How much does it cost to start a whataburger franchise

It’s not easy to start a restaurant from the ground up and establish a solid reputation in your target market.

To do so, you’ll need a lot of expertise, managerial skills, and, of course, a lot of money to get started.

Whataburger is a good restaurant with franchising options and a steady stream of customers.

Do you want to open a franchise of Whataburger? You’ll find all your requirements below, including a company biography, pricing, and other information.

How much does it cost to start a whataburger franchise
Whataburger Franchise


About The Whataburger

Whataburger is a privately-owned regional fast food restaurant in the United States.

It is based in San Antonio, Texas, and specializes in preparing hamburger sandwiches. Harmon Dobson and Paul Burton founded it in the year 1950.

The name Whataburger inspires by the experience of constructing a burger that would require both hands to grab when a consumer attempted to eat it.

When consumers bite into this burger, they shout “What-Burger!!!” since it gives them a nice feeling. 


History Of Whataburger

Harmon Dobson, an enterprising and motivated entrepreneur, launched the world’s first Whataburger on Ayers Street in Corpus Christi, Texas, in 1950.

He had a simple goal: to deliver a burger so giant that it required two hands to hold it and so delicious that diners would exclaim, “What a burger!” after just one bite.

On both counts, he was a success, and his one-person burger business became a legend throughout Texas and the South.

Every Whataburger now prepares fresh to order when you order it. They’re still cooked with 100 percent genuine American beef and served on a five-inch toasted bun.


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Investment $1,200,000
Royalty fee N/A
Industry Quick-Service Restaurant
Subsector Food and Beverage
Area Requirement N/A
Total Outlets 830

What Are The Benefits Of Opening A Whataburger Franchise?

Since 1950, Whataburger has been around. It’s recognized for its mouthwatering burgers and world-famous onion rings.

Breakfast to dinner is all available throughout the day at this restaurant. Whataburger has been named one of America’s top 25 burger restaurants.


Franchise Training At Whataburger:

Whataburger does not allow franchisees to start their business without prior training if they do not understand how to run and operate it.

Moreover, Whataburger will provide candidates with the necessary training and learning methods to prepare them for the tasks to be successful in the industry.

Even if the candidates have any difficulties throughout their first few days of learning, Whataburger will provide candidates with unrestricted access to continuous support and assistance at any time.


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Whataburger Comparison

CompanyWhataburgerPanda Express 
Founded In 1950 1973
Initial Investment $1,200,000 $377,100 – $1,884,000
Franchise-Fee N/A $25,000
Total Outlet 830 1,900
Annual Revenue $6.7 Million $100 Billion

Frequently Asked Questions 

Are You a Good Fit for a Whataburger Franchise?

When it comes to franchising Whataburger, one of the essential concerns to address is the enormous financial needs. Again, if you have the financial means, becoming a franchisee should not be an issue.

Why choose a Whataburger franchise over another?

Whataburger’s exceptional standard, for which its customers remain loyal, can never be compared to any other franchise. This burger franchise sets the standard for all others.

What is the profit margin on Whataburger's annual sales?

The corporation makes a profit of $1 billion per year.

Does Whataburger offer Franchise?

Yes, Whataburger offers remunerative franchise opportunities to entrepreneurs.

How much does a Whataburger Franchise Cost?

The initial investment cost of a Whataburger franchise ranges from $545,500 to $894,500, with an additional franchise fee of $40,000.

How much does it cost to start a whataburger franchise

Amit Gupta is the founder of DrFranchises – a digital marketing agency that helps brands rank #1 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.

Is Whataburger profitable?

2021 Whataburger Median Franchise Sales: $3,539,518 Based on the median sales provided by Whataburger franchise locations, at an average of a 15% profit margin, it will take around 5.5 years to recoup your investment.

Who owns the most Whataburger franchises?

The Dobson family owned 611 stores, and the other "117 are owned and operated by about 25 franchisees."

Who owns Whataburger franchise?

More Videos. Whataburger is a Texas treasure with a twist of Chicago. It's been nearly three years since Chicago company, BDT Capital Partners, LLC, took over the fan favorite.

How do I invest in Whataburger?

To apply to be a Whataburger franchise operator, you're required to have $5,000,000 in liquid assets and a net worth of $12.5 million. The estimated initial investment to open a traditional Whataburger is $1,200,000. Take our 7-minute franchise opportunity quiz to find out if Whataburger is right for you.