Great Clips vs Sport Clips
Franchise Comparison (2026)
2026 FDD Data
Great Clips offers a lower entry cost and larger network, while Sport Clips delivers higher average revenue per location. Great Clips ranks #33 on Entrepreneur's Franchise 500 compared to Sport Clips at #52, but Sport Clips' focus on the growing men's grooming market provides a differentiated positioning.
Choosing between Great Clips and Sport Clips? Both are leading hair salon franchises with proven business models, but they serve different market segments and require different investment levels. Great Clips pioneered the no-appointment walk-in model and has grown to over 4,400 locations, making it the largest hair salon franchise in North America. Sport Clips carved out a niche in the men's and boys' grooming market with its sports-themed atmosphere and MVP Experience. This comparison breaks down the FDD data, franchise costs, and financial performance to help you make an informed decision.
Quick Comparison
Great Clips
$20,000 - $35,000
Sport Clips
$30,000 - $69,500
Great Clips
$187,800 - $419,900
Sport Clips
$288,500 - $475,000
Great Clips
6%
Sport Clips
6%
Great Clips
4,439
Sport Clips
1,837
Great Clips
$382,316
Sport Clips
$513,410
Detailed Comparison
| Metric | Great Clips | Sport Clips |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Investment | ||
| Franchise Fee | $20,000 | $30,000 |
| Total Investment (Low) | $187,800 | $288,500 |
| Total Investment (High) | $419,900 | $475,000 |
| Net Worth Required | $300,000 | Not Disclosed |
| Liquid Capital Required | $50,000 | $65,000 |
| Ongoing Fees | ||
| Royalty Rate | 6% | 6% |
| Advertising Fund | 5% | 5% |
| Technology Fee | Not Disclosed | Not Disclosed |
| System Size & Growth | ||
| Total Units | 4,439 | 1,837 |
| Franchised Units | 4,439 | 1,754 |
| Company-Owned Units | 0 | 83 |
| 3-Year Net Growth | Not Disclosed | Not Disclosed |
| Financial Performance (Item 19) | ||
| Item 19 Disclosed | Yes | Yes |
| Average Revenue | $382,316 | $513,410 |
| Median Revenue | Not Disclosed | Not Disclosed |
| Franchise Terms | ||
| Initial Term | Not Disclosed | Not Disclosed |
| Renewal Term | Not Disclosed | Not Disclosed |
| Territory Protection | Not Disclosed | Not Disclosed |
| Requirements | ||
| Owner-Operator Required | Not Disclosed | Not Disclosed |
| Training Hours | Not Disclosed | Not Disclosed |
| Years Franchising | 44 years | 31 years |
| Risk Indicators | ||
| Litigation Matters | Not Disclosed | Not Disclosed |
| Termination Rate | Not Disclosed | Not Disclosed |
Key Differences
Great Clips requires $100K less to open on average ($188K-$420K vs $289K-$475K)
Sport Clips generates 34% higher average revenue ($513K vs $382K per year)
Great Clips has 2.4x more locations (4,439 vs 1,837 units)
Both charge identical ongoing fees: 6% royalty + 5% ad fund
Sport Clips targets men and boys exclusively; Great Clips serves all demographics
Great Clips ranks higher on Franchise 500 (#33 vs #52)
Investment Fit Analysis
Who Should Consider Great Clips
Great Clips is ideal for investors seeking a proven, lower-cost entry into the hair care industry with extensive brand recognition and a large franchisee support network.
Lower initial investment ($188K-$420K)
Largest salon franchise network (4,400+ locations)
Serves all demographics (broader market)
Higher Franchise 500 ranking (#33)
No-appointment model reduces scheduling complexity
Who Should Consider Sport Clips
Sport Clips suits investors who want to capitalize on the growing men's grooming market with a differentiated, sports-themed concept and higher revenue potential per location.
Higher average revenue per location ($513K)
Niche positioning in men's grooming
Sports-themed atmosphere creates customer loyalty
Slightly faster estimated payback period
Smaller network may mean less territory saturation
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Dive Deeper?
Download the complete FDD for each franchise to review all 23 items, exhibits, and financial statements.
Disclaimer
This comparison is provided for informational purposes only. Data has been aggregated from publicly available sources including Franchise Disclosure Documents, industry publications, and franchise analysis websites.
Prospective franchisees should review the complete FDD for each franchise, conduct their own due diligence, and consult with qualified legal and financial advisors before making any investment decisions.