Perkins dangles zero-royalty deal to lure Myrtle Beach franchisees

Perkins Restaurant and Bakery is offering new Myrtle Beach franchise signings zero percent royalty fees through December 2026 as part of a push to grow in the Grand Strand. The city is also promoting a facade grant program that can match up to $10,000 per project for exterior improvements.

Why it matters: - Perkins is trying to lower the cost of entry for franchisees in a market with heavy tourist traffic and strong family demand. - Myrtle Beach is pairing that offer with local incentives meant to encourage restaurant development and commercial upgrades. - The move could help accelerate new openings in one of the fastest-growing corridors in South Carolina.

What happened: - Perkins Restaurant and Bakery announced an exclusive incentive package for new franchisee signings in Myrtle Beach. - New Perkins signings in Myrtle Beach will pay zero percent royalty fees for a limited time. - The incentive runs through December 2026 and applies to qualifying franchisees. - The City of Myrtle Beach is offering a Facade Improvement Grant that matches up to $10,000 per project dollar for dollar. - The announcement was made Aug. 5, 2026.

The details: - Perkins said Myrtle Beach offers strong growth potential for franchisees. - Myrtle Beach draws more than 18 million visitors a year. - Perkins said a large share of those visitors are families, which fits the brand’s breakfast and bakery focus. - The city sits in the Grand Strand, a 60-mile stretch of beaches in northeastern South Carolina. - Perkins said the Grand Strand is one of the country’s fastest-growing populations. - Perkins has more than 250 locations across the U.S. and Canada. - The brand has operated for more than 65 years. - Perkins offers flexible build options for franchise partners. - Franchise support includes real estate selection, planning, marketing, operations and training. - Myrtle Beach Mayor Mark Kruea said the city is excited to welcome Perkins to its restaurant lineup. - The press release also references the City of North Myrtle Beach Façade Grant Program, which provides matching funds for exterior improvements to existing commercial buildings. - More information is available in the facade grant program and Perkins franchising opportunities.

Between the lines: - Perkins is using price relief to make site selection and early operations more attractive for new operators. - The franchise push appears aimed at a market where tourism can support all-day traffic, not just peak-season demand. - The city’s grant programs suggest local officials want new investment that also improves the look of existing commercial areas.

What's next: - Qualifying franchisees can pursue the zero-royalty offer through December 2026. - Potential operators can review the local facade grant rules and Perkins franchising details before signing. - Future openings would add to Perkins’ continuing U.S. and Canada expansion.

The bottom line: - Perkins is betting that reduced fees, city incentives and Myrtle Beach’s visitor base will make the market more compelling for new franchisees.