Carl’s Jr.

Carl's Jr. is a well-established American quick-service restaurant chain known for its charbroiled burgers, chicken sandwiches, and breakfast offerings. The brand's journey began in 1941 when founders Carl and Margaret Karcher started with a simple hot dog cart in Los Angeles. This venture quickly grew into a full-service drive-in, capturing the spirit of California's burgeoning car culture. By the 1950s, Carl's Jr. had solidified its quick-service format, becoming a staple on the West Coast.

A significant turning point for the company came in 1997 when its parent company, CKE Restaurants Holdings, Inc., acquired Hardee's. This acquisition expanded Carl's Jr.'s reach across the United States and into international markets, creating a vast network of restaurants. As of November 2025, Carl's Jr. operates over 1,320 locations, with more than 1,000 in the U.S. and over 300 internationally. The brand has a strong presence in California and is actively expanding in Latin America, Asia, and Oceania.

In recent years, Carl's Jr. has focused on growth through franchising and corporate development, targeting key markets such as California, Texas, Florida, Australia, Mexico, and Chile. The brand is particularly keen on exploring non-traditional formats, including high-traffic travel centers and international food courts, to increase its footprint. Recent store openings in Texas, Florida, and Australia highlight this strategic expansion.

For commercial real estate professionals, Carl's Jr. stands out as a recognizable and reliable anchor tenant. Its ability to drive traffic and adapt to various site types makes it an attractive partner for landlords and developers looking to enhance the value and visibility of their retail properties. With a strong operational foundation and a commitment to growth, Carl's Jr. continues to be a significant player in the fast-food industry.