Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen vs Sonic
Franchise Comparison 2026
Both Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen and Sonic are quick-service restaurants franchises. Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen requires an investment of $1.2M – $3.9M while Sonic requires $1.5M – $2.5M. In terms of revenue, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen reports higher average unit revenue at $2.0M. On SBA loan performance, Sonic has a lower charge-off rate (8.3%) compared to Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen (10.4%). FranchiseVerdict rates Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen A (Strongest tier) and Sonic A (Strongest tier).
| Metric | Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen | Sonic |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | AStrongest tierStrongest tier | AStrongest tierStrongest tier |
| Investment Range | $1.2M – $3.9M | $1.5M – $2.5M |
| Franchise Fee | $50K | $15K |
| Royalty Rate | 5.0% | 5.0% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $2.0M | $1.6M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | 10.4% (332 loans) | 8.3% (144 loans) |
| Total Units | 3,177 | 3,412 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | N/A | N/A |
| Year Began Franchising | 1976 | 1974 |
| FDD Year | 2025 | 2026 |
Investment Range
$1.2M – $3.9M
$1.5M – $2.5M
Franchise Fee
$50K
$15K
Royalty Rate
5.0%
5.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$2.0M
$1.6M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
10.4% (332 loans)
8.3% (144 loans)
Total Units
3,177
3,412
Unit Growth (YoY)
N/A
N/A
Year Began Franchising
1976
1974
FDD Year
2025
2026