Burger King: Franchises

Appears in
Oxford Encyclopedia of Food and Drink in America

By Andrew F. Smith

Published 2004

  • About

Burger King franchises were initially based in regions where franchisees purchased the right to open stores within a defined territory. These agreements gave the company very little control over its franchisees, and significant inconsistencies and quality-control problems arose. In 1964, the company created a consistent image for all Burger King outlets. It began to enforce quality standards, which were monitored via frequent unscheduled visits by company inspectors. Sales rebounded to such an extent that in 1967 food giant Pillsbury made an offer and acquired Burger King.