Hooters is a casual dining restaurant known for its wings, burgers, and sports bar atmosphere, offering a fun and lively dining experience.
KEY FRANCHISE STATS
Franchisees
?
118
+
22%
22%
Franchise fee
?
$50,000
Investment
?
$1,253,000 - $4,697,000
Revenue (AUV)
?
Undisclosed
$0
+
n.a.
n.a.
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Hooters, a renowned restaurant franchise, was founded in 1983 in Clearwater, Florida, by six entrepreneurs seeking to create a lively, laid-back dining experience. The concept blended delicious food, refreshing beer, sports on large screens, and welcoming service led by the iconic Hooters Girls.
Today, Hooters stands as a global phenomenon with over 435 locations spanning 44 states and 28 countries. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, the franchise has successfully expanded its footprint both domestically and internationally, balancing corporate operations with franchised locations.
Known for its signature combination of consistently great food and a vibrant atmosphere, Hooters sets itself apart with a strong commitment to community engagement. The brand actively supports causes like cancer research and other charitable initiatives, solidifying its reputation as more than just a dining destination.
Initial investment
The initial investment required for a Hooters franchise is
$1,253,000 - $4,697,000.
That is the total cost you would need to finance if you were to start this franchise.
These costs are provided by the franchisor in the Franchise Disclosure Document.
Hooters offers 2 options:
Type of Restaurant
Initial Investment Range
Conversion Restaurant
$1,253,300 to $3,022,000
New Construction Restaurant
$2,743,300 to $4,697,000
The investment information below is based on the estimated initial investment for a New Construction Restaurant.
For more information on the costs required to start a Hooters franchise, refer to the Franchise Disclosure Document (Item 7).
Type of Expenditure
Amount
Initial Franchise Fee
$50,000
Liquor License
$300 to $10,000
Leasehold Improvement, Architect, and Other Site-Related Fees
$1,840,000 to $3,225,000
Equipment, Furniture, Fixtures, Supplies, Signage, and Technology Systems
$630,000 to $865,000
Initial Inventory
$25,000 to $95,000
Initial Labor and Training
$95,000 to $162,000
Grand Opening Expenses
$10,000 to $50,000
Insurance
$45,000 to $80,000
Professional Fees, Licenses, Deposits, and Other Prepaid Expenses
$8,000 to $25,000
Additional Funds - 3 Months
$40,000 to $135,000
Total Estimated Initial Investment
$2,743,300 to $4,697,000
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Hooters offers 2 options:
Type of Restaurant
Initial Investment Range
Conversion Restaurant
$1,253,300 to $3,022,000
New Construction Restaurant
$2,743,300 to $4,697,000
The investment information below is based on the estimated initial investment for a New Construction Restaurant.
For more information on the costs required to start a Hooters franchise, refer to the Franchise Disclosure Document (Item 7).
Type of Expenditure
Amount
Initial Franchise Fee
$50,000
Liquor License
$300 to $10,000
Leasehold Improvement, Architect, and Other Site-Related Fees
$1,840,000 to $3,225,000
Equipment, Furniture, Fixtures, Supplies, Signage, and Technology Systems
$630,000 to $865,000
Initial Inventory
$25,000 to $95,000
Initial Labor and Training
$95,000 to $162,000
Grand Opening Expenses
$10,000 to $50,000
Insurance
$45,000 to $80,000
Professional Fees, Licenses, Deposits, and Other Prepaid Expenses
$8,000 to $25,000
Additional Funds - 3 Months
$40,000 to $135,000
Total Estimated Initial Investment
$2,743,300 to $4,697,000
Franchise Disclosure Document
Below is Hooters's 2026 Franchise Disclosure Document. Sign up for free to view the document.
Number of units
Hooters had 194 total units in 2026, of which 118 were franchised-owned and 76 company-owned.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the royalty fee of
Hooters
?
The royalty fee for a Hooters franchise is 6.00%. In addition, you would have to pay the advertising (or national brand fund) fee of 2.00%.
What is the total investment of
Hooters
?
The initial investment required for a Hooters franchise is $1,253,000 - $4,697,000. That is the total cost you would need to finance if you were to start this franchise. These costs are provided by the franchisor in the Franchise Disclosure Document.
What is the initial franchise fee of
Hooters
?
The initial franchise fee for a Hooters franchise is $50,000. This is typically paid upfront as part of the total initial investment, after signature of the Franchise Agreeement.
What is the AUV of
Hooters
?
Hooters does not disclose the average unit volume (average revenue) in its FDD.
The average unit volume (average revenue) for a Hooters franchise is $0.
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Hooters provides comprehensive training programs to ensure franchisees and their personnel are well-prepared to operate their businesses. The franchisor offers several types of training, including:
Management Training Program: This program is mandatory for the Operating Principal, General Manager, and any other designated personnel. The training involves both online and in-person components, covering essential aspects of managing a Hooters franchise. Attendees are responsible for all associated costs, such as travel, lodging, and their salaries.
On-the-Job Training: Hooters periodically conducts on-the-job training programs at various locations, including corporate headquarters and franchise-operated sites. Space for these programs is limited, and the franchisor reserves the right to modify or discontinue this training as needed.
On-Site Training During Openings: The franchisor provides up to two Opening Training Coordinators to assist with the launch of new franchises for up to 14 days. Franchisees must reimburse the franchisor for the associated travel and accommodation expenses.
Additional Training Programs: Hooters also offers refresher courses and additional training as necessary, which can take place at various locations, including the franchisee's restaurant or a designated venue. These programs are provided at the franchisee's expense.
Territory Protection
Hooters provides franchisees with a Protected Market Area as part of its franchise agreements. Within this area, Hooters will not open or license another Hooters restaurant, ensuring operational exclusivity for the franchisee.
However, the Protected Market Area is determined solely by the franchisor, considering various factors such as demographics and local market potential.
Despite the Protected Market Area, the franchisor retains broad rights to operate or license other Hooters-related businesses, such as hoots® wings restaurants, within or outside the designated area.