KFC vs Wendy's
Franchise Comparison 2026
Both KFC and Wendy's are quick-service restaurants franchises. KFC requires an investment of $1.9M – $3.8M while Wendy's requires $410K – $3.1M. In terms of revenue, Wendy's reports higher average unit revenue at $2.1M. On SBA loan performance, Wendy's has a lower charge-off rate (0.8%) compared to KFC (12.3%). FranchiseVerdict rates KFC B (Above Average) and Wendy's A (Top Quintile).
| Metric | KFC | Wendy's |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | BAbove AverageAbove Average | ATop QuintileTop Quintile |
| Investment Range | $1.9M – $3.8M | $410K – $3.1M |
| Franchise Fee | $45K | $50K |
| Royalty Rate | 4.0% | 4-6% of Gross Sales depending on restaurant type and development program (4% traditional/Groundbreaker, 5% Pacesetter, 6% military/Build-to-Suit) |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $1.3M | $2.1M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | 12.3% (281 loans) | 0.8% (200 loans) |
| Total Units | 3,638 | 5,969 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | N/A | N/A |
| Year Began Franchising | 2016 | 1971 |
| FDD Year | 2025 | 2026 |
Investment Range
$1.9M – $3.8M
$410K – $3.1M
Franchise Fee
$45K
$50K
Royalty Rate
4.0%
4-6% of Gross Sales depending on restaurant type and development program (4% traditional/Groundbreaker, 5% Pacesetter, 6% military/Build-to-Suit)
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$1.3M
$2.1M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
12.3% (281 loans)
0.8% (200 loans)
Total Units
3,638
5,969
Unit Growth (YoY)
N/A
N/A
Year Began Franchising
2016
1971
FDD Year
2025
2026