Best QSR / Fast Food Franchises — Ranked by SBA Performance Data

QSR franchises are the highest-volume segment in franchising but carry elevated SBA default rates averaging 9.4%. Brand selection is critical — the gap between top and bottom performers is dramatic.

9.4%
Avg SBA Default Rate
$658K
Avg Total Investment
1,613
Brands in Database

Top QSR / Fast Food Franchises

#BrandInvestment Range
1Abbott's Frozen Custard$497K – $1.8M
2Abu Omar Halal$266K – $1.2M
3Aloha Poke Co.$141K – $476K
4American Dairy Queen Corporation$549K – $1.6M
5Amorino$103K – $1.0M
6Andy's Frozen Custard$622K – $1.5M
7Angry Chickz$603K – $1.3M
8Angry Crab Shack$412K – $1.2M
9Apple Spice®$393K – $572K
10Arby’s$645K – $2.5M

What to Look for in QSR / Fast Food Franchises

  • 1.Focus on AUV (average unit volume) trends over 3+ years. Declining AUV in a growing unit base is a major red flag.
  • 2.Analyze total occupancy costs as a percentage of revenue — top QSR brands keep this under 10%, while struggling brands exceed 15%.
  • 3.Check franchisor-mandated remodel requirements and costs. Unexpected capex for remodels can destroy franchise economics.

See All 1613 QSR / Fast Food Franchises

Browse the complete database with filters for investment, SBA performance, and FDD data.

View All QSR / Fast Food Franchises →

Get AI-Powered FDD Analysis

Upload any franchise FDD and get PE-grade analysis in 8 minutes. Red flags, benchmarking, and investment thesis.

Get Access to Pro →