Wendy's vs Krystal
Franchise Comparison 2026
Both Wendy's and Krystal are quick-service restaurants franchises. Wendy's requires an investment of $410K – $3.1M while Krystal requires $1.4M – $2.2M. 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 Krystal (22.7%). FranchiseVerdict rates Wendy's A (Top Quintile) and Krystal D (Below Average).
| Metric | Wendy's | Krystal |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | ATop QuintileTop Quintile | DBelow AverageBelow Average |
| Investment Range | $410K – $3.1M | $1.4M – $2.2M |
| Franchise Fee | $50K | $35K |
| Royalty Rate | 4-6% of Gross Sales depending on restaurant type and development program (4% traditional/Groundbreaker, 5% Pacesetter, 6% military/Build-to-Suit) | 5.0% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $2.1M | $982K |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | 0.8% (200 loans) | 22.7% (33 loans) |
| Total Units | 7,397 | 280 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | N/A | N/A |
| Year Began Franchising | 1971 | 1990 |
| FDD Year | 2026 | 2024 |
Investment Range
$410K – $3.1M
$1.4M – $2.2M
Franchise Fee
$50K
$35K
Royalty Rate
4-6% of Gross Sales depending on restaurant type and development program (4% traditional/Groundbreaker, 5% Pacesetter, 6% military/Build-to-Suit)
5.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$2.1M
$982K
SBA Charge-Off Rate
0.8% (200 loans)
22.7% (33 loans)
Total Units
7,397
280
Unit Growth (YoY)
N/A
N/A
Year Began Franchising
1971
1990
FDD Year
2026
2024