Chick-fil-A remains one of the toughest business franchises to secure in the United States. Thousands of hopeful applicants submit their information each year for a very limited number of owner-operator openings.
The unique business model recently gained attention when restaurant owner Julian Good appeared on the Founder Talk podcast. Good runs a Chick-fil-A location in St. Charles, Illinois.
"It's a $10,000 franchise fee. It's been the same for the last 50 years," Good said during the podcast appearance.
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Approximately 100,000 individuals apply annually to become an owner-operator. Out of that massive pool, only about 200 candidates are ultimately selected.
Applicants without prior experience at the company frequently face a long wait. Many prospective operators wait three to five years before receiving an opportunity.
Company guidelines describe the selection process as highly competitive. Leadership looks for dedicated individuals willing to devote full time and best efforts to running a restaurant.
Previous corporate experience is not strictly required for applicants. More than 25% of newly selected operators had never worked for the brand before applying.
Selected operators come from diverse professional backgrounds outside of fast food. New leaders often transition from manufacturing, health care, education, law enforcement, and retail.
Unlike traditional franchise systems, Chick-fil-A operators do not own the actual restaurant. The corporation retains complete ownership of the physical property, equipment, and real estate.
Because of this structure, operators do not build equity in the business. They also cannot sell the location or pass it down to their children upon retirement.
"When a Chick-fil-A operator retires, you can't pass it down to your kids. You don't sell the business or anything. It just goes back into the hands of Chick-fil-A," Good explained.
Instead, operators focus entirely on daily management, employee development, and local community service. Good noted that this setup sets the brand apart from competing fast-food models.
The company also maintains its iconic operational schedule by keeping every location closed on Sundays. That enduring tradition remains central to the corporate culture.
"Just a way to glorify God and give back to the team and the community," Good said of the weekly closure.