Franchise Deep Dive: Zaxby's Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data

LAST UPDATED: September 2023

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

NUMBER OF LOCATIONS: 900+

REPORTED COST TO GET IN:  $1.4M to $3.3M

REPORTED ROI (Item 19): $313,000

Zaxby's is a fast-food restaurant franchise that specializes in serving chicken-based dishes, including chicken wings, chicken fingers, sandwiches and various dipping sauces. 

How Many Zaxby's Locations Are There?

Zaxby’s was founded in 1990 in Statesboro, Georgia, by childhood friends Zach McLeroy and Tony Townley. Originally called ZAX, the pair had a goal of serving only the highest quality food in a fun environment. The concept proved successful. In 1994, McLeroy and Townley decided to franchise the brand. 

Since then, Zaxby's has expanded its presence to over 900 locations, primarily across the Southeastern and Midwestern regions of the United States. The chain has garnered a dedicated following for its flavorful chicken offerings and has become a popular choice for fast-casual dining, particularly among chicken lovers.

What Is the Zaxby's Business Model?

Zaxby's business model revolves around providing a diverse menu of high-quality chicken-based dishes, delivering excellent customer service and leveraging franchising as a means of expanding its footprint across different markets. Key elements include: 

• Chicken-Centric Menu: Zaxby's specializes in chicken dishes, including chicken fingers, chicken wings, chicken sandwiches and salads. Their menu features a variety of options to cater to different tastes and preferences.
• Signature Sauces: Zaxby's is known for its wide range of signature sauces (from mild to hot) that customers can choose to accompany their chicken. 
• Fresh Ingredients: Zaxby's emphasizes the use of fresh, quality ingredients. Their chicken fingers are hand-breaded and cooked to order, ensuring a fresh and crispy texture.
• Casual Dining Experience: Zaxby's restaurants typically provide a casual and family-friendly dining atmosphere. Customers can dine in, take their food to go or use the drive-thru option.
• Focus on Southern Hospitality: Zaxby's often emphasizes its Southern hospitality, aiming to provide friendly and attentive customer service to create a welcoming dining experience.

How Much Can Zaxby's Franchise Owners Make?

On average, a Zaxby’s franchise restaurant makes $313K in profits per year, according to SharpSheets. 

How Much Does It Cost to Open a Zaxby's?

The total investment to open a Zaxby’s franchise ranges from $1.4 million to $3.3 million, according to Entrepreneur. Franchisees must also have a collective net worth of at least $1 million, with liquid assets greater than $500K. 

What Is the Franchise Fee for Zaxby's?

The franchise fee is $35K. 

Who Is the Leadership of Zaxby's?

• Zach Mcleroy  — Founder and Chairman of the Board
• Bernard Acoca — CEO
• Mike Mettler — Chief Development Officer
• Blake Bailey — Chief Financial Officer
• Mike Nettles — Chief Digital Technology Officer

What Helpful Articles Can I Read to Learn More About Zaxby's?

• Start a Zaxby’s Franchise in 2023
• Zaxby's continues to expand out west
• Zaxby's Sizzles at #39 on Nation’s Restaurant News Top 500 Restaurants List
• Zaxby's Selects First-time Franchisees to Break into Phoenix Market
• Zaxby's Debuts First Franchise Restaurant Without Dining Room

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