The Next Big Burger Franchises Gaining Ground This Year

The burger industry is more exciting than ever, with new-age brands disrupting the market with creative menus, sustainable practices, and smart tech. While legacy giants like Five Guys and Shake Shack dominate headlines, these emerging burger franchises are quietly building cult followings — and franchise networks worth watching.

At BurgerFranchiseMaster.com, powered by Star Brands Consulting Group, we’re tracking the top rising burger concepts for 2025 that savvy investors should keep an eye on.

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🍔 1. PLNT Burger

Founded by: Chef Spike Mendelsohn & Seth Goldman
Headquarters: Bethesda, Maryland, USA
Concept: 100% plant-based fast-casual burgers
Why Watch: With over $12M raised and partnerships with Whole Foods, PLNT Burger is redefining fast food with sustainability and taste in mind. They’re expanding into both standalone and in-store models.
Franchise Status: Expansion via equity crowdfunding and traditional investment

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🍔 2. Mr. Charlie’s

Headquarters: California, USA
Concept: Vegan fast food with McDonald’s-style branding — but plant-based
Why Watch: With viral Gen Z appeal, bold red-and-yellow interiors, and Impossible patties, Mr. Charlie’s is combining nostalgia and novelty.
Franchise Status: Rapid U.S. and global expansion

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🍔 3. Wahlburgers

Founded by: The Wahlberg brothers (including actor Mark Wahlberg)
Headquarters: Massachusetts, USA
Concept: Celebrity-backed casual dining with hearty burgers and adult appeal
Why Watch: This brand continues to gain market share with strong media exposure, upscale branding, and growing international interest.
Franchise Status: Available in North America, Europe, and the Middle East

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🍔 4. BurgerIM (Relaunched)

Headquarters: California, USA
Concept: Mini-burger franchise with variety and custom combinations
Why Watch: Despite previous setbacks, new management is working on rebuilding trust and expanding the model with more transparency.
Franchise Status: Relaunching franchise model with revised support system

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🍔 5. Atomic Burger (UK-based)

Headquarters: Oxford, UK
Concept: Retro-themed, flavor-packed burgers with a sci-fi twist
Why Watch: A cult favorite in the UK now eyeing global franchising — perfect for markets looking for something quirky and highly brandable
Franchise Status: Expansion opportunities in Europe and MENA

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🍔 6. Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer

Headquarters: New York, USA
Concept: Craft burgers and world-famous milkshakes
Why Watch: High-Instagram appeal, global luxury mall presence (Dubai, Singapore, Vegas) and a unique gourmet menu make this a top pick for upscale markets
Franchise Status: Available in select global markets

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🍔 7. Farm Burger

Headquarters: Georgia, USA
Concept: Grass-fed beef, locally sourced ingredients, and eco-conscious packaging
Why Watch: This brand blends sustainability, farm-to-table transparency, and fast-casual execution — perfect for health-aware urban zones
Franchise Status: Expanding regionally, with long-term franchise potential

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🧠 Final Thoughts

If you’re an early-stage investor or a multi-unit operator looking to diversify your burger portfolio, these emerging brands offer:

• Lower saturation
• Innovative concepts
• Strong community or digital followings
• Potential for fast regional dominance

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👥 Want to Connect with the Right Franchise at the Right Time?

At BurgerFranchiseMaster.com, powered by Star Brands Consulting Group, we specialize in:

• Identifying emerging food franchise opportunities
• Guiding early-stage brand partnerships
• Helping you evaluate concept fit and market viability

📞 Book an Emerging Brand Strategy Call
📥 Download Our 2025 Emerging Burger Franchise Report (PDF)