What is the range for the total estimated initial investment for a Checkers modular design drive-thru restaurant, excluding real estate and related costs?
Checkers Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
| Type of expenditure | Amount | Method of payment | When Due | To whom payment is to be made |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurant Building Costs (See Note 2) | $2,630 - $149,000 | Dependent upon bank financing | Dependent upon bank financing | Contractors, Suppliers, Lending Institutions |
| Restaurant Equipment & Technology (See Note 2) | $25,000 - $329,538 | As incurred | On ordering | Suppliers |
| Soft Costs (See Note 3) | $8,000 - $30,000 | Dependent upon bank financing | Dependent upon bank financing | Contractors, Suppliers, Lending Institutions |
| Signage including | $4,000 - | As incurred | On ordering | Us or Other |
| Menuboards | $30,000 | Supplier | ||
| Inventory (See Note | $4,000 - | As incurred | When delivered | Suppliers |
| 4) | $12,000 | |||
| Additional Funds - 3 Months (See Note 5) | $50,000 - $120,000 | As incurred | As incurred | Employees, suppliers, utilities, etc. |
| TOTAL ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT (exclusive of real estate and related costs (see Note 2 and 6)) | $123,630 - $725,538 |
Source: Item 7 — ESTIMATED INITIAL INVESTMENT (FDD pages 30–39)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Checkers' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the total estimated initial investment for a modular design drive-thru restaurant, excluding real estate costs, ranges from $123,630 to $725,538. This investment covers various expenses, with the most significant being restaurant building costs, which range from $2,630 to $149,000, and restaurant equipment and technology, estimated between $25,000 and $329,538. These costs can fluctuate based on financing options and supplier pricing.
Prospective Checkers franchisees should note that the restaurant building costs for a modular design drive-thru include the cost of the building itself, shipping, and assembly. It also includes on-site construction costs, which can vary significantly depending on the condition of the premises, site-specific requirements, and regional variations in material and labor costs. Soft costs, such as due diligence, surveys, and permit fees, are estimated to range from $8,000 to $30,000. Signage and menu boards are estimated to cost between $4,000 and $30,000.
Additionally, franchisees need to account for inventory, which is estimated to cost between $4,000 and $12,000, and additional funds for the first three months of operation, ranging from $50,000 to $120,000. These additional funds cover expenses like employee wages, supplies, and utilities. The FDD notes that these figures are estimates and that actual costs may vary based on factors such as management skill, local economic conditions, and competition.
It is important for potential Checkers franchisees to carefully review all components of the initial investment and to conduct thorough due diligence to understand the potential costs specific to their location and circumstances. Given the wide range of potential costs, consulting with existing franchisees and financial advisors is advisable to prepare a realistic budget.