Five Guys Burgers and Fries, commonly referred to as simply “Five Guys,” has grown from a humble family-run operation into a major player in the global fast-food industry. Founded in 1986 in Arlington, Virginia, the restaurant is known for its no-frills approach to food: juicy burgers, crispy fries, and a focus on fresh ingredients. What many people may not realize, however, is that Five Guys is indeed a franchise — and its success story is a textbook example of how strategic franchising can transform a small brand into a household name.
The Origins of Five Guys
The original Five Guys was started by Jerry and Janie Murrell, along with their five sons, who inspired the name of the restaurant. The family’s philosophy was simple: “If you’re going to sell burgers, sell a good one.” They focused on quality ingredients and a limited menu, emphasizing customer satisfaction and consistency. For the first 15 years, the Murrell family operated just a handful of locations around the Washington, D.C. area, choosing to maintain direct control over every aspect of the business.
Transitioning Into Franchising
It wasn’t until 2002 that Five Guys began franchising. The decision marked a major turning point for the brand. The Murrell family recognized the demand for their product and saw franchising as a way to scale rapidly without losing control of their brand’s identity. They partnered with Fransmart, a franchise development company, to carefully roll out their new franchising model. Unlike many companies that race into franchising with minimal oversight, Five Guys took a highly selective approach, ensuring that only well-qualified franchisees were allowed to operate under the brand.
Rapid Expansion Through Franchising
The results were almost immediate and overwhelmingly positive. By 2003, just one year after beginning to franchise, Five Guys had sold over 300 franchise units. Over the next decade, the company expanded rapidly across the United States and eventually into international markets, including Canada, the United Kingdom, and the Middle East.
Despite the fast growth, the company has maintained strict control over its core values and operational procedures. All Five Guys locations, franchised or corporate-owned, follow the same menu and sourcing policies. This consistency has helped preserve the brand’s reputation for quality.
What Makes Five Guys Franchising Unique?
Several key factors distinguish the Five Guys franchise model from others in the fast-food industry. First, Five Guys mandates a high standard of food preparation. There are no freezers in any location; all ingredients are delivered fresh, which aligns with the brand’s promise of quality. Additionally, the company provides extensive training and support to franchisees, ensuring they maintain the company’s high standards.
Another defining characteristic is Five Guys’ commitment to simplicity. The menu is deliberately limited, focusing almost exclusively on burgers, fries, hot dogs, and a few milkshake options. This simplicity allows the company to concentrate on doing a few things exceptionally well, rather than spreading itself thin across a sprawling menu.
Global Presence and Ongoing Growth
Today, Five Guys operates more than 1,700 locations worldwide, with thousands more in development. Its franchising model has allowed the brand to reach new markets while preserving the values that made the original Arlington location a local favorite. The company remains privately owned by the Murrell family, which allows them to continue making long-term decisions rather than chasing quarterly earnings.
Conclusion: A Franchise Built on Quality and Vision
In summary, Five Guys is not only a franchise — it is a franchise success story that showcases how a commitment to quality, consistency, and smart business practices can lead to explosive, sustainable growth. By maintaining strict standards, providing robust support to franchisees, and sticking to its founding principles, Five Guys has become one of the most recognizable and respected fast-casual chains in the world. The story of Five Guys proves that with the right foundation, a simple idea can turn into a global phenomenon.