Burger King in Japan is tempting franchisees of rival fast-food brands like McDonald’s and Mos Burger by offering them 40 million yen (US$250,000) cashback to jump ship.

The offer, under its franchise switching plan, is on the table until 3pm on September 30, according to a statement by the chain issued on Wednesday.

Applicants must have been in business for at least three years, submit financial statements for the past three financial years and identify a general manager for the converted restaurant.

In return, Burger King will cover half of the initial investment to make the switch.

It dangled another carrot in front of potential franchisees. Last year, its stores achieved average monthly sales of around 17 million yen, it said, adding: “By utilising this plan, you can expect to recoup your investment even sooner.”

Burger King Japan, which was acquired by Goldman Sachs in late February, has been eating up its competition at the highest rate of store openings in the country’s hamburger industry.