GNC vs Panera Bread
Franchise Comparison 2026
GNC is a healthcare franchise, while Panera Bread operates in quick-service restaurants. GNC requires an investment of $188K – $507K while Panera Bread requires $1.3M – $4.7M. In terms of revenue, Panera Bread reports higher average unit revenue at $2.6M. Note: Reported as net sales, not gross sales. GNC has SBA lending data on file with a 0.0% charge-off rate. FranchiseVerdict rates GNC A (Strongest tier) and Panera Bread A (Strongest tier).
| Metric | GNC | Panera Bread |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | AStrongest tierStrongest tier | AStrongest tierStrongest tier |
| Investment Range | $188K – $507K | $1.3M – $4.7M |
| Franchise Fee | $20K | $35K |
| Royalty Rate | 6.0% | 5.0% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $476K | $2.6M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | 0.0% (10 loans) | Limited data |
| Total Units | 2,140 | 2,206 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | N/A | N/A |
| Year Began Franchising | 2021 | 1993 |
| FDD Year | 2025 | 2025 |
Investment Range
$188K – $507K
$1.3M – $4.7M
Franchise Fee
$20K
$35K
Royalty Rate
6.0%
5.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$476K
$2.6M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
0.0% (10 loans)
Limited data
Total Units
2,140
2,206
Unit Growth (YoY)
N/A
N/A
Year Began Franchising
2021
1993
FDD Year
2025
2025