TGI Fridays is a casual dining restaurant chain known for its American-style food and signature cocktails, offering a diverse menu of appetizers, burgers, steaks, and ribs in a lively and fun atmosphere.
KEY FRANCHISE STATS
Franchisees
?
134
+
-20%
-20%
Franchise fee
?
$50,000
Investment
?
$2,721,000 - $4,326,000
Revenue (AUV)
?
Undisclosed
$2,547,000
+
n.a.
n.a.
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TGI Fridays is a globally recognized American casual dining franchise, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and innovative menu. Founded in 1972, in New York City by Alan Stillman, the brand aimed to create a public space for young adults to socialize.
Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, TGI Fridays began franchising in 1978, rapidly expanding its footprint across the United States and internationally.
The franchise offers a diverse menu featuring American classics such as steaks, burgers, chicken, seafood, and pasta, complemented by a full-service bar known for its signature cocktails.
TGI Fridays distinguishes itself through its commitment to a celebratory dining experience, emphasizing bold flavors and a lively environment. In May 2025, the brand revamped 85% of its menu, introducing innovative dishes and modernized cocktails to reconnect with its roots as a pioneer in casual dining.
Initial investment
The initial investment required for a TGI Fridays franchise is
$2,721,000 - $4,326,000.
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.
TGI Fridays offers 2 types of franchises:
Prototype
Size
Initial Investment
P11 Prototype
6,200 Square Foot TGI Fridays™ Restaurant
$2,721,000 – $4,051,000
"PROTO 2017" Prototype
6,800 Square Foot TGI Fridays™ Restaurant
$2,872,500 – $4,326,000
We are summarizing below the main costs associated with opening a "PROTO 2017" Prototype6,800 Square Foot TGI Fridays™ Restaurant.
For more information on the various types of franchises and its costs, refer to the Franchise Disclosure Document (Item 7).
Type of Expenditure
Amount
Initial Franchise Fee
$50,000
Furniture, Equipment & Décor
$801,500 – $1,000,000
Computer Systems
$73,500 – $91,000
Opening Inventory
$35,000 – $60,000
Hiring Expenses; Training
$65,000 – $200,000
Liquor License
Varies
Building & Improvements
$1,500,000 – $2,000,000
Site Improvements
$200,000 – $500,000
Developmental Costs
$65,000 – $100,000
Insurance
$12,500 – $25,000
Miscellaneous Costs
$10,000 – $100,000
Additional Funds (3 months)
$60,000 – $200,000
Total
$2,872,500 – $4,326,000
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TGI Fridays offers 2 types of franchises:
Prototype
Size
Initial Investment
P11 Prototype
6,200 Square Foot TGI Fridays™ Restaurant
$2,721,000 – $4,051,000
"PROTO 2017" Prototype
6,800 Square Foot TGI Fridays™ Restaurant
$2,872,500 – $4,326,000
We are summarizing below the main costs associated with opening a "PROTO 2017" Prototype6,800 Square Foot TGI Fridays™ Restaurant.
For more information on the various types of franchises and its costs, refer to the Franchise Disclosure Document (Item 7).
Type of Expenditure
Amount
Initial Franchise Fee
$50,000
Furniture, Equipment & Décor
$801,500 – $1,000,000
Computer Systems
$73,500 – $91,000
Opening Inventory
$35,000 – $60,000
Hiring Expenses; Training
$65,000 – $200,000
Liquor License
Varies
Building & Improvements
$1,500,000 – $2,000,000
Site Improvements
$200,000 – $500,000
Developmental Costs
$65,000 – $100,000
Insurance
$12,500 – $25,000
Miscellaneous Costs
$10,000 – $100,000
Additional Funds (3 months)
$60,000 – $200,000
Total
$2,872,500 – $4,326,000
Franchise Disclosure Document
Below is TGI Fridays's 2023 Franchise Disclosure Document. Upgrade to Pro or purchase the FDD to view and download the document.
Number of units
TGI Fridays had 292 total units in 2023, of which 134 were franchised-owned and 158 company-owned.
TGI Fridays provides a thorough training framework to ensure franchisees and their teams can effectively operate a Fridays Restaurant. Below is a breakdown of the training programs offered:
Initial Management Training Program: Franchisees, Operating Principals, and the Restaurant's General and Kitchen Managers are required to attend and successfully complete this program. It includes instruction in key operational areas such as service, food preparation, and restaurant management practices.
Pre-Opening Training: This covers topics like equipment use, software systems, and brand standards. It must be completed before the restaurant begins operations and may take place at a designated TGI Fridays training facility or another approved site.
On-Site Opening Support: The franchisor may provide on-site assistance during the restaurant’s opening to ensure smooth operations and adherence to brand expectations.
Ongoing Training: TGI Fridays may require additional training for franchisees or staff throughout the term of the franchise to maintain quality and operational consistency. This may involve refresher courses, system updates, or newly introduced procedures.
Territory Protection
TGI Fridays does not provide exclusive territory rights under its standard Franchise Agreement. Franchisees may face competition from other TGI Fridays locations, including those owned or franchised by the company, as well as from other brands or distribution channels under the franchisor’s control.
Limited territorial protection may be granted under a Development Agreement, which allows a franchisee to open a set number of restaurants in a defined area. However, this protection can be reduced or terminated if the franchisee defaults, and the franchisor retains the right to operate in various venues within that territory.
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