SmashBurger

SmashBurger

Information based on 2024 FDD

Food & Beverage · Burgers & Fries

Investment min
$1M
Total: $1M–$2M
Avg gross revenue
N/A
Unit-level, 2024
Franchise fee
$40K
Per current disclosure
Royalty
5.5%
of gross revenue
Locations
78
Franchising since 2008

Description

What is SmashBurger?

SmashBurger has revolutionized the burger industry since 2007 with its signature smashing technique that creates an irresistibly crispy, caramelized exterior while maintaining a juicy center. This innovative approach to burger-making has helped establish the brand as a leader in the premium fast-casual dining segment.

What sets SmashBurger apart is their commitment to quality ingredients and customization. Each burger starts with 100% Certified Angus Beef that's smashed on a hot griddle, creating their trademark 'smashed crispy' patty. Their menu features creative burger combinations, from the truffle mushroom swiss to the Colorado burger, alongside classic options that satisfy traditional tastes.

Beyond their legendary burgers, SmashBurger offers a diverse menu including chicken sandwiches, turkey burgers, and black bean vegetarian options. Their sides are equally noteworthy, particularly their signature SmashFries tossed with rosemary, garlic, and olive oil. The restaurant also features hand-spun milkshakes made with Häagen-Dazs ice cream, adding a premium touch to the casual dining experience.

The brand's modern restaurant design creates a welcoming atmosphere that appeals to a wide demographic, from families to young professionals. SmashBurger's commitment to customer service is evident in their consistently positive reviews, with guests frequently praising both the food quality and staff friendliness.

For potential franchisees, SmashBurger offers a proven business model with strong brand recognition and a dedicated support system. Their success in both urban and suburban markets demonstrates the concept's versatility and broad consumer appeal.
  • Signature proprietary burger smasher technology with special smashing technique
  • 211 active franchise locations demonstrating proven scalability
  • 17 years of operational excellence since 2007 establishment
  • Premium ingredients with custom burger spice blend
  • Made-to-order burgers with caramelized crispy sear
  • Flexible footprint development options for multi-unit growth

Location Analysis

Where SmashBurger wins

Founded in 2007, SmashBurger has grown to numerous locations across multiple states, demonstrating successful expansion from its origins. The franchise maintains a strong customer satisfaction rating across thousands of reviews, indicating consistent operational excellence. Geographic distribution shows concentrated presence in the Northeast, with notable market penetration in New York and New Jersey collectively representing a significant portion of total locations. The Southwest markets form another important cluster, with strong presence in Arizona and California leading regional growth, while Texas anchors the Southern presence. Michigan and Florida represent emerging growth markets. Market analysis suggests SmashBurger thrives in high-traffic locations with strong daytime populations and above-average household incomes. The franchise's concentrated presence in major metropolitan areas indicates a strategic focus on urban and suburban markets with strong lunch crowds and family demographics. While current coverage leaves opportunities in the Midwest and Southeast, these regions present compelling expansion potential, particularly in mid-sized cities with growing young professional populations. Ideal locations feature proximity to office complexes, retail centers, or university campuses, with strong visibility and accessible parking. The franchise's presence in Glassboro, New Jersey, maintaining exceptional customer ratings, exemplifies their successful site selection strategy focusing on high-traffic retail corridors.
Total US locations
211
Franchise units
78
Corporate locations
133
Avg. sq. footage
N/A

Loading map...

Territory check

Is your territory available?

Let's find out.

try

We'll take you through a few quick questions, then SmashBurger confirms availability directly.

Availability

Financial Analysis

The numbers behind SmashBurger

Avg gross revenueN/A
Investment range$1,172,500 – $2,176,500
Investment midpoint$1,674,500
Brand fund2.25%
Royalty5.5%
Franchise fee$40,000
Min. net worth
Min. liquid capital
SmashBurger requires a substantial investment of $1.17M to $2.18M, positioning it in the premium tier of burger franchises. This investment level slightly exceeds the burgers & fries sub-sector average maximum of $2.09M, reflecting SmashBurger's premium positioning and comprehensive operational infrastructure. Revenue data is not currently available, limiting direct profitability comparisons within the sector.

Established in 2007 with 211 active units, SmashBurger demonstrates solid system maturity with 17 years of operational history providing franchisees with proven systems and refined protocols. The moderate unit count suggests selective, quality-focused growth rather than rapid expansion.

The burger segment remains resilient with consistent consumer demand, though faces increasing competition from fast-casual concepts and delivery platforms. SmashBurger's signature smashing technique and premium ingredients differentiate it in the crowded burger market, supporting higher price points that justify the elevated investment requirements.

Ideal investors should possess restaurant management experience and sufficient capital reserves beyond minimum requirements. The high investment threshold naturally limits competition among potential franchisees while ensuring system quality. Multi-unit development opportunities exist given the brand's proven scalability.

Prospective investors must carefully evaluate local market dynamics, competition density, and demographic alignment with the premium burger positioning. The substantial capital requirements necessitate thorough due diligence and comprehensive review of the Franchise Disclosure Document before proceeding.
Did you know? Did you know that launching your own SmashBurger franchise - famous for their signature smashed-to-order burgers and crispy fries - requires a total investment between $1,172,500 and $2,176,500, which covers everything from the $40,000 franchise fee to equipment, build-out costs, and working capital needed to bring this beloved burger concept to your community?

Financing partners

Vetted partners, tailored to franchisees

Your Franzy advisor can connect you with these partners later in the process — competitive rates, specialized in franchise financing.

FranFund

Lender

CRF USA

Nonprofit SBA lender; provides financing for franchise acquisitions, startups, and expansion.

Lender

First Bank of the Lake

Lender

Pension Pros

Lender

FDD Item 7

Initial investment range

$1M–$2M
Most common
$1,172,500
Minimum
$1,674,500
Midpoint
$2,176,500
Maximum

Per FDD Item 7, total initial investment ranges from $1,172,500 to $2,176,500. The midpoint $1,674,500 is what most franchisees report at signing — financing typically reduces cash-at-close by 80–90%. Knowing the investment range helps you plan confidently and ensure you're fully prepared to make the leap.

FDD Item 19

Average gross sales

$2M$1M$900K$600K$300KN/A
$1M
$1M
2022
2023
2024
Avg
$745K
YOY change (2023 -> 2024)
-100%

According to Item 19 of the Franchise Disclosure Document, SmashBurger has average gross revenue data in our records. (Note: This information is based on the latest FDD in our records. Please review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and confirm this information directly with the brand. We make no claims of accuracy for the information presented.)

Growth over time

Franchise footprint

-3% YoY
400320240160800
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
211 units open as of 2024 FDD-6 in last 12 mo

2024 Franchise Disclosure

FDD documents

Below are items 2, 3, 4, 7, 11 and 19 for SmashBurger's 2024 FDD. The complete FDD is delivered to you directly by the franchisor, per the FTC Franchise Rule.

Estimated initial investment
FDD Item 7 · PDF
Financial performance representations
FDD Item 19 · PDF
Members-only items
Executive team
FDD Item 2 · PDF
Litigation
FDD Item 3 · PDF
Bankruptcy
FDD Item 4 · PDF
Franchisor assistance
FDD Item 11 · PDF
Members only
Unlock the 2024 FDD

Connect to download Items 2, 3, 4, and 11 — direct from the franchisor.

Buyer FAQs

Frequently asked questions

The initial investment for a SmashBurger franchise typically ranges between $1,172,500.00 and $2,176,500.00. This includes the franchise fee, equipment, real estate, and other startup costs. To get a detailed breakdown and better understand the financial requirements, we recommend scheduling a call with the Franzy team. We'll walk you through the specifics and answer any questions you might have. For more detailed information, refer to the financial sections of the FDD.

Disclaimer. The information provided on this page is based on the latest Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) that is publicly available and that we have on record, which was issued in 2024. This information is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal, financial, or business advice. We make no guarantees or claims regarding the completeness or accuracy. For the most current and detailed information, we recommend consulting the franchisor directly for the most recent FDD and regarding any questions that you may have about the information provided.

SmashBurger
SmashBurger
N/A avg revenue · 78+ US franchises

Franchises for you

Other brands in the same vertical and investment band — recommendations based on what you've explored.

Spotlight

Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken

Food & Beverage

Gross Revenue$2,172,042
Min Investment$850,000
Founded1966
Franchise Units94+

Spotlight

Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

Frios Gourmet Pops

Food & Beverage

Gross RevenueN/A
Min Investment$64,584
Founded2018
Franchise Units115+
Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

Clusters Handcrafted Popcorn

Food & Beverage

Gross Revenue$274,576
Min Investment$170,800
Founded2017
Franchise Units5+
Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

Tea Bar - Mobile Unit

Food & Beverage

Gross RevenueN/A
Min Investment$95,000
Founded2014
Franchise UnitsN/A
Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

Tea Bar

Food & Beverage

Gross RevenueN/A
Min Investment$266,037
Founded2014
Franchise UnitsN/A
Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

3Natives Acai Cafe

Food & Beverage

Gross Revenue$947,071
Min Investment$310,000
Founded2013
Franchise Units42+
Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

Goodness Bowls

Food & Beverage

Gross RevenueN/A
Min Investment$325,119
Founded2019
Franchise Units5+
Franchisor Image
Franzy Verified

Breadless

Food & Beverage

Gross RevenueN/A
Min Investment$439,202
Founded2025
Franchise UnitsN/A