1851

It&rsquo;s not an easy feat for franchise brands to surpass the 100-unit milestone. However, once that accomplishment is checked off the list, there&rsquo;s still a lot of hard work that goes into becoming one of the biggest players in the entire industry. To highlight brands that have moved their total number of units into the triple digits, 1851 Franchise is breaking down what makes these 25 concepts stand out. Every concept included in this list is primed for continued growth, proving that their ongoing development initiatives are paying off.

<a href="http://www.barlouie.com/franchise-information?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bar Louie</a>

Bar Louie is known for being a neighborhood bar and eatery that&rsquo;s stocked with handcrafted cocktails, regional beers and American food. The brand aims to bring its national presence together with local communities through its franchising opportunity, which is building on strong momentum.

Number of Locations: 124

Startup costs: $763,500 - $3,399,000

<a href="http://www.beefobradysfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Beef &lsquo;O&rsquo; Brady&rsquo;s</a>

When the first Beef &lsquo;O&rsquo; Brady&rsquo;s opened its doors for business, its goal was to provide friends and families with the perfect environment to watch the game and grab a bite. That combination of quality food and a positive sports pub environment has allowed the concept to expand to nearly 200 locations in 23 states. Beef &lsquo;O&rsquo; Brady&rsquo;s differentiates itself in a crowded marketplace by emphasizing the importance of local connections with schools, youth sports leagues and other community organizations.

Number of Locations: 198

Startup costs: $664,000 - $1,223,000

<a href="http://www.blazepizza.com/franchising/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Blaze Fast-Fire&rsquo;d Pizza</a>

Blaze Pizza is the fastest growing fast casual restaurant in the industry. That&rsquo;s because the brand&rsquo;s development plan is focused on selling market areas in which franchisees are required to open multiple locations over a period of a few years. Blaze is also looking to partner with experienced multi-unit operators who have experience catering to strong demand.

Number of Locations: 203

Startup costs: $397,500 - $989,500

<a href="https://www.capriottis.com/franchise/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Capriotti&rsquo;s Sandwich Shop</a>

Capriotti&rsquo;s is an up and coming player in the sandwich segment of the franchising industry. Having just passed the milestone 100-unit mark, Capriotti&rsquo;s is moving forward with the help of dedicated franchisees who are eager to bring the concept to their local communities.

Number of Locations: $350,000 - $815,288

Startup costs: 101

<a href="http://www.christianbrothersfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Christian Brothers Automotive</a>

This leading automotive service and repair franchise is rooted in the values of honesty, integrity, reliability and exceptional customer service. By keeping those key ideas in mind, Christian Brothers Automotive has been able to establish a presence in 22 states, with plans to continue growing in both new and existing markets down the line.

Number of Locations: 164

Startup costs: $458,950 - $555,350

<a href="http://franchise.thecleaningauthority.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Cleaning Authority</a>

The Cleaning Authority has been franchising for more than 20 years. That&rsquo;s why it&rsquo;s no surprise that the brand is over the 200-unit mark, with plans to continue expanding in the months ahead. The Cleaning Authority is responsible for its proprietary &ldquo;Detail-Clean Rotation System&rdquo; that guarantees a deeper clean for customers.

Number of Locations: 209

Startup costs: $96,085 - $152,570 for an Enterprise Market, $70,892 - $105,284 for a Hometown Market

<a href="http://dramakidsfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Drama Kids International</a>

Drama Kids International is the largest after-school drama program in the U.S. In addition to its strong brand awareness both domestically and internationally, the brand is bringing in new franchisees because of its low-cost, home-based model that&rsquo;s been proven to lead to success.

Number of Locations: 233

Startup costs: $28,800 - $49,500

<a href="http://www.freshcoatfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Fresh Coat*</a>

This painting franchise offers services that range from a home&rsquo;s interior and exterior to residential and commercial settings. Fresh Coat is a referral-based business that boasts eco-friendly products, ensuring that its customers receive the best possible service. Right now, the brand is located in the U.S. and Canada. However, it&rsquo;s looking to expand in more domestic and international markets going forward.

Number of Locations: 123

Startup costs: $53,850 - $76,750

<a href="http://www.greenhomesolutions.com/franchise/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Green Home Solutions</a>

Backed by a one of a kind treatment that kills bacteria and improves air quality, Green Home Solutions is experiencing rapid growth in communities across the country. With plans to cross the 200-unit mark in the near future, the brand is uniquely positioned as a concept that&rsquo;s on the cutting edge of the &ldquo;Go Green&rdquo; movement. Green Home Solutions also saves its customers money by avoiding the traditional mold remediation process that often ends in structural damages to homes, which franchisees are using to their advantage in their efforts to gain business.

Number of Locations: 140+

Startup costs: $45,675 - $76,250

<a href="http://www.myilovekickboxing.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">iLoveKickboxing</a>

Kickboxing is proving to be more than a health and wellness fad&mdash;the niche of the booming fitness industry is consistently gaining momentum. That&rsquo;s why iLoveKickboxing is one of the fastest growing brands in its segment. Its growth is fueled by the fact that members find kickboxing as fun as it is effective.

Number of Locations: 214

Startup costs: $157,944 - $398,494

<a href="https://fss.miraclemethod.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Miracle Method</a>

Miracle Method is the largest bath and kitchen refinishing company in the U.S. The brand specializes in repairing and resorting all types of tubs, ceramic tiles and countertops, allowing its franchisees to find customers who want to upgrade their homes while avoiding the bottom line on a full replacement.

Number of Locations: 135+

Startup costs: $75,000 - $120,000

<a href="https://mosquitojoefranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mosquito Joe</a>

This Virginia Beach, Virginia-based brand provides top tier mosquito control treatments for both residential and commercial clients across the country. Backed by its mission to make the outdoors fun again, Mosquito Joe is rapidly expanding as more and more consumers are educated about the threat that pests can pose. With plans to continue expanding in major markets like Illinois, New Jersey, Colorado and California, the brand is positioned for further success.

Number of Locations: 234

Startup costs: $66,600 - $122,500

<a href="http://nestlecafe.com/franchise?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Nestle Toll House Caf&eacute;</a>

Nestle Toll House is a name that consumers across the country know and trust. That&rsquo;s why it&rsquo;s no surprise that this franchise is experiencing rapid growth. Backed by a brand that reaches more than 60 million customers every year, Nestle Toll House Caf&eacute; is expected to continue climbing toward the 200-unit mark.

Number of Locations: 155

Startup costs: $150,300 - $526,300

<a href="http://www.ownappf.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Philly Pretzel Factory</a>

What started as a simple business venture for two college friends is now the largest Philly style pretzel bakery in the world. Philly Pretzel Factory, which is known for its traditional Philly pretzels served hot out of the oven, is growing by capitalizing on its brand awareness across the East Coast and partnering with transportation and entertainment venues in addition to Walmart.

Number of Locations: 165

Startup costs: $132,299 - $367,026

<a href="https://www.pinotspalette.com/franchise/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pinot&rsquo;s Palette</a>

The paint and sip segment of the franchising industry is proving that it&rsquo;s just getting started. Brands like Pinot&rsquo;s Palette are paving the way for creative franchisees to bring an artistic experience to their local communities. This studio is one of the largest paint and sip concepts, and it&rsquo;s expected to continue to build momentum going forward.

Number of Locations: 139

Startup costs: $63,400 - $204,200

<a href="https://www.rosatispizza.com/franchise/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rosati&rsquo;s Pizza</a>

Founded with a mission to &ldquo;give the people what they want,&rdquo; Rosati&rsquo;s Pizza is the American Dream come to life. What started as a family run Italian restaurant is now bringing pizza and other Italian favorites to a large number of consumers. Rosati&rsquo;s also strives to expand its reach by offering dine-in, pick-up or delivery.

Number of Locations: 142

Startup costs: $131,200 - $1,236,000

<a href="https://franchising.schoolofrock.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">School of Rock</a>

This music education franchise stands out because of its unique approach to teaching kids to rock&mdash;the brand&rsquo;s curriculum is performance based. School of Rock is the largest music education franchise in the U.S., and has expanded to nine countries across the globe.

Number of Locations: 200

Startup costs: $136,850 - $339,100

<a href="http://www.signal88franchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Signal 88 Security</a>

Originally founded in 2003, Signal 88 Security is a leading security concept that&rsquo;s on a mission to keep communities safe. With residential, commercial, retail and institutional services, the brand&rsquo;s business model is designed to appeal to a wide base of customers who are looking for top tier security. Signal 88 also utilizes state of the art technology to ensure that its guards&mdash;and franchisees&mdash;are successful.

Number of Locations: 104

Startup costs: $73,000 - $268,400

<a href="https://www.skyzone.com/franchise?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sky Zone</a>

Sky Zone is the brand that started the trampoline park segment of the industry. Founded in 2004, the brand brings entertainment, fitness and technology together to build wall-to-wall trampoline parks that are as appealing to adults as they are children.

Number of Locations: 181

Startup costs: $1,343,813 - $2,694,116

<a href="http://franchise.tailoredliving.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Tailored Living</a>

As the housing industry continues to bounce back and people are more willing to invest in their homes, Tailored Living is experiencing growth. The brand, which is the largest home organization franchise in the country, offers a variety of services ranging from in-home organization systems to storage solutions.

Number of Locations: 203

Startup costs: $156,930 - $297,295

<a href="http://www.togosfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Togo&rsquo;s</a>

Togo&rsquo;s, the West Coast&rsquo;s fan favorite sandwich chain, was first founded in 1971 with a mission to provide its customers with made-to-order sandwiches stacked high with fresh ingredients. The brand has been growing rapidly ever since&mdash;Togo&rsquo;s is nearing the 300-unit mark when it comes to locations that are both open for business and under development. The California-based concept is now looking to expand outside of its home state in neighboring regions.

Number of Locations: 240

Startup costs: $239,700 - $543,200

<a href="https://waybackburgers.com/franchising/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Wayback Burgers</a>

No matter the state of the restaurant industry, brands can&rsquo;t argue with the appeal of the classic hamburger. That&rsquo;s why Wayback Burgers is continuing to expand&mdash;the brand is currently operating in 28 states. It&rsquo;s cultivated a loyal following that is moving from city to city as more locations open their doors for business.

Number of Locations: 125

Startup costs: $209,000 - $524,500

<a href="http://windowgeniefranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Window Genie</a>

By offering a variety of window-related services, from cleaning to tinting and pressure washing, Window Genie is able to create an opportunity for franchisees to grow. The brand currently has a presence in more than 30 states, and it&rsquo;s aiming to continue expanding in new markets going forward.

Number of Locations: 121

Startup costs: $90,800 - $145,000

<a href="http://workoutanytimefranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Workout Anytime</a>

This Atlanta, Georgia-based fitness concept is a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week concept. The brand is capitalizing on growing momentum in the fitness industry by positioning itself as a low-cost, high-quality gym for its members that franchisees can reach through its affordable business model. Workout Anytime is targeting development in communities that aren&rsquo;t already saturated with gyms and is actively looking to partner with driven entrepreneurs in a variety of markets across the country.

Number of Locations: 140

Startup costs: $351,300 - $836,500

<a href="https://www.zoupfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-list-issue-the-next-top-franchise-brands-between-101-and-250-units-2704870" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Zoup!</a>

Zoup! was founded to fill a glaring gap in the restaurant segment of the franchising industry. In 1998, the brand set out on a mission to provide consumers top quality soup&mdash;and all of the benefits that come with it&mdash;with every bowl served. Now, Zoup! is continuing to grow with its daily rotations of signature soups as well as sandwiches and salads.

Number of Locations: 100+

Startup costs: $386,860 - $576,250

The List Issue: The Next Top Franchise Brands Between 101 and 250 Units

1851 Franchise

1851 Franchise highlights 25 franchise brands that are on the verge of becoming some of the biggest players in the industry.

This brand page has been paid for by 1851. Content within this page that is paid will showcase a Sponsored icon. This means the brand has engaged 1851 FRANCHISE to write the content. Content without the Sponsored Icon is aggregated media placements the brand earned. Questions can be sent to editorial@1851franchise.com

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Pet Wants

Pet Wants ATL North Celebrates Piedmont Grand Opening, Completing Final Store Conversion Following Whole Dog Market Acquisition

pet-wants-atl-north-celebrates-piedmont-grand-opening-completing-final-store-conversion-following-whole-dog-market-acquisition

The Cleaning Authority

From Manager to Multi-Unit Owner: How This Franchisee Built Stability and Success With The Cleaning Authority in Spokane, Washington

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Newk’s Eatery

Photo of Popeyes, Newk's Eatery franchisee Skip Russell

Why This Popeyes Franchisee Is Investing in Newk’s Eatery

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The Cleaning Authority Signs 17 Franchise Deals in 2025 and Sets Its Focus for 2026

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The Junkluggers

Photo of The Junkluggers franchisees Dana and Terri Jones

Husband-and-Wife Team Grow a Mission-Driven Junkluggers Franchise Focused on Local Service

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Why Skilled Trades Are Emerging as the Economy’s Most AI-Resilient Careers

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The Penny Shortage Is Creating a New Risk for QSR Franchise Systems - 1851 Franchise

The Penny Shortage Is Creating a New Risk for QSR Franchise Systems

penny-shortage-restaurants-franchise-compliance

Large Domino’s Franchisee Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy

large-dominos-franchisee-files-for-chapter-11-bankruptcy

Design with Precision Garage Door Service team members

RF Investment Partners and Burlington Capital Join Forces to Acquire Top Precision Garage Door Franchise

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Private Equity Fuels Jiffy Lube’s Next Chapter as Monomoy Strikes $1.3 Billion Deal

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<a href="https://hardeesfranchising.com/">Hardee’s</a>, a 65-year-old burger chain best known for its Thickburgers and breakfast biscuits, is facing a fast-moving round of closures driven by a franchise dispute rather than a bankruptcy filing.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.inc.com/ava-levinson/hardees-shutting-dozens-restaurants/91282586">Inc. recently reported that</a> 77&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-hardees-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2721286">Hardee’s</a> restaurants are expected to close within two weeks as one of the brand’s largest franchisees exits the system.&nbsp;According to the report, Hardee’s is suing&nbsp;<a href="https://www.arcburger.com/">ARC Burger</a> — a franchise operator owned by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.highbluffcap.com/">High Bluff Capital Partners</a> — alleging the company fell behind on required payments and other contract obligations. Twenty-eight locations had already gone dark as of late December, with remaining sites scheduled to shutter across eight states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Missouri, Montana, South Carolina and Wyoming.&nbsp;At the center of the complaint is the franchising “stack” of ongoing fees and pass-through costs that keep a system running. ARC Burger allegedly owes more than $6.5 million, including royalties, advertising fund contributions, technology and training fees, rent and taxes, and that payments stopped in December 2024. Hardee’s also argued in the lawsuit that the franchisee’s cash flow was not being used to bring accounts current.&nbsp;Hardee’s, for its part, is framing the shutdowns as a contractual enforcement issue, not a brand-wide retrenchment. “These closures are a result of ARC Burger’s failure to cure its defaults under its franchise agreements, despite solid sales,” a Hardee’s spokesperson said.&nbsp;The situation highlights a familiar franchising pressure point: unit economics. Inc. reported that Hardee’s operates more than 1,800 U.S. restaurants and that average annual sales per location are less than $1.2 million, well below averages cited for&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-wendys-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2722520">Wendy’s</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-buy-a-mcdonalds-franchise-2724654#stories">McDonald’s</a>. Lower volumes can leave franchisees with less room to absorb higher labor, food and occupancy costs while staying current on fees.&nbsp;Hardee’s said it is working to limit fallout for workers and communities and is looking for ways to reopen closed restaurants. For franchising, the next chapter will likely involve finding replacement operators, transferring sites and rebuilding compliance — a reminder that franchise growth depends as much on franchisee solvency and execution as it does on consumer demand.Read the original article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.inc.com/ava-levinson/hardees-shutting-dozens-restaurants/91282586">here</a>.Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.1851growthclub.com">www.1851growthclub.com</a> and start your journey.

Hardee's Franchise - ARC Burger Lawsuit - 1851 Franchise

The closures stem from alleged unpaid royalties and missed franchise obligations by a major operator, not a broader chainwide collapse for the Hardee’s system.

Hardee’s Lawsuit Targets Franchisee as 77 Restaurants Prepare to Shut Down

hardees-franchise-closures-arc-burger-lawsuit

North County Pizza Inc., a major&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-dominos-pizza-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725506">Domino’s</a> franchisee, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection,&nbsp;<a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/major-pizza-chain-franchisee-files-173300667.html">Yahoo! Finance recently reported</a>. The bankruptcy filing gives North County Pizza time to restructure its debt and reorganize its business, while pausing any legal actions against the company during the process.The Oceanside, California-based franchisee did not explain why it filed for bankruptcy or whether it plans to close locations or lay off employees. Franchisees across the restaurant industry have pointed to tough competition, higher labor and food costs, and expensive leases as reasons for restructuring or filing for bankruptcy.The franchisee filed for bankruptcy on March 11 in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of California, reporting $100,000 to $1 million in assets and $1 million to $10 million in liabilities.The announcement follows recent news that&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-papa-johns-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2724607">Papa Johns</a> plans to close 300 underperforming restaurants, including 200 by the end of 2026, and cut 7% of its workforce. It also comes just weeks after&nbsp;<a href="https://www.yum.com/wps/portal/yumbrands/Yumbrands/">Yum! Brands</a> announced it was&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/yum-brands-pizza-hut-sale-2731599#franchise-news">considering a sale of Pizza Hut</a> and plans to close 250 underperforming U.S. locations.Together, these moves could point to a broader reset across the pizza franchise sector. For franchisees, this environment raises the stakes around site selection, cost control and operational efficiency, while also creating potential opportunities to capture market share as weaker locations exit the market.Read the original article <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/major-pizza-chain-franchisee-files-173300667.html">here</a>.Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit<a href="http://www.1851growthclub.com">&nbsp;www.1851growthclub.com</a> and start your journey.

The California-based franchisee seeks to restructure debt as closures and strategic shifts continue across major pizza brands like Pizza Hut and Papa Johns.

<a href="https://www.yum.com/wps/portal/yumbrands/Yumbrands/">Yum! Brands</a> is considering a potential sale of Pizza Hut and plans to close 250 underperforming U.S. locations, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://simplywall.st/stocks/us/consumer-services/nyse-yum/yum-brands/news/yum-brands-weighs-pizza-hut-sale-as-portfolio-reset-accelera">recent article on Simply Wall St</a>. For the franchising industry, the significance is less about the stock and more about what it says about how large franchisors are managing brand portfolios in a high-cost operating environment.<a href="https://1851franchise.com/pizza-hut-franchise-deep-dive-2722519">Pizza Hut</a> is one of the most recognizable names in franchising. If Yum! decides to sell it, that would be a notable shift for a company built on a multi-brand platform. For years, large brand groups have argued that operating multiple concepts creates advantages, including shared resources, stronger purchasing power and the ability to invest in technology across the system. A sale would suggest Yum! believes those benefits no longer outweigh the effort required to improve Pizza Hut’s performance.The planned closures may have the most immediate impact on franchisees. When a franchisor reduces its footprint, it can change how the brand performs in local markets. Fewer locations can mean less convenience for customers, which can hurt overall traffic. It can also weaken the effect of local advertising when there are fewer restaurants supporting promotions in the same trade area.Closures can also affect store-level economics in ways that go beyond the locations that shut down. In some markets, remaining franchisees may pick up some displaced demand. In others, customers may switch to competitors. The changes can also affect local co-op advertising budgets and, depending on how purchasing and distribution are structured, can influence costs tied to volume.The move comes as competition in pizza remains intense, with&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-dominos-pizza-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725506">Domino’s</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-papa-johns-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2724607">Papa Johns</a> continuing to push delivery, digital ordering and value-focused offers. Simply Wall St notes Yum! has been rolling out its Byte digital platform across brands. If Yum! changes Pizza Hut’s role in the portfolio, it could also change where the company focuses its technology and marketing investment.For franchise systems watching from the outside, Yum!’s review is a reminder that growth is not always the main priority. Sometimes the bigger decision is whether a legacy brand can be improved inside a platform or whether it will perform better under a different owner and a different plan.Read the original article&nbsp;<a href="https://simplywall.st/stocks/us/consumer-services/nyse-yum/yum-brands/news/yum-brands-weighs-pizza-hut-sale-as-portfolio-reset-accelera">here</a>.Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.1851growthclub.com">www.1851growthclub.com</a> and start your journey.

Yum! Brands Pizza Hut Sale - 1851 Franchise

Yum! is reviewing the brand and closing 250 U.S. locations, a move that could affect franchisees and reshape its restaurant portfolio.

Possible Pizza Hut Sale Signals Shift in Yum! Brands’ Franchise Strategy

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The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.franchise.org/">International Franchise Association</a> has released its annual&nbsp;<a href="https://www.franchise.org/franchising-economic-outlook/">Franchising Economic Outlook</a> report for 2026, painting the picture for a positive year of growth after notable economic turbulence in 2025.“The resilience of franchising has enabled our model to adapt, endure and thrive in the face of challenging macroeconomic headwinds,”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewhaller">Matt Haller</a>, IFA president and CEO, said in a release. "After a year of recalibration, franchising is better positioned to navigate an improving economic environment than independent businesses due to tax certainty, lower interest rates and investments in AI that will propel brand growth, franchisee unit-level economics and wage growth for the franchise workforce."The report features key industry projections for the year, including:<ul><li>The addition of over 12,000 new franchised businesses</li><li>The addition of over 150,000 jobs — meaning the industry will represent nearly 8.9 million jobs</li><li>An increase in total franchise GDP from $549.9 to $558.4 billion</li><li>An increase in multi-unit ownership as current single-unit franchisees pursue scale</li></ul>In addition to the strength of the industry as a whole, the organization highlighted segment-specific trends.&nbsp;<ul><li>This year, child services and commercial and residential services are recognized as top performers, expected to achieve a 3.2% year-over-year growth rate.</li><li>A focus on experiential dining, rather than value alone, may drive full-service restaurants to outpace quick-service brands in output growth.</li><li>Preventive health care has risen to be the third-largest franchised industry, and it represents strong opportunities as consumer awareness surrounding preventive health care persists.</li></ul>In terms of growth markets, Texas continues to lead the country as the fastest-growing state for franchising, followed by Florida, Georgia, Arizona and North Carolina. Michigan, Ohio and Utah have joined the top 10 this year thanks to their relative affordability and the potential they offer for market leadership and long-term growth.The outlook for 2026 is upbeat, and the drivers behind it look different than they did a few years ago. More brands are putting AI and automation to work in day-to-day operations, which helps franchisees move faster on basics like scheduling and inventory and stay tighter on margins.The growth in multi-unit ownership points to a shift in how people are approaching franchising. More operators are treating it like a scalable investment, focused on building an asset, not just buying themselves a job.As the year ramps up, IFA’s data suggests growth in 2026 will be driven by those leveraging the scale of the franchise model, embracing a tech-forward approach to business ownership, and staying agile in an evolving business landscape.Find the full 2026 Franchising Economic Outlook report&nbsp;<a href="https://www.franchise.org/franchising-economic-outlook/">here</a>.

Highlighting child services and commercial and residential services as top performers, the organization predicts the industry will add over 150,000 jobs and increase its GDP by billions this year.

IFA Releases 2026 Franchising Economic Outlook Report, Predicting Over 12,000 New Franchised Businesses This Year

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How much can franchisees make? It’s a question many prospective owners ask before investing in a franchise. While earnings tend to be driven by variables such as industry, location and general management skills, a proper understanding of the key factors driving profitability can help franchise owners develop expectations that are realistic.&nbsp;Multi-unit franchisee&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mangesh-patel-9368569/">Mangesh Patel</a>, who’s readying the launch of six&nbsp;<a href="https://www.beefobradysfranchise.com/">Beef ‘O’ Brady’s</a> restaurant locations in the Macon, Georgia area, shares insights from his franchising experience.<h2>Understanding Franchise Income</h2>Keeping operational costs in check can have a major impact on overall earnings. Taking a proactive approach to expenses such as food and labor, as well as payroll and scheduling, can help align actual franchise income with general expectations for the business.“I just had a meeting with a couple of people, and they said, ‘You talked about a 25% profit margin, but I’m only doing 12%.’ So, I looked at the figures they sent me,” Patel said. “Their&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/calculate-restaurant-franchise-profit-2730476">restaurant</a> food cost was running at 37%, which should be around 30%. The national average is about 32%. If I do things correctly, my average food cost needs to be at or below 30%. And payroll should run around 18%. But many people run 25 to 28%.”So,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/unraveling-franchise-earnings-how-much-can-you-really-make-2723935">how much can franchisees make</a>? Here are five areas to consider.<h2>Practical Tips for Prospective Franchisees</h2><ol><li>Control Costs From Day One:&nbsp;It’s important to monitor payroll, food and supply costs closely. Overstaffing and inefficiencies can quickly reduce profits.</li><li>Plan For The Opening Surge:&nbsp;Traffic within the first few months of opening is likely to be higher. It’s important to adjust staffing and inventory accordingly, and pay close attention to how those levels change as time goes on.</li><li>Invest In Training:&nbsp;Properly trained workers can help reduce waste and improve overall service, which has a direct effect on net income.</li><li>Understand Your Market:&nbsp;Each market is unique and revenue potential will vary depending upon location, demographics and competition.</li><li>Track Metrics Regularly:&nbsp;Food cost percentages, labor ratios and weekly sales data act as key indicators operations may need to be adjusted.</li></ol><h2>What Profitability Really Comes Down To</h2>Patel notes that if franchise owners manage labor and costs properly, it’s not impossible to achieve strong cash flow even in the first year, bucking some franchising trends.So,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/how-much-can-you-make-as-a-franchise-owner-2724761">how much can franchisees make</a>? While results tend to vary, careful planning, disciplined operations and a proactive approach to assessing initial costs are essential. But by grasping and guiding the elements that drive franchise profitability, franchise owners can maximize overall business earnings, scaling a business that’s sustainable financially over the long term.Want to learn more about franchise opportunities on 1851 Franchise? Be sure to visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/power-rankings">Power Rankings</a> to read more on brands making moves.

How much can franchisees make? This guide explains what drives franchise earnings and how to manage costs, with expert tips from multi-unit owner Mangesh Patel on maximizing your franchise income.

How Much Can Franchisees Make? A Guide for Prospective Franchise Owners

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Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: A fast-casual restaurant brand serving made-from-scratch sandwiches, salads, soups and pizzas rooted in Southern hospitality.


Newk’s Eatery Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2026

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Amada Senior Care Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2026

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: Amada Senior Care is a non-medical home care, assisted living placement, and related senior-support services with multiple revenue streams.

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The linear sales funnel is dying. Prospective buyers are no longer filling out a form at first glance and waiting for the phone to ring. They’re doing the majority of the heavy lifting before they even make themselves known to the franchisor. For franchisors, this means one key thing: you must know exactly where candidates spend their time. No guesswork. And you have to adjust your strategy accordingly.And, in today's buyer world, the biggest buzz term is 2026's ride or die for franchise brands – Ai.&nbsp;If you are trying to sell a franchise today, you must meet candidates where they are (four walls, Ai, website, social advertising).&nbsp;Focusing on a strong digital footprint first and then lead generation will help the brand with validation and will lay the foundation for trust before the first conversation even happens. Still, franchisors must know where to find their candidates and be confident the candidates are being sent to the right place.“We consistently see the strongest lead performance from Google Search (paid and organic), social platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and our franchise development website,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinlsnyder">Erin Snyder</a>, head of franchise development at&nbsp;<a href="https://handelsicecream.com/handels-franchise/">Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream</a>. “Because all awareness and advertising efforts ultimately funnel candidates to our development site, maintaining a highly optimized, mobile-first web presence is critical for conversion.”<h2>The "Hidden" Channels: Authentic Research via AiSEO</h2>While Google and major portals are often where a candidate might start a broad search, the deep research happens in the shadows. This is where candidates scroll, mindlessly or otherwise, simply observing rather than clicking “apply” immediately; or, ask Ai chatbots about the best franchises to buy, the blind spots, the why nots, and, of course, the whys.Right now, Ai plays a key role in this research stage. Buyers want the truth.&nbsp;For franchisors, this means your content strategy must pivot. It is no longer enough to post stock photos of happy business owners. You must document the journey, showing the behind-the-scenes reality that proves your concept has staying power.<h2>The Pivot From Print to Digital Interactivity</h2>While print media has been a channel for franchise development in the past, its static nature has made it less effective as the buyer’s journey has shifted to digital. Buyers are generally looking for channels that will allow them to click, read and continue the search immediately.“Traditional print media has largely become a thing of the past for franchise development,” Snyder said. “What has been encouraging, though, is seeing many of these publications successfully pivot to digital formats that offer greater interactivity, stronger analytics and far better linkability than print ever could.”This creates a more dynamic experience for the candidate. In addition to a digital article, franchisors can embed a “day in the life” video, for example, or hyperlink a deeper dive on costs and profits for instant validation.This shift also allows franchisors to track return on investment more effectively. Instead of guessing if an article or ad worked, digital publications allow you to see exactly who clicked through, allowing for retargeting and smarter budget allocation.<h2>The Conversion Hub: Your Mobile-First Website</h2>Once a candidate has discovered you on Google, watched your videos on TikTok and read about you in a digital publication, they finally arrive at the destination: your franchise development website.This is the bottom of the funnel, where you will win or lose a candidate. Because all other channels point here, your website cannot just be a digital brochure. It has to be a conversion engine. And crucially, it must work perfectly on a smartphone.The question can’t just be “Do we have a website?” Questions about the website should surround usability and readability. Is navigation easy on a smartphone? Does the site load quickly? Is it readable? If a prospect has to pinch-and-zoom to read your investment costs and financial performance, they will leave.An optimized, mobile-first presence is critical because it serves as the collection point; all other awareness efforts funnel potential franchisees to the site. The user experience here should validate the trust built on other channels. However, accessibility is only half the battle; the content itself must be unsparingly open. The website is the channel where you must prove your value proposition with hard data.“Across all channels, the messaging needs to be clear, concise and consistent,” Snyder said. “Candidates should be able to easily find transparent investment ranges and financial requirements, a clear value proposition, compelling franchisee success stories, key differentiators from competitors and straightforward next steps for how to inquire.”When you treat your website as a transparency engine rather than a gatekeeper, you change the dynamic of the eventual sales call. A candidate who has already consumed your financial data and success stories arrives at the inquiry stage educated and qualified. This allows the development team to skip the basic fact-finding and move straight to strategy and fit.“When a candidate submits an inquiry, the first conversation should build on what the candidate has already learned,” Snyder said “ensuring they understand the opportunity they are considering, clarifying details, personalizing the discussion to their goals and moving them into a structured education process rather than starting from scratch.”<h2>Allocating the Budget: The "Ideal Candidate" Approach</h2>While a presence across multiple channels — from search and social to digital publications — is key, understanding exactly how much to invest in each option is the next hurdle. There is no single, magical approach to budgeting; a brand selling multi-million-dollar franchises needs to develop a presence in different places than a low-cost, mobile franchise will.To spend effectively, you must deeply understand your ideal franchisee profile. Once you know who is investing, you can begin working on where to find them. For example, a high-net-worth investor might be on LinkedIn and reading digital trade journals, while a first-time investor or someone seeking an owner-operator model might be influenced by local Facebook ads.“Franchisors should start by understanding their ideal franchisee profile and then allocate budget toward the channels where those prospects spend the most time,” Snyder said. “The mix will naturally look different for a high-investment, multi-unit candidate than for a first-time owner-operator. Beyond that, it’s critical to consider overall brand awareness and invest in channels that consistently get both the brand and the franchise opportunity in front of qualified prospects. A balanced approach that supports both awareness and lead capture tends to produce the strongest results.”<h2>Key Takeaways and Next Steps:</h2>Make sure you have a content footprint that answers the top 25 questions asked about your brand in Ai and Google searchs.Review your mobile experience: Open your franchise development site on your phone. If it takes more than three seconds to load or if the "Apply" button is hard to find, fix it immediately.Embrace "lo-fi" video content: You don't need a production crew. Use a smartphone to record "day in the life" videos with your franchisees and post them to social to build authentic trust.Ensure transparency and continuity:&nbsp;Candidates need to be able to find the information they’re looking for, and the experience should be consistent between a social page and a franchise development site. Make sure your value proposition is clear across all channels.Embrace innovation, but don’t count out the classics:&nbsp;Look at the whole picture. Many candidates are exploring opportunities on supplemental platforms like social media or in the results of a Google search, but they’re still looking at the franchise development site, too. Don’t confine yourself to the “old reliable” methods, but don’t leave them behind, either.Budget by persona, not platform: Don't just "do Facebook ads." Define exactly who your buyer is, and spend your money only on the channels where that specific person consumes content.For more information on franchise growth channels, check out these related stories on 1851 Franchise:<ul><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/how-to-use-social-media-marketing-to-promote-your-franchise-2727185#stories">How To Use Social Media Marketing To Promote Your Franchise</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/building-a-franchise-website-that-converts-key-features-and-best-practices-2727363#stories">Building a Franchise Website That Converts: Key Features and Best Practices</a></li><li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlfduHqGy7I">How to Sell Franchises | The Buyer Persona</a></li></ul>

To succeed in the shifting landscape, franchisors must understand the buyer’s journey, identify the ideal franchisee profile, and build a digital presence that meets candidates where they are.

How To Sell Franchises in 2026 — Top Channels Franchise Buyers Use Before They Inquire

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<a href="https://1851franchise.com/why-coffee-franchises-thrive-2025-2729271">The coffee landscape</a> continues to evolve rapidly, with convenience now arguably the most critical factor for consumers. With daily routines accelerating and convenience reigning supreme, the drive-thru model has cemented its status as the most sought-after route for securing that vital caffeine boost.Below is an examination of seven leading drive-thru coffee franchises projected for substantial expansion through 2026.<h3><a href="https://franchising.scooterscoffee.com/">1. Scooter’s Coffee</a></h3><ul><li>Unit Count: 849</li><li>Investment Range: $692,150 - $1,523,400</li></ul>Scooter’s is a national, drive-thru-first system with a mature playbook and heavy franchisor support. The brand publicly positions its model around speed, small footprints and kiosk/drive-thru formats, with disclosed fees and requirements for new operators.<a href="https://franchising.scooterscoffee.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com">&nbsp;</a><h3><a href="https://www.ziggiscoffee.com/franchise/">2. Ziggi’s Coffee</a></h3><ul><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;100</li><li>Investment Range: $581,500 - $1,759,500</li></ul>Colorado-born Ziggi’s offers flexible drive-thru formats to suit various locations, including single-sided and double-sided drive-thrus, as well as a full café combined with a drive-thru.<h3><a href="https://franchise.thehumanbean.com/">3. The Human Bean</a></h3><ul><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;158</li><li>Investment Range: $562,090 - $1,290,931</li></ul>A pure drive-thru specialist with decades in the lane. Notably,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-the-human-bean-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2726955">The Human Bean</a> markets no ongoing royalty fee (operators should still review marketing and other fees in the FDD). The system highlights nationwide growth via franchised drive-thrus.<a href="https://franchise.thehumanbean.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com">&nbsp;</a><h3><a href="https://franchising.aromajoes.com/">4. Aroma Joe’s</a></h3><ul><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;100+</li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$597,821 - $1,825,221</li></ul>New England-rooted and expanding, Aroma Joe’s self-describes as a “drive-thru coffee and energy drink franchise.” The brand specializes in unique flavor combinations for its drinks.<h3><a href="https://www.dunkinfranchising.com/">5. Dunkin’</a></h3><ul><li>Unit Count: 8,499</li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$526,900 - $1,832,500</li></ul>A legacy brand with a huge installed base of drive-thrus and a well-documented franchise process and training. For operators seeking scale and national brand power,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-dunkin-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2720835">Dunkin’</a> remains a top consideration.<a href="https://www.dunkinfranchising.com/faqs/?utm_source=chatgpt.com">&nbsp;</a><h3><a href="https://www.biggbyfranchising.com/">6. BIGGBY® COFFEE</a></h3><ul><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;440+&nbsp;</li><li>Investment Range: $296,250 - $1,011,500</li><li>1851 Franchise Newsroom:&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/biggbycoffee">https://1851franchise.com/biggbycoffee</a></li></ul><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-biggby-coffees-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2721631">BIGGBY®</a> is a fully franchised system (no company-run stores) with substantial growth momentum. The brand’s relatively moderate entry cost in the white-box format makes it a more accessible option, and it explicitly offers drive-thru formats (modular and site built) that align with the high-speed, convenience-first consumer trend.<h3><a href="https://corporate.thecoffeebeanandtealeaf.com/franchising">7. The Coffee Bean &amp; Tea Leaf</a></h3><ul><li>Unit Count: 1,232 globally, 130 in the U.S.</li><li>Investment Range:<ul><li>Traditional Store: $940,665 – $1,430,177</li><li>&nbsp;Kiosk Format: $551,500 – $916,059</li></ul></li></ul>A legacy premium coffee brand with more than six decades of history, The Coffee Bean &amp; Tea Leaf is actively repositioning for modern convenience-led growth. While historically associated with café formats, the system offers kiosk and non-traditional footprints that align well with drive-thru, high-traffic and limited-space environments.To continue your research, check out some of these related 1851 Franchise articles:<ul><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/why-coffee-franchises-thrive-2025-2729271">Why Coffee Franchises Are Thriving in 2025</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/top-10-low-cost-coffee-franchise-opportunities-of-2024-2727679">Top 10 Low-Cost Coffee Franchise Opportunities of 2024</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/15-best-coffee-restaurant-franchises-2726869">15 Best Coffee Restaurant Franchises to Consider for 2024</a></li></ul>

For entrepreneurs looking to invest, the drive-thru coffee segment offers high-growth potential, leveraging consumer demand for quick convenience and optimized, small-footprint franchise models.

The List Issue: The Next Top Franchise Brands Between 101 and 250 Units

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