 Since its predecessor 's inception in 1953 , Burger King has used several variations of franchising to expand its operations . In the United States , the company originally relied on a regional franchise model with owners having exclusive expansion rights in a defined geographic territory . This model proved to be problematic as it led to issues of food quality , procedures and image management . A 1970s attempt by one of its largest franchises to take over the chain led to a restructuring of its franchising system , tossing the old method in favor of a restricted , per store licensing model . The 1978 restructuring , led by a new director of operations , firmly placed the mantel of franchise oversight on the shoulders of the company . 
