutions.
“To have not had any restaurant experience and then to jump into a full-fledged owner/operator was fun and challenging all at the same time. I didn’t realize how much fun that you can actually have in a restaurant. One thing I must say just about Zaxby’s corporate is that they have provided me with the tools and the knowledge to be able to help develop that. The culture is most definitely a great culture to be a part of. I know that I’ve made the right choice and I feel good about where I am today. But I feel great about the brand itself.”
- Sterling Coleman, Multi-Unit Operator — Atlanta, Georgia
Expected to grow in global valuation by more than $200 billion by 2032, the fast-casual marketplace is primed for significant growth (with the American market size alone expected to reach a valuation of more than $84 billion in the next five years).
In America, that growth is driven in large part by the embrace of concepts like quality and health, with millennials in particular focused on convenience, customization and sustainability.
North America remains a steady market for the consumption of chicken in particular, with the United States responsible for the sale of over 5 billion fried chicken servings each year.
Overall, the fast-casual chicken sector presents promising opportunities for growth and investment, driven by increasing demand for quality.
Zaxby's distinguishes itself in the fast-casual franchised food realm thanks to quality chicken and diverse sauce options. Zaxby’s also caters to market trends, offering salads and grilled chicken to health-conscious consumers. Zaxby’s restaurants are also designed to appeal to a sports-loving crowd, with a decor and theme that deliver an immersive experience that’s unique in the fast-casual sphere.
In terms of competition, Zaxby's faces several notable players in the early fast-casual market focused on chicken, including Raising Cane's, Popeyes and Chick-fil-A. However, Zaxby's unique focus on values, atmosphere, convenience and a diverse menu set the chain apart in a crowded marketplace.
Embarking on a franchise journey with Zaxby's involves a structured process designed to ensure mutual alignment and success. Here's a step-by-step outline from initial inquiry to final approval:
Want to learn more about franchise opportunities on 1851 Franchise? Be sure to visit our Power Rankings to read more on brands making moves.
Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit www.1851growthclub.com and start your journey.
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.
Franchisor Stories
Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: Zaxby's is a fast-casual restaurant franchise specializing in fried chicken fingers, wings, sandwiches and salads with distinct sauces in a pub-like atmosphere.
LAST UPDATED: January 2026
FRANCHISE WEBSITE: https://www.zaxbys.com/franchise
NUMBER OF LOCATIONS: 969
REPORTED COST TO GET IN: $1,445,000 - $3,810,500
REPORTED ROI (Item 19): $2,782,488 (average gross revenue for franchises, FY 2024)
Zaxby's is a fast-casual restaurant chain specializing in fried chicken fingers, wings, sandwiches and salads, known for its distinct sauces. The brand offers a fast-casual dining experience that feels more like a sit-down restaurant than a traditional fast-food joint.
Established in Georgia in 1990 by Tony Townley and Zach McLeroy, Zaxby’s began franchising in 1994 and today operates nearly 1,000 locations in the United States.
Mission: Zaxby's’s mission is to consistently create encore experiences that enrich lives, one person at a time, building a loyal, repeat clientele.
Vision: Zaxby’s is working toward becoming a national brand while elevating its “People First” culture and core values across the system.
Franchising with Zaxby's offers several key benefits that make it an attractive opportunity for prospective franchisees:
Zaxby's provides franchising opportunities in the United States with a focus on locations in the Southeast, Deep South, Southwest and Midwest (with additional market availability to come). Visit the Zaxby’s website for more information on current franchising opportunities.
Initial Costs: The estimated initial investment required to begin operation of a Zaxby's franchise ranges from $1,445,000 to $3,810,500. The 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) breaks these costs down as follows:
| Type of Expenditure | Min | Max |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $35,000 | $35,000 |
| Lease Deposit & Payment | $10,000 | $19,000 |
| Utility Deposits | $0 | $9,000 |
| Building | $640,000 | $1,300,000 |
| Sitework | $150,000 | $990,000 |
| Architect & Engineer | $45,000 | $110,000 |
| Permits & Licenses | $2,000 | $150,000 |
| Accounting & Legal Fees | $500 | $25,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment Package | $445,000 | $497,000 |
| Technology System | $60,500 | $217,500 |
| Signage | $23,000 | $245,000 |
| Insurance | $1,000 | $17,000 |
| Printing/Business Supplies | $300 | $1,000 |
| Initial Marketing Contribution | $5,200 | $10,000 |
| Initial Inventory | $5,000 | $22,000 |
| Uniforms | $1,500 | $5,000 |
| Training Expenses | $10,000 | $25,000 |
| Pre-Opening Payroll | $10,000 | $37,000 |
| Additional Funds (3 Months) | $1,000 | $96,000 |
Initial Franchise Fee: The initial franchise fee for a Zaxby's franchise is $35,000, which is due in full upon the signing of the Franchise Agreement. Partnering with VetFran, Zaxby’s offers a discount on the initial franchise fee for qualified veterans.
Ongoing Fees: Zaxby's franchisees are responsible for the following ongoing fees, according to the 2024 FDD:
| Type of Fee | Amount |
| Royalty | 6% of gross sales/week |
| Marketing Contribution | Up to 4% of gross sales/week |
| National Marketing Contribution | 1.5% of gross sales/week |
| Co-op Marketing/Multi-DMA Advertising | Up to 3% of gross sales/week |
| Technology Services Fee | $0.06/transaction/week |
| Zax Rewardz Program | $0.075/dollar of gross sales/week |
ROI Potential: According to the brand’s 2025 FDD, the 776 franchised restaurants operating for the entirety of FY 2024 reported the following gross revenues:
Average | Median | High | Low | |
| Top Quartile (194) | $3,889,984 | $3,771,700 | $6,348,725 | $3,279,430 |
| Second Quartile (194) | $2,971,499 | $2,980,076 | $3,258,258 | $2,712,252 |
| Third Quartile (194) | $2,458,132 | $2,460,485 | $2,708,495 | $2,202,511 |
| Bottom Quartile (194) | $1,810,336 | $1,924,081 | $2,202,465 | $1,000,042 |
| Total (776) | $2,782,488 | $2,710,373 | $6,348,725 | $1,000,042 |
Zaxby's provides comprehensive training to its franchisees through a structured program designed to ensure successful operations. The training is divided into three key components: a mandatory initial training program (mandatory for designated principal or key operator) lasting from three to eight weeks (must conclude no later than 21 days prior to restaurant opening), a new franchise immersion program (also mandatory) and additional training as deemed necessary by franchisor.
Zaxby's offers comprehensive operational support to its franchisees, ensuring they have the necessary resources and guidance to run successful centers. This support includes access to the confidential operations manual as well as a proven system. The franchisor also provides feedback regarding site selection and will review/approve architects and construction design plan. Brand and marketing support will be provided from a national marketing fund which all franchisees contribute to, funding some advertising, branding, marketing and promotional efforts.
Zaxby's equips its franchisees with a suite of technology tools designed to streamline operations and enhance the management of their centers. These tools include computer equipment and software tailored to the needs of Zaxby’s franchisees, supported by a technology fee (funding some POS-related costs as well as platform upkeep) levied per transaction. The franchisor also provides certain help desk support for various components of the Technology System and digital platform at no additional cost.
While the franchisor’s 2025 FDD does not specifically state requirements in regards to a required net worth or amount of liquid capital, a credit review and background check is required as part of the pre-qualification process.
Zaxby’s requires that franchise owners possess a good moral character as determined by the franchisor in its sole discretion and requires that franchisees have the aptitude and ability to operate the restaurant.
Franchisees should be prepared to commit substantial time and resources to establish and manage their centers. If the franchisee is an entity (like an LLC or corporation), an owner must be designated as the "designated principal” (and must be approved by the franchisor with at least a 25% ownership interest in the entity).
An individual must be designated as the "key operator (and must be approved by the franchisor). The key operator should have full control over the day-to-day activities (including operations) of the franchisee's restaurants in the same geographic area and must devote full time and best efforts to supervising the operation of these restaurants and not engage in any other business requiring substantial management responsibility.
At least four certified managers (one general manager and three others) must be maintained at all times, with one providing personal, on-premises supervision whenever the restaurant is open.
The franchisee is responsible for obtaining financing from third parties. The franchisee's ability to get financing will depend on factors such as the availability of financing generally, the franchisee's creditworthiness, collateral the franchisee may have and the lending policies of financial institutions.
“To have not had any restaurant experience and then to jump into a full-fledged owner/operator was fun and challenging all at the same time. I didn’t realize how much fun that you can actually have in a restaurant. One thing I must say just about Zaxby’s corporate is that they have provided me with the tools and the knowledge to be able to help develop that. The culture is most definitely a great culture to be a part of. I know that I’ve made the right choice and I feel good about where I am today. But I feel great about the brand itself.”
- Sterling Coleman, Multi-Unit Operator — Atlanta, Georgia
Expected to grow in global valuation by more than $200 billion by 2032, the fast-casual marketplace is primed for significant growth (with the American market size alone expected to reach a valuation of more than $84 billion in the next five years).
In America, that growth is driven in large part by the embrace of concepts like quality and health, with millennials in particular focused on convenience, customization and sustainability.
North America remains a steady market for the consumption of chicken in particular, with the United States responsible for the sale of over 5 billion fried chicken servings each year.
Overall, the fast-casual chicken sector presents promising opportunities for growth and investment, driven by increasing demand for quality.
Zaxby's distinguishes itself in the fast-casual franchised food realm thanks to quality chicken and diverse sauce options. Zaxby’s also caters to market trends, offering salads and grilled chicken to health-conscious consumers. Zaxby’s restaurants are also designed to appeal to a sports-loving crowd, with a decor and theme that deliver an immersive experience that’s unique in the fast-casual sphere.
In terms of competition, Zaxby's faces several notable players in the early fast-casual market focused on chicken, including Raising Cane's, Popeyes and Chick-fil-A. However, Zaxby's unique focus on values, atmosphere, convenience and a diverse menu set the chain apart in a crowded marketplace.
Embarking on a franchise journey with Zaxby's involves a structured process designed to ensure mutual alignment and success. Here's a step-by-step outline from initial inquiry to final approval:
Want to learn more about franchise opportunities on 1851 Franchise? Be sure to visit our Power Rankings to read more on brands making moves.
Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit www.1851growthclub.com and start your journey.
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.
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