Franchising is a business concept that allows qualified investors to become part of an existing “system.” Most liken franchising to, “Being in business for yourself, but not by yourself.” Strategically, this provides multiple benefits under a trade name that has garnered customer awareness and brand equity. Nathan’s has taken this basic premise and redefined it to meet and exceed even the most stringent business criteria of today’s investor.

By offering a wide range of customized equipment and restaurant designs, we are able to provide a business opportunity to qualified candidates regardless of space constraints or investment limitations. Nathan’s award-winning prototypes range from counter-top modules to free-standing restaurants; all are designed to be contemporary, operationally efficient, comfortable and dramatic. When measured against industry barometers, Nathan’s distinguishes itself in:

Sales per square foot

A wide range of facility options to maximize use
of available space

Excellent profit to investment ratio

A flexible menu offering a wide variety
of premium quality products

Perfect menu for meal and snacking segments

Opportunities exist for Domestic Development, Area Development and International Master Franchise Rights. We seek strong partners to help us achieve our ultimate goal of remaining the leader in our segment, while maintaining the standard that everyone in our industry aspires to achieve.

We would like you to consider opening a Nathan’s. We believe that Nathan’s is an exceptional brand capable of providing substantial sales and profits.

1. What are the financial qualifications to become a Nathan’s franchisee?
That depends largely on the size of the restaurant and the menu that is selected. Generally, we would like to see a net worth of $450,000 and liquid capital of $150,000 for a food court or shopping center in-line restaurant.

2. Does Nathan’s Famous provide financing?
Not directly. Nathan’s Famous can provide you with a list of lending institutions whose business it is to provide financing for franchise opportunities.

3. How long does it take to open a new Nathan’s location?
From the time of site approval, it has been our experience that the time frame is generally 4-6 months.

4. Have I seen different types of Nathan’s restaurants and different sizes?
Nathan’s restaurants vary in size from 100 square foot kiosks to free-standing restaurants. Mall food court units are typically 600-700 square feet and in-line shopping center restaurants are 1,800 to 2,400 square feet.

5. Have I also seen different menus in restaurants?
Yes, Nathan’s is unique with its variety menu concept. You have the ability to expand or contract the Nathan’s menu depending upon marketing needs or space limitations.

6. What are the franchise fees and royalties?
STANDARD franchise fee............................ $30,000
w/Arthur Treacher’s co-brand............ $37,500
Royalty payments....................................... 5.5% of gross sales
Marketing development.......................... 2.0% of gross sales

7. How much money does it take to open a Nathan’s restaurant?
Estimated Initial Investment*
Kiosk................................................................... $33,500 to $90,000
Food Court or In-line............................... $245,000 to $425,000
Free-standing w/drive thru.................. $400,000 to $750,000

8. Can I convert an existing restaurant to Nathan’s?
Nathan’s is perfect for converting an existing under-performing restaurant location into a viable business. Nathan’s flexible restaurant design and menu makes a conversion an attractive, cost effective, new sales and profit opportunity.