Champs Chicken Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Champs Chicken is a fast-casual franchise known for its southern-style fried chicken. The concept was launched in 1999 by Shawn and Julie Burcham in Willard, Missouri, with the first location opening that same year in Auxvasse, Missouri. The company’s headquarters are now based in Holts Summit, Missouri.
The brand has built its reputation around fresh, double-breaded fried chicken and a lineup of classic homestyle sides. Its menu highlights include bone-in chicken, tenders, sandwiches, and sides, all prepared with the chain’s signature seasoning blend. Champs Chicken focuses on delivering hearty flavor, consistent quality, and quick service in easily accessible venues.
Franchising began in 2013, using a “business-within-a-business” approach that enables operators to set up inside convenience stores, grocery outlets, or as standalone drive-thru units.
What makes Champs Chicken stand out is its mix of high-quality, craveable fried chicken with an adaptable franchise model designed for flexibility and strong franchisee support.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Champs Chicken franchise? It costs on average between $9,000 – $349,000 to start a Champs Chicken franchised restaurant.
This investment covers expenses such as construction, kitchen equipment, initial inventory, and early operating costs. The total amount varies based on several factors, including the restaurant’s format, its location, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or buy the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Architectural and Engineering Fees | $0 – $8,500 |
| Construction, Remodeling, and Site Improvements | $0 – $145,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures, Equipment, Décor, and Signage | $1,500 – $115,000 |
| Training Expenses: Wages and Benefit Costs | $1,500 – $5,500 |
| Grand Opening Advertising | $0 – $5,000 |
| Professional Fees | $0 – $5,000 |
| Insurance (for One Year) | $0 – $13,000 |
| Security Deposits, Utility Deposits, Business Licenses, and Other Prepaid Expenses | $0 – $4,000 |
| Opening Inventory | $3,000 – $15,000 |
| Project Financing Costs | $0 – $3,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 Months | $3,000 – $30,000 |
| Total | $9,000 – $349,000 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Champs Chicken locations are there?
According to the latest data, the Champs Chicken franchise system has 416 locations in the U.S.
What is the total investment required to open a Champs Chicken franchise?
The total investment required to open a Champs Chicken franchise ranges from $9,000 to $349,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Champs Chicken franchise?
Champs Chicken franchisees are not required to pay an ongoing royalty fee. Instead, PFSbrands withholds up to 4% of the franchisee’s product purchases to support the brand’s marketing development fund, which is used for advertising and promotional initiatives that benefit all franchise locations.
Who owns Champs Chicken?
The Champs Chicken franchise is owned by PFSbrands.
Disclaimer
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