burger business plan sample

Burger Restaurant Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business ideas » Hospitality, Travel & Tourism » Restaurant » Burger Restaurant

Are you about starting a burger restaurant? If YES, here’s a complete sample burger restaurant business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE to get started .

Okay, so we have considered all the requirements for starting a burger restaurant. We have analyzed and drafted a sample burger restaurant marketing plan backed up by actionable guerrilla marketing ideas for burger restaurants. So let’s proceed to the business planning section.

Suggested for You

• Fruit Salad Bar Business Plan [Sample Template]
• Breakfast Restaurant Business Plan [Sample Template]
• Korean Restaurant Business Plan [Sample Template]
• Fine Dining Restaurant Business Plan [Sample Template]
• How Much Hamburger Will It Take to Make 300 Three Ounce Patties With a 20% Shrinkage?

Why Start a Burger Restaurant Business?

Generally, burger restaurants are chain and franchised restaurants that mainly sell burgers but may also sell alcoholic and other beverages. Burger restaurant formats range from fast-food to full-service. Right from the beginning, burgers have been a staple American snack.

Burger restaurants don’t need to make anything other than really good burgers and really good fries. They are quite easy to make and don’t take much time to get ready. All you need is meat, buns, and fresh ingredients and you can make a wonderful burger in minutes, while other restaurants may need several minutes to prepare and serve their dishes.

Within the years, burger restaurants have improved. The days of simple cheeseburger with lettuce, tomato, and ketchup has long gone.

The industry is currently relishing an era of gourmet burgers and endless flavour profiles. So, just because you’re running a burger restaurant doesn’t mean that your food should be plain or simple. Most burger places today offer special sauces, gourmet toppings, and unexpected combinations.

This is indeed a business you should consider if you’re looking to venture into the food industry. With a burger business, you don’t have to worry about limiting your market to only meat lovers as there are many excellent veggie patties hitting menus everywhere that will please any veggie-lover out there.

In this modern age, it is very common to see lamb burgers, pork burgers, and even bison burgers. People who don’t eat beef can try a juicy chicken burger; if you’re pescatarian, you’ll love a salmon burger. Irrespective of your dietary restriction, there is a burger that comfortably suits your appeal. Read on as we put together a sample business plan for a burger restaurant.

A Sample Burger Restaurant Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

The burger industry of this modern era is nothing near the industry some two decades back. Hamburger franchises have spread across the united states and have continued to explore innovative ways to turn their customers into loyal burger-fanatics.

But when it comes to a good hamburger, Americans are known to be very careful and selective. A report has it that 75% of burger-lovers rank the quality of the meat as the first or second most important attribute to their burger. Second in line were toppings, ranked either first or second place by 42% of consumers.

Although the price and affordability of the burger is considered, high-quality ingredients are still very important in producing a successful burger business. Americans to a very large extent live on burgers and are known to go for the best.

Statistics show that nearly 80% of consumers eat at fast food restaurants at least once a month, and 34% of kids in the US eat fast food every day – and that’s not including the massive number of people eating at fast casual restaurants.

Burger in the United States is now seen a food that represents patriotism and festivity. They are always present at large family gatherings, particularly Fourth of July and Memorial Day celebrations. Given the timelessness of this All-American classic, it’s no wonder that the hamburger stands as one of the few “recession-proof” foods in the United States.

But note that with America’s fight against obesity, e-coli concerns, mad cow disease, and the recent go-green campaign, the burger industry has its own share of challenges and threats. Yet statistics has it that Americans tastes are becoming more diverse and varied.

Burger has always remained top in the minds of Americans, and the reason for this longevity is most times attributed to its widespread appeal. Burgers are affordable, portable, and customizable and they can be served gourmet-style or as a rustic yet classic go-to food.

2. Executive Summary

Star Burger will offer the people of San Diego an exciting menu of burgers, sandwiches, salads, desserts and coffee beverages. We plan to make use of a system that is entirely new to the industry to provide excellent services and products in a convenient and time-efficient way.

Star Burger will provide its customers with the opportunity to drive up and place their order of well-prepared burgers and sandwiches of different flavours and toppings. We also plan to offer our clients well blended lemonade, coffees, teas, and other custom drinks to go down with our unique burger and sandwiches. We will also offer soft drinks, fresh-baked pastries and other confections.

We at Star Burger plan to reach our targeted audience by deploying Drive-through facilities and Mobile Restaurants to satisfy the various urge of the people of San Diego, California. We believe that these facilities will be designed to manage the two-sided traffic and dispense customer-designed, specially ordered burgers and sandwiches in less time than when they visit other businesses.

Star Burger hopes to provide the people of San Diego with quality products and an extensive menu of delicious items, to make sure we get our customers’ loyalty, as well as good publicity coverage and media support.

We decided to become a Drive-through cafe between the mountains, attracting several million dollars through an initial public or private offering that would allow Star Burger to open fifteen to twenty facilities per year in all metropolitan communities in the North, Midwest, and South.

Star Burger will be registered as a Limited Liability Corporation, but all membership shares for now will be owned by Sampson and Nicky Shepard, and we also plan to leverage a portion of the shares to raise capital. Our plan at Star Burger is to sell 100 membership units to family members, friends, and angel investors.

Each membership unit at Star Burger is priced at $3,087 with a minimum of five units per membership certificate, or a minimum investment of $61,740 per investor. We have plans to ensure that irrespective of the amount of share units bought, Sampson and Nicky Shepard will maintain ownership of no less than 51% of Star Burger.

3. Our Products and Services

Star Burger is a San Diego burger and assorted sandwich restaurant serving during lunch time hour as well as early evening. We would operate weekdays from 9-7 pm. Our bread is chosen for several reasons: it is unique, healthy, and versatile.

We have prepared a menu that will give each customer the choice to enjoy our burgers and never get tired. We will attract 35% new customers a year after the second year and will reach profitability by the end of year two. Below are the products we plan to offer to our customers:

• Classic Gourmet Burgers: Cheese, Lettuce, Tomato, and Onion
• BBQ Bacon Burgers: BBQ Sauce, Bacon, Cheese, and Grilled or Fried Onions
• California Burgers: All the Classic Toppings and Avocado
• Hawaiian-Inspired Burgers: Lettuce, Tomato, Pineapple, and Sautéed Mushrooms
• Savoury Veggie Burgers: Veggie Patty, Lettuce, Tomato, Grilled Onions, & Sautéed Mushrooms
• Super Spicy Burgers: Spicy Beef, Spicy Mayo, Jalapeños, and Your Choice of Cheese
• Salmon Burgers
• Sandwiches with filling options: tofu pate, falafel, hummus, baba ganouj, tabouli, turkey, ham, chicken, pesto, assorted vegetables and assorted cheeses Drinks: lemonade, coffees, blended teas, and soft drinks

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Star Burger’s vision is to establish a restaurant that will provide unique and assorted services to the people of San Diego and the State of California.
• Our mission at Star Burger is to provide the finest, healthiest and best tasting burgers and sandwiches in San Diego. Star Burger will offer the finest customer service; no customer will leave dissatisfied.

Our Business Structure

We at Star Burger plan to establish a business structure that is transparent and simple, since most of our personnel will be involved in production and there will be a relatively low headcount in management. We plan to establish three functioning units within Star Burger: Production, Sales and Marketing, and General and Administrative.

Star Burger Production unit will involve our Customer Service Specialists, who will be taking care of our Drive-through and Mobile Restaurants and attending to the needs of our customers. Our Sales and Marketing will take care of the promotion and scheduling of the Mobile Restaurant, as well as the promotion of the Drive-through and the Community Contribution program.

General and Administrative will take care of the facilities, equipment, inventory, payroll, and other basic, operational processes. Due to our goal to establish a unique burger restaurant in the United States, we took our time to lay out the various roles of our employees and what we need, and they include;

Chief Executive Officer

• Chief operating officer
• Chief financial officer
• Chief information officer
• Director of marketing
• District and facilities managers

Customer Service Specialists

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

• Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counselling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results and developing incentives
• Creating, communicating, and implementing the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Tasked with fixing prices and signing business deals
• Tasked with providing direction for the business
• Creates, communicates, and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Tasked with signing checks and documents on behalf of Star Burger
• Evaluates the success of the organization

Chief Operating officer

• Tasked with overseeing the smooth running of the business
• Part of the team that determines the quantity of products that are to be produced daily
• Make lists and budget for all supplies
• Oversee the entire business process
• Map out strategy that will lead to efficiency amongst workers
• Tasked with training, evaluation and assessment of the workforce
• Ensures operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; calling for repairs.
• Ensures that the bakery meets the expected safety and health standard at all times.

Chief Financial officer

• Tasked with preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports
• Tasked with financial forecasting and risks analysis
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting
• Tasked with developing and managing financial systems and policies
• Tasked with administering payrolls
• Ensures compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for the organization
• Serves as internal auditor for the organization

Chief Information officer

• Provide technological guidance within an organization.
• Supervise information system and communications network.
• Develop and implement a customer service platform to serve the organization in every aspect.
• Design, establish, and maintain a network infrastructure for local and wide area connectivity and remote access.
• Participate in vendor contract negotiations for all new computer equipment and software purchased for the corporation.
• Create a cost-benefit analysis as well as supporting a detailed definition of data requirements and departmental workflows.
• Oversee Internet and computer operations.
• Takes care of the day-to-day operations of the information technology department including directing staff, who support administrative computing, networking, user services, telecommunications and other information technology functions.
• Propose hardware/software solutions to accomplish Star Burger’s business objectives.

Director of sales and marketing

• Takes care of external research and coordinate all the internal sources of information to retain the organizations’ best customers and attract new ones
• Model demographic information and analyse the volumes of transactional data generated by customer purchases
• Identifies, prioritizes, and reaches out to new partners, and business opportunities et al
• Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for increasing sales
• Represents the Star Burger in strategic meetings
• Helps increase sales and growth for Star Burger

District and facilities manager

• Monitor the P&L reports for each store and develop effective ways to fill in any gaps between actual performance and Star Burger projections
• Prioritize store performance issues to make certain that the issues most directly affecting profitability are addressed first
• Immediately address any lapses in compliance with corporate policies or local, state and federal laws
• Act as a coach to the store managers and as a resource to each store employee to help inspire success
• Ensures that all contacts with customer (e-mail, walk-In centre, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
• Through interaction with customers on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the Star Burger ’s products
• Takes care of administrative duties assigned by the store manager in an effective and timely manner
• Consistently stays abreast of any new information on Star Burger, promotional campaigns etc. to make sure accurate and helpful information is supplied to customers when they make enquiries.
• Tasked with cleaning the stand at all times
• Makes sure that toiletries and supplies don’t run out of stock
• Any other duty as assigned by the CEO.

6. SWOT Analysis

Our goal at Star Burger is to create a unique restaurant that sees to the need of the people. We also decided to get our SWOT Analysis, which brings to light our strengths and threats in the industry. We at Star Burger hired a business consultant to do this analysis for us because we believe an external firm will not compromise the information and chances of Star Burger in the Industry.

We were able to note our business strengths, weakness, opportunities and also the threats that we are likely going to be exposed to in the industry and our business location. Clearly summarized below is the result of our SWOT Analysis;

Our detailed SWOT analysis has identified three keys that will be instrumental to our success at Star Burger. First and foremost, our design and implementation of strict financial controls, which will be very crucial, since the restaurant industry is quite competitive.

Secondly, we will be offering high-quality fresh and healthy food to clearly stand out from our competition in San Diego. We have already put in place effective, targeted marketing campaigns to support the opening of the restaurant.

Our weakness according to the SWOT analysis will be the time it will take the people of San Diego to know where we are and what we offer.

People go about their daily activities and most times tend not to discover the new business in town unless the business establishes a direct marketing Plan. We at Star Burger plan to start advertising even before we open up our shops, at least to make sure that our brand is known.

• Opportunities

Indeed the opportunities available to Star Burger are limitless. The food and restaurant industry is a recession-proof industry that will always keep growing because people will always want food as it helps keep us alive and sane. People may no always have the time to cook due to their schedule, and will always decide to grab a burger and a cup of lemonade or coffee on their way to work.

Our threat at Star Burger is the fact that we are competing with already established restaurants in San Diego, California, and also there are other entrepreneurs who are likely going to launch similar business within the location of our business.

But with our unique workforce and plans, we have all it takes to dominate the industry and take up enough market share.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trend

Burgers in this new age are indulgent and upscale with a variety of toppings, including goat cheese, truffle oil, foie gras, aolis, marmalades, sautéed spinach, havarti, candied bacon and other healthy and exotic toppings. Burger blends are all the rage extending beyond traditional chuck, to include short rib, brisket, oxtail, rib eye, flank and much more.

A report has it that 2018 is the year for everything from giant, premium burgers to sliders and mini-portions, from bold Mexican and Asian flavours to Korean, Greek, Cajun, and more. International flavours are hot and growing, and the burger is the perfect vehicle to test drive and transport many flavours.

Report also has it that restaurants are beefing up menu language to highlight protein grams and adding protein topper boosters such as pastrami, bacon and pepperoni, as well as including lettuce wrapped options to increase the protein to carb ratio.

In line with the trend for more protein, eggs are topping off many burgers for 2018. Also the largest age segment of the American population is driving burger trends now and certainly into the future with their desire for global flavours, snack-sized portions (sliders), and healthy options and toppings.

From emphasizing and bolstering “protein” on menus, consumer geared messaging is also focused on other health oriented topics and features, including grass fed, organic, natural, gluten free, naked (no bun), and more.

We at Star Burger plan to always work with customers on additional blends, which can include anything. Burger epitomizes the perfect vehicle to adapt to new trends and international flavours. As a business’s that wants to become a market leader in the United States, we will focus our energy at working with customers to develop new blends and visions

8. Our Target Market

Our plan at Star Burger is to focus on two different market audiences: Commuters and Captive Consumers. We have taken our time to strategically design our business to access both of these markets. Commuters are defined as any one or more individuals in a motorized vehicle traveling from point “A” to point “B.”

Star Burger’s greatest concentration will be on commuters heading to or from work, or those out on their lunch break. While our Captive Consumers market audience would include those who are tethered to a campus environment, or in a restricted entry environment that does not give the right to free movement.

This will include high school and college campuses, where there is limited time between classes, and corporate campuses where the same time constraints are involved like special events–such as carnivals, fairs or festivals–where there is an admission price to enter the gate, but exiting would mean another admission fee, or where refreshments are an integral part of the festivities.

Our target market at Star Burger will also be the mobile individual who has more money than time, and excellent taste in choice of food, but no time to prepare them.

Our competitive advantage

Our competitions at Star Burger exist in many forms. They include fast food that takes the form of the traditional restaurants like McDonald’s, Burger King, and Wendy’s, as well as healthier alternatives like Subway . There are also three different delis located in San Diego that serve deli style sandwiches. These delis serve very basic, standard deli fare; generally sliced deli meats.

But we at Star Burger know that with the unique offerings we bring, we can dominate the market especially with a business that can provide a substantial value proposition where a customer does not have to find a parking place, exit the vehicle, stand in line to order, wait for the burger to be produced, pay a premium price for average product, find a place to sit, clean up the previous customer’s mess, then enjoy their lemonade or coffee… That’s if they have much time to spend.

Star Burger business concept is to establish a restaurant that gives a customer the opportunity to drive up, place the order, receive a high quality product at a competitive price, and drive away, without spending much time and energy. We at Star Burger plan to provide an important community value for patronizing our business.

For every purchase a customer makes from us, we plan to donate up to 6% of the sale to the local charity selected by the customer.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Star Burger is a new restaurant with a unique plan to achieve success and become an industry leader. That is why we will be providing our products in the most convenient and efficient way available–either at one of our two-sided Drive-through shops, or at one of our Mobile Restaurant.

This will give us an advantage over our competitors because customers won’t need to find a parking place, wait in a long line, jockey for a seat, and clean up the mess left by a previous patron. Our goal at Star Burger is to provide enough income to be able to run our business and still move on with our charity aspect. We plan to generate income by offering the following products to the people of San Diego:

10. Sales Forecast

Star Burger will open its doors for business by having two Drive-through locations in operation. We plan to open our first location in the second month of this plan and be fully operational beginning on the 1st day of November, and our second Drive-through will open six months later.

We will also add two more Drive-through locations in our second year and, and an additional seven Drive-through facilities in our third year. We at Star Burger plan to deploy one mobile unit in the fourth quarter of the first fiscal year. Deploy a second and a third mobile unit within our second fiscal year.

Using our detailed research and analysis, we expect to boost revenue from the commerce portion of our website, where it will sell Star Burger t-shirts, sweatshirts, insulated lemonade mugs, pre-packaged coffee beans, and other premium items. Although we are not expecting this to be a significant profit centre immediately, but it is a major part of the marketing plan.

We at Star Burger estimate that our total first year sales should reach $399,678. Our second year will see sales increase to $1,085,430. The third year, with the addition of such a significant number of outlets, we will see sales increase to $3,765,215.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

With so many burger franchises and independent restaurants already open, marketing is one of the most important aspects of opening a burger restaurant. We at Star Burger understand this, which is why we will be placing our Drive-through stands in business locations of very high visibility and great ease of access.

Our Restaurants and stands will be located on high traffic commuter routes and close to shopping facilities so as to attract customers going to or from work, or while they are out for lunch, or on a shopping expedition. Our Drive-through will be very simple, astounding, and eye-catching.

We also plan to implement a low cost advertising/promotion campaign which could involve drive-time radio, but not much more. Star Burger will also establish good business relationships with schools, charities and corporations to provide significant free publicity because of our community support program.

We believe that if we give out charitable contributions to these institutions, they will get the word out to their students/faculty/employees/partners about Star Burger.

We also plan to leverage the use of word of mouth advertising method, which is the greatest advertising program any business organisation can use. The media in San Diego will be more than willing to promote the charitable parts of Star Burger and give us the opportunity for more exposure each moment Star Burger contributes to charity.

The internet is a powerful marketing tool we at Star Burger cannot afford to overlook. We plan to create an optimized website to capture local searches and also establish a strong social media presence to easily boost sales. When we first open, we plan to create a local press release, run grand opening specials to draw in potential customers, and even invite local food bloggers to come try a free meal in exchange for a review.

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

Our plan at Star Burger is to gather enough brand awareness to leverage the product line into other regions and gain inquiries from potential inventors. To achieve this goal, we plan to do the following;

• Star Burger will spend $1,200 per month on public relations services for the next year. We intended to build awareness and carry out product information insertions, reviews, etc. We believe that a school fundraising program or our other charity programs will generate a fair amount of publicity on its own and will, perhaps, minimize–or even eliminate–the need for a publicist.
• Star Burger will also spend $800 per month concentrating on drive time Radio advertising. We plan to experiment with different stations, keeping careful track of results. As with the school fundraising program, we expect the stand and signage to be a substantial portion of our advertising.
• List our business on yellow pages ads (local directories)
• Leverage on the internet to promote our business
• Engage direct marketing approach
• Encourage word of mouth marketing from loyal and satisfied clients

12. Our Pricing Strategy

We haven’t gone back on our promise to leave no stone unturned in our quest to achieve our business goal. We at Star Burger have put plans in place to boost our income, which may include posting specials on high-profit items at the drive-up window.

We also plan to give out free burger coupons to those who have purchased a certain number of burgers or something similar.

Our management have been able to develop window sales techniques such as our sellers asking if the customer would like a new flavour or toppings with any drink of their choice. We believe that our pricing will be comparable to the competition in the market, but with the value-added feature of immediate, drive-through service and convenience.

• Payment Options

Our payment options at Star Burger will be all inclusive and acceptable because we understand that different people prefer different payment options. Here are the payment options that we will make available to our clients;

• Payment by cash
• Payment via Point of Sale (POS) Machine
• Payment via online bank transfer (online payment portal)
• Payment via Mobile money

We have also chosen banking platforms that will help us achieve our plans with little or no issues. Our bank account numbers will be made available on our website and promotional materials to clients who may want to deposit cash or make online transfer for our service.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

First and foremost, many factors in our modern America will decide the amount we will need to successfully launch Star Burger. These factors may include our location, the size of the business we want to start i.e. the number of outlets/stands et al, and of course the state of the economy as at when we intend starting the business.

We at Star Burger have conducted an extensive research and have come up with how we intend to spend our startup capital, and they include;

• The Fee for registering the business in the United States – $750
• The budget for legal fees, insurance, permits and license – $30, 000
• The amount needed to build a two standard shop and renovation of the facility inclusive – $60,000
• The Cost for the purchase of kitchen / production equipment and gadgets (industrial ovens, fridges, smoke detector, TVs, microwave oven, mugs, Foils, Sound System, tables and chairs et al) – $25,000
• The Cost for supply of bread and other inventories for a month – $120,000
• The Cost of Launching a Website – $600
• The cost opening party – $5,000
• Additional Expenditure (Business cards, Signage, Adverts and Promotions et al) – $100,000

Going by the report from our research and feasibility studies, we will need an average of $350,000 to start Star Burger.

• Generating Startup Capital for Star Burger

Star Burger will be established as a Limited Liability Company with Sampson and Nicky Shepard as its owners. This couple has a combined 25 years’ experience in the food and burger industry, and they hope to build a successful business. We hope to raise our startup fund through the following ways;

• Generate part of the start – up capital from personal savings and sell of stocks
• Source for soft loans from family members and friends
• Generate fund from Angel Investors

Note : We have been able to raise $200,000 from the personal savings of our founders and we are almost at the verge of completing the money needed as capital from a reliable Angel investor with an eye for startup businesses.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

We at Star Burger believe that as time and seasons change, we will be offering products that will enhance sales and satisfy our customers’ desires. We also plan that during summer months, we will subsidize frozen drinks like lemonade, as well as soft drinks, and other cold beverages.

We at Star Burger have taken our time to research our local regulatory agencies and what licenses we need. These requirements we believe will vary by location, but we have a strong relationship through Mr. Sampson Shepard with the state chamber of commerce and health department and we plan to stay on the right side of the law.

We have put plans in place to get our business license, which legally allows us to make sales and collect sales tax, and a food handling certification, which we have acquired. We have also obtained the needed permits for construction and we are also expecting an inspection from the health department.

We at Star Burger also understand the importance of insurance for our business. We have contracted an insurance lawyer to help us get property insurance, which will help protect our building and surrounding property, providing coverage for fire, hail, or accidental damage.

We expect this type of policy to cover expensive commercial kitchen equipment , so we will be able to replace pieces damaged under covered circumstances.

We also plan to obtain liability insurance, as it covers legal fees and any damages that may be awarded as a result of a legal action against our business from any accidents or injuries. We will also offer worker’s compensation insurance to provide peace of mind to both the management and our employees, as it helps cover medical bills that may arise from employee injuries.

Our Drive-through stands will be manufactured by Lintel Construction. Our Mobile Restaurant and equipment will be supplied by Guarantee Savage.  Star Burger computer equipment and Internet connectivity will be provided by Nicklaus Communications.

Checklist/Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check: Completed
• Business Incorporation: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts various banks in the United States: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Leasing, renovating and equipping our facility: Completed
• Generating part of the startup capital from the founder: Completed
• Applications for Loan from our Bankers: In Progress
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging and Promotional Materials: Completed
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the Needed software applications, furniture, office equipment, electronic appliances and facility facelift: In progress

Burger Restaurant Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Writing a Successful Business Plan For Your Burger Restaurant Business + Template

If you’re looking to start or grow a burger restaurant business, you need a business plan. Your plan will outline your business goals and strategies, and how you plan on achieving them. It will also detail the amount of funding you need, and if needed, present a case to investors and lenders regarding why they should invest in your business.

In this article, we’ll explain why you should invest the time and energy into creating a burger restaurant business plan, and provide you with a burger restaurant business plan template and sample, taken from our numerous  sample business plans , that includes an overview of what should be included in each section.

Download the Ultimate Burger Restaurant Business Plan Template here >

Why Write a Business Plan For a Burger Restaurant Business?

There are many reasons to write a business plan for a burger restaurant company, even if you’re not looking for funding. A business plan can help you see potential pitfalls in your business strategy, as well as identify opportunities you may not have considered. It can also help you track your progress and adjust your plans as needed.

That said, if you are looking for funding, a business plan is essential. Investors and lenders want to see that you have a solid understanding of your industry, your customers, and your competition. They also want to know that you have a realistic view of your financial situation and how much money you’ll need to get started.

How To Write a Business Plan For a Burger Restaurant Business

While every business plan is different, there are 10 essential components that all burger restaurant business plans should include:

Executive Summary

Company description, industry analysis, customer analysis, competitor analysis, marketing plan, operations plan, management team, financial plan.

Keep in mind that you’ll need to tailor this information to your specific type of burger restaurant business, but these 10 components should be included in every plan.

The executive summary is the first section of your business plan, but it’s often written last. This is because it provides an overview of the entire document.

In the executive summary, briefly explain what your business does, your business goals, and how you plan on achieving them. You should also include a brief overview of your financial situation, including how much money you’ll need to get started.

The next section of your burger restaurant business plan is the company description, where you’ll provide an overview of your business.

Include information about your:

• Company Overview
• Success Factors & Accomplishments To Date
• How & When Incorporated

With regards to the company overview, here you will document the type of burger restaurant company you operate. For example, a burger restaurant company description might look something like this:

At GrillMaster Burgers & Brews, our menu is designed with every palate in mind. From our classic cheeseburger that sets the standard for what a burger should be, to our veggie burger that offers a delicious alternative for our non-meat-eating friends, we’ve got something for everyone. Our chicken sandwich is a hit among those who prefer poultry, and our sides do not disappoint either. Our French fries are the perfect crispy companion to any meal, and our milkshakes provide a sweet ending or a delightful treat on their own. Each dish is crafted with care, using only the finest ingredients to ensure every bite is as satisfying as the last.

Located in the heart of Lawrence, KS, GrillMaster Burgers & Brews is more than just a restaurant; it’s a destination for burger enthusiasts and casual diners alike. Our prime location not only makes us accessible to locals but also places us on the map for visitors looking for an exceptional burger experience.

Our confidence in our success is not unfounded. GrillMaster Burgers & Brews stands out from the competition for several reasons. Firstly, our founder brings invaluable experience from previously running a successful burger restaurant, ensuring that our operations are smooth and customer-focused. Moreover, we don’t just make burgers; we elevate them. Our commitment to quality, variety, and innovation in our burger offerings places us a cut above the rest.

This is just an example, but your company description should give potential investors a clear idea of who you are, what you do, and why you’re the best at what you do.

The next section of your business plan is the industry analysis. In this section, you’ll need to provide an overview of the industry you’re in, as well as any trends or changes that might impact your business.

Questions you will want to answer include:

• What is the overall size of the burger restaurant industry?
• How is the industry growing or changing?
• What are the major trends affecting the burger restaurant industry?

For example, your industry analysis might look something like this:

One of the key trends in the Burger Restaurant industry is the increasing emphasis on quality ingredients and customization options. Consumers are becoming more conscious about their food choices and are seeking out restaurants that offer fresh, locally sourced ingredients and customizable menu items. This trend bodes well for GrillMaster Burgers & Brews, as the restaurant prides itself on using high-quality ingredients and allowing customers to build their own burgers with a variety of toppings and sauces.

This is just an example, but your industry analysis should give potential investors a clear idea of the overall industry, and how your company fits into that industry.

The next section of your burger restaurant business plan is the customer analysis. In this section, you’ll need to provide an overview of who your target customers are and what their needs are.

• Who are your target customers?
• What are their needs?
• How do they interact with your industry?
• How do they make purchasing decisions?

You want a thorough understanding of your target customers to provide them with the best possible products and/or services. Oftentimes, you will want to include the specific demographics of your target market, such as age, gender, income, etc., but you’ll also want to highlight the psychographics, such as their interests, lifestyles, and values.

This information will help you better understand your target market and how to reach them.

For example, your customer analysis might look something like this:

In summary, your customer analysis should give potential investors a clear idea of who your target market is and how you reach them.

The next section of your business plan is the competitor analysis. In this section, you’ll need to provide an overview of who your major competitors are and their strengths and weaknesses.

• Who are your major competitors?
• What are their strengths and weaknesses?
• How do they compare to you?

You want to make sure that you have a clear understanding of your competition so that you can position yourself in the market. Creating a SWOT Analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) for each of your major competitors helps you do this. 

For example, your competitor analysis might look something like this:

The Burger Stand offers a wide range of gourmet burgers, hot dogs, and fries. They also provide a selection of craft beers and milkshakes. Their price points typically range from $10 to $15 for a meal. The Burger Stand generates significant revenue due to its strong brand presence and popularity. They have locations in Lawrence, KS, and other nearby cities. Their customer segments include college students, young professionals, and families. Geographically, they serve primarily urban and suburban areas. Key strengths include a diverse menu and a strong emphasis on quality ingredients. A potential weakness is their higher price point compared to standard fast-food options.

Dempsey’s Burger Pub specializes in gourmet burgers, sandwiches, and craft beers. They also offer appetizers, salads, and desserts. Their price points are in the range of $9 to $14 for most items. Dempsey’s Burger Pub has built a loyal customer base, contributing to their steady revenue. Their primary location is in Lawrence, KS, with a few other establishments in the region. Their customer segments are diverse, including college students, local residents, and visitors. They predominantly serve the local and regional market. Key strengths include a cozy pub atmosphere and a strong reputation for quality. A potential weakness could be limited seating capacity during peak hours.

Your competitor analysis should give potential lenders and investors a clear idea of who your major competitors are and how you compare to them.

The next section of your business plan is the marketing plan. In this section, you’ll need to provide an overview of your marketing strategy and how you plan on executing it.

Specifically, you will document your “4 Ps” as follows:

• Products/Services : Here is where you’ll document your product/service offerings.
• Price : Detail your pricing strategy here.
• Place : Document where customers will find you and whether you will use distribution channels (e.g., partnerships) to reach them.
• Promotion : Here you will document how you will reach your target customers. For instance, burger restaurant businesses often reach new customers via promotional tactics including advertising and online marketing.

For example, your marketing plan might look something like this:

Products, Services & Pricing

GrillMaster Burgers & Brews offers a variety of delicious products and services that cater to a diverse range of tastes. One of the key offerings is the Classic Cheeseburger, which features a perfectly cooked beef patty topped with melted cheese, fresh lettuce, tomato, and their signature sauce. Customers can enjoy this mouthwatering staple for an average price of $9.99. This burger stands out for its high-quality ingredients and exceptional flavor profile, making it a must-try for burger enthusiasts.

For those who prefer plant-based options, the Veggie Burger is a fantastic choice. This burger is crafted with a hearty, flavorful veggie patty, complemented by fresh vegetables and a special sauce. It is priced at approximately $10.49, reflecting the care taken to provide a satisfying and healthy alternative to traditional meat burgers. The Veggie Burger appeals to vegetarians and health-conscious diners alike.

The Chicken Sandwich also makes a strong impression on the menu. Featuring a tender, juicy chicken breast that is either grilled or fried to perfection, this sandwich is enhanced with crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and a tangy sauce. This popular item is offered at an average price of $8.99. Its versatility and delicious taste make it a favorite among customers who enjoy poultry-based dishes.

No burger meal is complete without a side of French Fries. GrillMaster Burgers & Brews serves up golden, crispy fries that are seasoned just right. A side of French Fries comes in at an average price of $2.99, making it an affordable and essential addition to any meal. These fries are known for their perfect balance of crunch and flavor, providing a satisfying accompaniment to any of the main dishes.

To round out the dining experience, GrillMaster offers a selection of Milkshakes. These creamy, indulgent treats are available in a variety of classic flavors such as chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. Each milkshake is priced at around $4.99, providing a sweet and refreshing way to end a meal. The milkshakes are crafted with high-quality ingredients, ensuring a rich and enjoyable taste in every sip.

Overall, GrillMaster Burgers & Brews provides a well-rounded menu that caters to a variety of preferences and dietary needs. The combination of high-quality ingredients, flavorful recipes, and reasonable prices ensures a satisfying dining experience for all customers.

Promotions Plan

We will employ a variety of promotional methods and tactics to attract customers and establish a strong presence in Lawrence, KS. One of our key strategies will be Online Marketing. We will leverage social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to engage with our audience, share mouth-watering photos of our burgers, and announce special promotions. Additionally, we will create a user-friendly website that features our menu, location, and an option for online ordering.

We will also utilize Search Engine Optimization (SEO) to ensure our website ranks high in search engine results, making it easier for potential customers to find us. Email marketing campaigns will be another essential tool; we will collect email addresses through our website and in-store promotions to send out newsletters, special offers, and updates.

Furthermore, we will engage in local partnerships and sponsorships. Collaborating with local businesses, schools, and community events will help us build a strong local presence and attract customers who might not yet be familiar with us. In-store promotions, such as “buy one, get one free” deals or special discounts for students and first responders, will also be part of our strategy to draw in customers.

We will not overlook the power of word-of-mouth marketing. Encouraging satisfied customers to leave positive reviews on platforms like Yelp and Google Reviews will help us build a reputable brand. Additionally, we will implement a loyalty program to reward repeat customers and incentivize them to refer friends and family.

As you can see, your marketing plan should give potential investors a clear idea of your marketing objectives, strategies, and tactics.

The next section of your business plan is the operations plan. In this section, you’ll need to provide an overview of your company’s day-to-day operations and how they will be structured.

• What are your company’s daily operations?
• How are your company’s operations structured?

Your operations plan should be detailed and concise. You want to make sure that potential investors have a clear understanding of your company’s day-to-day operations and how they are structured.

You will also include information regarding your long-term goals for your operations and how you plan on achieving them.

For example, your operations plan might look something like this:

Key Operational Processes

To ensure the success of GrillMaster Burgers & Brews, there are several key day-to-day operational processes that we will perform:

• Monitor and track inventory levels daily to ensure adequate supply of ingredients and beverages.
• Place orders with suppliers regularly to replenish stock and avoid shortages.
• Perform regular inventory audits to minimize waste and manage costs.
• Schedule staff shifts to ensure optimal staffing levels during peak hours.
• Provide ongoing training and development to ensure high service standards.
• Conduct daily briefings to update staff on any new policies, promotions, or menu changes.
• Greet and seat customers promptly upon arrival.
• Ensure that orders are taken accurately and delivered in a timely manner.
• Address customer complaints and feedback effectively to maintain satisfaction.
• Follow standardized recipes to ensure consistency in food quality and taste.
• Maintain cleanliness and hygiene in the kitchen and food preparation areas.
• Perform regular quality checks on ingredients and finished dishes.
• Develop and implement daily and weekly specials to attract and retain customers.
• Utilize social media platforms to engage with the local community and promote the restaurant.
• Coordinate with local events and groups to host special events or offers.
• Track daily sales and expenses to monitor financial performance.
• Prepare daily cash flow reports and ensure accurate record-keeping.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising on quality or service.
• Ensure that the restaurant interior and exterior are clean and well-maintained.
• Regularly inspect equipment and schedule necessary repairs or replacements.

Your operations plan should give readers a clear idea of your company’s day-to-day operations, how they are structured, and your long-term goals for the company.

The next section of your business plan is the management team. In this section, you’ll need to provide an overview of your management team and their experience.

• Who is on your management team?
• What are their qualifications?
• What is their experience?

Your management team ideally includes individuals who are experts in their respective fields. You want to make sure that lenders and investors have a clear understanding of your management team’s qualifications and experience, and feel they can execute on your plan.

For example, your management team might look something like this:

Liam Hernandez, CEO

Your management team should give potential lenders and investors a clear idea of who is on your team and how their qualifications and experience will help your company succeed.

The final core section of your business plan is the financial plan. In this section, you’ll need to provide an overview of your company’s financials.

• What are your company’s projected revenues?
• What are your company’s projected expenses?
• What is your company’s projected growth rate?
• How much funding do you need and for what purposes? 

Your financial plan should give potential investors a clear understanding of your company’s financials. While you may include a summary of this information in this section, you will include full financial statements in the appendix of your business plan.

For example, your financial plan might look something like this:

This is just an example, but your financial plan should give potential investors a clear idea of your company’s financial projections.

Below is a summary of your financial projections. If/when you change the Revenue Assumptions, Cost Assumptions, and/or Other Assumptions, the results below will change.

The final section of your business plan is the appendix. In this section, you’ll need to provide any additional information that was not included in the previous sections.

This may include items such as:

• Full financial statements
• Resumes of key management team members
• Letters of reference
• Articles or press releases
• Marketing materials
• Product information
• Any other relevant information

By including this information in the appendix, you are allowing potential investors and lenders to learn more about your company.

In summary, writing a burger restaurant business plan is a vital step in the process of starting and/or growing your own business.

A business plan will give you a roadmap to follow. It can also help you attract investors and partners.

By following the tips outlined in this article, you can be sure that your business plan will be effective and help you achieve your goals.  

Finish Your Business Plan in 1 Day!

Wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your business plan?

With our Ultimate Burger Restaurant Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!

Finish your business plan today!

1777 SW Chandler Ave. Suite 267 Bend, OR 97702

Business Plan Services Business Plan Writing Business Plan Consultants

Burger Restaurant Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 10,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their burger restaurants.

In this article, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through a burger restaurant business plan template step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What Is a Burger Restaurant Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your burger restaurant as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategies for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Burger Restaurant Business Plan

If you’re looking to start a burger restaurant or grow your existing burger restaurant company, you need a business plan.  A solid business plan will help guide your business strategy, your investment strategy and your decision-making. It will also help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your burger restaurant to improve your chances of success. Your burger restaurant business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Burger Restaurants

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a burger restaurants are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans, and angel investors. When it comes to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to ensure that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for burger restaurant companies.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

How to write a business plan for a burger restaurant business.

If you want to start a burger restaurant business or expand your current one, you need a business plan. A strong burger restaurant business plan should include the following 10 sections:

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your executive summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the kind of burger restaurant business you are running and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a burger restaurant that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of burger restaurants?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan.

• Give a brief overview of the burger restaurant industry.
• Discuss the type of burger restaurant business you are operating.
• Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers.
• Provide a snapshot of your marketing strategy. Identify the key members of your team.
• Offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Overview

In your company overview, you will detail the type of burger restaurant you are operating.

For example, you might specialize in one of the following types of burger restaurants:

• Fast Food Chains : These restaurants offer quick service and standardized menu items, often featuring drive-thru options.
• Fast Casual : These establishments offer higher-quality ingredients and a more upscale dining experience than traditional fast food. They often provide customizable options and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Gourmet Burger Restaurants : These restaurants focus on premium ingredients, unique flavor combinations, and often provide a more refined dining experience. They might offer specialty burgers, craft beers, and artisanal sides.
• Diner-Style Burgers : These are typically found in classic American diners, offering a nostalgic atmosphere with burgers cooked on a griddle, often served with milkshakes and fries.
• Burger Food Trucks : These mobile establishments offer a variety of creative and gourmet burger options, often featuring locally sourced ingredients and unique recipes.
• Plant-Based/Vegan Burger Restaurants : These establishments specialize in plant-based burgers made from ingredients like beans, lentils, and other meat substitutes.

In addition to explaining the type of burger restaurant you will operate, the company overview needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to questions such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of customers served, reaching X number of burgers served, etc.
• Your legal business Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry or market analysis, you need to provide an overview of the burger restaurant industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the burger restaurant industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your marketing strategy, particularly if your analysis identifies market trends.

The third reason is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your burger restaurant business plan:

• How big is the burger restaurant industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential target market for your burger restaurant business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your burger restaurant business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: individuals, families, and businesses.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of burger restaurant you operate. Clearly, older individuals would respond to different marketing promotions than families, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. Consider the specific demographics of target customers, including a discussion of the ages, occupations, locations and income levels of the potential customers you seek to serve.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can recognize and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

Finish Your Burger Restaurant Business Plan in 1 Day!

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your business plan?

With Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!

Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other burger restaurant businesses.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t directly competing with your product or service. This includes other types of sandwich shops, other restaurants, or meals cooked at home. You need to mention such competition, as well.

For each direct competitor, provide an overview of their business and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as:

• What types of sides and options do they serve?
• What type of burger restaurant are they?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide vegan options?
• Will you offer products or services that your competition doesn’t?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a burger restaurant business plan, your marketing strategy should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of burger restaurant company that you documented in your company overview. Then, detail the specific products or services you will be offering. For example, will you provide gourmet burgers, smash burgers, or made to order burgers, and sides such as fries and milkshakes?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially, in the product and price sub-sections of your plan, you are presenting the products you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the site of your burger restaurant. Document where your company is situated and mention how the site will impact your success. For example, is your burger restaurant located in a busy retail district, a business district, or is it a food truck? Discuss how your site might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your burger restaurant marketing plan is where you will document how you will drive potential customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertise in local papers, radio stations and/or magazines
• Reach out to websites
• Distribute flyers
• Engage in email marketing
• Advertise on social media platforms
• Improve the SEO (search engine optimization) on your website for targeted keywords

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows:

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your burger restaurant business, including taking orders, preparing food, waiting tables, cleaning, ordering supplies, etc.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to sell your Xth burger, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to open a burger restaurant in a new city.

Management Team

To demonstrate your burger restaurant business’ potential to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally, you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing burger restaurant businesses. If so, highlight this experience and expertise.  Also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who act as mentors to your business. They  help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing or running a restaurant.

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statements.

Income Statement

An income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenue and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you serve 100 burgers per day, and will you offer other entrée options? And, will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to ground your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets

Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your burger restaurant business, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather, it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a lender writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately; that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement

Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and ensure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit, but run out of money and go bankrupt.

When creating your Income Statement and Balance Sheets, be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a burger restaurant:

• Cost of equipment, ingredients, and supplies
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Other start-up expenses (if you’re a new business) like legal expenses, permits, computer software, and point of sale systems

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your restaurant location lease or a detailed menu.

Putting together a business plan for your burger restaurant will improve your company’s chances of success. The process of developing your plan will help you better understand the burger restaurant market, your competition, and your customers. You will also gain a marketing plan to better attract and serve customers, an operations plan to focus your efforts, and financial projections that give you goals to strive for and keep your company focused.

Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template is the quickest and easiest way to complete a business plan for your real estate investing business.

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your Burger Restaurant business plan?

OR, Let Us Develop Your Plan For You

Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

Burger Restaurant Business Plan Template (Download)

$ 99 Original price was: $99. $ 79 Current price is: $79.

Fully editable 30+ slides Powerpoint presentation business plan template.

• 30+ slides already completed
• Updated market research (2024)
• Suitable for a business loan
• 75hrs of work put into this document
• Fully editable
• Free support
• Instant download

See an example

Trusted by 12,000+ entrepreneurs, consultants and investors

Description OF THE BUSINESS PLAN

This ready-made business plan template is designed specifically for burger restaurants, whether you’re opening a new fast-casual restaurant, expanding a gourmet burger concept, or offering a specialty burger menu.

It comes pre-written with all the necessary sections, including a comprehensive business overview, operations plan, and updated market research with 2024 data.

Simply adjust the areas marked with [brackets] to fine-tune the plan with your specific restaurant details, making it quick and easy to customize.

Features of the Burger Restaurant Business Plan Template

Pre-Written and Customizable: The business plan is fully written, covering all essential aspects of starting and managing a successful burger restaurant. Simply modify the [bracketed sections] to reflect your unique menu offerings, target market, and financial plan.

Complete Business Overview: Present a clear and professional business overview, including your mission, vision, target market, and value proposition. This section is pre-written and ready for you to add in your specific burger restaurant details.

Operations and Management Plan: Outlines how you will manage daily operations, including staffing, food sourcing, kitchen management, and customer service. Customize this section to align with your restaurant’s size and offerings, whether focused on fast food, gourmet burgers, or specialty menus.

Updated Market Research (2024 Data): This section provides a comprehensive analysis of the burger restaurant industry landscape:

• Key Stats : Industry size, growth trends, and relevant data for the burger restaurant market.
• Key Trends : Recent trends such as demand for plant-based burgers, gourmet offerings, and eco-friendly packaging.
• Key Competitors : Overview of local competitors and how your burger restaurant stands out with unique menu offerings, pricing strategies, or customer experience.

Strategy Section: This section is fully completed and includes:

• Sales & Marketing Plan : A strategy to attract customers, build brand loyalty, and promote your restaurant’s offerings.
• SWOT Analysis : A detailed look at your restaurant’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.
• Detailed Timeline : A timeline outlining key actions for the first 12 months of operation, ensuring smooth setup and growth.

Financial Projections and Revenue Model: The business plan includes dummy financial projections as an example, helping you understand potential profitability based on typical assumptions.

Please note that the business plan does not come with a detailed financial model. However, you can purchase and download the separate financial model template, which is explained further below on this product page.

How to Use the Burger Restaurant Business Plan Template

• Download and Open : Purchase and download the template, then open it in Microsoft Word or Google Docs.
• Customize with Your Details : Modify the [bracketed sections] with your specific business information, such as menu items, market research, and financial data.
• Complete Financial Projections : Use the example financial projections as a guide or integrate your own numbers with the optional financial model, which can be purchased separately.
• Finalize Your Plan : Review and fine-tune the content to create a polished business plan ready for investors or guiding your burger restaurant’s operations.

What's inside

This template is already completed and include everything you need in a business plan:

• Executive summary
• Business overview
• Market research
• SWOT analysis
• Competitive landscape
• Management team
• Sales & marketing plan

The business plan shown here is an example from the Cryotherapy business plan template.

FULLY EDITABLE & EASY TO CUSTOMIZE

• Name of the business
• Square footage of the facility
• Services and prices
• Revenue projections

BUSINESS PLAn

• 30+ slides presentation
• Use with Powerpoint or Google Slides

FINANCIAL MODEL

• 5-year financial model spreadsheet
• Use with Excel or Google Sheets

You may also like…

Restaurant Financial Model Template | Excel Spreadsheet

It is a 30+ slides presentation in Powerpoint format that can be used to raise funds from investors or a bank for your business.

We built this template with everything you need in a business plan so you save time preparing your own.

Download the template and customise it as you please by adding your own business information (name of your business, location, etc.).

The template has 30+ slides that include all you need to raise funds from investors or to obtain a loan from a bank:

• Market overview
• Sales & marketing plan
• Strategy & timeline
• Financial plan

All our business plan templates can either be used with Powerpoint or Google Slides, Google Slides being a free version of Powerpoint.

It is a one-time fee. By purchasing this template you can download it to your computer and use it for as long as you need to.

Yes you can! It’s actually recommended to customize the template.

We recommend you to change the photos, add your business information to make it truly yours.

Yes it is. All investors and lenders will require a business plan along with a financial plan in Excel format.

This business plan template also include a financial plan yet please note this is an example. To edit the financial plan (for example to customize your revenue projections), purchase the corresponding financial model template available on this same product page.

The short answer is no. Since these templates are digital products, it is impossible for us to retrieve the template once you have downloaded at least once on your computer.

Note that we offer a free business plan example that can be downloaded before purchase. This allows you to have a look at the structure and the level of information we include in all our business plans.

This explains why less than 2% of our customers ever ask us for a refund.

That being said, if you are unhappy with your purchase, we will always do our best to make it work for you, either by: offering another template for free, helping you to use and/or customize your plan so that it works for you. 

If we can’t find an arrangement, we will offer refunds exceptionally when, for example:

• You have purchased but you have not yet downloaded the document to your computer
• You have rightfully be misled by an element on our website

Yes we do. Many of our customers even come back to us for help a year post purchase as they update their business plan.

We provide free lifetime email support, period.

ANy QUESTIONS?

Privacy overview.

Note that this free business plan is an example in PDF format, so it cannot be used as a template nor modified.

Download the full, editable business plan template by purchasing the paid version instead..

How to Start a Burger Business

Main Sections In This Post Steps To Starting A Burger Business Points to Consider Knowledge Is Power Featured Video

This post offers a comprehensive step-by-step guide for starting a burger business, including examples and samples.

Our “Knowledge Is Power” section provides up-to-date Search Results.

These resources are valuable for both startup and established businesses. If you find this post helpful, please consider sharing and bookmarking it for future reference.

Let’s get started with the steps.

The Steps to Take To Start Your Burger Business

Below are the steps to starting a burger business.

Each step is linked to a specific section, allowing you to jump to your desired section or scroll to follow the steps in order.

• An Overview of What You’re Getting Into
• Burger Business Overview
• Researching Your Burger Business
• Looking at Financials
• Creating Your Mission Statement
• Creating A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
• Choose a Burger Business Name
• Register Your Company
• Create Your Corporate Identity
• Writing a Business Plan
• Banking Considerations
• Getting the Funds for Your Operation
• Software Setup
• Business Insurance Considerations
• Supplier and Service Provider Considerations
• Setting Your Prices
• Physical Setup
• Creating a Website
• Create an External Support Team
• Hiring Employees
• Getting Customers Through the Door

1. An Overview of What You’re Getting Into

Passion drives success in any endeavor, and the same holds for owning and operating a burger business.

When genuinely passionate about your business, it becomes more than just a means to make money; it’s a labor of love.

Passion equips you with the resilience needed to navigate challenges.

Instead of seeking an exit strategy when problems arise, you actively seek solutions because you care deeply about the business’s success.

This enthusiasm is contagious and can inspire your team and attract loyal customers.

Consider a scenario where financial concerns are nonexistent. If you’d still choose to start and run a burger business for free, it’s a clear indicator of your passion.

It demonstrates that you’re driven by a genuine love for the industry and the satisfaction of serving delicious burgers to people.

Conversely, if your answer is no, it’s an opportunity for introspection. What else would you prefer to do if money were not a concern?

Pursuing that path might be a more fulfilling choice.

In conclusion, passion is the linchpin of success in the burger business. It fuels your determination, problem-solving skills, and resilience.

Your willingness to run the business even without financial worries is a litmus test of your true passion for the venture. When passion drives you, your odds of success significantly improve.

For More, See How Passion Affects Your Business . Also, see Considerations Before You Start Your Business to identify critical points for a new business owner.

2. Gaining an Overview of Owning a Burger Business

Next, let’s spend some time on key issues to give you an overview of what to expect from owning and running your business.

a.) A Quick Overview of Owning a Burger Business

A burger business is a food service establishment specializing in creating and selling burgers, a famous and iconic American fast-food item.

These businesses range from small, independent burger joints to large franchise operations. They typically offer various burger options, sides, and beverages to cater to diverse customer preferences.

Running and managing a burger business entails a multitude of day-to-day tasks to ensure smooth operations and customer satisfaction:

• Menu Planning: Create and maintain a menu that includes various burger options, sides (e.g., fries, salads), beverages, and potentially special promotions or seasonal items.
• Food Procurement: Source high-quality ingredients, such as beef patties, buns, vegetables, and condiments, while managing inventory levels to minimize waste.
• Food Preparation: Oversee the kitchen staff responsible for cooking burgers and preparing other menu items to ensure consistent quality and adherence to food safety standards.
• Customer Service: Train and manage front-of-house staff to provide excellent customer service, handle orders, address customer inquiries or complaints, and maintain a clean dining area.
• Quality Control: Regularly inspect food preparation processes, maintain food safety protocols, and ensure that each burger meets quality standards.
• Staff Management: Hire, train, and schedule employees, including cooks, servers, and cashiers, to ensure adequate coverage during peak hours.
• Financial Management: Monitor daily sales, expenses, and profit margins while keeping track of invoices, payroll, and budgeting.
• Marketing and Promotion: Develop marketing strategies to attract and retain customers, including social media campaigns, loyalty programs , or special promotions.
• Maintenance and Sanitation: Oversee the cleanliness and maintenance of the restaurant, including equipment, dining areas, and restrooms, to meet health and safety standards.
• Inventory Management: Keep track of inventory levels for food and supplies, placing orders as needed to prevent shortages or overstocking.
• Compliance: Ensure compliance with local health codes, food safety regulations, and labor laws, and keep up with any necessary permits or licenses.
• Financial Reporting: Prepare regular financial reports, including profit and loss statements and cash flow analyses, to assess the business’s financial health.
• Community Engagement: Build relationships with the local community through sponsorships, events, or charitable activities.

In essence, managing a burger business requires a blend of culinary expertise, efficient operations, customer service finesse, and business sense to provide quality food and a pleasant dining experience while ensuring profitability and compliance with various regulations.

b.) Burger Business Models

Burger businesses come in various setups, each with its unique business model catering to different customer preferences and market niches.

Here are some typical burger business setups and their associated business models:

• Fast Food Chains (Franchise Model): Fast-food chains like McDonald’s and Burger King operate on a franchise model. Franchisees pay for the rights to use the brand, recipes, and support from the franchisor. This model offers a proven system, established branding, and ongoing corporate support.
• Independent Burger Joints: Independent burger restaurants are standalone businesses. They have complete creative control over their menu, branding, and operations. The success depends on their ability to create a unique selling proposition (USP) and build a loyal customer base.
• Gourmet Burger Restaurants: Gourmet burger businesses focus on premium ingredients, unique flavor combinations, and a higher price point. They cater to customers seeking an elevated dining experience, often in a sit-down restaurant setting.
• Food Trucks and Mobile Vendors: Burger food trucks are a mobile and cost-effective option. They offer flexibility in choosing locations and can tap into different customer demographics, attending events, and busy urban areas.
• Delivery-Only Ghost Kitchens: With the rise of online food delivery platforms, some burger businesses operate solely as ghost kitchens, preparing food exclusively for delivery orders. This model reduces overhead costs related to physical dining spaces.
• Build-Your-Own Burger Concepts: These businesses allow customers to customize their burgers by choosing from a variety of ingredients and toppings. The model emphasizes personalization and caters to those who enjoy creating their burgers.
• Burger Bars and Pubs: Often found in bars and pubs, these businesses incorporate burgers into their broader menu. They cater to customers looking for a burger, drinks, and a casual atmosphere.
• Health-Conscious Burger Joints: These businesses focus on healthier burger options, using lean meats, alternative proteins, and whole-grain buns. They cater to health-conscious consumers seeking guilt-free indulgence.

Choosing the suitable business model from the beginning is crucial, as switching your model later is more challenging.

It requires rebranding, retraining staff, and potentially alienating existing customers.

Identifying a business model that aligns with your vision and target market is essential for a smoother, more planned startup phase.

Understanding your strengths, market demand, and competition will guide you in selecting the most suitable burger business setup.

c.) Making Your Burger Business Stand Out

Ideas to Make a Burger Business Stand Out:

• Signature Burger Creations: Develop unique and mouthwatering signature burgers exclusive to your business. Creative and inventive flavor combinations can attract burger enthusiasts seeking something new and exciting.
• Customization Options: Offer a build-your-own burger option, allowing customers to choose from a range of toppings, sauces, and bun choices. Personalization enhances the dining experience and caters to diverse tastes.
• Gourmet Ingredients: Elevate your burgers by using high-quality, gourmet ingredients such as artisanal cheeses, truffle aioli, or locally sourced organic produce.
• Healthy Alternatives: Include healthier burger options, such as lean turkey or veggie patties, gluten-free buns, and fresh, crisp salad toppings. This appeals to health-conscious diners.
• Plant-Based Products: Incorporate plant-based burger options, like Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger, to cater to the growing demand for vegetarian and vegan choices.
• Unique Sides: Offer innovative side dishes like loaded sweet potato fries, mac ‘n’ cheese bites, or gourmet onion rings. Memorable sides can enhance the overall dining experience.
• Burger Challenges: Create eating challenges, like a massive burger eating contest, and reward winners with prizes or recognition. This can generate excitement and word-of-mouth buzz.
• Local Sourcing: Emphasize locally sourced ingredients and support local producers. This aligns with sustainability trends and connects your business to the community.
• Themed Nights: Host themed burger nights or events, such as “Taco Burger Tuesdays” or “Burger and Beer Fridays.” These promotions can attract a loyal following.
• Interactive Dining: Implement a DIY burger station at the table, allowing customers to assemble their burgers. It adds an element of fun and engagement to the dining experience.
• Seasonal Specials: Introduce seasonal burger specials with fresh, in-season ingredients. This keeps the menu dynamic and encourages repeat visits.
• Food Challenges: Create epic burger challenges for adventurous eaters, complete with a giant-sized burger, a mountain of fries, and a time limit. Promote these challenges as a fun and viral marketing opportunity.
• Local Art and Décor: Decorate your restaurant with local art, memorabilia, or a unique theme that reflects the community’s culture. It creates a distinctive atmosphere and sense of place.
• Loyalty Programs: Implement a loyalty program that rewards frequent customers with discounts, freebies, or exclusive offers. Repeat business is vital for success.
• Online Presence: Maintain an active and engaging online presence through social media, a user-friendly website, and online ordering options. Encourage customers to share their burger experiences on platforms like Instagram.

d.) Add-ons for a Burger Business

• Gourmet Milkshakes: Offer a variety of indulgent milkshake flavors that pair perfectly with burgers, such as cookies and cream, salted caramel, or Nutella.
• Craft Beer Selection: Complement your burgers with a curated selection of craft beers on tap or in bottles—partner with local breweries.
• Burger of the Month Club: Start a subscription service where customers receive a unique burger creation each month, encouraging ongoing patronage.
• Delivery and Catering Services: Expand your reach by offering delivery services and catering for events, parties, and corporate gatherings.
• Burger-Making Kits: Create DIY burger-making kits with pre-measured ingredients, allowing customers to recreate their favorite burgers at home.
• Merchandise: Sell branded merchandise like T-shirts , caps, or burger-themed accessories to promote your brand and generate additional revenue.
• Sauces and Condiments: Bottle and sell your signature sauces, condiments, or spice blends for customers to enjoy at home.
• Cooking Classes: Host cooking classes or workshops where customers can learn to make their burgers and perfect their grilling skills.
• Burger-themed Events: Organize special events like “Burger and Blues” nights with live music or “Burger and Brews” festivals showcasing local beers.
• Burger Food Truck: Extend your reach by operating a burger food truck , allowing you to participate in festivals, food events, and catered functions.
• Online Merchandise Store: Create an online store where customers can purchase branded merchandise and sauces, expanding your customer base beyond the local area.
• Burger Loyalty App: Develop a mobile app that rewards loyal customers with points for each purchase, eventually leading to discounts or free items.
• Burger Challenges and Prizes: Organize burger-eating challenges and offer prizes or discounts to winners, attracting competitive eaters and adventurous diners.
• Monthly Subscription Box: Offer a monthly subscription box that includes exclusive burger creations, sauces, and other gourmet burger-related items.
• Virtual Cooking Classes: Host virtual cooking classes where customers can learn to make your signature burgers from the comfort of their homes, expanding your reach to a global audience.

Incorporating these add-ons into your burger business can enhance customer engagement, boost revenue, and create a memorable dining experience that sets you apart from competitors.

e.) Pros and Cons of Owning a Business

Owning a business offers numerous advantages, but ignoring the potential challenges can lead to unforeseen issues.

It’s crucial to assess both the benefits and drawbacks to prepare effectively and minimize surprises, ensuring a more successful entrepreneurial journey.

For more, see Pros and Cons of Starting a Small Business.

f.) Challenges You Could Face When Starting and Operating a Burger Business

Challenges When Starting a Burger Business:

• High Competition: The burger industry is saturated with competitors, from established fast-food chains to local burger joints. Standing out in a crowded market can be challenging.
• Initial Costs: Starting a burger business entails significant startup costs, including equipment, licensing, permits, and marketing expenses. Securing funding can be a hurdle.
• Location Selection: Choosing the right location is critical. Picking a spot with insufficient foot traffic or in a saturated area can lead to slow sales.
• Regulatory Compliance: Navigating health codes, food safety regulations, and permits can be complex and time-consuming, potentially delaying the opening.
• Supply Chain Challenges: Sourcing consistent, quality ingredients can be complex, impacting the taste.
• Staffing Issues: Hiring and retaining skilled kitchen staff, servers, and cashiers is a perpetual challenge in the restaurant industry.
• Brand Building: Establishing a strong brand identity and attracting an initial customer base can be slow and require persistent marketing efforts.

Challenges When in Full Operation:

• Quality Consistency: Maintaining consistent food quality can be demanding, affecting customer satisfaction and reputation.
• Customer Retention: Sustaining a loyal customer base amid changing tastes and preferences requires ongoing effort and innovation.
• Operational Efficiency: Ensuring smooth day-to-day operations, from order processing to kitchen management, is an ongoing challenge.
• Health and Safety: Following strict food safety standards and hygiene protocols is paramount to avoid health violations.
• Rising Costs: Managing fluctuating food and labor costs can strain profitability, necessitating frequent menu adjustments or price increases.
• Competition Dynamics: Continuously adapting to shifts in the competitive landscape and consumer trends is essential to stay relevant.
• Employee Turnover: High staff turnover rates can disrupt operations and increase training costs.
• Market Saturation: Sustaining growth when the market is saturated can be difficult, requiring creative marketing and expansion strategies.
• Online Reviews and Social Media: Managing online reviews and social media presence is crucial, as negative feedback can harm your reputation.

Navigating these challenges requires dedication, adaptability, and a keen understanding of the burger business.

Successful owners continually assess and adjust their strategies to thrive in a dynamic and competitive industry.

g.) Questions You Need to Consider for Your Burger Business

Before starting your burger business, it’s vital to address these key questions:

• Business Model: Define your burger business model, whether it’s a gourmet burger joint, fast-food franchise, or something unique.
• Skills and Staffing: Evaluate your skills and determine if you can manage and operate the business effectively. Decide whether you’ll hire employees or work solo.
• Management: Clarify your role – will you actively manage the business or hire a dedicated manager?
• Customer Acquisition: Develop a strategy to attract customers, considering marketing, location, and pricing.
• Customer Retention: Plan how to maintain a loyal customer base through quality, consistency, and excellent service.
• Funding: Explore financing options for startup costs and ongoing expenses.
• Profitability Timeline: Understand when you can expect to turn a profit and how to support yourself during the early stages.
• Product and Service Offering: Define your menu and consider customer demand.
• Competitive Edge: Identify what sets you apart from competitors – gourmet ingredients, unique recipes, or exceptional customer service.
• Positioning: Determine if you want your burger business to be perceived as a high-end, average, or budget-friendly option. Your positioning will influence branding and pricing.

Answering these questions will provide a solid foundation for your burger business, helping you navigate challenges and build a successful operation.

3. Research

Inside information burger business research.

Before embarking on starting your burger business, thorough research is essential.

Quality information equips you with the knowledge to understand what you’re getting into, preventing surprises.

Experienced burger business owners are valuable sources of reliable information. Their insights, gained through years of experience, can be priceless.

To connect with the right people, you can follow a comprehensive approach detailed in the article “An Inside Look Into the Business You Want To Start.”

This article provides ideas and strategies for finding and approaching experienced individuals in the burger business.

It’s crucial to gain insights, learn from their expertise, and make informed decisions as you pursue your venture.

See An Inside Look Into the Business You Want To Start for all the details.

Supply, Demand, and Your Location

Assessing market demand for your burger business in your chosen location is vital for success.

Here are some simple strategies to help you gauge demand effectively:

• Surveys and Questionnaires: Create surveys or questionnaires to distribute within the target area. Ask residents and potential customers about their burger preferences, dining habits and whether they feel a market gap.
• Competitor Analysis: Thoroughly research existing burger businesses in the area. Analyze their customer traffic, menu, pricing, and customer reviews. Identify what sets them apart and where they may be falling short.
• Local Demographics: Study the demographics of the neighborhood or town. Understand the age groups, income levels, and lifestyles of the residents. This information can help tailor your menu and marketing strategies to meet their specific preferences.
• Trends and Seasonal Patterns: Research seasonal trends and eating habits in your chosen location. Understand when burger consumption peaks and whether some specific events or holidays could impact your business.
• Social Media Listening: Monitor social media platforms and local forums to discuss burgers and dining preferences. This can provide valuable insights into what locals seek in a burger joint.
• Focus Groups: Organize focus groups with individuals from the area to taste-test your burgers and provide feedback. This can help refine your menu and identify potential areas for improvement.
• Pilot Testing: Consider a soft launch or pop-up event to test the waters before committing to a permanent location. This allows you to gauge initial demand and gather feedback while minimizing risk.
• Collaborations and Partnerships: Partner with local businesses or events to introduce your burgers and gather feedback from potential customers. Collaborations can also help you establish a presence and generate buzz in the community.
• Online Tools: Utilize online market research tools and platforms that provide data on consumer behavior, preferences, and trends in your target location.
• Local Networking: Attend community events, join local business associations, and network with residents and entrepreneurs. Building local connections can offer valuable insights into the demand for your burger business.

By employing these simple strategies, you can better understand market demand in your chosen location.

Remember that demand can evolve, so ongoing research and adaptability are key to staying attuned to your customers’ needs and preferences.

For more, see the Demand for Your Products and Services and Choosing The Best Location for Your Business.

Target Audience

Understanding your target audience is invaluable. It enables you to tailor your products, services and offers to meet their needs and preferences.

This targeted approach fosters customer satisfaction and loyalty, as you provide what they truly desire rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.

Target Market Ideas for a Burger Business:

• Burger enthusiasts seeking unique flavors.
• Families looking for affordable dining options.
• Health-conscious individuals seeking customizable, healthier burger choices.
• Local residents looking for a convenient, go-to burger spot.
• Office workers in need of quick, satisfying lunches.
• Vegans and vegetarians seeking plant-based burger options.
• Students seeking budget-friendly meal choices.
• Tourists exploring the local food scene.
• Event planners and caterers in need of burgers for parties and gatherings

For more, see How To Understand Your Target Market.

4. Looking at Financials:

Understanding the numbers and making good decisions is a crucial factor in succeeding.

You will struggle to manage a successful operation without putting in the time and effort to understand and monitor the financials of your burger business.

Let’s look at startup costs, operating costs and profits.

Start-Up Costs:

Accurate estimation of startup costs is critical for a smooth transition from planning to opening your burger business.

Underestimating can lead to financial roadblocks while overestimating can deter potential investors. Costs depend on size, location, staffing, equipment, and business model.

To estimate effectively, create a detailed list of requirements and gather price quotes, adjusting as new considerations arise during research.

While sample estimates provide a foundation, each setup is unique, making exact cost prediction elusive.

Your business model plays a significant role. Online ventures generally entail lower expenses than brick-and-mortar counterparts.

Careful research and accurate estimates are fundamental. This process ensures you can assess the viability of starting your burger business without unwelcome financial surprises.

Sample Startup Cost For a Burger Business 

The purpose of the list below is to focus on the items in the list more than the numbers because these are general samples, and your figures will be different.

Sample Estimated Startup Costs for a Mid-Sized Burger Business in the USA:

• Lease/Rent for Location:  $2,000 – $5,000 per month
• Renovation and Interior Setup:  $20,000 – $50,000
• Kitchen Equipment (new/used):  $30,000 – $75,000
• Furniture and Seating:  $10,000 – $25,000
• Initial Inventory (food and supplies):  $5,000 – $15,000
• Licenses and Permits:  $1,000 – $3,000
• Marketing and Promotion:  $3,000 – $10,000
• Website Development:  $2,000 – $5,000
• Point-of-Sale System:  $5,000 – $10,000
• Insurance (General Liability, Workers’ Comp):  $2,000 – $6,000
• Initial Salaries and Wages:  $5,000 – $15,000
• Uniforms and Safety Gear:  $1,000 – $3,000
• Utilities and Deposits:  $1,000 – $3,000
• Professional Services (legal, accounting):  $2,000 – $6,000
• Miscellaneous (office supplies, signage):  $2,000 – $5,000
• Contingency Fund (10% of total):  $19,300 – $52,500 (10% of the total)

Total Estimated Startup Costs (Lower Value): $83,300 Total Estimated Startup Costs (Upper Value): $223,500

These rough estimates vary significantly based on location, market conditions, and specific business choices.

It’s crucial to conduct thorough research and obtain detailed quotes to create a precise budget for your burger business.

For more, refer to my article on Estimating Startup Costs.

Monthly Operating Costs:

Managing monthly expenses for your burger business is crucial for sustainability. Variables like staffing, location, and marketing impact costs significantly.

Whether you run a lean operation or employ an entire team will influence your monthly outlay.

Prime, high-traffic locations often demand higher rents. Other expenses like loan repayments, marketing, and unexpected repairs can strain finances.

To ensure your business runs efficiently and weather revenue fluctuations, minimize non-essential expenses without compromising quality, service, or productivity.

Effective cost management is vital to maintaining profitability and long-term success.

SAMPLE list of estimated monthly expenses for a MID-sized burger business

Again, the purpose of the list below is to focus on the item in the list more than the numbers. The numbers are a general idea, and your numbers and list will differ. 

Sample Estimated Monthly Expenses for a Mid-Sized Burger Business in the USA:

• Rent/Lease:  $4,000 – $8,000
• Utilities (electricity, water, gas):  $800 – $1,500
• Insurance (General Liability, Workers’ Comp):  $500 – $1,000
• Loan Payments:  $2,000 – $4,000
• Payroll (including wages and taxes):  $6,000 – $12,000
• Inventory (food and supplies):  $3,000 – $6,000
• Marketing and Advertising:  $1,500 – $3,000
• Repairs and Maintenance:  $500 – $1,000
• Professional Services (legal, accounting):  $500 – $1,000
• Point-of-Sale System Fees:  $200 – $400
• License and Permit Renewals:  $100 – $300
• Cleaning and Janitorial Services:  $300 – $600
• Contingency Fund (10% of total):  $2,900 – $6,400 (10% of the total)

Total Estimated Monthly Expenses (Lower Value): $21,000 Total Estimated Monthly Expenses (Upper Value): $43,800

These approximate figures can vary based on location, business volume, and specific choices.

Accurate financial planning and ongoing expense management are crucial for the sustainability of your burger business.

Profit margins in a burger business depend on how it’s managed. High overhead can squeeze profits, even with robust sales.

Accurate profit estimation is challenging due to numerous variables. Your unique business setup and operational choices make you the best judge of potential profit.

Positioning, whether high-end or discount, influences profit margins. Estimate profit by calculating cost per sale, monthly sales volume, and deducting overhead costs.

Balancing sales volume and profit per sale is critical. While high profit per sale matters, generating enough sales to cover expenses and yield a healthy profit is equally essential.

Your approach to running the business will ultimately determine the net profit, emphasizing the importance of careful financial planning and effective cost management.

For More, See Estimating Profitability and Revenue.

Final Thoughts on Financials 

The financial management of a burger business is crucial. Beyond essential record-keeping for tax and legal compliance, it’s vital to actively monitor profits and expenses and generate reports to identify trends.

These financial insights enable timely action. For instance, if you observe a sudden drop in sales, you can investigate the cause promptly—market changes, product/service issues, or new competitors.

Without vigilant financial monitoring, critical issues might go unnoticed until they escalate.

Regularly assessing your burger business’s financial health empowers you to make informed decisions, address challenges proactively, and maintain the financial stability necessary for long-term success.

Consider revisiting Step 3. Researching your burger business , where there is a technique to get inside information, will benefit you in this step.

5. Create Your Mission Statement

A mission statement that serves as a compass, defining the purpose of your burger business.

It articulates your core objectives, guiding your actions and reminding you of the primary value you aim to deliver to customers and the community.

It is a focal point, ensuring your business remains aligned with its intended goals.

Examples of Mission Statements for a Burger Business:

• “Our mission is to craft mouthwatering, high-quality burgers that bring joy to every bite, enriching the dining experience of our customers and fostering a sense of community through exceptional food.”
• “At XYZ Burgers, our purpose is to serve delicious, locally sourced burgers that satisfy appetites while promoting sustainability and supporting local farmers.”
• “We are dedicated to creating a burger haven where innovation meets tradition, offering diverse flavors that tantalize taste buds and create lasting memories for our patrons.

For more, see How To Create a Mission Statement.

6. Creating A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

A Unique Selling Proposition (USP) is a distinctive element that sets your burger business apart from competitors.

It identifies and creates a unique edge that makes your business special and appealing to customers.

It’s a clear message communicating your business’s exceptional value and experience.

Examples of USPs for a Burger Business:

• “Our farm-to-table approach ensures that every burger is made with locally sourced, organic ingredients, providing a healthier and more sustainable dining choice.”
• “Burger Bliss: Choose from our exclusive selection of gourmet burger creations or build your own masterpiece with a variety of unique toppings and sauces.”
• “Speedy Satisfaction: We guarantee that your made-to-order burger will be ready in under five minutes, providing a quick and delicious meal without compromising quality.”
• “Burger Fusion: Experience a fusion of international flavors with our globally inspired burger menu, bringing a world of tastes to your plate.”
• “Burgers for Everyone: Catering to diverse dietary preferences, we offer a comprehensive menu with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, ensuring every customer finds a burger they love.

7. Choose a Business Name

Selecting the right business name is a pivotal decision. It should be catchy, industry-appropriate, easy to remember, and unlikely to change.

Rushing this process is ill-advised, as the chosen name will likely stay with your company throughout its existence.

Additionally, securing a matching domain name is crucial for your online presence, and verifying name availability is essential to avoid legal complications.

30 Ideas for Burger Business Names:

• Burger Bliss Bistro
• JuicyBite Burgers
• FlavorFusion Grill
• Gourmet Grillhouse
• BurgerCrafters
• SizzleStack Burgers
• The Burger Haven
• BurgerMania Delights
• SavoryScape Burgers
• PattyPerfection Grill
• BurgerBoulevard
• PrimeBite Burgers
• BurgerNest Express
• WholesomeBun Bistro
• GrillMaster Creations
• ClassicEats Burgers
• GrillGusto Gourmets
• HeavenlyBurger Hub
• TasteTrove Burgers
• UrbanFlavors Grill
• SimplySavor Burgers
• EpicBite Grillhouse
• BurgerUtopia Delights
• Smokin’Stack Burgers
• ArtisanBun Bistro
• BigBite Burgers & Fries
• GrubHub Grill
• BurgerFusion Station
• The BurgerCraft Cafe
• BiteJoy Burgers

This list can serve as a starting point to inspire your creativity and help you craft a distinctive and memorable name for your burger business.

For more, see the following articles:

• How To Register a Business Name
• Registering a Domain Name For Your Business

8. Register Your Company

Ensuring the legality of your burger business is paramount. It’s advisable to consult with a legal professional to ensure you have the correct setup for tax benefits and liability protection.

Common types of registrations for a burger business include:

• Business Structure Registration:  Decide on your business structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation) and register it accordingly.
• Employer Identification Number (EIN):  Obtain an EIN from the IRS for tax purposes.
• State Business Registration:  Register your business with the state where you operate.
• Sales Tax Permit:  If applicable, obtain a sales tax permit to collect and remit sales tax.
• Health Department Permits:  Ensure compliance with health codes and obtain necessary permits for food safety.
• Food Service License:  Obtain a license specifically for serving food.
• Alcohol License (if serving alcohol):  If your burger business serves alcohol, secure the required licenses.
• Sign Permit:  Depending on local regulations, you may need a permit for outdoor signs.
• Zoning Permits:  Verify zoning laws and obtain permits if needed.
• Fire Department Clearance:  Comply with fire safety regulations and obtain clearances as necessary.

Navigating the legalities of your burger business can be complex, making professional guidance invaluable.

Ensure you have the appropriate registrations, permits, and licenses to operate legally and smoothly.

Registration:

• How to Register Your Business
• How To Register a DBA
• How to Register a Trademark
• How to Get a Business License

Business Structures:

• How to Choose a Business Structure
• Pros & Cons of a Sole Proprietorship
• How To Form an LLC
• How To Register a Business Partnership
• How To Form a Corporation
• How To Choose a Business Registration Service

9. Create Your Corporate Identity

A Corporate ID is a visual representation of your business, comprising elements like your logo, business cards, website, signage, stationery, and promotional materials.

Maintaining a consistent, professional design across these components is crucial to leave a lasting and impressive impression on new and existing customers.

It fosters brand recognition and trust, establishing a solid and cohesive identity for your burger business.

You can see our pages for an overview of your logo , business cards , website , and business sign , or see A Complete Introduction to Corporate Identity Packages.

10. Writing a Business Plan

A business plan is a fundamental document used when seeking financing or investors, and it serves as a guiding framework during both the startup and operational phases of your burger business.

Crafting an effective business plan demands time, effort, and careful consideration. It’s a process of envisioning your fully operational business and detailing the steps to get there.

Creating a comprehensive plan pays off, as it clarifies startup requirements and operational strategies.

When developing your business plan, you have several options. You can create it from scratch by enlisting professional help, templates, or business plan software.

Regardless of the approach, your active participation is crucial to effectively communicating your business’s nature and management strategy.

Furthermore, be prepared for potential changes. Business plans and operations can evolve as you gain experience or market dynamics shift.

Regularly reviewing and adapting your plan remains valuable for guiding your burger business toward success.

Flexibility and readiness to adjust are key attributes of a well-prepared entrepreneur.

Business Plan Template for a Burger Business

Note: Adapt this template to your specific needs. Each section should be highly detailed and professional.

1. Executive Summary:

• Brief overview of your burger business.
• Mission and vision statement.
• Key goals and objectives.
• Business name, location, and legal structure.
• Founders’ background and roles.

2. Business Description:

• Detailed description of your burger business concept.
• Unique Selling Proposition (USP).
• Target market analysis.
• Competitive analysis.
• Industry overview.

3. Market Research:

• Market size and growth potential.
• Customer demographics and psychographics.
• Market trends and dynamics.
• SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats).

4. Products and Services:

• Comprehensive menu and pricing.
• Special offers (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options).
• Quality standards and sourcing.

5. Marketing and Sales Strategy:

• Marketing plan detailing advertising, promotions, and branding.
• Sales strategy, including channels and tactics.
• Customer acquisition and retention strategies.

6. Management and Organization:

• Team structure and roles.
• Founders’ and key employees’ profiles.
• Advisory board or consultants.

7. Financial Projections:

• Detailed financial statements (income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement).
• Sales forecasts.
• Break-even analysis.
• Start-up costs and funding requirements.
• Budget for at least the first three years.

8. Funding Request (if applicable):

• Specify the amount of funding needed.
• Explain how the funds will be used.
• Offer potential investors a return on investment.

9. Appendix:

• Supporting documents such as resumes, market research data, legal documents, and other relevant information.

Ensure that each section is meticulously researched and well-documented.

A comprehensive and professional business plan is a crucial tool for securing funding, guiding your operations, and ensuring the long-term success of your burger business.

See How to Write a Business Plan for information on creating your business plan.

11. Banking Considerations

Opt for a nearby bank with a small business focus. A dedicated business account clearly separates personal and business transactions, simplifying expense tracking and tax preparation.

Cultivate a professional rapport with your banker for financial advice and streamlined services.

Additionally, having a merchant account or online payment service facilitates card payments, enhancing sales and customer convenience.

For more, see How to Open a Business Bank Account. You may also want to look at What Is a Merchant Account and How to Get One.

12. Getting the Funds for Your Operation

When seeking financing for your burger business, explore options like traditional lenders, private loans, investors, or selling personal assets.

Additionally, investigate potential government grants to support your venture.

Considerations when meeting with a loan officer:

• Clearly explain your business plan and funding needs.
• Demonstrate your commitment and passion for the business.
• Be prepared to discuss your creditworthiness and collateral.
• Inquire about interest rates, terms, and repayment options.
• Ask about any additional fees or requirements.

Sample list of documents needed to apply for a NEW business loan:

• Business plan with financial projections.
• Personal and business credit reports.
• Income tax returns (personal and business).
• Bank statements.
• Legal documents (e.g., business licenses, contracts).
• Collateral information.
• Personal financial statements.
• Resumes of key team members.
• Reference letters or recommendations.
• Any available financial statements or history for an existing business (if applicable).

Having these documents ready showcases your readiness and professionalism when meeting with a loan officer, increasing your chances of securing the necessary funding for your burger business.

For more, see the following:

• Getting a Small Business Loan
• SBA Small Business Grants
• Search: Burger Business Start-up Loans
• Search: Grants For a Burger Business

13. Software Setup

Selecting the right software for your burger business is critical, as it’s easier to implement a program from scratch than to switch systems after your data is in another program.

Look for established software providers with a history of dependable support and consider trying demos before making a final decision.

Reviews and forums offer insights from others’ experiences.

Additionally, research software for expense tracking and tax document preparation.

Consulting with your bookkeeper or accountant can aid in selecting the ideal accounting software for your needs.

Types of software for burger business management and operations:

• Point of Sale (POS) System:  For order processing, sales tracking, and inventory management.
• Inventory Management Software:  To track and manage ingredient supplies.
• Employee Scheduling Software:  For staff management and scheduling.
• Accounting Software:  To handle financial transactions, bookkeeping, and tax preparation.
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software:  To manage customer data and marketing efforts.
• Online Ordering and Delivery Software:  For managing online orders and deliveries.
• Payroll Software:  To process employee payroll efficiently.
• Marketing and Social Media Management Tools:  To promote the business.
• Reservation and Booking Systems (if applicable):  For managing reservations and bookings for dine-in customers.

Choosing the right software tools can streamline operations and enhance efficiency in your burger business.

Check out Google’s latest search results for software packages for a burger business.

14. Get The Right Business Insurance

Having the right insurance in place before any business activity is crucial. Consider comprehensive coverage to protect customers, employees, yourself, and your property.

Professional liability insurance can safeguard against potential lawsuits, and interruption insurance provides a lifeline in case of an involuntary shutdown due to incidents.

To ensure adequate coverage, seek guidance from a competent insurance broker.

They can assess your specific needs and help you select insurance that provides comprehensive protection for your burger business, giving you peace of mind and financial security in case of unforeseen events.

For more, see What to Know About Business Insurance . You can also browse the latest Google search results for burger business insurance .

15. Suppliers and Service Providers

Choosing suitable suppliers and service providers is vital for a burger business’s success.

Here’s a list of items and services a burger business might require from them:

• Fresh ingredients (beef, vegetables, buns, condiments).
• Beverages (soft drinks, juices, milkshakes).
• Packaging materials (containers, bags, napkins).
• Kitchen equipment and appliances (grills, fryers, refrigerators).
• Cleaning supplies and equipment.
• Food distribution and delivery.
• Waste disposal and recycling services.
• Maintenance and repair of kitchen equipment.
• Pest control services.
• Accounting and bookkeeping services.
• Marketing and advertising support.
• Business insurance coverage.

Establishing solid relationships with suppliers is essential.

Reliable suppliers offer competitive pricing, ensuring you can maintain affordability and quality for your customers while maximizing your profit margins.

Treating suppliers and service providers fairly and respectfully fosters a positive working relationship that benefits all parties involved.

For More, See How To Choose a Supplier.

16. Setting Prices

Researching pricing for your burger business is essential for several reasons.

If your prices are too high, you risk losing potential customers to more affordable competitors.

On the other hand, if your prices are too low, while you may attract more customers, it could lead to financial difficulties due to inadequate profit margins.

Striking a balance is crucial. Align your pricing with your current market while emphasizing the value your burger business offers.

Understand your target audience’s price range for quality burgers and align your pricing strategy accordingly.

This ensures that you attract customers and generate sufficient profit to cover your expenses and sustain your business in the long run.

• Setting the Price of Your Products and Services
• Search Results for Pricing Strategies for a Burger Business.

17. Physical Setup

When starting your burger business, one of the initial tasks is purchasing products.

Focus on offering your customers’ desired items, ensuring you provide variety and value.

Controlling your inventory is crucial—excessive stock ties up capital that could be used elsewhere, while insufficient stock leads to lost sales.

Efficiently displaying products is critical; experimentation and recording different setups help identify what works best.

Expiry Dates:

Managing overstock for sale and supplies requires attention to expiry dates when applicable.

Avoid carrying products with approaching expiration dates, striking a balance between supply and demand.

The layout of a burger business should optimize customer flow and staff efficiency.

Key elements include a well-organized kitchen, order counter, dining area (if applicable), and a designated area for takeout or delivery orders. Prioritize a functional and ergonomic design to streamline operations.

Effective signage is vital. Your primary business sign should be prominent and eye-catching.

Additional signage at parking lots, exits, and particular areas enhances customer experience and professionalism.

Clear, well-designed signs convey essential information to customers.

Office Setup:

Running a burger business demands time and effort, making an organized office crucial for productivity.

Ensure your office has the tools and resources needed for efficient business management.

This includes computers, phones, accounting software, filing systems, and other necessary equipment.

A well-organized office allows you to handle administrative tasks, financial management, and customer communication effectively, contributing to the overall success of your burger business.

See Here are Considerations for The Setup of Your Office for tips and ideas to make your office work for you. Also, have a look at our article About Company Signs.

18. Creating a Website

Having a website for your burger business is essential.

It serves as the primary point of contact and enables you to showcase key information about your operation.

Unlike a social media account, a website is under your ownership and control when you host and register a domain name.

Moreover, your website can be a potent marketing tool.

By regularly blogging about the burger industry, offering valuable tips, and sharing insights tailored to your customer base, you can build trust and establish yourself as an expert.

This helps attract and retain customers, making your burger business more credible and appealing to your target audience.

For more, see How to Build a Website for Your Business .

19. Create an External Support Team

An external support team of professionals is a valuable asset for your burger business.

These individuals provide advice and services but are not part of your payroll.

Their services can be utilized for various needs, such as projects, tasks, contractual work, hourly consultations, or on a retainer basis.

While you may already collaborate with some individuals, recognizing them as part of your team emphasizes their significance.

Expanding your team gradually allows you to build professional relationships and establish a network of reliable experts over time.

A well-rounded team may include accountants, lawyers, financial advisors, marketing specialists, technical experts, and consultants.

Having a strong external support team ensures you can rely on their expertise and assistance whenever needed, enhancing the overall success and stability of your burger business.

For more, see Building a Team of Professional Advisors for Your Business.

20. Hiring Employees

The following are job positions or outsourced services you may want to consider as your burger business grows:

• Burger Chef:  Responsible for preparing and cooking burgers to maintain quality and consistency.
• Kitchen Staff:  Assist the chef with food preparation, cooking, and maintaining kitchen hygiene.
• Server/Cashier:  Take customer orders, handle transactions, and ensure a smooth dining experience.
• Waitstaff: Serve food and drinks, and interact with customers in a dine-in setting.
• Delivery Driver:  If offering delivery services, hire drivers to fulfill orders promptly.
• Inventory Manager:  Oversee stock levels, order supplies, and manage inventory.
• Marketing Specialist:  Develop and implement marketing strategies to attract customers.
• Accountant/Bookkeeper:  Manage financial transactions, taxes, and financial reporting.
• Cleaning Crew:  Maintain cleanliness in the kitchen, dining area, and restroom facilities.
• Maintenance Technician:  Handle equipment repairs and general maintenance.
• Human Resources Manager:  If your staff grows, this role becomes essential for hiring and personnel management.
• Customer Service Representative:  Manage customer inquiries, feedback, and complaints.
• Social Media Manager:  Oversee online presence, engage with customers, and handle social media marketing.
• Delivery Coordinator:  If offering delivery, coordinate delivery orders and drivers.
• Health and Safety Inspector:  Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Legal Counsel:  Consult with legal experts for business-related matters.
• Food Quality Inspector:  Ensure food quality and safety standards are met.
• Website Developer/Designer:  Maintain and update the business website.
• IT Support Specialist:  Provide technical support for POS systems and equipment.
• Event Coordinator:  If hosting events, hire someone to plan and coordinate them.
• PR Specialist:  Manage public relations and communications with the media.

Consider outsourcing certain services or hiring staff as your burger business expands to ensure smooth operations and maintain quality service.

For more, see How and When to Hire a New Employee.

21. Getting Customers Through the Door

When you have reached this step, your business is set up and ready to go, with one more final step, which is important: getting customers through the door.

There are numerous ways to do this, like advertising, having a grand opening , word of mouth, etc.

Let’s dig a little deeper into the following sections.

Marketing Considerations

To effectively market your burger business, especially in the early stages, consider these simple methods to get the word out:

• Social Media: Create and regularly update social media profiles on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X. Share mouthwatering burger images, engage with followers, and run promotions to attract attention.
• Local SEO: Optimize your website for local search keywords so your business appears in local search results. Claim your Google My Business listing to enhance visibility.
• Online Reviews: Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews on Yelp, Google, and TripAdvisor platforms. Positive reviews build trust and attract potential customers.
• Email Marketing: Collect customer email addresses and use email marketing campaigns to share promotions, updates, and special offers.
• Networking: Attend local events, join business associations, and network with other local businesses. Word-of-mouth referrals can be powerful.
• Community Involvement: Get involved in community events or sponsor local sports teams. It’s a way to build goodwill and get your brand recognized.
• Loyalty Programs: Create a loyalty program for repeat customers, offering discounts or free items after a certain number of visits.
• Engage in Content Marketing: Share informative and engaging content related to burgers, recipes, and food culture on your website or blog. This positions you as an authority in the field.
• Flyers and Brochures: Distribute promotional materials in your local area, such as flyers and brochures, to attract nearby customers.
• Collaborations: Partner with local influencers, food bloggers, or complementary businesses to co-promote each other.
• Customer Referral Program: Encourage existing customers to refer friends and family by offering incentives for successful referrals.
• Google Ads: Use targeted Google Ads to reach potential customers searching for burger-related keywords in your area.
• Traditional Advertising: Consider placing ads in local newspapers or magazines and using radio spots if your budget allows.

Remember that consistency is key in marketing.

Continuously engage with your audience, analyze what works, and refine your strategies as your burger business grows.

See How To Get Customers Through the Door and our marketing section to provide ideas to help you bring awareness to your business.

Sample Ad Ideas:

• Bite into burger perfection at [Your Burger Business Name]. Irresistible flavors await you.
• Explore burger bliss at [Your Burger Business Name]. Unleash your taste buds with our mouthwatering creations.
• Discover the ultimate burger experience at [Your Burger Business Name]. Taste the difference today.
• Calling all burger enthusiasts! Dive into deliciousness at [Your Burger Business Name].
• Indulge in burgers crafted to perfection at [Your Burger Business Name]. Love at first bite!

These display ads emphasize the exceptional taste and experience your burger business offers, enticing potential customers to try it.

Collaborations and partnerships can be a powerful way to expand the reach of your burger business and attract new customers.

Here are some businesses you could approach for mutually beneficial partnerships:

• Local Breweries: Partner with local breweries to offer burger and beer pairings. They can refer their customers to your burger business, and you can recommend their brews to your patrons.
• Fitness Centers: Contrary to the stereotype, many fitness enthusiasts enjoy a good burger occasionally. Work with local gyms or fitness centers to offer exclusive post-workout burger deals.
• Food Trucks: Collaborate with complementary food trucks for joint events, such as gourmet fries or dessert trucks. Cross-promote each other to attract diverse food lovers.
• Event Planners: Partner with event planners for catering services at weddings, parties, and corporate events. They can refer clients to your catering service, and you can recommend their event planning expertise.
• Local Hotels: If your burger business is in a tourist area, team up with nearby hotels to offer dining discounts to their guests. In return, they can suggest your restaurant as a dining option.
• Food Bloggers and Influencers: Build relationships with local food bloggers and influencers. Invite them to try your burgers and share their experiences on social media, reaching their followers.
• Delivery Services: If you offer delivery, collaborate with food delivery apps like Uber Eats or DoorDash to expand your customer base. They can feature your burgers to their users.
• Community Events: Participate in local festivals, farmers’ markets, and community events. Engaging with the community can help build your reputation and attract event-goers to your business.
• Local Schools and Colleges: Offer student discounts or special promotions to nearby educational institutions—partner with them to cater school events.
• Non-Profit Organizations: Support local or non-profit organizations through fundraising events or donations. They can endorse your business to their supporters.

When approaching these potential partners, emphasize the benefits of collaboration, such as increased foot traffic, shared marketing efforts, and mutual support.

Consider what you can offer them in return, whether it’s referral fees, cross-promotion, or special discounts for their customers.

Building strong partnerships can lead to long-term success and a steady flow of new customers to your burger business.

Points To Consider

Next, let’s review essential points for more tips, insights, and considerations before starting your burger business.

We will cover sections, including skills to consider, points to focus on, and equipment.

Then you’ll reach the “Knowledge Is Power,” section, where you will want to use the resources for valuable information.

Hours of Operation:

Hours of Operation for a Burger Business:

• Regular Business Hours  are the core hours when you serve customers and maintain daily operations. Typically, this might be from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
• Preparation Time: Allow at least 1-2 hours before regular hours for prep work like chopping, marinating, and setting up the kitchen.
• Cleaning and Closing: After regular hours, allocate 1-2 hours for thorough cleaning, restocking, and closing procedures.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Some maintenance tasks may require occasional closure or extended hours, so plan accordingly.
• Special Events: If you host special events or promotions, adjust your hours to accommodate them.

Balancing regular hours with these considerations ensures a well-managed burger business

Equipment and Supplies

A List of Equipment and Supplies to Consider for a Burger Business:

Equipment for a Burger Business:

• Grill: A commercial-grade grill for cooking burgers, ranging from flat-tops to charbroilers.
• Deep Fryer: For cooking fries, onion rings, and other fried items.
• Range: Used for sauces, heating buns, and other stove-top tasks.
• Oven: To bake or broil items like chicken or specialty burgers.
• Refrigeration: Walk-in coolers, reach-in freezers, and refrigerated prep tables for storing ingredients.
• Food Prep Surfaces: Stainless steel worktables for preparing ingredients.
• Exhaust Hood: Required for proper ventilation and smoke removal.
• Sinks: Multiple sinks for washing hands, dishes, and utensils.
• Food Warmers: To keep burgers and sides at serving temperatures.
• Bun Toaster: For toasting burger buns.
• Cutting Boards: Hygienic surfaces for chopping and prepping.
• Meat Grinder: For custom burger blends.
• Patty Press: Ensures consistent burger sizes.
• Food Processor: For chopping vegetables and making sauces.
• Shelving: Storage racks for dry goods and supplies.
• Cash Register or POS System: For processing orders and payments.
• Ordering System: Allows customers to place orders efficiently.
• Fry Cutter: Cuts uniform fries.
• Storage Containers: For ingredient storage.
• Burger Flippers and Tongs: Essential for grilling.
• Heat Lamps: Keep food warm until served.
• Sauce Dispensers: For condiments like ketchup and mayo.
• Burger Baskets and Wrappers: Presentation and serving.
• Safety Equipment: Fire extinguishers, first-aid kits, and safety signage.
• Dishwasher or Dishwashing Station: For cleaning dishes and utensils.
• Cleaning Supplies: Including sanitizers and detergents.
• Trash Bins: Both for customers and kitchen staff.
• Utensils: Knives, spatulas, ladles, and other kitchen tools.
• Smallwares: Plates, bowls, cups, and cutlery for dine-in customers.
• Seating and Tables: If you offer dine-in services.
• Ice Maker: For drinks and cooling items.
• Beverage Dispensers: For serving drinks.
• POS Printer: For generating order tickets.
• Security Cameras: To ensure safety and monitor operations.
• Bun Warmer: Keeps burger buns fresh and warm.
• Timer and Alarms: Helps with cooking consistency.
• Mop Sink and Cleaning Area: Dedicated space for cleaning and sanitation.
• Exterior Signage: Attract customers with an appealing sign.

Remember, the specific equipment needs may vary based on your burger business’s size, menu, and concept.

Always consider local health and safety regulations when choosing equipment.

Key Points To Succeeding in a Burger Business

To succeed in operating a burger business, several key points must be considered:

Focusing on a Niche: Specialize in a particular aspect of the burger industry, whether it’s gourmet burgers, vegetarian options, or a unique regional twist.

Building a Customer Base: Establishing a loyal customer base is challenging during the startup phase. Consistently deliver quality products and excellent service to build trust and customer loyalty.

Building Relationships: Forge strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and employees. Engaging with your community and creating a welcoming atmosphere can set you apart.

Offer What Customers Want: Provide products and services that cater to your target market’s preferences. Gather customer feedback and address legitimate concerns to improve and adapt your products and services.

Customer Service: Prioritize exceptional customer service; happy customers are more likely to return and recommend your business.

Hiring the Right Team: Build a competent and motivated team for various positions within your business. The right staff is instrumental in providing quality service.

Effective Management: Manage staff effectively, treat them with respect, and foster a collaborative work environment to enhance retention.

Cash Flow Management: Monitor and manage cash flow to ensure the business remains financially stable.

Cost Control: Keep costs in check without compromising quality or service, maximizing profitability.

Adapt to Change: Stay updated with industry trends, evolving business processes, and technology changes.

Handling Revenue Fluctuations: Prepare for fluctuations in revenue by maintaining financial reserves or having strategies in place to ride out lean times.

Competition: Be prepared to deal with both new and existing competition, continuously improving to stay competitive.

Effective Marketing: Implement effective marketing strategies, either independently or with professional assistance, to increase brand visibility and attract customers.

Incorporating these strategies into your burger business operations will help ensure its success and long-term sustainability.

Focusing on your skill set is vital before venturing into a burger business. Evaluating your abilities ensures you possess the necessary skills for success.

If a crucial skill is lacking, options include learning it or hiring someone proficient. Essential skills for a burger business owner include:

• Culinary Expertise: Proficiency in food preparation and burger recipes.
• Business Management: Financial acumen, operations oversight, and strategic planning.
• Customer Service: Building positive relationships with customers.
• Marketing: Promoting the business effectively.
• Food Safety: Ensuring food handling and storage compliance.
• Leadership: Managing a team effectively.
• Adaptability: Navigating the dynamic food industry.
• Problem-Solving: Addressing issues promptly and efficiently

Knowledge Is Power if You Use It!

Harness the power of knowledge in your industry. Explore abundant information through the provided links for startup and operational insights.

Trends and Statistics

Examining industry trends and statistics for a burger business aids in informed decision-making, identifying opportunities, and staying competitive in the dynamic market.

See the latest search results for trends and statistics related to the burger industry.

Burger Associations

Trade associations provide valuable benefits such as industry updates and networking opportunities, enhancing knowledge and connections within the field.

See the search results on burger associations and the benefits of Joining the Chamber of Commerce.

The Top Burger Businesses

Analyzing an existing burger business can inspire ideas, reveal industry gaps for a competitive edge, or highlight overlooked services provided by competitors.

See the latest search results for the top burger businesses.

The Future of the Burger Industry

Researching the industry’s future is crucial for prospective burger business owners, providing insights to adapt, innovate, and stay competitive in an evolving market.

See the search results for the future of the burger industry.

Find a Burger Business For Sale

Buying an existing business has its pros and cons.

Acquiring an established burger business offers several advantages: immediate revenue generation, skipping the challenging startup phase, familiarity with the business’s workings, knowledge of financial performance, an existing customer base, and a built reputation.

However, it comes with downsides. The upfront cost is often higher due to the value of goodwill, which includes the customer base.

Making significant changes to an established operation can risk losing loyal customers, presenting challenges. Additionally, when you buy a business , you inherit its positive and negative reputation.

While there may not be an exact burger business for sale, exploring opportunities in the same industry can lead to viable alternatives.

Research and careful consideration are crucial when purchasing an existing business or starting from scratch. Use the provided link to explore potential opportunities within the industry.

The latest search results for a burger business for sale and others in the same category.

Franchise Opportunities Related to a Burger Business

Owning a burger franchise has advantages and drawbacks that warrant careful consideration before diving into this venture.

• Proven Business Model: Burger franchises come with a well-established and tested business plan provided by the corporate office, reducing the risk of failure.
• Reputation and Marketing: You benefit from the franchise’s existing reputation and marketing efforts, which can attract customers more quickly than starting from scratch.
• In-depth Knowledge: You gain comprehensive knowledge about the burger business through training and support from the corporate office, ensuring you’re well-prepared.
• Corporate Support: Franchisees receive ongoing support and guidance from the corporate office, which can be invaluable for resolving issues and improving operations.
• High Initial Costs: Acquiring a burger franchise can be expensive due to franchise fees, equipment purchases, and other startup expenses.
• Limited Autonomy: Major changes to the menu or business operations require approval from the corporate office, limiting your creative control.
• Product and Service Restrictions: You must adhere strictly to approved products and services, limiting your ability to introduce innovative offers.
• Contractual Obligations: You’re bound by the terms of the franchise agreement, which may restrict your ability to adapt to local market conditions.
• Ongoing Fees: Franchisees must pay ongoing fees to the corporate office, affecting profitability.

While not all opportunities may align perfectly with a burger business, exploring franchises within the same industry can yield viable alternatives.

Researching thoroughly and weighing these pros and cons is essential for making an informed decision about entering the burger franchise business.

See the latest search results for franchise opportunities related to this industry.

Customer Expectations

Reviewing search results on customer expectations for burgers offers valuable insight from a customer’s perspective, enabling you to meet and surpass their desires.

This research uncovers potential issues and opportunities, ensuring comprehensive preparation.

See the search results related to customer expectations for burgers.

Expert Tips

Examining expert tips enhances skills, offering new insights for experts and novices. Experts may discover better methods, while novices gain valuable knowledge for improvement.

See the latest search results for burger preparation to gain tips and insights.

Burger Business Insights

Analyzing tips and insights helps generate innovative ideas and avoid pitfalls in your burger business, contributing to industry expertise.

See the latest search results about insights into running a burger business.

Burger Publications

Publications are a crucial means of staying informed and gathering new ideas realted to the industry.

See the search results for burger publications.

Burger Forums

Burger forums foster industry connections and customer insights. Engage in discussions to build relationships and better understand your customers’ perspectives.

See the latest search results related to burger forums.

Online or local courses are valuable for honing burger business skills and knowledge and enhancing expertise.

See the latest courses that could benefit a burger business owner . Also, see our management articles for tips and insights for managing your business.

Burger Blogs

Subscribing to leading hamburger blogs provides fresh ideas and industry updates.

Subscribe, filter for value, and build a valuable collection of informative sources.

Look at the latest search results for top hamburger blogs to follow.

Burger News

News is a valuable source to stay updated on burger-related media stories, offering insights into trends, controversies, and developments in the burger industry.

See the latest results for burger news.

Watching YouTube videos on burger preparation can enhance your culinary skills.

YouTube videos related to burger preparation.

Privacy Overview

Item added to your cart

Download all the resources to open a burger joint.

Let's make sure your gourmet burger restaurant will be profitable!

Here is a free business plan sample for a burger joint establishment

Have you been flipping through dreams of grilling the perfect patty and opening your own burger joint? Wondering where to start?

Look no further, as we're about to serve up a juicy sample business plan tailored for the fast-paced world of a burger restaurant.

As any seasoned entrepreneur will tell you, a robust business plan is the secret sauce to launching a successful venture. It's the blueprint that helps you articulate your concept, map out objectives, and strategize on how to achieve them.

Ready to bite into the business world? Get a head start with our burger joint business plan template. And if you need a little extra seasoning, our experts are on standby to review and refine your plan at no cost.

How to draft a great business plan for your burger joint establishment?

A good business plan for a burger joint must cater to the unique aspects of this type of fast-casual dining establishment.

To start, it's crucial to provide a comprehensive overview of the burger market. This includes current statistics and the identification of emerging trends in the fast-food industry, as illustrated in our burger joint business plan template .

Your business plan should clearly articulate your concept. This encompasses your vision, pinpointing your target demographic (such as families, young professionals, students), and the distinctive appeal of your burger joint (gourmet options, plant-based burgers, locally sourced ingredients, etc.).

The market analysis section is vital. It requires an in-depth look at local competitors, industry trends, and consumer preferences specific to the burger market.

For a burger joint, particular emphasis should be placed on your menu offerings. Describe your range of burgers, sides, and beverages, and discuss how they cater to the tastes and demands of your intended audience.

The operational plan is key. It should detail the location of your burger joint, the layout of the kitchen and dining area, supply chain logistics for ingredients, and the cooking process.

For a burger joint, it's important to highlight the quality of your ingredients, cooking methods, and adherence to health and safety regulations.

Then, delve into your marketing and sales strategies. How do you plan to draw in and keep customers coming back? Explore promotional tactics, customer loyalty programs, and potential upselling opportunities (like combo meals or specialty items).

Implementing digital strategies, such as a website or social media engagement, is also crucial in the modern marketplace.

The financial framework is another critical component. This section should cover the initial investment, projected sales, ongoing expenses, and the point at which you will break even.

In a burger joint, understanding the profit margins on each menu item is essential, so meticulous planning and a firm grasp of your financials are imperative. For assistance, refer to our financial projection model for a burger joint .

Compared to other business plans, a burger joint's plan must pay special attention to factors such as the fast turnover of inventory, quick service expectations, and potential for high-volume sales during peak hours.

A well-crafted business plan will not only help you solidify your vision and strategy but also attract investors or secure loans.

Investors and lenders are looking for comprehensive market research, realistic financial projections, and a clear plan for day-to-day operations of a burger joint.

By presenting a thorough and substantiated plan, you showcase your dedication and readiness for the success of your venture.

To achieve these goals while saving time, you can fill out our burger joint business plan template .

A free example of business plan for a burger joint establishment

Here, we will provide a concise and illustrative example of a business plan for a specific project.

This example aims to provide an overview of the essential components of a business plan. It is important to note that this version is only a summary. As it stands, this business plan is not sufficiently developed to support a profitability strategy or convince a bank to provide financing.

To be effective, the business plan should be significantly more detailed, including up-to-date market data, more persuasive arguments, a thorough market study, a three-year action plan, as well as detailed financial tables such as a projected income statement, projected balance sheet, cash flow budget, and break-even analysis.

All these elements have been thoroughly included by our experts in the business plan template they have designed for a burger joint .

Here, we will follow the same structure as in our business plan template.

Market Opportunity

Market data and figures.

The burger joint industry is a robust and ever-popular segment of the fast-food market.

Recent studies have valued the global burger market at over 135 billion dollars, with projections indicating continued growth, driven by the demand for convenient, flavorful, and diverse burger options.

In the United States alone, there are over 50,000 burger-focused establishments, contributing to an annual revenue of approximately 80 billion dollars for the burger sector.

These statistics underscore the burger's iconic status in American cuisine and its substantial contribution to the economy.

The burger industry is not immune to the evolving preferences and trends shaping the food sector.

Health-conscious consumers are propelling the rise of plant-based and lean protein burger patties, while gourmet and artisanal burgers are gaining traction among those seeking premium dining experiences.

Environmental sustainability is also influencing the industry, with a push for locally sourced ingredients and eco-friendly packaging.

Technology plays a role as well, with the integration of mobile ordering, delivery apps, and automated kiosks enhancing customer convenience and operational efficiency.

Moreover, transparency in ingredient sourcing and ethical practices is becoming increasingly important to customers, prompting burger joints to be more open about their supply chains.

These trends are shaping the future of the burger industry, as businesses strive to cater to the new wave of consumer expectations.

Success Factors

Several factors contribute to the success of a burger joint.

Foremost is the quality of the burgers themselves; juicy, flavorful patties with fresh toppings can turn first-time visitors into regulars.

Innovation in menu offerings, including unique flavor combinations and special dietary options like gluten-free or vegan burgers, can set a joint apart in a crowded market.

A prime location with high foot traffic or easy access can significantly boost visibility and patronage.

Exceptional customer service is essential for creating a welcoming atmosphere and encouraging repeat business.

Lastly, managing costs effectively without compromising on quality, embracing sustainable practices, and staying adaptable to the latest food trends are all crucial for the enduring success of a burger joint.

The Project

Project presentation.

Our gourmet burger joint project is designed to cater to the evolving tastes of food enthusiasts and health-conscious consumers. Situated in a bustling urban area with high foot traffic, this burger joint will specialize in crafting a diverse menu of high-quality, gourmet burgers, including options for vegetarians and those seeking healthier alternatives. Each burger will be made with premium, locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring a fresh and flavorful experience.

Attention will be given to the culinary craftsmanship, presentation, and the overall dining experience, aiming to redefine the concept of fast-casual dining.

Our burger joint will strive to be the go-to destination for burger aficionados, setting a new standard for indulgence and quality in the fast-casual dining scene.

Value Proposition

The value proposition of our gourmet burger joint lies in offering a unique blend of taste, quality, and convenience. We provide a menu that features creative burger variations, including plant-based and lean protein options, to cater to a wide range of dietary preferences.

Our commitment to using only the finest ingredients and the latest culinary techniques ensures a superior taste that sets us apart from the competition. We aim to offer a memorable dining experience that combines the comfort of casual eating with the sophistication of gourmet cuisine.

By focusing on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, our burger joint will become a community staple, inviting patrons to enjoy the ultimate burger experience.

Project Owner

The project owner is a seasoned restaurateur with a passion for the culinary arts and a keen eye for emerging food trends.

With a background in hospitality management and a track record of successful restaurant ventures, he is poised to launch a burger joint that emphasizes culinary excellence and customer service. His expertise in sourcing the finest ingredients and his commitment to sustainability are at the heart of the business concept.

Driven by a desire to offer a top-tier dining experience, he is dedicated to making the gourmet burger joint a beloved establishment, where every bite is a testament to quality and innovation.

His dedication to the craft of burger-making and his entrepreneurial spirit are the cornerstones of this project, aiming to delight customers and elevate the standard of fast-casual dining.

The Market Study

Market segments.

The market segments for this gourmet burger joint are diverse and include several key categories.

Firstly, there are fast food enthusiasts who crave high-quality, flavorful burgers but are looking for a more upscale and health-conscious option.

Secondly, there are individuals with dietary restrictions or preferences, such as those seeking gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan burger options.

Another segment includes foodies and culinary adventurers who are always on the lookout for innovative and unique burger creations.

Lastly, the local community, including families and professionals looking for a convenient and satisfying meal option, forms a significant customer base.

SWOT Analysis

A SWOT analysis of this gourmet burger joint project highlights several factors.

Strengths include a focus on high-quality ingredients, a diverse menu catering to various dietary needs, and a strong brand concept centered around gourmet and artisanal experiences.

Weaknesses might involve the higher price point associated with premium ingredients and the challenge of maintaining consistency across all menu items.

Opportunities can be found in the growing trend towards gourmet fast-casual dining and the potential to expand the menu with seasonal or locally sourced ingredients.

Threats include the competitive fast food market and the potential for changing consumer tastes or economic downturns affecting discretionary spending.

Competitor Analysis

Competitor analysis in the gourmet burger market indicates a crowded and competitive landscape.

Direct competitors include other gourmet burger restaurants, traditional fast food chains with premium burger offerings, and local diners or pubs with strong burger menus.

These competitors vie for the attention of burger aficionados and casual diners alike, emphasizing quality, taste, and experience.

Competitive advantages may lie in the uniqueness of the burger recipes, the dining atmosphere, customer service excellence, and the ability to quickly adapt to food trends and customer feedback.

Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of these competitors is crucial for carving out a niche and ensuring customer loyalty.

Competitive Advantages

Our gourmet burger joint's competitive edge is rooted in our dedication to culinary excellence and customer satisfaction.

We offer a wide array of burgers, from classic favorites to innovative creations, all made with premium, locally sourced ingredients to guarantee a memorable dining experience.

Our commitment to accommodating various dietary needs, including gluten-free and plant-based options, sets us apart in the market and caters to a broader audience.

We also emphasize the importance of a welcoming and engaging dining environment, where every customer feels valued and eager to return.

You can also read our articles about: - how to establish a burger joint establishment: a complete guide - the customer segments of a burger joint establishment - the competition study for a burger joint establishment

The Strategy

Development plan.

Our three-year development plan for the gourmet burger joint is designed to cater to the evolving tastes of burger enthusiasts.

In the first year, we will concentrate on perfecting our signature burgers and establishing a strong local following by offering unique flavors and high-quality ingredients.

The second year will be focused on expanding our presence by opening additional locations in high-traffic areas and possibly exploring food truck options to reach a wider audience.

By the third year, we aim to diversify our menu with innovative burger options and seasonal specialties, as well as considering franchising opportunities to scale our successful business model.

Throughout this period, we will remain dedicated to culinary excellence, customer experience, and brand consistency to become a leader in the gourmet burger market.

Business Model Canvas

The Business Model Canvas for our gourmet burger joint targets not only burger lovers but also those seeking high-quality, artisanal food experiences.

Our value proposition revolves around crafting exceptional burgers with gourmet toppings, artisan buns, and premium meats, complemented by a selection of sides and beverages.

We plan to serve our customers through our physical locations, online ordering, and delivery services, utilizing our key resources such as our skilled chefs and state-of-the-art kitchen facilities.

Key activities include burger creation, customer service, and maintaining a strong brand presence.

Our revenue streams will be generated from the sales of our gourmet burgers and related products, while our costs will be primarily associated with ingredients, labor, and marketing efforts.

Access a complete and editable real Business Model Canvas in our business plan template .

Marketing Strategy

Our marketing strategy is centered on creating a memorable brand experience.

We aim to engage our target audience through mouth-watering visuals and interactive content that highlights the uniqueness of our burgers. Our promotional tactics include social media campaigns, local events, and collaborations with food influencers.

We will also offer loyalty programs and limited-time offers to encourage repeat visits and word-of-mouth referrals.

Additionally, we plan to partner with local businesses and food festivals to increase our visibility and reach a broader customer base while upholding our commitment to quality and innovation in our burger offerings.

Risk Policy

The risk policy for our gourmet burger joint focuses on mitigating risks associated with food service, supply chain management, and customer satisfaction.

We will adhere to stringent food safety protocols, source our ingredients from reputable suppliers, and train our staff extensively in food handling and preparation.

Regular menu reviews and customer feedback sessions will help us maintain high standards and adapt to changing tastes. We will also implement a conservative financial strategy to manage costs effectively.

Comprehensive insurance coverage will be in place to protect against potential liabilities. Our goal is to deliver exceptional gourmet burgers while ensuring the well-being of our customers and the sustainability of our business.

Why Our Project is Viable

We are excited to introduce a gourmet burger joint that meets the demand for high-quality, innovative burger experiences.

With our dedication to culinary creativity, customer engagement, and strategic growth, we believe our business is well-positioned for success in the competitive food industry.

We are committed to adapting to market trends and customer feedback to ensure the longevity and prosperity of our gourmet burger venture.

We look forward to the opportunity to delight our customers and establish a legacy as a premier destination for burger aficionados.

You can also read our articles about: - the Business Model Canvas of a burger joint establishment - the marketing strategy for a burger joint establishment

The Financial Plan

Of course, the text presented below is far from sufficient to serve as a solid and credible financial analysis for a bank or potential investor. They expect specific numbers, financial statements, and charts demonstrating the profitability of your project.

All these elements are available in our business plan template for a burger joint and our financial plan for a burger joint .

Initial expenses for our burger joint include the cost of kitchen equipment tailored for burger preparation, remodeling the dining and kitchen areas to comply with health regulations, sourcing high-quality meat and fresh produce, training staff in food safety and customer service, as well as expenses related to branding and executing targeted marketing campaigns to attract our desired customer base.

Our revenue assumptions are based on a thorough market analysis of the local demand for gourmet and specialty burgers, taking into account the popularity of fast-casual dining and the trend towards premium burger offerings.

We expect a steady increase in sales, beginning with conservative estimates and expanding as our burger joint gains recognition in the community.

The projected income statement outlines anticipated revenues from our burger sales, production costs (ingredients, labor, utilities), and operating expenses (lease, marketing, salaries, etc.).

This leads to a forecasted net profit that is essential for assessing the long-term profitability of our venture.

The projected balance sheet displays assets unique to our business, such as kitchen equipment, food inventory, and liabilities including loans and projected expenses.

It provides a snapshot of the financial condition of our burger joint at the conclusion of each fiscal period.

Our projected cash flow statement details the inflows and outflows of cash, enabling us to predict our financial requirements at any point. This will assist in the effective management of our finances and in preventing cash flow issues.

The projected financing plan identifies the specific sources of funding we intend to utilize to cover our initial costs.

The working capital requirement for our burger joint will be meticulously managed to ensure we have sufficient liquidity to support daily operations, such as ingredient purchases, inventory control, and payroll.

The break-even point for our venture is the volume of sales necessary to cover all our costs, including startup expenses, thereby beginning to generate profit.

It will signal the moment our business transitions to profitability.

Performance indicators we will monitor include the profit margin on our burgers, the current ratio to evaluate our ability to meet short-term obligations, and the return on investment to gauge the efficiency of the capital we have invested in the business.

These metrics will aid us in assessing the financial robustness and overall success of our burger joint.

If you want to know more about the financial analysis of this type of activity, please read our article about the financial plan for a burger joint establishment .

• Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
• Opens in a new window.

01 84 60 03 50

Burger restaurant Business Plan : free template

Welcome to the comprehensive business plan for Burger restaurant Ltd, a fast-growing and innovative culinary venture that aims to redefine the burger dining experience. In this detailed article, we present a strategic blueprint for our burger restaurant, encompassing essential elements such as the executive summary, product and service offerings, market analysis, marketing and sales strategies, the management team, and financial projections. As we delve into each section, you’ll gain valuable insights into our vision, mission, target market, and the carefully crafted strategies that set us apart in the competitive foodservice industry. Join us on this exciting journey as we unveil the key ingredients behind Burger restaurant Ltd’s success

Need help with your business plan or forecast?

Call on an expert to help you realise your project.

Fast turnaround times , Attractive prices

Burger restaurant Business Plan: Executive Summary

Introduction.

The executive summary of the Burger restaurant Ltd business plan provides an overview of the key elements that define the company’s vision, mission, and strategic goals. This section serves as a snapshot of the entire plan, offering readers a concise understanding of the restaurant’s business model and objectives.

Company Overview

Burger restaurant Ltd aims to be a leading fast-casual dining destination, offering high-quality, gourmet burgers in a trendy and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant will focus on sourcing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to create mouthwatering burger creations that cater to diverse tastes.

Market Opportunity

With the growing demand for high-quality fast-casual dining experiences, the burger industry presents a lucrative opportunity for Burger restaurant Ltd. Our market research indicates a strong demand for premium burgers among millennials and young professionals seeking affordable yet delicious meals.

Competitive Advantage

Burger restaurant Ltd stands out from the competition by emphasizing its commitment to top-notch ingredients and unique flavor combinations. We will also implement efficient operational practices to maintain a competitive edge in the market.

Financial Summary

The business plan outlines a comprehensive financial forecast for Burger restaurant Ltd, indicating a positive and sustainable growth trajectory. With solid revenue projections and carefully controlled expenses, the company anticipates a steady return on investment over the next several years.

Other business plans in the same category

Halal Restaurant

sandwich shop

Burger restaurant business plan: product and service, menu offerings.

Burger restaurant Ltd will feature an enticing menu that goes beyond traditional burger options. Our signature burgers will showcase a variety of premium meat and plant-based patty choices, complemented by an array of delectable toppings and sauces. In addition to burgers, our menu will include sides like hand-cut fries, onion rings, and fresh salads, providing something for everyone.

Quality and Sourcing

To ensure unparalleled taste and customer satisfaction, Burger restaurant Ltd is committed to sourcing only the finest and freshest ingredients. Our beef patties will be made from high-grade, locally-sourced meat, and our buns will be freshly baked daily. We will also offer vegetarian and vegan options, catering to the diverse dietary preferences of our patrons.

Customer Experience

Apart from offering mouthwatering burgers, Burger restaurant Ltd will prioritize delivering an exceptional customer experience. Our well-trained and friendly staff will create a warm and inviting ambiance, making customers feel welcome and valued. The restaurant’s layout will be designed to facilitate a comfortable dining experience for individuals and groups alike.

Customization and Innovation

Understanding the importance of personalization, Burger restaurant Ltd will allow customers to build their burgers from a range of options. This customization element will not only cater to varying tastes but also encourage repeat visits. Additionally, we will regularly introduce new and innovative burger creations, keeping the menu fresh and exciting.

Online Ordering and Delivery

In response to the growing trend of online food ordering and delivery, Burger restaurant Ltd will implement a user-friendly online platform. Customers can conveniently place orders for pickup or delivery, expanding our reach beyond the physical location of the restaurant and tapping into a broader market.

Burger restaurant Business Plan: Market Analysis

Industry overview.

The burger restaurant industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by consumers’ desire for quick, flavorful, and customizable dining options. As a popular comfort food, burgers have become a staple in many people’s diets, making the industry a profitable and enduring segment of the foodservice sector.

Target Market

Burger restaurant Ltd will target a diverse demographic, focusing primarily on millennials and young professionals aged 18 to 35. This demographic segment is known for its affinity for dining out, seeking unique experiences, and willingness to explore new flavors. Additionally, families and individuals of all ages will also be welcomed, ensuring broad market appeal.

Competitor Analysis

Understanding the competitive landscape is crucial for Burger restaurant Ltd’s success. We have identified key competitors in the local area and conducted a thorough analysis of their strengths and weaknesses. By studying their menu offerings, pricing, marketing strategies, and customer reviews, we can position ourselves strategically to stand out and attract our target audience.

Market Penetration Strategy

To gain a foothold in the market, Burger restaurant Ltd will employ a multi-faceted approach. We will heavily focus on social media marketing to create buzz and engage with potential customers. Additionally, collaborating with local influencers and hosting promotional events will help increase brand visibility and attract a loyal customer base.

SWOT Analysis

Performing a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis is vital for understanding the internal and external factors that can impact the business. By identifying strengths to leverage, weaknesses to improve, opportunities to capitalize on, and threats to address proactively, Burger restaurant Ltd can develop a robust market strategy

Burger restaurant Business Plan: Marketing & Sales Strategy

Brand identity.

Creating a strong and memorable brand identity is crucial for Burger restaurant Ltd’s success. We will design a visually appealing logo and establish a consistent brand image across all marketing materials and touchpoints. The brand will reflect our commitment to quality, innovation, and a delightful dining experience.

Digital Marketing

Digital marketing will play a significant role in Burger restaurant Ltd’s promotional efforts. We will develop an engaging website that showcases our menu, location, and online ordering options. Additionally, a blog section will be incorporated to share updates, stories, and behind-the-scenes insights to build a connection with our audience. Social media platforms will be leveraged to engage with customers, run targeted ad campaigns, and encourage user-generated content.

Local Partnerships

Collaborating with local businesses, events, and organizations can significantly boost Burger restaurant Ltd’s visibility within the community. Partnerships with nearby hotels, gyms, and entertainment venues can lead to cross-promotional opportunities, attracting potential customers from various segments.

Loyalty Program

To reward our loyal customers and encourage repeat business, Burger restaurant Ltd will introduce a loyalty program. Patrons will earn points for each purchase, which can be redeemed for discounts, free items, or exclusive offers. This loyalty initiative will not only foster customer retention but also create brand advocates who spread positive word-of-mouth.

Seasonal Campaigns

To keep the momentum going throughout the year, Burger restaurant Ltd will run seasonal marketing campaigns. These campaigns will align with holidays, events, or trends, offering special limited-time burgers and promotions. Such initiatives can drive foot traffic and generate buzz around the restaurant.

Sales Forecast

Based on extensive market research and past performance data, Burger restaurant Ltd will prepare a comprehensive sales forecast. This forecast will provide a clear understanding of expected revenue and help in setting achievable targets for growth

Burger restaurant Business Plan: The Management Team

Founder and ceo.

As the driving force behind Burger restaurant Ltd, the Founder and CEO will provide visionary leadership and strategic direction. With a strong background in the food and hospitality industry, the founder will be responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations, business development, and fostering a positive company culture.

Executive Chef

The Executive Chef will be the culinary mastermind behind Burger restaurant Ltd’s delectable creations. With extensive experience in crafting innovative and flavorful dishes, the chef will lead the kitchen team, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, consistency, and creativity.

Restaurant Manager

The Restaurant Manager will be responsible for the smooth functioning of the front-of-house operations. From managing staff to handling customer inquiries, reservations, and feedback, the manager will ensure that every guest has a delightful dining experience at Burger restaurant Ltd.

Marketing and PR Manager

The Marketing and PR Manager will spearhead all marketing efforts, overseeing digital campaigns, social media engagement, and local partnerships. With a keen eye for brand promotion, this role will play a vital part in establishing and maintaining Burger restaurant Ltd’s online and offline presence.

Financial Controller

The Financial Controller will manage all financial aspects of Burger restaurant Ltd. Responsibilities will include budgeting, financial forecasting, monitoring expenses, and analyzing financial reports to make informed business decisions.

Human Resources Specialist

The Human Resources Specialist will focus on building a skilled and motivated team. This role will handle recruitment, training, and employee engagement programs, fostering a positive work environment that contributes to the restaurant’s overall success

Burger restaurant Business Plan: Financial Forecasts or Projections

Startup costs.

Burger restaurant Ltd will carefully outline the initial startup costs required to launch the business successfully. This section will cover expenses such as leasing the restaurant space, renovating the interior, purchasing kitchen equipment, furniture, initial inventory, marketing materials, and other essential items.

Sales Projections

Based on market research, competitor analysis, and the marketing and sales strategies outlined earlier, Burger restaurant Ltd will present detailed sales projections. These projections will highlight expected revenue growth over the first few years of operation, taking into account various factors that may influence sales.

Expense Forecast

A comprehensive expense forecast will be prepared to estimate the ongoing costs of running Burger restaurant Ltd. This will include expenses related to raw materials, employee salaries, utilities, maintenance, marketing, and other operational costs. By maintaining a tight control over expenses, the company aims to achieve profitability while providing exceptional value to customers.

Cash Flow Analysis

The cash flow analysis will illustrate the inflows and outflows of funds throughout each month, providing insights into the restaurant’s financial liquidity. This analysis will help identify potential cash flow challenges and allow Burger restaurant Ltd to plan for adequate working capital.

Break-Even Analysis

The break-even analysis will determine the point at which Burger restaurant Ltd’s total revenue equals its total expenses. This crucial metric will indicate how much revenue is needed to cover all costs and start generating profits, helping the company set realistic sales targets.

Financial Viability

Based on the financial forecasts and analysis, Burger restaurant Ltd will present a comprehensive assessment of its financial viability. Investors and stakeholders will gain valuable insights into the business’s long-term sustainability and return on investment potential

Share this post

Subscribe to our newsletter, autres articles qui pourraient vous intéresser.

Dry Cleaning Business Plan : free template

In the bustling world we live in, where time is of the essence and quality is paramount, (Dry Cleaning Ltd) emerges as

Bounce House Business Plan : free template

Welcome to an in-depth exploration of the exciting world of (Bounce House Ltd), where imagination knows no bounds and joyful memories are

Dairy Farm Business Plan : free template

In the ever-evolving landscape of the dairy industry, innovation, sustainability, and a strong strategic foundation are paramount for success. Welcome to a

Concrete Polishing Business Plan : free template

In a world where aesthetics, sustainability, and durability are paramount, the concrete polishing industry has emerged as a game-changer. Welcome to an

Convenience Store Business Plan : free template

In an ever-evolving world where time is of the essence and convenience is paramount, the role of a well-executed business plan cannot

Auto Parts Store Business Plan : free template

In a world where vehicles are an integral part of daily life, the demand for reliable auto parts and accessories continues to

Leave a Reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

© Societefacile.com 2023. All rights reserved.

You need a business plan or forecast!

Call on a specialist to help you with this tedious task

Reasonable rates

Fast Food Business Plan

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Fast Food Restaurant Business Plan & Template

You’ve come to the right place to create your fast food business plan.

We have helped over 100,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their fast food businesses.

Fast Food Business Plan Example

Below is an example for each of the key elements of a fast food business plan that you can use to create your own well-crafted business plan:

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries is a new fast food start-up located in St. Louis, Missouri. The menu will include a variety of exceptionally large burgers that are freshly made using locally sourced meat and vegetables from local St. Louis establishments. There is also a wide variety of different types of french fries to accompany the delectable burgers. The fast food restaurant will be located in a busy intersection of a highly trafficked area of St. Louis. It will be surrounded by big box retail and grocery shopping, chain restaurants, and other businesses that are frequented by locals.

The design of Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries will be comfortable and convenient in order to attract all residents of St. Louis. The demographic will be residents of the community that come from all different backgrounds and income levels. It will be family-friendly, trendy, and offer a seating area that is able to accommodate multiple seating options. Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries will also include a drive-thru for those who elect to take their food and drinks to go.

Products Served

The following are the products to be offered by Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries:

• Just a Plain Ol’ Big Burger
• Avocado Big Burger
• Veggie Big Burger
• Double Bacon Big Burger
• Green Chile Hot n’ Spicy Big Burger
• Kiddos Big Burger
• Traditional French Fries
• Curly Fries
• Sweet Potato Fries
• Parmesan Herb Fries
• Spicy Sriracha Fries
• Assorted non-alcoholic beverages

Customer Focus

Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries will target all residents living in and around St. Louis. It will appeal to students, families, retirees, white collar, blue collar, and government employees. Because the food is moderately priced compared to other fast food establishments, all income levels will be able to enjoy the delicious offerings of Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries.

Management Team

Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries is owned and operated by best friends, Jay Brusco and Ray Coleman. Jay is the culinary component of the business, a local chef that has had a successful culinary career working at various fine dining restaurants. Ray is the business component as he has been successful as a wealth manager in St. Louis. The two friends have dreamed of opening up their own business for the past five years and have worked and studied strategy in order to ensure a thriving and sustainable fast food operation.

Jay will manage the kitchen operations of Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries. He will train and oversee the cooks, manage inventory, place food and drink orders, deal with the local food vendors, and ensure the highest customer satisfaction with the food.

Ray will oversee all administrative, accounting, and tax obligations for the business. He will train the cashiers on proper cash handling and customer service. Ray will also ensure that the highest level of customer service is being met daily and for every customer who walks in the door and goes through the drive-thru.

Success Factors

The following success factors will set Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries apart from the competition:

• Fresh made to order burgers that are locally sourced from St. Louis meat and vegetable establishments.
• The buns are baked on-site daily and are the softest and most flavorful bun in town.
• Convenient location: Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries will be located in a highly-trafficked intersection that is easy to drive in and out of on any given day.
• Customers get bang for their buck. The menu items will be typical of bistro-type dishes and sizes served at a fast food price.

Financial Highlights

Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries is seeking $165,000 in debt financing to open its start-up fast food restaurant. The funding will be dedicated for the build-out and design of the restaurant, kitchen, and drive-thru as well as  cooking supplies and equipment, working capital, three months worth of payroll expenses and opening inventory. The breakout of the funding is below:

• Fast Food Restaurant Build-Out and Design – $80,000
• Kitchen supplies and equipment – $40,000
• Opening inventory – $5,000
• Working capital (to include 3 months of overhead expenses) – $15,000
• Marketing (advertising agency) – $25,000

The following graph outlines the pro forma financial projections for Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries:

Company Overview

Who is jay & ray’s big burgers & fries.

Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries is a start-up fast food restaurant located in St. Louis, Missouri. It will cater to all residents of St. Louis and will be located at a busy retail intersection of St. Louis that is surrounded by other restaurants and shopping. Thousands of people drive or walk by the intersection daily. Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries is a fast casual restaurant and customers of all backgrounds and income levels are welcome. The restaurant will serve a variety of hamburgers, a variety of different flavored french fries, and soft drinks. The menu will be simple yet satisfying. The burgers are larger than other fast food restaurant hamburgers, and it will be the only fast food restaurant that serves bistro-type french fries.

Jay & Ray’s will have a comfortable and trendy seating area for customers to be able to dine inside and will also have a drive-thru for those that prefer to not get outside of their vehicle. Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries is scheduled to open its first location within the next six months.

Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries History

Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries is owned by two St. Louis natives who are best friends and have started a business venture together. Jay Brusco is a culinary master who has been a chef for over ten years and Ray Coleman is a business entrepreneur who has been a wealth investment manager for over a decade. Jay & Ray have dreamed of going into business together since they were in high school, and they have spent the last four years preparing to make their dream a reality.

Jay has created a delectable and appetizing menu and Ray is the business brain behind the company. Together, with both of their expertise and knowledge, Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries is destined to become St. Louis’ next big restaurant.

Since incorporation, Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries has achieved the following milestones:

• Developed the fast food restaurant’s branding image, social media, and website.
• Has a soft hold on a prime retail location at a busy intersection.
• Developed and finalized the menu of the food and drink selection.
• Obtained a food permit license to be able to prepare and sell food and drinks in St. Louis County.
• Obtained a sales and use tax permit for use in St. Louis County.

Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries Products

The following are the types of menu items Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries will serve:

Industry Analysis

The Fast Food Restaurants industry will continue to be one of the strongest U.S. industries, reaching $320 billion in the next five years.

The industry’s ability to provide convenient food at a low price will likely remain popular as consumers continue to seek affordable and convenient food options.

Fast food restaurants will benefit from a strong U.S. economy. The national unemployment rate is expected to decline while consumer sentiment is anticipated to strengthen. These trends are expected to bolster demand for the industry. Furthermore, consumer spending is estimated to increase at an annualized rate of 3.8%.

Additionally, fast food restaurants are expected to continue to expand menu options to cater to changing consumer preferences. Product innovation will likely play a large part in revenue growth moving forward.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries will target the population of St. Louis that frequently consumes fast food. As this is a fast food restaurant, it will attract customers from all different backgrounds and income levels. Students, families, retirees, white collar, blue collar, and government officials all live and work in St. Louis County and will frequent the Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries.

The precise demographics for St. Louis, Missouri are:

Customer Segmentation

Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries will primarily target the following customer profile:

• Local residents of St. Louis that frequently consumes fast food.
• Blue collar, white collar, and government employees who live and work in St. Louis County.
• Families of all types.
• High school and college age students.

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries will be competing with other fast food restaurants in St. Louis. Because Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries is a local fast food startup, the competitors will be local fast food restaurants as well. A profile of each competitor is below.

Hi-Pointe Drive-In

Hi-Pointe Drive-In began as a little drive-in establishment that opened in the 1980s. Their mission is to bring the drive-in back to life with mouthwatering burgers and original sandwiches. Their chef-inspired menu uses locally sourced ingredients.

Hi-Pointe Drive-In is located in the historic Hi-Pointe neighborhood, just off of Highway 40. It is a great spot to pop into before or after events around town, or even as the main event. The menu has something for folks of many walks of life from their creative burgers, sandwiches, and shakes, to healthy salads and a menu for the little ones. Following the tradition of killin’ it, Hi-Pointe Drive-In is created from the same ownership as Sugarfire Smokehouse, among a few other St. Louis’ favorite eateries. Their team is made up of the great people and talented chefs that create a unique experience for every single visit.

Hi-Pointe Drive-In is available for drive-in, delivery, or they are able to cater an event. The burgers range in price from $6 – $9.50, the chef burger creations are priced $8 – $11, sandwiches are $9 – $13, and the salads range between $11 – $13. They have an array of sides for $3 each and the shakes and floats are between $5.50 and $7.

Union Loafers

Union Loafers is a bread bakery and cafe located in the heart of Botanical Heights in St. Louis, Missouri. They bake naturally leavened bread modeled on old world techniques. They are open during lunch for sandwiches, soups and salads. For dinner, they transform their bakery into a pizzeria that also serves wine and beer. At Union Loafers, they serve simple, classic foods driven by quality and community.

The bread and pizza are made fresh daily and only served during the aforementioned hours. A popular favorite is the Neapolitan Pizza as the recipe is unique and the taste exemplifies fresh ingredients. Union Loafers’ website has their step by step recipe to make their famous light and mild loaf bread at home. Union Loafers is also available for catering any sized event.

Lion’s Choice

Lion’s Choice first started as Red Lion Beef that was founded by Marv Gibbs in 1967. His two goals were to serve the highest-quality top round beef and create an environment where customers can enjoy a nutritious meal with friends and family. When the restaurant was renamed to Lion’s Choice, it was an instant success and Marv opened his second location in 1969.

The recipe for their famous roast beef sandwich is simple: 100% real top round beef that is slow roasted on-site for three hours and shaved extra thin. Lion’s Choice serves their roast beef medium rare on a lightly toasted buttered bun and topped with a dash of secret seasoning. The recipe has been the same for the past 50 years.

Over the years, Lion’s Choice has expanded their menu to include other quality offerings like oven-roasted turkey, hickory-smoked ham, pulled pork, and a variety of fresh salads. Lion’s Choice signature original roast beef, natural-cut fries, and frozen custard continue to be the St. Louis chain’s most popular offerings and will continue to be a local favorite.

Competitive Advantage

Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries offers several advantages over its competition. Those advantages are:

Marketing Plan

Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

• The meat and vegetables will be locally sourced from St. Louis vendors and served fresh daily.
• The buns will be baked fresh daily with Chef Jay’s unique recipe.
• Convenient location.
• Bistro-type burgers and fries served at cheap, fast food prices.

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries are as follows:

Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries’ location is a promotion strategy in itself. Because the fast food establishment will be located in a prime intersection that is situated next to big box shopping, chain restaurants, and salons, thousands of St. Louis residents drive or walk by the location daily. The signage and look of the restaurant will be eye-catching and will entice people to walk in or use the drive-thru of Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries.

Social Media

Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries will use social media to cater to the millennials and social media obsessed portion of St. Louis. Jay and Ray plan to hire an advertising agency to take professional photographs of the menu items and location to create appealing posts to reach a greater audience. The posts will include pictures of the menu items, as well as weekly specials they will be running. Their posts will also include pictures of customers (with their written consent) enjoying the burgers and fries. By using actual customers, Jay and Ray hope to interact more with the community and create a legion of returning customers.

SEO Website Marketing

Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries plans to invest funds into maintaining a strong SEO presence on search engines like Google and Bing. When a person types in “local fast food” or “St. Louis burgers”, Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries will appear in the top three choices. The website will include the full menu, location, hours, and lots of pictures of the food, drinks, and customers.

Third Party Delivery Sites

Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries will maintain a presence on sites like Grubhub, Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Postmates so that people looking for local food to be delivered will see Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries listed near the top.

Jay and Ray will purchase a billboard spot about 5 miles from the location so that people driving by will have another reminder of the latest fast food spot to grab a meal before they get to the location. The advertising agency will create the billboard design.

The pricing of Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries will be moderate and on par with competitors, so customers feel they receive value when purchasing their menu items.

Operations Plan

The operations plan for Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries is as follows:

Operation Functions:

• Chef Jay Brusco is the chef and manager in charge that will develop the menu, source the ingredients and bake the buns daily. Chef Jay will also oversee a team of 2-3 cooks that will be working in the kitchen. He will also be in charge of inventory, weekly food and drink ordering, and ensuring customer satisfaction with the quality of the food.
• Ray Coleman is the other on-site manager that will oversee all administrative and financial responsibilities for the restaurant. He will handle all necessary licensing and permitting, training of the cashiers, accounting, budgeting, forecasting, and tax payments. Ray, alongside Jay, will also work to ensure customer satisfaction with the quality of the service.
• Two to three part-time cooks will alternate helping Chef Jay during the hours of operation.
• Two to three part-time cashiers that will work the registers, drive-thru, and take turns cleaning the dining area and restrooms.
• Jay and Ray will hire an advertising agency to develop the website, social media accounts, billboard design, and execute all of their marketing efforts.

Milestones:

Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries aims to open in the next 6 months. The following are the milestones needed in order to obtain this goal.

6/1/202X – Execute lease for prime location at busy intersection and finalize architectural design of fast food restaurant.

6/2/202X – Begin construction of fast food restaurant build-out.

6/10/202X – Finalize menu.

6/17/202X – Hire advertising company to begin developing marketing efforts.

7/15/202X – Start of marketing campaign with social media; billboard goes up.

8/2/202X – Final walk-thru of completed fast food restaurant build-out.

8/10/202X – Hire team of cooks and cashiers.

8/13/202X – Employee training begins.

8/20/202X – Grand Opening of Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries.

Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries will be owned and operated by Chef Jay Brusco and Ray Coleman. Each will have a 50% ownership stake in the fast food restaurant.

Chef Jay Brusco, Co-Owner

Chef Jay Brusco is a LeCordon Bleu Culinary School graduate and has been working in fine dining establishments in St. Louis for the past ten years. Chef Jay has always wanted to own his own restaurant and after working in numerous fine dining restaurants, Jay decided that he ultimately wanted to pursue a simple, delicious, fast food restaurant. Jay likes to appeal to the masses and he knows that he will be able to reach a greater audience by serving the community as a whole instead of just the high-end portion of St. Louis. Jay has always received tons of acclaim for his burgers because he is able to consistently deliver juicy and delicious burgers at a fast pace.

Ray Coleman, Co-Owner

Ray Coleman is the business brain behind the operation. Ray has made a career as a financial wealth manager and has worked in the corporate industry for over ten years. Ray is a graduate of the University of Missouri and earned his MBA in 2010. During his time attending business school, Ray took numerous entrepreneurial classes and has been studying how to start and run a successful start-up business. Since his best friend Jay is a professional chef and wants to start his own business, Ray began developing the business plan and operations for Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries.

Jay and Ray each have a unique skill set that will make them an instant success in St. Louis. They are a perfect partnership and remain committed to serving freshly made delicious food to the community that they grew up in.

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for Jay & Ray’s Big Burgers & Fries will come from the menu items being offered daily.

The cost drivers will be the ingredients and products needed to make the menu items (oil, meat, vegetables, ingredients for the buns, drinks) as well as the cooking materials (pots, pans, bowls, plates, utensils, etc.). A significant cost driver are the paper products that the food will be served in as well as the beverage machines. Other cost drivers will be the overhead expenses of payroll for the part-time employees and cost of the advertising agency.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Key assumptions.

The following table outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and in order to pay off the business loan.

Initial Number of Customers Per Day: 500

Average Order per Customer: $15.00

Annual Lease: $100,000

Financial Projections

Income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, fast food business plan faqs, what is a fast food business plan.

A fast food business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your fast food restaurant. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can  easily complete your fast food business plan using our Fast Food Business Plan Template here .

What Are the Main Types of Fast Food Businesses?

There are many types of fast food businesses. The most common fast food restaurants serve hamburgers, fries, and soft drinks. Other common fast food establishments serve chicken, Chinese food, Mexican food, and pizza. There is a recent trend in fast food restaurants serving healthier options such as smoothies, wraps, sandwiches, and salads. A fast food restaurant can be centered around any food genre that is able to be prepared fast and in large quantities to serve multiple customers daily.

What Are the Main Sources of Revenue and Expenses for a Fast Food Restaurant?

The primary source of revenue for a fast food restaurant are the food and drink items sold at the establishment.

The key expenses are the costs to source the ingredients for the menu items, kitchen equipment and supplies, overhead expenses for the staff and rent, and any marketing costs the restaurant chooses to partake in.

What is the Difference Between a Franchise and Non-Franchise Fast Food Restaurant?

A franchise fast food restaurant is a business that is owned and operated by someone who has a contract with a larger company. That company provides the products, training, and marketing for the smaller business. A non-franchise fast food restaurant is a business that is independently owned and operated.

Franchise fast-food restaurants have a set of guidelines and standards to which they must adhere in order to use the franchise name. Non-franchise fast food restaurants do not have these guidelines and can vary greatly in terms of quality, cleanliness, and customer service.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Fast Food Business?

Fast food businesses are most likely to receive funding from banks. Typically you will find a local bank and present your business plan to them. Another option for a fast food business is to obtain a small business loan. SBA loans are a popular option as they offer longer loan terms with lower interest rates. Outside investors, crowdfunding, and/or friends or family are other typical funding options. This is true for a fast casual restaurant business plan or a takeout restaurant business plan.

What are the Steps To Start a Fast Food Business?

Starting a fast food restaurant can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a successful fast food business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Write A Fast Food Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed fast food business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include market research on the fast food industry and potential target market size, information on your fast food menu, marketing strategy, pricing strategy and a detailed financial forecast.  

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your fast food business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your fast food business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Fast Food Restaurant   - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your fast food business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws. 

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your fast food business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms. 

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations. 

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events. 

7. Acquire Necessary Fast Food Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your fast food business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation. 

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your fast food business. Marketing efforts includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising to reach your target audience.

Where Can I Get a Fast Food Business Plan PDF?

You can download our free fast food business plan template PDF here. This is a sample fast food business plan template you can use in PDF format.

Guide to Starting a Small Business

How to start a burger business - step-by-step guide.

Starting a burger business can be a rewarding venture for those with a passion for food and a desire to create a thriving business. Burgers are a staple in the fast-food industry, and with the right planning and execution, you can turn your love for this classic dish into a successful enterprise. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to start your own burger business, from conceptualization to opening day. 1. Research and Planning: Before diving into the burger business, conduct thorough market research to understand your target audience and competition. Identify the unique selling points that will set your burgers apart. Create a comprehensive business plan outlining your concept, menu, pricing strategy, and target location. Assess the financial feasibility, taking into account startup costs, operating expenses, and potential revenue streams. 2. Choose Your Niche: Burgers come in various styles and flavors, and finding your niche is crucial. Decide whether you'll focus on gourmet burgers, healthy options, or a specific cultural twist. Tailoring your menu to a specific niche will help you stand out in a crowded market and attract a loyal customer base.

Other Business Startups That May Interest You

Advertising Advertising Agriculture Auto Repair Bakery Bar Beauty Salon Billboards Body Butter Boutique Call Center Candle Car Rental Car Spare Parts Car Wash Cargo Van Delivery Catering Cattle Farming Cleaning Clinic Coffee Shop Construction Consulting Convenience Store Courier Service Cricut Cybersecurity Daycare Diaper Distribution Ecommerce Equipment Rental Event Venue Fence Fish Farming Fish Store Food Truck Frozen Food Furniture Making Gas Station Gift Basket Goat Farming Grocery Store Herbal Hot Shot Trucking Hydroponic Farm Import Export Insurance Agency IPTV ISP Juice Bar Laundromat Laundry Liquor Store Logistics Medical Courier Medical Supply Medical Transportation Milktea Mini Supermarket Money Lending Nail Salon Nightclub Notary Public Nursery Pig Farm Pizza Poultry Farming Printing Property Preservation Raffle Recycling Resort RV Park Sandwich Shop Security Company Skincare Snow Cone Solar Panel Spa Soap Making Solar Farm Supermarket Take Away Food Tax Overage Tissue Paper Spice Supermarket Take Away Food Tax Overage Tissue Paper Travel Agency Trucking T-Shirt Waist Trainer Wine Abaya Accounting Ad Agency Air Conditioning Airsoft Alcohol Aluminum Window Apartment Appliance Repair Architecture Art Gallery Assisted Living Auto Body Shop Automotive Used Parts Axe Throwing Babysitting Bail Bond Balloon Barbershop Battery BBQ Catering BBQ Food Truck BBQ Sauce Beauty Parlor Bed and Breakfast Bike Rental Bike Shop Bitcoin Boat Rental Bow Bowling Alley BPO Bracelet Braiding Building Material Bulk SMS Burger Bus Cabinet Making Cake Shop Campground Candy Carpet Cleaning CBD Cell Phone Repair Charter Fishing Chicken Farm Chicken Shop Chocolate Cigar Lounge Cinema Hall Clothing Line CNC Machine Coffee Van Collection Agency Commercial Cleaning Computer Repair Computer Shop Concrete Cookie Cosmetics Retailing CPR Training Craft Beer Crafts Crochet Crystal CSA Farm Cupcake Custom Shoe Dance Studio Data Center Dealership Deck Building Demolition Departmental Store Design Studio Diagnostic Laboratory Diamond Jewelry Digital Printing Distillery Dog Breeding Dog Grooming Dog Kennel Dog Training Dog Walking Dollar Store Driving School Drone DSA Duck Farm Dumpster Rental Durag Egg Farm Electric Scooter Electronics Embroidery Engineering Engraving Essential Oil Esthetician Event Decorating Exterminator Pest Fabric Store Factory Fashion Fast Food Fertilizer Fiber Optic Film Financial Advisor Firewood Flea Market Floor Cleaning Flooring Installation Flower Shop Food Cart Fragrance Oil Franchise Freight Brokerage Fur Slide Furniture Store Gaming Lounge Garage Garden Maintenance Garment General Contractor Gentlemen's club Gift Card Gift Shop Glamping Glass Glitter Gown Rental GPS Tracking Graphic Design Greenhouse Gutter Cleaning Gym Hair Salon Handbag Handyman Healthcare Home Health Care Home Inspection Hostel Hot Dog Cart HR Consulting HVAC Hydro Dipping Ice Cream Ice Cream Truck Immigration Consultant Interior design Internet Café IPTV Irrigation IT Consulting IV Japan Surplus Jet Ski Rental Jewelry Job Consultancy Journal Junk Removal Junk Shop Jute Bag Kaju Kayak Rental Kettle Corn Kiosk Landscaping Law Firm Lead Generation Leather Life Coaching Lip Balm Lipgloss Lipstick Liquidation Lottery Machine Shop Magazine Maid Service Manpower Agency Massage Meal Prep Medical Billing Medicine Wholesale Merchandise Merchant Cash Advance Metal Fabrication Microgreens Milk Dairy Mineral Water Mobile App Mobile Car Wash Mobile Mechanic Moving Mushroom Music Production Office Space Rental Oil Change Oil Refinery Optical Organic Farming Paintball Field Paper Bag Making Parking Lot Parking Lot PC Building Peer to Peer Lending Personalized Items Pet Shop Pharmacy Photobooth Photography Pickle Picture Framing Pilot Car Plastic Recycling Plumbing Pool Cleaning Popcorn Powder Coating Preschool Press on Nail Pressure Washing Private Investigator Quail Farm Quarry Rabbit Farming Rage Room Recording Studio Remodeling Rental Property Restaurant Resume Writing Retail Rice Mill Roadside Assistance Roadside Food Stall Roofing Salvage Yard Sausage Making School Scrap Metal Scrub Uniform Scrunchie Self Storage Sewing Shipping Container Sign Making Sip and Paint Skating Rink Skid Steer Skip Bin Small BBQ Small Eatery Snack Food Sneaker Cleaning Sock Spare Parts Sports Sports Bar Start a Business with No Money Subscription Box Sunglasses Sweet Shop Swimsuit Taco Truck Tailoring Shop Tax Preparation Tea Teeth Whitening Textile Thrift Store Tie Dye Tiffin Tiles Tint Tire Recycling Tire Shop Tour and Travel Toy Store Trading Trailer Park Training Tree Service Turkey Farm Tutoring TV Mounting Ultrasound Undergarment Used Clothes Used Tire Vegetable Farming Vending Machine Vertical Farm Waxing Web Hosting Weight Loss Welding Shop Worm Farm Wrecker Software Development VR Company AI Company Website Development Biotech Digital Marketing Tech Consulting video-games Green Beauty Products Meal Delivery Service Plant Based Foods Cannabis Startup SaaS Startup Fintech Marketplace Website Software Startup Wedding Planning Crypto Startup

Copyright © by Bizmove.com. All rights reserved.