Zaxbys For Sale: Complete Guide To Buy A Zaxbys Franchise

Q: How many franchises does Zaxby’s have?

As of April 2025, Zaxby’s operates 980 locations across the United States, with the majority being franchise-owned.

Q: How long does it take to break even?

Most franchisees report reaching break-even within three to five years , depending on location, labor efficiency, and local demand.

The phrase “Zaxbys for sale” usually refers to two types of opportunities. First, you can purchase an existing Zaxby’s restaurant that is already in operation; this means faster startup time, immediate cash flow, and access to trained staff and loyal customers. Second, you can open a brand-new Zaxby’s location in an available territory, which gives you more control over build-out and branding while tapping into untapped markets.

Both options fall under Zaxby’s franchise program. Existing locations are sometimes listed for resale privately or shared through direct inquiry with the Zaxby’s franchise team. On the other hand, new franchises are available in key expansion markets like Dallas/Fort Worth (Texas), Denver (Colorado), and parts of the Midwest. A current territory map is available on the official Zaxby’s Franchise Portal.

Whether you want to buy an existing restaurant or start fresh in a new territory, this complete guide explains everything you need to know, from investment costs to the full step-by-step buying process.

Why Invest In A Zaxby’s Franchise?

Zaxby’s is a highly recognized fast-casual restaurant brand that has been serving signature chicken fingers, wings, and sauces since 1990. With over 900 locations across 17 states, it has built a loyal customer base and strong brand recognition.

In terms of earnings, established Zaxby’s restaurants average over $2.5 million in annual gross sales, with net profit margins typically ranging from 10% to 15% after expenses and royalties, making it an attractive option for franchise investors. Key success factors include picking a strategic, high-traffic location, keeping labor costs under control, marketing locally, and staying up to date with menu trends.

Moreover, Zaxby’s is expanding in various U.S. states. You can view potential franchise territories on their locations page. While specific stores for resale aren’t always listed publicly, you can contact Zaxby’s directly to ask about any existing locations for sale.

Beyond financial potential, Zaxby’s franchisees receive comprehensive training and support. With over three decades of operational excellence, Zaxby’s offers franchisees a stable and scalable opportunity in the booming fast-casual market.

Zaxby’s Franchise Cost Breakdown

Before you can open a store, you need to understand the startup costs. According to the official startup costs page, here’s a breakdown:

Opening a Zaxby’s franchise requires a total investment ranging from $1.39 million to $3.32 million, depending on factors such as location, rental terms, and construction costs. The initial franchise fee is $35,000. Real estate or rental expenses can range from $300,000 to $1.5 million, while building or remodeling the location typically costs between $750,000 and $1.8 million.

Additional costs include equipment (around $400,000 to $600,000), opening inventory ($25,000 to $35,000), and pre-opening payroll ($50,000 to $75,000). Franchisees should also reserve at least $150,000 in working capital for the first few months. Zaxby’s requires potential owners to have a minimum net worth of $1 million and liquid assets between $500,000 and $750,000. Ongoing fees include a 6% royalty on gross sales and a 3%–4.5% advertising fee.

Note: Some outdated sources may list lower investment ranges, such as $343,200 to $695,200. However, current official estimates from Zaxby’s reflect higher, more realistic startup costs.

How To Buy Zaxbys For Sale Franchise: The 7-Step Process

The path to becoming a Zaxby’s franchise follows a structured 7-step process according to the official guidelines.

Firstly, you start by filling out an initial inquiry form on the Zaxby’s franchise website to show your interest.
Secondly, you submit a full franchise application and go through a financial check to confirm that your net worth is at least $1 million. This helps the company see if you’re financially ready to run a Zaxby’s location.
In the third step, you’re invited to what’s called Discovery Day. This is when you visit Zaxby’s headquarters, meet the main team, and check out current Zaxby’s restaurants to get a feel for the business.
In the fourth step, if you pass the earlier steps, you’ll sign a 20-year franchise agreement and pay the $35,000 franchise fee. This officially makes you a part of the Zaxby’s franchise system.
The fifth step includes working with Zaxby’s real estate team to choose your restaurant’s location. Whether you’re buying or renting the property, Zaxby’s helps guide you through the process. Once the site is approved, construction begins and usually takes about four to six months. You must use contractors approved by Zaxby’s to make sure everything matches their standards
In the sixth step, after the restaurant is built, you go through training. Zaxby’s doesn’t just hand you the keys and leave you alone. They offer full support and training as detailed in their training section. This includes about 51 hours in the classroom and between 288 and 432 hours of hands-on training in a working Zaxby’s. This training helps you understand food safety, managing employees, and running day-to-day operations. In the end, you’ll be certified to manage your store.
In the final step, it’s time for the grand opening! Zaxby’s supports you with a full marketing campaign to attract customers and also performs operational checks during the first 90 days to make sure everything runs smoothly from day one. Beyond that, Zaxby’s offers ongoing support in marketing, operations, and technology, so you’re never alone in managing your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

To open a Zaxby’s, you need a minimum net worth of $1 million and at least $500,000 in liquid assets. The initial franchise fee is $35,000, and the total investment ranges from $1.4 million to $3.3 million. You’ll also pay a 6% royalty fee and up to 4% for marketing.

A Zaxby’s franchise owner typically earns between $70,000 to $220,000 annually, depending on factors like location, operational efficiency, and management involvement. On average, a Zaxby’s restaurant generates about $2.6 million in annual revenue, with profit margins ranging from 10% to 15%.

Zaxby’s franchise fees include a $35,000 initial franchise fee, a 6% royalty fee on gross sales, and up to a 4% marketing fee.

Zaxby’s has been doing well recently, with average store sales reaching $2.65 million. This shows that franchise owners can make good money.

Yes, most Zaxby’s restaurants are individually owned by franchisees. While the company does operate in some locations, the majority are franchised, allowing individual owners to run their own Zaxby’s under the brand’s system and support.

As of April 2025, Zaxby’s operates 980 locations across the United States, with the majority being franchise-owned.

No, Zaxby’s doesn’t offer financing for your startup costs. But if you need help with things like payroll after your franchise is open, they can connect you with trusted outside lenders.

Zaxby’s real estate team will help you find the best spot for your Zaxby’s restaurant. If you already have a location in mind, you can suggest it too.

Most franchisees report reaching break-even within three to five years, depending on location, labor efficiency, and local demand.

No, Zaxby’s requires all locations to be newly constructed or developed according to their brand and layout specifications.

Final Thoughts: Is Investing In Zaxby’s Right?

Zaxby’s offers strong brand recognition, multiple revenue streams (dine-in, delivery, catering), and extensive operational support. If you have restaurant experience, a net worth of at least $1 million, and are ready for a long-term commitment, buying into the Zaxby’s franchise system can be a strong investment. Whether you’re searching for Zaxbys for sale or planning to build one from the ground up, this franchise offers significant growth potential in the fast-casual chicken market.

But before investing, it’s important to consider the pros and cons. However, challenges include a high upfront investment, ongoing royalty payments, and strong competition in the food industry. While concluding this guide, I also want to share some important tips for opening a successful Zaxby’s franchise:

Choose a location with strong foot traffic.
Hire and train a reliable team early.
Engage with your local community.
Follow Zaxby’s operational systems closely.

These practices help increase your chances of long-term success after buying Zaxbys for sale franchise.