Golden Chick Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Golden Chick is a distinguished name in the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry, renowned for its delectable chicken, fresh salads, and an array of side dishes. The brand’s inception dates back to 1967 in San Marcos, Texas, marking the beginning of a journey that would see the franchise grow significantly over the years.
Initially founded under the name “Golden Fried Chicken,” the brand transformed in 1993 to become Golden Chick, a move that signified a rebranding aimed at propelling the franchise into the future.
This transition was accompanied by enhancements to both the menu and the aesthetic appeal of the restaurants, cementing Golden Chick’s place in the industry. Golden Chick’s corporate headquarters are located in Richardson, Texas.
Golden Chick distinguishes itself from its competitors through its commitment to quality and innovation, particularly with its Golden Tenders®. Made from whole chicken tenderloins and marinated for 24 hours, these tenders are a testament to Golden Chick’s dedication to providing the best possible product to its customers.
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Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Golden Chick franchise? It costs on average between $821,000 – $1,913,000 to start a Golden Chick franchised restaurant.
This includes costs for construction, equipment, inventory, and initial operating expenses. The exact amount depends on various factors, including the type of restaurant you choose, the location, and whether the franchisee chooses to lease or purchase the property. Golden Chick offers 3 types of franchises:
| Type of Golden Chick Restaurant | Initial Investment Range |
|---|---|
| Free-Standing Ground-Up Construction | $1,193,550 to $1,913,300 |
| Free-Standing Conversion | $833,450 to $1,390,500 |
| End-Cap Construction | $823,450 to $1,379,400 |
We are summarizing below the main costs associated with opening a Free-Standing Golden Chick Ground-Up Construction. For more information on costs required to start a Golden Chick franchise, refer to the Franchise Disclosure Document (Item 7).
| Type of Expenditure | Amount (Free-Standing) |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fees | $30,000 |
| Site Evaluation Fee | $0 – $2,500 |
| Other Site Selection Assistance | $0 – $1,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment | $250,000 – $425,000 |
| Signs and Menu Boards | $50,000 – $100,000 |
| Initial Training Costs (travel and living expenses) | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Computer & POS Systems | $3,000 – $42,500 |
| Initial Inventory/Supplies | $15,000 – $20,000 |
| Architect/Engineer Fees | $12,000 – $42,000 |
| Site Preparations | $192,500 – $360,000 |
| Construction and Finish-Out Cost | $615,600 – $820,800 |
| Professional Services | $2,500 – $7,000 |
| Insurance | $750 – $7,500 |
| Additional Funds | $10,000 – $30,000 |
| Total | $1,191,000 – $1,913,000 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a Golden Chick franchise? A Golden Chick franchised restaurant makes on average $1,329,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
This compares to $1,705,000 yearly revenue for similar chicken franchises.
Below are 10 Golden Chick competitors as a comparison:
The most profitable franchises to own in 2025
We have compiled the list of the top 400 franchises across 9 industries. Download the report below.
Golden Chick Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Golden Chick locations are there?
As of the latest data, Golden Chick operates over 210 locations across the United States, primarily in Texas, Oklahoma, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Florida. The majority of these establishments are franchise-owned, with a smaller number managed directly by the company.
What is the total investment required to open a Golden Chick franchise?
The total investment required to open a Golden Chick franchise ranges from $821,000 to $1,913,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Golden Chick franchise?
Golden Chick franchisees pay a 4% royalty fee on gross revenues, supporting access to operational systems and support services.
Additionally, there is a 1% contribution to the advertising fund, which may go up to 2%, funding national and regional marketing efforts to boost brand visibility. These fees help maintain consistent brand quality and growth.
What are the financial requirements to become a Golden Chick franchisee?
To become a Golden Chick franchisee, applicants need a minimum net worth of $500,000 and at least $250,000 in liquid assets. These financial requirements help ensure readiness for startup and operational demands.
How much can a Golden Chick franchise owner expect to earn?
The average gross sales for a Golden Chick franchise are approximately $1.33 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $1.33 million yearly revenue can result in $195,000 EBITDA annually.
Who owns Golden Chick?
Golden Chick is owned by Golden Tree Restaurants, a company led by President and Chairman Mark Parmerlee. Parmerlee acquired the chain in 1989 and has since overseen its expansion to over 200 locations across multiple states.
Disclaimer
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