GNC vs Sonic
Franchise Comparison 2026
GNC is a healthcare franchise, while Sonic operates in quick-service restaurants. GNC requires an investment of $188K – $507K while Sonic requires $1.5M – $2.5M. In terms of revenue, Sonic reports higher average unit revenue at $1.6M. On SBA loan performance, GNC has a lower charge-off rate (0.0%) compared to Sonic (8.3%). FranchiseVerdict rates GNC A (Strongest tier) and Sonic A (Strongest tier).
| Metric | GNC | Sonic |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | AStrongest tierStrongest tier | AStrongest tierStrongest tier |
| Investment Range | $188K – $507K | $1.5M – $2.5M |
| Franchise Fee | $20K | $15K |
| Royalty Rate | 6.0% | 5.0% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $476K | $1.6M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | 0.0% (10 loans) | 8.3% (144 loans) |
| Total Units | 2,140 | 3,412 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | N/A | N/A |
| Year Began Franchising | 2021 | 1974 |
| FDD Year | 2025 | 2026 |
Investment Range
$188K – $507K
$1.5M – $2.5M
Franchise Fee
$20K
$15K
Royalty Rate
6.0%
5.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$476K
$1.6M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
0.0% (10 loans)
8.3% (144 loans)
Total Units
2,140
3,412
Unit Growth (YoY)
N/A
N/A
Year Began Franchising
2021
1974
FDD Year
2025
2026