Circle K vs Sonic
Franchise Comparison 2026
Circle K is a retail franchise, while Sonic operates in quick-service restaurants. Circle K requires an investment of $1.5M – $2.7M while Sonic requires $670K – $2.5M. In terms of revenue, Sonic reports higher average unit revenue at $1.6M. On SBA loan performance, Sonic has a lower charge-off rate (8.3%) compared to Circle K (8.3%). FranchiseVerdict rates Circle K B (Above Average) and Sonic A (Top Quintile).
| Metric | Circle K | Sonic |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | ATop QuintileTop Quintile | ATop QuintileTop Quintile |
| Investment Range | $1.5M – $2.7M | $670K – $2.5M |
| Franchise Fee | $25K | $15K |
| Royalty Rate | 3.0% | 5.0% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $1.4M | $1.6M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | 8.3% (45 loans) | 8.3% (144 loans) |
| Total Units | 6,063 | 3,412 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | N/A | N/A |
| Year Began Franchising | 1995 | 1974 |
| FDD Year | 2024 | 2026 |
Investment Range
$1.5M – $2.7M
$670K – $2.5M
Franchise Fee
$25K
$15K
Royalty Rate
3.0%
5.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$1.4M
$1.6M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
8.3% (45 loans)
8.3% (144 loans)
Total Units
6,063
3,412
Unit Growth (YoY)
N/A
N/A
Year Began Franchising
1995
1974
FDD Year
2024
2026