GNC vs McDonald’s
Franchise Comparison 2026
GNC is a healthcare franchise, while McDonald’s operates in quick-service restaurants. GNC requires an investment of $188K – $507K while McDonald’s requires $1.5M – $2.8M. In terms of revenue, McDonald’s reports higher average unit revenue at $4.1M. On SBA loan performance, GNC has a lower charge-off rate (0.0%) compared to McDonald’s (16.7%). FranchiseVerdict rates GNC B (Above average) and McDonald’s A (Strongest tier).
| Metric | GNC | McDonald’s |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | BAbove averageAbove average | AStrongest tierStrongest tier |
| Investment Range | $188K – $507K | $1.5M – $2.8M |
| Franchise Fee | $20K | $45K |
| Royalty Rate | 6.0% | 5.0% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $476K | $4.1M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | 0.0% (10 loans) | 16.7% (24 loans) |
| Total Units | 2,140 | 13,706 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | N/A | N/A |
| Year Began Franchising | 2021 | 1955 |
| FDD Year | 2025 | 2026 |
Investment Range
$188K – $507K
$1.5M – $2.8M
Franchise Fee
$20K
$45K
Royalty Rate
6.0%
5.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$476K
$4.1M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
0.0% (10 loans)
16.7% (24 loans)
Total Units
2,140
13,706
Unit Growth (YoY)
N/A
N/A
Year Began Franchising
2021
1955
FDD Year
2025
2026