Chick-fil-A is one of America's toughest franchises, and the startup cost may shock you

Chick-fil-A is one of America's toughest franchises to get, attracting thousands of hopeful applicants each year for a limited number of owner-operator opportunities.

The fast-food chain's unique business model was recently highlighted by Julian Good, who owns a Chick-fil-A restaurant in St. Charles, Illinois, during an appearance on the "Founder Talk" podcast.

"It's a $10,000 franchise fee. It's been the same for the last 50 years," Good said.

CHICK-FIL-A COPYCAT RECIPE REVEALED AS CEO SHARES INGREDIENT THAT MAKES IT TASTE LIKE THE ORIGINAL

About 100,000 people apply each year to become a Chick-fil-A owner-operator, with roughly 200 ultimately selected, Good explained.

Applicants without Chick-fil-A experience often wait three to five years before receiving an opportunity, he added.

Chick-fil-A is one of America's toughest franchises to get, attracting thousands of hopeful applicants each year. (iStock)

Chick-fil-A describes its selection process as "highly competitive," saying it looks for leaders willing to devote their full time and best efforts to operating a restaurant, according to Chick-fil-A’s January 2024 post on its press room website.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

However, previous experience with the company isn't required.

More than 25% of newly selected owner-operators had never worked at one of its restaurants or for the company before applying, according to Chick-fil-A.

Applicants without Chick-fil-A experience often wait three to five years before receiving an opportunity. (Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

The company said operators also come from a wide range of professional backgrounds, including manufacturing, health care, education, law enforcement and retail.

Unlike many franchise systems, Chick-fil-A owner-operators do not own the restaurant they operate, according to Franchise Business Review. Chick-fil-A retains ownership of the restaurant, equipment and, in most cases, the real estate, meaning operators do not build equity in the business or sell it when they retire.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES

Chick-fil-A said operators devote their time and energy to managing their restaurants, developing employees and serving their communities.

Good said that's one of the biggest differences between Chick-fil-A and many competing franchise models.

The fast-food chain has long stood out for closing all of its restaurants on Sundays. (iStock)

"When a Chick-fil-A operator retires, you can't pass it down to your kids. You don't sell the business or anything. It just goes back into the hands of Chick-fil-A," he said.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

Chick-fil-A's unique approach also extends to its operating schedule, with all of its restaurants closed on Sundays.

The weekly tradition remains an important part of the company's culture, Good noted.

"Just a way to glorify God and give back to the team and the community," he said.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Fox News Digital reached out to Chick-fil-A for comment.

Kelly McGreal is a production assistant with the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital.