FRANCHISE RESALES

Buy a McAlister’s Deli Franchise

McAlister’s Deli, founded in 1989 in Oxford, Mississippi by retired dentist Don Newcomb, is a fast-casual restaurant chain known for its genuine hospitality and a menu featuring deli sandwiches, giant baked potatoes (“spuds”), soups, salads, desserts, and its famous sweet tea. Starting from a renovated gas station inspired by the film Heart of Dixie, McAlister’s has grown to over 500 locations across 29 states. The brand is part of Focus Brands, which includes other well-known franchises like Auntie Anne’s and Cinnabon. McAlister’s emphasizes a nostalgic diner atmosphere and consistent quality, attracting both family-owned single-unit franchisees and large multi-unit operators, contributing to its steady expansion and strong market presence.

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Why buy a McAlister’s Deli Franchise?

Investing in a McAlister’s Deli franchise offers entry into a well-established, fast-growing fast-casual brand with a proven business model and strong support from Focus Brands. The brand’s unique menu items and loyal customer base, combined with robust franchisee training and marketing support, create a compelling opportunity for entrepreneurs seeking scalable growth and a differentiated concept in the competitive restaurant industry.

McAlister’s Deli Franchise Costs & Information

Based on 2025 data reported in the 2026 FDD

  • Brand Profile

    • Year Founded

      1989

    • Franchising Since

      1991

    • New Startup Cost

      $910,175 – $2,575,400

    • Avg. Resale Price

      Contact us for details

  • Franchise Fees

    • Initial franchise Fee

      $35,500

      for new territories

    • Transfer Fee

      50%

      of then-current Initial Franchise Fee (10% non-control)

    • Royalty Fee

      5%

      of Net Sales

    • Marketing Fee

      2%

      of Net Sales

  • Unit Performance

    • Total Units *

      572

    • New Units Opened *

      25

    • Units Transferred *

      16

    • Avg. Unit revenue *

      $1,868,219

    * Based on 2025 data reported in the 2026 FDD

McAlister’s Deli – Additional  Information

  1. Training & Support

    McAlister’s Deli provides franchisees with extensive support including comprehensive training, proprietary operational systems, marketing resources, and ongoing business development assistance. Franchisees benefit from Focus Brands’ deep franchise expertise and shared resources across sister brands. The company fosters strong franchisee relationships and offers guidance on site selection, staff training, and customer service to maintain brand standards and promote growth.

  2. Ideal Owner

    The ideal McAlister’s Deli franchisee is a motivated entrepreneur passionate about delivering quality food and genuine hospitality. While prior restaurant experience is helpful, McAlister’s extensive training and support make the opportunity accessible to newcomers and seasoned operators alike. Multi-unit operators with strong business acumen and community engagement skills are especially valued.

  3. Recognition & Awards

    McAlister’s Deli is recognized for its exceptional hospitality and signature products, especially its famous sweet tea, which has garnered a loyal following and social media buzz. The brand has received multiple industry accolades and is noted for its community involvement, including charitable campaigns like “Cookies for a Cause” supporting Autism Speaks.

  4. Industry / Market

    The fast-casual dining segment continues to grow, driven by consumer demand for quality, convenience, and healthier menu options. McAlister’s Deli’s focus on homestyle meals and unique offerings like its giant spuds and sweet tea positions it well within this expanding market. Strategic multi-unit franchise deals, such as the recent 47-restaurant development agreement in Texas, Florida, Louisiana, and New Mexico, underscore the brand’s strong growth trajectory.

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