General information 1986: The first Five Guys location opens in Arlington, VA. 1986 - 2001: Five Guys opens five locations around the DC metro-area and perfected their business of making burgers… and starts to build a cult-like following. 2002: Five Guys decides DC metro-area residents shouldn't be the only ones to experience their burgers and start to franchise in Virginia and Maryland. 2003: Five Guys sells out of franchise territory within 18 months and starts to open the rest of the country for franchise rights. 2003 - Present: Five Guys expands to over 1,100 locations in over 47 states, 6 Canadian provinces, and launches in the UK!