Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen vs Carl's Jr.
Franchise Comparison 2026
Both Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen and Carl's Jr. are quick-service restaurants franchises. Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen requires an investment of $505K – $3.9M while Carl's Jr. requires $1.5M – $3.2M. In terms of revenue, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen reports higher average unit revenue at $2.0M. On SBA loan performance, Carl's Jr. has a lower charge-off rate (0.0%) compared to Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen (10.4%). FranchiseVerdict rates Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen A (Top Quintile) and Carl's Jr. A (Top Quintile).
| Metric | Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen | Carl's Jr. |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | ATop QuintileTop Quintile | ATop QuintileTop Quintile |
| Investment Range | $505K – $3.9M | $1.5M – $3.2M |
| Franchise Fee | $50K | $25K |
| Royalty Rate | 5.0% | 4.0% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $2.0M | $1.4M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | 10.4% (332 loans) | 0.0% (34 loans) |
| Total Units | 3,177 | 1,063 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | N/A | N/A |
| Year Began Franchising | 1976 | 1984 |
| FDD Year | 2025 | 2024 |
Investment Range
$505K – $3.9M
$1.5M – $3.2M
Franchise Fee
$50K
$25K
Royalty Rate
5.0%
4.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$2.0M
$1.4M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
10.4% (332 loans)
0.0% (34 loans)
Total Units
3,177
1,063
Unit Growth (YoY)
N/A
N/A
Year Began Franchising
1976
1984
FDD Year
2025
2024