Hardee’s is a fast-food chain specialized in serving burgers. Hardee’s has been running successfully for the past six decades.
If you want to invest in the Hardee’s franchise, you are at the right place; here, we give all the information you must know before investing. So let’s get started.
About Hardee’s Franchise
The first Hardee’s restaurant opened in Greenville, North Carolina. The restaurant became an immediate success, and people stood in line to order from the menu.
They also offered a drive-through window for fast service. In the beginning, Hardee was known for its signature biscuits which were made from scratch and served fresh.
The biscuit became a big hit with customers. In the 1990s, Hardee’s launched a new product that they called “Thickburgers.”
And the burger changed the pattern of the restaurant. This mouthwatering burger became a hit among the public, and Hardee’s started getting known for their burger.
Hardee’s restaurant also includes some other meals, beverages, and lunch.
History Of Hardee’s Franchise
In 1960, Hardee’s was established by Wilber Hardee in North Carolina. A year later, Wilber began seeking help for expansion and soon formed a partnership with James and Leonard.
Wilber’s partner took complete control of the company and started franchising the concept. It, in turn, led to the opening of 100 and more locations of Hardee’s.
In the 1960s, the chain had grown to over 200 locations throughout the Midwest and Southwestern United States.
In the following year, Hardee’s became an internationally operating corporation.
Subsequently, in 1997, CKE, the parent company of Carl’s Jr., purchased Hardee’s and merged both restaurants.
Currently, Hardee’s has more than 2,200 units worldwide, 95% of which are owned by franchisees.
Hardee’s Franchise Model
| Initial Investment | $1,469,000- $2,061,000 |
| Franchise-Fee | $25,000-$35,000 |
| Royalty-Fee | 4% of the gross sale |
| Liquidity | $300,000 |
| Area Requirement | N/A |
| Total Outlets | 2,200 |
Training & Support
For the training, the 10-days operation overview will be conducted at the specific location decided by the franchisor.
Before attending a 10-days operation overview, the franchisees may require 10% ownership, and it will commit to entering into any other agreement with franchisees.
Hardee also provides FMTP (training program) to franchisees. The FMTP addresses the Red Burrito dual concept system.
The length of FMTP is eight weeks; however, it also depends on the trainee’s prior experience.
The FTMP will provide training to the operating principle, their general manager, and six other employees whom they have hired as shift leaders.
Term of Agreement & Renewal
The actual length of Hardee’s franchise term is 20 years from the date the franchised restaurant opens.
The term will be renewed for another ten years or five years at their option if requirements are met with the condition of the term.
Hardee’s Comparison
| Company | Hardee’s | Whataburger |
|---|---|---|
| Founded In | 1960 | 1950 |
| Initial Investment | $1,469,000- $2,061,000 | $1,200,000 |
| Franchise-Fee | $25,000-$35,000 | $40,000 |
| Total Outlet | 2,200 | 830 |
| Annual Revenue | $920 Million | $2.5 Billion |
Frequently Asked Question
What is the most-demandable burger from Hardee's?
Bacon and Cheese Angus Burger is a most-demandable burger from Hardee’s.
How much does it cost to open a Hardee's Franchise?
Opening a Hardee’s franchise requires an initial investment of $1,530,000- $1,995,000.
How many Hardees' Franchise locations are there?
Currently, Hardee’s has more than 2,200 franchise locations worldwide.
Amit Gupta is the founder of DrFranchises – a digital marketing agency that helps brands rank better on Google Maps through local SEO strategies. Amit has over 11 years of experience in digital marketing, SEO, email marketing, and social media marketing. He’s also the owner of multiple franchises and has helped countless brands achieve success online. When he’s not working, Amit can be found playing with his dog.