Golden Corral, the nation’s largest all-you-can-eat buffet chain, announced today a new franchise incentive program for candidates and existing franchisees who open a Golden Corral restaurant within 24 months of signing a franchise area development agreement.

As the brand continues to accelerate its growth and provide unlimited opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to expand their reach in an exciting industry, the new incentive program is designed to help minimize the recent impacts of inflation. The program provides a unique benefit to operators by reducing food costs and covering manager-training expenses.

The offer is available for qualified candidates looking to expand their franchise portfolio and join America’s largest national buffet chain as well as existing franchisees looking to continue to expand in their current markets or expand into new areas. The incentive program includes the following:

  • A cash rebate applied to Golden Corral’s approved broadline foodservice supplier invoice equal to:
    • 3% of restaurant sales in year one
    • 2% of restaurant sales in year two
    • 1% of restaurant sales in year three
  • Reimbursed training costs for three managers (up to $15,000 each)
  • $5,000 marketing reimbursement for the new unit opening

“We understand the importance of providing franchisees a clear roadmap to success and are committed to making Golden Corral an outstanding investment for anyone looking to become part of our franchise family,” says Lance Trenary, President and CEO of Golden Corral Corporation. “The new incentives provide the perfect opportunity for restaurant franchisees and ownership groups to become part of a family-oriented buffet concept that loves loyal guests and serving communities.”

Golden Corral has been serving customers since 1973 and offering franchise opportunities since 1986. The brand has grown to be the largest all-you-can-eat national buffet chain thanks to the talent, strength, and determination of its franchisees and a stable, and experienced leadership team.

The leaders within the Golden Corral organization are known for working shoulder to shoulder with the franchisees and innovation is no exception. The leadership team doesn’t just seek feedback on ideas, they invite franchisees to the table to help generate and test new ideas. The new prototype restaurant design, referred to as ‘Gateway’ is the result of this collaboration. It’s been a huge success and the franchise system and fans alike are abuzz. The new look includes: 

  • More space around guest tables to increase the flow throughout the restaurant
  • Oversized windows for increased natural light
  • Fireplace for aesthetic warmth and a sense of home
  • Enhanced interior layout with the kitchen and all bars at one end, and all seating at the other end, to create a quieter and more enjoyable dining experience 

Additionally, the brand has implemented new technology to stay in-tune with current consumer preferences. This includes a loyalty app for guests to earn reward points toward future meals, a mobile ordering platform, and curbside pickup. Drive-thru service is being tested in several locations. In recent months, franchisees have been given the option to serve beer, wine and frozen alcoholic beverages, while maintaining the family dining feel that customers know and love.

As the brand continues to expand into key markets, Golden Corral is actively seeking qualified single-unit and multi-unit owners. Ideal franchisees should have operations or ownership experience in the full-service restaurant industry. The brand is also looking for individuals with a strong business acumen and an experienced operator on their team. Franchisee candidates must have at least $2.5 million in assets and $500,000 in liquid assets. This can be met by an individual or partnership.

Franchising, Industry News, Golden Corral