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

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.

By Victoria CampisiStaff Writer

9:09AM • 01/20/24

LAST UPDATED: December 2023

FRANCHISE WEBSITE: https://www.captaindsfranchising.com/

NUMBER OF LOCATIONS: 500+

REPORTED COST TO GET IN: $898,600 to $1,354,200

REPORTED ROI (Item 19): N/A

Captain D's is a fast-casual seafood franchise known for serving a variety of fried and grilled seafood dishes in a family-friendly setting.

How Many Captain D’s Locations Are There?

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.

Captain D's ambitious expansion plan aims to surpass 1,000 units. 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.

What Is the Captain D’s Business Model?

Key elements of the Captain D’s business model include:

Menu Focus on Seafood: 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: 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: 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: 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: 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.

How Much Can Captain D’s Franchise Owners Make?

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.

How Much Does It Cost To Open Captain D’s?

The total investment ranges from $898,600 to $1,354,200. Below is a breakdown of costs.

Franchise and Development Fee: $35K
Real Estate: Costs Vary by Area
Building and Leasehold Improvements: $550K–$815K
Training Expenses: $25K–$46K
Equipment: $201,600–$292,100
Computer Systems: $25K–$34,100
Inventory: $6K–$8K
Miscellaneous Opening Expenses: $5K–$9K
Insurance: $11K–$25K
Additional Funds — Three Months: $40K–$90K

What Is the Franchise Fee for Captain D’s?

The franchise fee is $35K.

Who Is the Leadership of Captain D’s?

Philip M. Greifeld — CEO and President
Steve Bailey — Senior Manager of Franchise Development
Steve Bielewicz — Senior Director of Franchise Development
Bindi Menon — Chief Marketing Officer
Keith Canseco — Senior Director of National Marketing
Brad Reed — Chief Development Officer
Andrew Castle – Chief Operating Officer
Sean McAnally — Chief Information Officer

What Helpful Articles Can I Read to Learn More About Captain D’s?

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