Chili’s Franchise Cost & Opportunities 2025

Chili’s has carved a significant niche in the casual dining sector, boasting over 1600 outlets across 32 countries. In Malaysia, particularly around Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya (KL/PJ), there are currently 14 thriving Chili’s locations, according to official data. If you’re considering a Chili’s franchise in 2025, understanding the costs, potential profits, and requirements is crucial. This article provides a comprehensive overview to help you make an informed decision.

About Chili’s

Chili’s Grill & Bar is a leading casual dining restaurant chain renowned for its Tex-Mex cuisine, vibrant atmosphere, and family-friendly environment. Founded in 1975 in Dallas, Texas, Chili’s has expanded globally, becoming a beloved brand known for its signature burgers, fajitas, and margaritas. The brand prides itself on delivering a consistent dining experience, blending quality food with a lively, welcoming ambiance.

Why Choose a Chili’s Franchise?

Investing in a Chili’s franchise offers several compelling advantages:

• Established Brand Recognition: Chili’s is a globally recognized brand with a loyal customer base.
• Proven Business Model: Benefit from a well-established operating system and proven business strategies.
• Comprehensive Training and Support: Chili’s provides extensive training and ongoing support to franchisees.
• Dedicated Global Support: Franchisees receive full support from a dedicated global support team of 20+ subject matter experts.
• Strong Supply Chain: Access to a reliable supply chain ensures consistent quality and efficient operations.
• Marketing and Advertising Support: Leverage Chili’s national and regional marketing campaigns.
• Global Presence: Being part of a global franchise network provides stability and growth opportunities.
• Malaysian Market Presence: With 14 outlets in the KL/PJ area, Chili’s has a good foothold in the Malaysian market.

Requirements to Open a Chili’s Franchise

To become a Chili’s franchisee in global market, you must meet specific requirements:

Financial Stability:

• Chili’s Grill & Bar: Estimated initial investment of $2.6 million to $4.0 million.
• Chili’s Special Venue: Estimated initial investment of $1.4 million to $3.5 million.
• Liquid capital required: $500,000
• Net worth required: $2,500,000 – $5,000,000

Business Experience:

• Domestic Development: Extensive experience in fast casual or casual restaurant ownership or operations. Demonstrated understanding of local consumer tastes, real estate, supplier contacts, and rules and regulations. A team, infrastructure, and resources committed to the growth of the Chili’s brand.
• International Development: Intention to become a multi-unit restaurant owner. Hospitality experience, preferably in a hotel or food service. An existing team and a proven infrastructure to support the opening and operation of multiple restaurants. Strong local credibility, relationships, and knowledge of local regulations and requirements to ensure the smooth opening and operation of multiple restaurants.
• Commitment to Brand Standards: Adherence to Chili’s operational standards and brand guidelines.
• Location and Real Estate: Secure a suitable location that meets Chili’s site selection criteria.
• Management Skills: Strong leadership and management skills to oversee restaurant operations.

How Much to Open a Chili’s Franchise

The total investment to open a Chili’s franchise varies by format. Here are the details as reported by FranchiseHelp:

• Chili’s Grill & Bar: $2.6 million to $4.0 million (including franchise fee of $40,000 – $60,000).
• Chili’s Special Venue: $1.4 million to $3.5 million (including franchise fee of $40,000 – $60,000).
• Ongoing Fees:
  • Royalty fee: 1.25% of monthly gross sales
  • Technical services fee: 2.75%
  • Advertising production fees: 0.5%
  • Local advertising program fees: at least 2.5%
  • Regional advertising program fees: up to 4%
  • National advertising program fees: up to 4%
  • Supplemental marketing program fees: approximately 0.10%

It is highly recommended to request the most updated FDD from Chili’s directly, as this document will give the most accurate and up to date financial information.

Chili’s Menu Price

Chili’s offers a diverse menu with a range of price points, catering to different budgets. Menu prices can vary slightly by location. It is best to check the local Chili’s website, or delivery applications for the most accurate and up to date pricing.

Chili’s Founder

Chili’s was founded by Larry Lavine in 1975. Today, it is owned by Brinker International, Inc., a leading casual dining restaurant company.

Chili’s Contact

For franchise inquiries, it is best to contact Brinker International, Inc. directly through their investor relation pages.

Facts & Figures

• Units in operation: 1,622
• Founded: 1975
• Franchising Since: 1984

FAQs

• Is Chili’s Halal?
  • No, Chili’s Malaysia is not officially certified halal by the Malaysian Department of Islamic Development (JAKIM). While they may offer menu items that appear to be halal, without official JAKIM certification, their food preparation and handling processes cannot be guaranteed to fully adhere to halal standards.
• Who is the owner of Chili’s in Malaysia?
  • The Malaysian franchises are operated by local franchise partners under Brinker International, Inc.

By understanding these aspects of a Chili’s franchise, potential investors can make a well-informed decision. The brand’s global presence, proven business model, dedicated support team, and clear financial figures make it an attractive option for those looking to enter the casual dining industry.

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