FDD-based startup cost, franchise fee, revenue, profit, SBA default rate, and investment risk signals for SONNY’S BBQ.
Based on 2022 FDD · 3 filings in corpus
This page is using 2022 FDD source data. Verify the franchisor's current FDD before relying on costs, fees, or Item 19.
Cost and profit at a glance
Based on FDDIQ's FDD corpus, a SONNY’S BBQ franchise shows an estimated initial investment of $601K – $972K. Reported owner economics show $198K. Use the links below to compare the cost, revenue, SBA loan history, and ROI against other franchises before you request the full FDD.
Quick fee read: $35K franchise fee · 6.5% royalty/ad burden. These figures are directional screening data, not a substitute for reading the current FDD and speaking with existing operators.
SONNY’S BBQ requires a total initial investment of $601K to $972K (midpoint approximately $787K), with an initial franchise fee of $35K. The ongoing fee burden is 6.5% (4.5% royalty plus 2% advertising fund). This is below the industry average of approximately 14.2%, leaving more margin for the operator.
According to Item 19 of the 2022 FDD, the median revenue for SONNY’S BBQ locations is $3.0M. The implied franchisee EBITDA is approximately $198K, based on the margin assumptions disclosed in the FDD. The estimated cash-on-cash return is 25.1% with a payback period of approximately 4.0 years.
SONNY’S BBQ operates approximately 92 franchised units. However, the brand has been contracting with a 3.2% net unit decline, which may signal franchisee dissatisfaction, territory saturation, or competitive pressure. The SBA 7(a) loan default rate of 0.0% is well below the industry average of approximately 9.4%, indicating strong franchisee financial outcomes.
Prospective franchisees should verify all figures against the most recent FDD, conduct validation calls with multiple existing franchisees, and consult with a franchise attorney before signing any agreement.
Analysis based on 2022 FDD filing. FDDIQ Editorial Team · Methodology
Estimated using sector-average margins. Actual franchise economics vary by location, operator, and market conditions.
Industry averages based on FranchiseIQ corpus benchmarks. ▲ = better than avg, ▼ = worse.
Real lending data from SBA 7(a) loans (2018-2019). 4 loans across 1 states.
Source: SBA 7(a) loan data via FOIA. Default rate = charged-off loans / total originated. Industry avg default rate ~7.2%.
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