Culver's vs Panera Bread
Franchise Comparison 2026
Both Culver's and Panera Bread are quick-service restaurants franchises. Culver's requires an investment of $2.8M – $6.9M while Panera Bread requires $1.3M – $4.7M. In terms of revenue, Culver's reports higher average unit revenue at $3.5M. Culver's has SBA lending data on file with a 0.0% charge-off rate. FranchiseVerdict rates Culver's A (Top Quintile) and Panera Bread A (Top Quintile).
| Metric | Culver's | Panera Bread |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | ATop QuintileTop Quintile | ATop QuintileTop Quintile |
| Investment Range | $2.8M – $6.9M | $1.3M – $4.7M |
| Franchise Fee | $55K | $35K |
| Royalty Rate | 4.0% | 5.0% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $3.5M | $2.7M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | 0.0% (114 loans) | Limited data |
| Total Units | 944 | 2,206 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | N/A | N/A |
| Year Began Franchising | 1990 | 1993 |
| FDD Year | 2024 | 2025 |
Investment Range
$2.8M – $6.9M
$1.3M – $4.7M
Franchise Fee
$55K
$35K
Royalty Rate
4.0%
5.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$3.5M
$2.7M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
0.0% (114 loans)
Limited data
Total Units
944
2,206
Unit Growth (YoY)
N/A
N/A
Year Began Franchising
1990
1993
FDD Year
2024
2025