What is the approximate cost of a catalytic converter for the charbroiler at a Carls Jr. franchise, if required?
Carls_Jr Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
after opening, for a total of up to two weeks. We will waive the $15,000 Initial Franchise Fee for any Franchised Restaurant that opens 6 months prior to the contractual opening date for the Franchised Restaurant as set forth in the Development Agreement
- (4) You must purchase certain items of furniture, fixtures and equipment, the point of sale system, and smallwares. You may be able to lease from or finance through a third party a portion of these purchases, but you should expect to make a down-payment of up to 25%. The low end of these figures assumes that certain items such as furniture and seating, trash cans, décor, lighting, condiment and beverage stations, flooring, ceiling and wall finishes and restroom fixtures are common use
Source: Item 7 — ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT (FDD pages 35–37)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Carls Jr. Franchise Disclosure Document, the cost of a catalytic converter for the charbroiler is approximately $1,558, if required. This cost is included in the high end of the 'Equipment' costs, which range from $350,000 to $540,000.
The need for a catalytic converter depends on local regulations and requirements. Prospective Carls Jr. franchisees should check with relevant regulatory agencies to understand whether a catalytic converter is required for their location. These build-out costs are a one-time expense during the initial phase of establishing the franchise.
It's important to note that the equipment costs, including the catalytic converter, are part of the broader initial investment for a Carls Jr. franchise. The total estimated initial investment ranges from $688,000 to $1,143,000. Franchisees may be able to lease or finance a portion of the equipment purchases through a third party, but they should expect to make a down payment of up to 25%.