If you’re an entrepreneur drawn to the fast-casual burger space, the brand Smalls Sliders presents an intriguing opportunity. Known for its cheeseburger sliders, seasoned waffle-fries, milkshakes, and a modern, modular building format, Smalls Sliders taps into the mix of quality comfort food and stylish, efficient operation. Before committing to this venture, it’s important to understand the financial commitment involved.
Understanding the Smalls Sliders Concept
Smalls Sliders differentiates itself in the burger market by focusing on a streamlined menu centered around made-to-order slider burgers served in a visually distinctive setting. The brand often uses prefabricated modular structures (sometimes referred to as “cans” in its marketing) which helps standardize design and build-out costs. Guests appreciate the craft feel of the burgers, the signature “Smauce,” and the casual yet intentional atmosphere. For franchisees, this means entering a concept that blends design efficiency with a premium burger experience.
Beyond the food, the business model emphasizes simplicity and speed—smaller burgers, fewer menu items, and a configuration optimized for efficient throughput. Because of this, Smalls Sliders can offer a compelling value proposition to customers while retaining flexibility for franchise owners. The brand has grown rapidly and sought to expand in new markets, making the franchise option relevant for investors who believe in the burger niche.
The Cost To Start a Smalls Sliders Franchise
Opening a Smalls Sliders franchise typically requires an investment in the range of $1,300,000 to $1,990,000, depending on factors such as size of the location, construction requirements, market dynamics, and leasehold improvements. The variation in cost reflects whether the site is a ground-up build, a conversion of an existing building, or a modular unit in a lower-cost market.
At the lower end of the range, a site might involve less extensive build-out, smaller footprint, or a location in a less expensive region. At the higher end, costs may increase due to premium real estate, extensive custom design, or challenging construction environments. This investment covers all aspects of launching the restaurant—from the franchise fee and initial training, to kitchen equipment, furnishings, signage, and working capital required during the early ramp-up period.
As with any food-service investment, prospective owners should also anticipate ongoing expenses: royalties, marketing and advertising contributions, utilities, labor, food costs, and the usual overheads tied to managing a high-volume restaurant. While the initial figure sets the threshold, success will depend on how effectively the location performs and how well costs are managed.
Why Consider Investing in Smalls Sliders?
There are several reasons why an investor might choose to open a Smalls Sliders franchise. The brand has a clear identity and a focused menu, which can simplify operations and help drive customer recognition. The use of a modular build-out model may also shorten launch timelines and create some cost predictability. Additionally, the burger category remains highly popular and, when coupled with clever positioning, offers potential for strong foot traffic and repeat business.
From the franchise support perspective, being part of a system means leveraging established operational standards, branding, supply-chain relationships, and marketing strategies. For franchisees who want a restaurant venture with less menu complexity and a clearer operational focus, Smalls Sliders may fit well.
That said, building and running a high-investment restaurant still demands strong management skill, a good location, and adequate working capital. Execution is key. The brand’s success will depend on how well the franchise location meets customer expectations and how well the operational model is implemented.
Summary
Investing in a Smalls Sliders franchise in the United States requires a total investment ranging from approximately $1,300,000 to $1,990,000, depending on location, format, and build-out requirements. While this is a significant commitment, it opens the door to joining a growing burger chain with a distinct concept, modern design, and appeal in the fast-casual sector.
For entrepreneurs ready to invest in a branded burger venture with a proven concept, Smalls Sliders offers an opportunity that blends quality, design efficiency, and customer appeal. With the right location, strong execution, and commitment to operational excellence, owning a Smalls Sliders franchise could be a meaningful step into the restaurant business.
