Circle K vs Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
Franchise Comparison 2026
Circle K is a retail franchise, while Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen operates in quick-service restaurants. Circle K requires an investment of $1.5M – $2.7M while Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen requires $1.2M – $3.9M. In terms of revenue, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen reports higher average unit revenue at $2.0M. On SBA loan performance, Circle K has a lower charge-off rate (6.7%) compared to Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen (10.4%). FranchiseVerdict rates Circle K A (Strongest tier) and Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen A (Strongest tier).
| Metric | Circle K | Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | AStrongest tierStrongest tier | AStrongest tierStrongest tier |
| Investment Range | $1.5M – $2.7M | $1.2M – $3.9M |
| Franchise Fee | $25K | $50K |
| Royalty Rate | 3.0% | 5.0% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $1.4M | $2.0M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | 6.7% (80 loans) | 10.4% (332 loans) |
| Total Units | 6,063 | 3,177 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | N/A | N/A |
| Year Began Franchising | 1995 | 1976 |
| FDD Year | 2024 | 2025 |
Investment Range
$1.5M – $2.7M
$1.2M – $3.9M
Franchise Fee
$25K
$50K
Royalty Rate
3.0%
5.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$1.4M
$2.0M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
6.7% (80 loans)
10.4% (332 loans)
Total Units
6,063
3,177
Unit Growth (YoY)
N/A
N/A
Year Began Franchising
1995
1976
FDD Year
2024
2025