Circle K vs Papa Johns
Franchise Comparison 2026
Circle K is a retail franchise, while Papa Johns operates in quick-service restaurants. Circle K requires an investment of $1.5M – $2.7M while Papa Johns requires $261K – $853K. In terms of revenue, Circle K reports higher average unit revenue at $1.4M. On SBA loan performance, Circle K has a lower charge-off rate (8.3%) compared to Papa Johns (18.1%). FranchiseVerdict rates Circle K B (Above Average) and Papa Johns A (Top Quintile).
| Metric | Circle K | Papa Johns |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | ATop QuintileTop Quintile | ATop QuintileTop Quintile |
| Investment Range | $1.5M – $2.7M | $261K – $853K |
| Franchise Fee | $25K | $25K |
| Royalty Rate | 3.0% | 5.0% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $1.4M | $1.2M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | 8.3% (45 loans) | 18.1% (323 loans) |
| Total Units | 6,063 | 3,291 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | N/A | N/A |
| Year Began Franchising | 1995 | 2021 |
| FDD Year | 2024 | 2025 |
Investment Range
$1.5M – $2.7M
$261K – $853K
Franchise Fee
$25K
$25K
Royalty Rate
3.0%
5.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$1.4M
$1.2M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
8.3% (45 loans)
18.1% (323 loans)
Total Units
6,063
3,291
Unit Growth (YoY)
N/A
N/A
Year Began Franchising
1995
2021
FDD Year
2024
2025