Chick-fil-A is one of America's toughest franchises, and the startup cost may shock you

Chick-fil-A is one of America's toughest franchises to get, attracting thousands of hopeful applicants each year for a limited number of owner-operator opportunities.

The fast-food chain's unique business model was recently highlighted by Julian Good, who owns a Chick-fil-A restaurant in St. Charles, Illinois, during an appearance on the "Founder Talk" podcast.

"It's a $10,000 franchise fee. It's been the same for the last 50 years," Good said.

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About 100,000 people apply each year to become a Chick-fil-A owner-operator, with roughly 200 ultimately selected, Good explained.

Applicants without Chick-fil-A experience often wait three to five years before receiving an opportunity, he added.

Chick-fil-A describes its selection process as "highly competitive," saying it looks for leaders willing to devote their full-time and best efforts to operating a restaurant, according to Chick-fil-A’s January 2024 post on its press room website.

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However, previous experience with the company isn't required.

More than 25% of newly selected owner-operators had never worked at one of its restaurants or for the company before applying, according to Chick-fil-A.

The company said operators also come from a wide range of professional backgrounds, including manufacturing, health care, education, law enforcement and retail.

Unlike many franchise systems, Chick-fil-A owner-operators do not own the restaurant they operate, according to Franchise Business Review. Chick-fil-A retains ownership of the restaurant, equipment, and, in most cases, the real estate, meaning operators do not build equity in the business or sell it when they retire.

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Chick-fil-A said operators devote their time and energy to managing their restaurants, developing employees and serving their communities.

Good said that's one of the biggest differences between Chick-fil-A and many competing franchise models.

"When a Chick-fil-A operator retires, you can't pass it down to your kids. You don't sell the business or anything. It just goes back into the hands of Chick-fil-A," he said.

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Chick-fil-A's unique approach also extends to its operating schedule, with all of its restaurants closed on Sundays.

The weekly tradition remains an important part of the company's culture, Good noted.

"Just a way to glorify God and give back to the team and the community," he said.

Fox News Digital reached out to Chick-fil-A for comment.