JL Beers Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
JL Beers is a Midwest-based fast-casual franchise recognized for its gourmet-style burgers, house-cut fries, and an impressive lineup of craft beers. Established in 2009 in Fargo, North Dakota, the concept quickly built a loyal following thanks to its distinctive dining style and flavorful offerings.
The franchise opportunity launched in 2013, allowing JL Beers to steadily grow its footprint across the region. The company’s corporate office is located at 16 Broadway, Suite 208, Fargo, ND 58102.
Guests at JL Beers can enjoy a carefully crafted menu featuring premium hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, fresh-cut fries and chips, warm pretzels, dips, house-made peanut butter, and craft cocktails.
A standout element is its extensive beer selection, which includes a wide range of draught, canned, and bottled options, making JL Beers a unique player in the fast-casual space.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a JL Beers franchise? It costs on average between $1,223,000 – $3,308,000 to start a JL Beers franchised facility.
This covers expenses such as construction, kitchen equipment, inventory, and early operating costs. The total required amount will vary depending on several factors, including the size and style of the restaurant, its location, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or buy the property. JL Beers offers 2 types of franchises:
| Type of Investment | Amount |
|---|---|
| Leased Premises (Initial) | $1,223,000 – $1,883,000 |
| Purchased Land and Building | $1,835,000 – $3,308,000 |
We are summarizing below the main costs associated with opening a JL Beers Purchased Land and Building franchise. For more information on costs required to start a JL Beers franchise, refer to the Franchise Disclosure Document (Item 7).
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $50,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $300,000 – $600,000 |
| Land and Building | $900,000 – $2,000,000 |
| Equipment, Fixtures and Furniture | $500,000 – $650,000 |
| Initial Inventory | $35,000 – $60,000 |
| POS System | $20,000 – $25,000 |
| Signage | $23,000 – $55,000 |
| Training Expenses | $4,000 – $8,000 |
| Opening Advertising and Promotion | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Liquor License Fees/Expenses | $1,000 – $100,000 |
| Miscellaneous Preopening Expenses | $18,000 – $25,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 months | $270,000 – $330,000 |
| Total (Purchased Land & Building) | $1,835,000 – $3,308,000 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a JL Beers franchise? A JL Beers franchised restaurant makes on average $1,440,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
Download the Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many JL Beers locations are there?
As of the latest available data, JL Beers operates a total of 10 locations. Of these, 7 are company-owned while 3 are franchised.
What is the total investment required to open a JL Beers franchise?
The total investment required to open a JL Beers franchise ranges from $1,223,000 to $3,308,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a JL Beers franchise?
JL Beers franchisees pay an ongoing royalty fee of 4% of gross sales along with a marketing and advertising fee of 0.5% of gross sales, making the total recurring fees 4.5%.
Who owns JL Beers?
The JL Beers franchise is owned by Murphy Brothers, Inc., a Fargo, North Dakota–based company that founded and continues to operate the brand.
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: This content has been made for informational and educational purposes only. SharpSheets is an independent educational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representing any franchisor mentioned on this website. Where noted, figures are taken from the franchisor’s Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). In some cases, we may provide independent calculations or estimates based on publicly available information. We do not make any representation or warranties with respect to the accuracy, applicability, fitness, or completeness of the information presented in the article. You should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other professional advice. Nothing contained in this article constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, advertisement, or offer to buy or sell any franchises, securities, or other financial instruments in this or in any other jurisdiction in which such solicitation or offer would be unlawful under the franchise and/or securities laws of such jurisdiction.
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