Circle K vs Wingstop
Franchise Comparison 2026
Circle K is a retail franchise, while Wingstop operates in quick-service restaurants. Circle K requires an investment of $1.5M – $2.7M while Wingstop requires $310K – $1.0M. In terms of revenue, Wingstop reports higher average unit revenue at $2.0M. Note: Reported as net sales, not gross sales. On SBA loan performance, Circle K has a lower charge-off rate (6.7%) compared to Wingstop (8.4%). FranchiseVerdict rates Circle K A (Strongest tier) and Wingstop A (Strongest tier).
| Metric | Circle K | Wingstop |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | AStrongest tierStrongest tier | AStrongest tierStrongest tier |
| Investment Range | $1.5M – $2.7M | $310K – $1.0M |
| Franchise Fee | $25K | $25K |
| Royalty Rate | 3.0% | 6.0% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $1.4M | $2.0M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | 6.7% (80 loans) | 8.4% (465 loans) |
| Total Units | 6,063 | 2,586 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | N/A | N/A |
| Year Began Franchising | 1995 | 1997 |
| FDD Year | 2024 | 2026 |
Investment Range
$1.5M – $2.7M
$310K – $1.0M
Franchise Fee
$25K
$25K
Royalty Rate
3.0%
6.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$1.4M
$2.0M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
6.7% (80 loans)
8.4% (465 loans)
Total Units
6,063
2,586
Unit Growth (YoY)
N/A
N/A
Year Began Franchising
1995
1997
FDD Year
2024
2026