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The 2025 restaurant franchise industry is being driven by brands that excel in revenue growth, operational efficiency and customer loyalty, making these brands attractive investment options.
The restaurant industry in 2025 presents lucrative opportunities for entrepreneurs seeking to invest in a franchise. Consumer demand continues to shift, favoring brands that prioritize efficiency, loyalty programs and streamlined operations. Some franchises have excelled by focusing on high-volume sales, while others have leveraged premium pricing strategies or unique branding to enhance profitability.
The following franchises have demonstrated strong earning potential, making them attractive options for investors looking to enter the market.
Checkers & Rally's is a prominent quick-service restaurant franchise known for its bold, flavorful burgers and famously seasoned fries. The brand's unique double drive-thru design caters to the increasing demand for quick and efficient service, setting it apart from competitors. This efficient model not only enhances customer satisfaction but also contributes to compelling unit economics, making it an attractive option for franchisees.
Return on Investment (ROI): According to the brand’s 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), new restaurants reported average net sales of $1,198,310 and a gross margin (net sales less costs) of $486,683.
Culver's is a fast-casual restaurant franchise celebrated for its signature ButterBurgers and fresh frozen custard. The brand emphasizes high-quality ingredients and genuine hospitality, creating a welcoming environment that appeals to a broad customer base. This commitment to excellence has established Culver's as a beloved choice among diners seeking a superior quick-service experience.
ROI: Culver’s 2024 FDD reports that, of the 884 franchised restaurants open for the entirety of FY 2023, 410 met or exceeded average sales of $3,488,853, with a high of $7,390,655 and a low of $1,033,214.
Dunkin' is a globally recognized quick-service restaurant franchise specializing in high-quality coffee and baked goods. Established in 1950, the brand has evolved into a daily ritual for millions, offering a diverse menu that caters to a wide range of tastes. Dunkin's commitment to innovation and convenience distinguishes it from competitors, ensuring a loyal customer base and strong market presence.
ROI: According to the 2024 FDD for Dunkin’, the 7,286 single-branded franchise restaurants open in the U.S. during FY 2023 reported the following average sales:
| Unit Type | Number | Average Sales for FY 2023 |
| Freestanding Drive-Thru | 2,976 | $1,546,413 |
| Freestanding Non-Drive-Thru | 434 | $1,221,203 |
| Store Front Drive-Thru | 1,398 | $1,362,476 |
| Store Front Non-Drive-Thru | 1,330 | $999,529 |
| Gas/Convenience Drive-Thru | 716 | $1,209,473 |
| Gas/Convenience Non-Drive-Thru | 355 | $749,368 |
| Drive-Thru Only | 77 | $1,094,744 |
Gregoire is a fine-fast-casual restaurant that uniquely blends the quality of fine dining with the convenience of a fast-casual setting. Located in Berkeley, California's "Gourmet Ghetto," it offers a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and seasonal rotations, ensuring fresh and innovative dishes. This approach, combined with a quaint atmosphere and loyal customer base, sets Gregoire apart in the fast-casual industry.
ROI: Though the brand is looking to expand in California to San Francisco, Napa, Marin, Solano, Contra Costa, Alameda, Santa Clara and Santa Cruz, it currently has one restaurant in Berkeley. That location reported a gross revenue of $1,545,389 in 2022, up from $1,180,000 in 2019.
McDonald's is a globally renowned quick-service restaurant franchise celebrated for its consistent menu offerings and efficient service. With over 38,000 locations worldwide, it has become a staple in the fast-food industry, appealing to a broad customer base seeking familiar and convenient dining experiences.
ROI: Despite the high initial investment costs, the average annual sales for a McDonald's franchise are approximately $3.51 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, this equates to an estimated annual profit of $526,000, indicating a strong return on investment for franchise owners.
Newk's Eatery is a fast-casual restaurant franchise under the FSC Franchise Co. umbrella renowned for its diverse menu of made-from-scratch dishes, including sandwiches, salads, pizzas, and soups. Established in 2004, the brand emphasizes fresh ingredients and Southern hospitality, creating a welcoming dining experience that appeals to a broad customer base. This commitment to quality and service distinguishes Newk's from competitors in the fast-casual segment.
ROI: According to Newk’s 2024 FDD, the 27 company-owned restaurants open for the entirety of FY 2023 reported average unit volumes (AUVs) of $2,263,068, with a high of $4,405,474 and a low of $1,133,229.
Whataburger is a renowned quick-service restaurant chain celebrated for its made-to-order burgers and commitment to quality ingredients. Founded in 1950, the brand has cultivated a loyal customer base by offering a diverse menu that caters to various tastes, all within a welcoming and distinctive orange-and-white striped setting. This dedication to personalized service and consistent quality distinguishes Whataburger from its competitors.
ROI: As of October 2023, Whataburger reported systemwide sales surpassing $3 billion across 925 locations, averaging approximately $3,240,000 in revenue per restaurant. This robust performance underscores the brand's strong market presence and operational efficiency. Additionally, Whataburger's recognition as a top franchise restaurant chain highlights its potential for profitability and return on investment for franchisees.
Wings and Rings is a sports restaurant franchise offering a club-level dining experience with a menu featuring crave-worthy wings, burgers and a variety of appetizers. What sets Wings and Rings apart is its chef-inspired menu and a commitment to providing a fun environment open to all fans. The brand's dedication to quality and service has earned it recognition, including being named one of the Top 40 Food Franchises by Franchise Business Review.
ROI: The average gross sales for company-owned and franchise-operated locations are approximately $2,608,936, with an EBITDA of around 11%. Additionally, the brand offers a Development Incentive Program, which includes no franchise fee and no royalty fees for the first six months of operation.
For investors looking to maximize profitability, the restaurant industry remains one of the strongest sectors in 2025. The brands listed here have demonstrated consistent revenue growth, strong customer loyalty and scalable models that allow franchisees to expand their businesses efficiently. Selecting the right franchise requires careful evaluation of financial resources and market conditions, but aligning with a high-performing brand significantly increases the potential for success.
Growing and selling franchises is difficult. No great franchise did it alone. Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisors grow their franchises with confidence? Visit www.1851growthclub.com and see what we can do for you.
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