Imagine owning a business that thrives 24/7, serves thousands of customers daily, and is backed by one of the most trusted convenience store brands in America. That’s the power of a QuikTrip franchise—a proven model with a 98% success rate and a loyal customer base.
But how do you become a QuikTrip franchisee? What are the costs, requirements, and profit potential? In this detailed guide, our franchise experts have broken down everything you need to know—from initial investment to day-to-day operations—so you can decide if this is the right opportunity for you.
📌 What is QuikTrip? (Company Overview)
Founded in 1958, QuikTrip (QT) is one of the largest privately owned convenience store chains in the US, with 1,000+ locations across 17 states. Unlike typical gas stations, QT stores are known for:
✅ Clean, well-stocked stores
✅ High-quality food & beverages (made fresh daily)
✅ Industry-leading employee benefits (low turnover)
✅ Strong profit margins (avg. $5M+ annual revenue per store)
Fun Fact: QuikTrip has been ranked among “America’s Best Employers” by Forbes multiple times.
💰 QuikTrip Franchise Cost and Financial Requirements
One of the biggest questions aspiring franchisees ask is:
“How much does a QuikTrip franchise cost?”
Unlike most franchises, QuikTrip does not offer traditional franchising. Instead, it operates a “Manager-Operator” program, where you can run a store as a partner with significant profit-sharing.
Here is the financial breakdown:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (2025) |
|---|---|
| Initial Investment | $1M−$2.5M (varies by location) |
| Liquid Capital Needed | $500K+ |
| Net Worth Requirement | $1.5M+ |
| Profit Share Potential | $100K−$300K/year (after 5+ years) |
Key Insight: QuikTrip does not charge franchise fees—instead, you invest in the business and earn a percentage of profits.
📝 How to Qualify for a QuikTrip Franchise (Requirements)
QuikTrip is selective about whom it partners with. Here’s what you need:
1. Business & Financial Experience
- 5+ years in retail, operations, or management
- Strong credit score (700+)
- Proof of liquid assets ($500K+)
2. Leadership & Work Ethic
- Willingness to work hands-on (QT prefers owner-operators)
- Ability to manage 30+ employees
- Commitment to QT’s customer service standards
3. Location Approval
- QT chooses locations (you don’t pick your own)
- Must be willing to relocate if needed
Pro Tip: Former QT employees have a higher chance of being approved.
📈 QuikTrip Franchise Profit Potential (2025 Earnings)
“How much can you make with a QuikTrip franchise?”
While exact numbers aren’t public, industry estimates suggest:
- Average QT store revenue: $5Million−$7Million/year
- Manager-Operator earnings: $100−$300K/year(after 5+ years)
- Top performers can earn $500K+/year
Why QT’s Model Works:
- High foot traffic (gas + convenience + food)
- Low employee turnover (better service, lower training costs)
- Smart expansion strategy (only in high-demand areas)
🔄 How to Apply for a QuikTrip Franchise (Step-by-Step Process)
Step 1: Research & Self-Assessment
- Visit QuikTrip’s official career site
- Ensure you meet financial & experience requirements
Step 2: Submit an Application
- Fill out the Manager-Operator interest form
- Prepare for a background & credit check
Step 3: Interview & Approval
- Multiple rounds of interviews with QT execs
- If approved, you’ll enter training (6-12 months)
Step 4: Store Assignment & Launch
- QT assigns you a location
- You’ll work as a Manager-Operator with profit-sharing
⚠️ Important Note: QuikTrip does not sell franchises outright—you must go through their Manager-Operator program.
🤔 QuikTrip Franchise vs. Competitors (Comparison Table)
| Factor | QuikTrip | 7-Eleven | Circle K |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Model | Manager-Operator | Traditional Franchise | Traditional Franchise |
| Initial Cost | $1M−$2.5M | $150K−$750K | $200K−$1M |
| Profit Sharing | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Training | 6-12 months | 2-4 weeks | 4-8 weeks |
| Brand Reputation | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Verdict: QT offers higher earnings potential but requires more upfront commitment.
✅ Pros & Cons of Owning a QuikTrip Franchise
👍 Pros
✔ Proven business model (98% success rate)
✔ No franchise fees (unlike 7-Eleven)
✔ High revenue potential ($5M+/year per store)
✔ Strong corporate support (training, marketing, supply chain)
👎 Cons
❌ Not a traditional franchise (you don’t own the store)
❌ High financial requirements ($500K+ liquid capital)
❌ Must relocate if needed (QT controls locations)
🔮 Final Verdict: Is a QuikTrip Franchise Right for You?
If you have:
- $ 500K+ in liquid capital
- Retail/management experience
- A willingness to work hands-on
…then QuikTrip’s Manager-Operator program could be a lucrative long-term opportunity. However, if you want full ownership of your franchise, consider 7-Eleven or Circle K instead.
More Franchise Articles:
QuikTrip Franchise FAQs
Does QuikTrip offer traditional franchising?
No. QuikTrip operates a unique Manager-Operator program where you run a store as a partner with profit-sharing rather than owning the franchise outright.
Can I choose my QuikTrip location?
No. QuikTrip assigns locations based on its expansion strategy. Operators must be willing to relocate if needed.
What are the main requirements to qualify?
- $1.5M+ net worth
- $500K+ in liquid assets
- 5+ years management experience
- Willingness to work hands-on
How long is the training program?
Training lasts 6-12 months and covers everything from operations to QT’s customer service standards.
Can former employees get priority?
Yes. Current or former QT employees often have better approval odds since they already know the system.
What makes QuikTrip stores so successful?
- 24/7 high-traffic locations
- Fresh food programs
- Industry-leading employee retention
- Spotless store reputation
How long does approval take?
The entire process (application to training) typically takes 8-14 months. QT is selective and conducts multiple interview rounds.
Are there financing options?
QuikTrip doesn’t offer direct financing, but it may connect you with preferred lenders. Most operators use SBA loans or private funding.
What’s the biggest challenge?
The hands-on time commitment (especially nights/weekends) and high financial requirements weed out many applicants.
Can I own multiple locations?
After proving success with one store, top performers may get opportunities to manage additional locations.
Why doesn’t QuikTrip franchise traditionally?
It maintains strict quality control by keeping corporate ownership of all stores while offering profit-sharing to operators.
Where is QuikTrip expanding next?
QT is currently growing in North Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas, with plans for Arizona and Colorado by 2026.
Editorial Team at 99BusinessIdeas is a team of experts led by Rupak Chakrabarty with over 25 years of experience in starting and running small businesses. Started in 2010, 99BusinessIdeas is now one of the largest free small business resources in the industry.