FDD Analysis Report
Fat Patty's
FP Franchisor LLC
Key Metrics At-a-Glance
See FDD
See FDD
See FDD
of gross sales
See FDD
of gross sales
See FDD
6 units
N/A
Not disclosed
About This Franchise
## Executive Summary
Fat Pattys is a full-service burger restaurant franchise founded in 2007 and franchising since 2022. Acquired by ARC Group Inc for 12.3 million in 2018 the brand has demonstrated strong unit economics with an AUV of over 2 million. With approximately 5-6 locations primarily in West Virginia and Kentucky the franchise is now actively expanding along the eastern seaboard targeting smaller mid-sized markets. The brand offers a unique specialty burger concept combining traditional comfort food with creative flair.
## The Business
Fat Pattys operates as a full-service restaurant concept focused on unique specialty burgers. The brand was created to be a home away from home serving up unique specialty burgers that combine traditional comfort with a creative flair. Key business characteristics include full-service dining experience requiring experienced restaurant operators and a focus on smaller mid-sized cities with populations between 10000 and 15000. The development strategy favors second-generation restaurant spaces with existing infrastructure like grease traps hoods and refrigeration to reduce build-out costs.
## The Numbers
Initial Investment ranges from 493466 to 3046069. Minimum Liquid Capital Required is 250000. Net Worth Required is 750000. Average Unit Volume AUV exceeds 2 million based on 2023 franchisee performance in December 2024 FDD. For new builds investment can reach up to 3 million while second-generation spaces significantly reduce costs. Single-unit and multi-unit opportunities are available in AK AR DE FL GA KY NJ NC OH PA SC and TN.
## System Health
Fat Pattys shows measured growth with quality focus. Recent developments include January 2024 ownership change when Scott Wamsley and Jeremy Wright purchased all four West Virginia and Kentucky locations with plans for four new locations over two years. A fifth location opened in Morehead Kentucky in 2024 with a sixth location planned soon in New Jersey. January 2025 brought announcement of Ohio expansion targeting 10 locations over two years. The brand focuses on smart geographic expansion along the eastern seaboard targeting markets that fit their proven demographic profile.
## Franchisee Experience
Training Program includes over 50 years of executive level food and franchising experience with a 12 week program consisting of 60 hours of classroom training and seven weeks of on-the-job instruction at certified franchise locations.
Franchisee Support includes updated technology to simplify day-to-day operations a comprehensive leadership team to help franchise partners achieve individual success and a fun and collaborative culture for both owners and guests.
Franchisee Testimonial states the model is as scalable as any seen keeping up with industry trends and always keeping that Fat Pattys edge. It has been a pleasure working with The Fat Pattys team who stays ahead of the game to keep the brand on track and profitable.
Ideal Candidate Profile includes entrepreneurs with restaurant experience preferably full-service background who demonstrate Passion and Pace and will be hands-on in managing operations.
## Risk Assessment
Key Concerns include High Capital Requirements with investment up to 3M for new builds being significant barrier to entry. Limited Track Record shows only 5-6 units since 2022 providing limited franchisee performance data. Operator Intensive nature requires hands-on management with restaurant experience. Parent Company Portfolio means ARC Group also owns Dicks Wings and Grill and WingHouse so resources may be divided. Geographic Concentration shows current footprint heavily concentrated in Appalachian region.
Mitigating Factors include Strong Unit Economics with 2M AUV demonstrating robust customer demand. Second-Generation Strategy significantly reduces build-out costs. Experienced Leadership brings over 50 years of franchising expertise. Veteran Discounts and lower costs for second-generation builds improve accessibility. Strategic Market Selection focuses on proven demographic profiles in smaller markets.
## Competitive Position
Vs National Burger Chains like Five Guys Smashburger and Shake Shack Fat Pattys offers full-service dining experience versus fast-casual and more creative specialty menu items. Higher price point justified by elevated experience.
Vs Regional Full-Service like Applebees and Chilis Fat Pattys provides more focused menu and brand identity with smaller footprint and simpler operations.
Vs Local Burger Joints there are franchise support buying power and marketing advantages with proven operational systems and training.
Market Position as a full-service burger concept occupies a less crowded niche than fast-casual burger segment allowing for differentiation.
## Validation Questions
1. What is the typical breakeven timeline for new franchisees? 2. What are the actual food and labor cost percentages from the Item 19? 3. How many of the current 5-6 locations are profitable and at what margin? 4. What is the turnover rate for general managers and key staff? 5. What specific support does ARC Group provide versus dedicated Fat Pattys corporate team? 6. What is the timeline and cost difference between new build and second-generation conversions? 7. Can you provide references from the franchisee group that purchased the original four locations?
## Data Gaps
Item 19 Financial Details with specific revenue ranges and profitability metrics not publicly disclosed. Franchisee Satisfaction Data with no third-party satisfaction surveys or independent reviews found. Royalty and Marketing Fees not specified in public sources. Territory Requirements with protected territory size and population requirements not disclosed. Franchise Agreement Terms with contract length renewal conditions and transfer fees not publicly available. Site Selection Criteria with specific real estate requirements and square footage needs not detailed. Supplier Relationships with approved vendor requirements and food cost guarantees not disclosed.
Ongoing Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Royalty | See FDD of Gross Revenue | - |
| Brand Fund | See FDD of Gross Revenue | - |
Item 19: Financial Performance Representations
No Financial Performance Representations
This franchisor does not provide Item 19 financial performance representations. Approximately 35% of franchisors choose to disclose this information.
Recommendation: Request financial information directly from existing franchisees listed in Exhibit I during your due diligence. Contact 10-15 franchisees to gather revenue and profitability data before making an investment decision.
Learn more about Item 19 disclosures →Risk Assessment
Items to Review
No notable items identified
Positive Indicators
Review FDD for positive factors
Due Diligence Recommendations
Contact 10-15 existing franchisees to gather operational and financial insights
Franchisee interviews are the most valuable source of information about day-to-day operations and realistic financial expectations.
Have a franchise attorney review the Franchise Agreement
Professional legal review can identify unfavorable terms and potential negotiation points.
Research local market conditions and competition
Understanding your specific market is essential for success, regardless of system-wide performance.
Download Complete FDD
Access the full Franchise Disclosure Document including all 23 items, exhibits, and financial statements.
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Learn More About FDDs
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The Ultimate Guide to FDDs
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Understanding Item 7: Initial Investment
How to evaluate franchise investment costs
FDD Item 5: Initial Fees Explained
What you pay upfront to become a franchisee
Item 20: Franchisee Information
Analyze system growth and contact franchisees
About Fat Patty's Franchise
Fat Patty's is a franchise that offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to own and operate their own business within an established system. As of the 2026 Franchise Disclosure Document, the system has grown to 6 locations across the United States. This analysis provides prospective franchisees with key insights from the FDD to support informed investment decisions.
Fat Patty's Franchise Cost
The total initial investment required to open a Fat Patty's franchise ranges from See FDD for details. This investment includes the initial franchise fee of See FDD for details, along with expenses for real estate, equipment, inventory, training, and working capital to sustain operations during the initial period. Ongoing fees include a royalty fee of See FDD of gross sales. Prospective franchisees should review Item 7 of the FDD for a complete breakdown of estimated initial investment costs.
Fat Patty's Item 19 Financial Performance
Fat Patty's does not provide financial performance representations in Item 19 of their FDD. Approximately 35% of franchisors choose to disclose this information. Without franchisor-provided financial data, prospective franchisees should contact existing franchisees directly to gather information about revenue, expenses, and profitability. The franchisee contact list in Exhibit I provides names and contact information for current and former franchise owners.
Fat Patty's Franchise Growth and System Health
The Fat Patty's franchise system has shown stable performance based on unit count data from Item 20 of the FDD. Prospective franchisees should examine the historical data on unit openings, closings, and transfers to understand the system's trajectory and identify any concerning trends.
Fat Patty's Franchise Investment Considerations
The Fat Patty's FDD contains important disclosures that prospective franchisees should carefully review before making an investment decision. Key factors to evaluate include the franchise fee structure, ongoing royalty requirements, territory rights, termination history, and franchisor support systems. Every franchise investment carries risk, and this analysis should be combined with professional legal and financial advice. Review the complete FDD and speak with current franchisees to gain a comprehensive understanding of the opportunity.
Due Diligence Recommendations for Fat Patty's
Before investing in a Fat Patty's franchise, prospective franchisees should:
- Contact multiple existing franchisees to gather operational and financial insights
- Have a franchise attorney review the Franchise Agreement and all exhibits
- Research local market conditions and competitive landscape
- Develop a detailed business plan with realistic financial projections
- Verify all information provided by the franchisor independently
Download the Fat Patty's FDD
Access the complete Fat Patty's Franchise Disclosure Document, including all 23 Items, exhibits, franchise agreement, and audited financial statements. FreeFDDs™ provides free access to FDDs to promote franchise transparency and help prospective franchisees make informed decisions. The FDD contains critical information that should be reviewed in its entirety before making any investment decision.
Disclaimer
This analysis report is provided for informational purposes only. The data presented has been extracted from the Franchise Disclosure Document and may contain errors or omissions.
Prospective franchisees should conduct their own due diligence, review the complete FDD document, and consult with qualified legal and financial advisors before making any investment decisions.