1851

Frank Sinatra, one of the greatest singers of all time, once sang about my sweet home of Chicago. &#8220;Chicago, Chicago that toddling town. Chicago, Chicago I will show you around.&#8221; Although I cannot show you around the Windy City unless you plan a visit to the Midwest, I can instead tell you about it right here.
According to the <a href="http://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/about/facts.html?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=baby-dont-you-want-to-gosweet-home-chicago-618" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">City of Chicago</a>, Chicago is home to over 2.5 million residents living across 237 square miles. The Chicagoland area contains nearly 10 million people in three states including Illinois, Wisconsin and Indiana. Chicago is the third&nbsp;largest city in the United States and is the 22nd largest metropolitan area in the world. Chicago is home to 11 Fortune 500 companies, while the rest of the metropolitan area hosts an additional 21 Fortune 500 companies. No wonder Chicago is topping the lists of brands looking to grow and expand!
Here is a glimpse of the top five brands looking to join the Hub of the Midwest.
<a href="http://www.falafelshop.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=baby-dont-you-want-to-gosweet-home-chicago-618" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-14312" style="border: 1px solid black; margin: 1px 5px;" title="amsterdam falafel shop" src="/Uploads/amsterdam-falafel-shop-150x87.jpg" alt="" height="87" width="150" />Amsterdam Falafelshop</a>
Founded in 2004, &#8220;Amsterdam Falafel has become the darling of D.C., consistently topping best-food lists, receiving widespread food-critic acclaim, and winning over the hearts of customers&#8221; (<a href="http://www.franchisingusamagazine.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=baby-dont-you-want-to-gosweet-home-chicago-618" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Franchising USA</a>). Inspired by the falafel shops throughout Amsterdam, Amsterdam Falafel serves up fresh-made falafel sandwiches and Dutch-style fries (commonly referred to as &#8220;frieten&#8221;). The shops also offer nearly two-dozen toppings for patrons to customize their own falafel dish. Founders Scott and Arianne Bennett are now cooking up a plan to expand nationwide. (Nice culinary pun there). Focused franchise growth plans call for expansion in major metro markets specifically pinpointing cities like New York, Chicago, Philadelphia and Miami, among many others.
<a href="https://www.baskinrobbins.com/content/baskinrobbins/en.html?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=baby-dont-you-want-to-gosweet-home-chicago-618" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Baskin-Robbins</a>&nbsp;<img class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-14314" style="border: 1px solid black; margin: 1px 5px;" title="Baskin Robbins" src="/Uploads/Baskin-Robbins-150x75.jpg" alt="" height="75" width="150" />
Baskin-Robbins is the world&#8217;s largest chain of ice cream specialty shops and they want a scoop of Chicago. (No more puns after this, promise). Baskin-Robbins was founded in 1945 by two ice cream enthusiasts whose passion led to the creation of more than 1,000 ice cream flavors and a wide variety of delicious treats. In 2013, more than 13 million ice cream cakes were sold in Baskin-Robbins shops worldwide. &nbsp;"As our brand continues to develop, we're now looking for entrepreneurs in Chicago with strong financial backgrounds and a passion for their local communities to own their very own ice cream shop,&#8221; says Grant Benson, CFE, vice president of franchising and business development, Dunkin' Brands. Baskin-Robbins creates and markets innovative, premium hard scoop ice cream and soft serve, custom ice cream cakes and a full range of beverages, providing quality and value to consumers at 7,300 retail shops in nearly 50 countries. Headquartered in Canton, Mass., Baskin-Robbins is part of the Dunkin' Brands Group, Inc.
<a href="http://www.buffalowingsandrings.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=baby-dont-you-want-to-gosweet-home-chicago-618#/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-14315" style="border: 1px solid black; margin: 1px 5px;" title="BWR" src="/Uploads/BWR-150x150.jpg" alt="" height="150" width="150" />Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings</a>
Established in 1984 in Cincinnati, Ohio, the sports restaurant franchise has always been committed to giving customers the absolute finest wings &#8211;fresh, never frozen, bone-in or boneless, take your pick! Over the years, the brand has pioneered and perfected the art of homemade sauces, customizable heat profiles and fresh wings, as well as grown to offer specialty burgers, gyros and salads to cater to its customers and provide options for the entire family to enjoy. With 32 consecutive quarters of positive same-store sales growth, Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings is turning its attention to the Midwest for brand expansion. The company plans to open 25 locations and provide 1,000 jobs to the Chicago, Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Cincinnati, Columbus, Louisville, Detroit and Toledo markets over the next five years. The brand already has three restaurants in Chicago, six restaurants in Cincinnati, three in Columbus and four locations in Indiana. These markets will be critical growth pieces for the brand, as Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings continues to position itself as the No. 2 leader in the space behind Buffalo Wild Wings.
<a href="http://www.mooyah.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=baby-dont-you-want-to-gosweet-home-chicago-618" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">MOOYAH</a>&nbsp;<img class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-14316" style="border: 1px solid black; margin: 1px 5px;" title="MOOYAH" src="/Uploads/MOOYAh-150x122.jpg" alt="" height="122" width="150" />
MOOYAH Burgers, Fries &amp; Shakes is a fast-casual, &#8220;better burger&#8221; concept serving mouth-watering made-to-order burgers, hand-cut French fries made from high-quality Idaho potatoes, and handcrafted 100-percent ice cream shakes. Founded in 2007, the Plano, Texas-based company only uses fresh, American lean beef and all-natural Jennie-O&#174; turkey burgers, buns baked in house, real cheeses and toppings made from garden-fresh ingredients. &#8220;MOOYAH&#8217;s goal for 2014 is to achieve strategic and international growth, whether developing in existing markets with high demand, or introducing the MOOYAH experience to new territories,&#8221; said Vice President of Franchise Development and Operations Michael Mabry. &#8220;This twofold strategy, coupled with an exceptional product, will allow MOOYAH to truly assert ourselves as the leader in the competitive burger segment.&#8221; MOOYAH, Fries &amp; Shakes currently has one location in Glenview, Illinois and has the capacity for 20 more locations within Chicago.
<a href="http://www.toppers.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=baby-dont-you-want-to-gosweet-home-chicago-618" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Toppers Pizza<img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-14317" style="border: 1px solid black; margin: 1px 5px;" title="Toppers" src="/Uploads/Toppers-150x120.jpg" alt="" height="120" width="150" /></a>
Hot off the heels of a strong 2013, Toppers Pizza (Toppers) is spurring growth in 2014 with expansive development plans for Illinois. Creating excitement within the crowded pizza segment by providing unique menu items and exceptional customer service, Toppers is looking to open seven locations in Chicagoland over the next 12 months. The 58-unit chain is on target to open at least three franchisee-owned locations and four corporate units. &#8220;Chicago is known for its superior pizza, and we&#8217;re pleased to see such high demand for our product in our existing stores in the area,&#8221; said Damon Parr, Senior Area Supervisor of Toppers. &#8220;The Chicagoland area is a prime development market for us, so we&#8217;re looking forward to advancing our reach in this great city; we want all Chicagoeans to have the opportunity to taste (and love) our mouth-watering products.&#8221;&nbsp; Headquartered in Whitewater, Wisconsin, Toppers takes a unique approach to the crowded pizza segment by cooking up specialty pizzas that start with their fresh, made-from-scratch dough, smothered in real Wisconsin cheese and finished with outrageous toppings such as French fried onions, oven-roasted tomatoes, mac &#8216;n cheese and tater tots.
These five brands are only a small glimpse of the numerous companies jockeying to call Chicago home. There is plenty of room in the sandbox for everyone and Chicago welcomes each and every one of these brands to the Windy City. I can hear Frankie singing it now&#8230;&#8220;Chicago, Chicago that toddling town. Chicago, Chicago I will show you around&#8230;&#8221;

1851 Franchise

Frank Sinatra, one of the greatest singers of all time, once sang about my sweet home of Chicago. “Chicago, Chicago that toddling town. Chicago, Chicago I will show you around.” Although I cannot show you around the Windy City unless you plan a visit to the Midwest, I can instead tell you about it r.....

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Baby Don’t You Want to Go…Sweet Home, Chicago 

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Workout Anytime

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TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

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Beansquad

BeanSquad Wraps Up 2025 With Client Growth and ‘Momentous’ Franchise Expansion, Setting Up a Pivotal 2026

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2026 Franchise 500 design with Jersey Mike's, Dunkin', Taco Bell, Ace Hardware, and Kumon

The 2026 Franchise 500: New Rankings and Market Shifts

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Recent Data Reveals Cooling Labor Market, Further Fuels Franchise Growth Opportunities

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Hardee's Franchise - ARC Burger Lawsuit - 1851 Franchise

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

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Domino's Franchise - North Pole - Dec 2025 - 1851 Franchise

Domino’s Pizza Brings Delivery Cheer to North Pole, Alaska

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Twin brothers&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W-VKBlQiiWI">Stephen and Matthew Westerman</a> have spent their entire lives building things together, both literally and professionally. From building homes in high school with their father to managing moving franchises in college to running a bathroom remodeling business, the two have shared just about every chapter of life. Now, they’re turning the page to their next big adventure: launching&nbsp;<a href="https://twomenandajunktruck.com/franchise">TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK</a> in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. With deep operational knowledge of the brand and a bold vision for growth, the Westermans are bringing trusted junk removal services to the Gulf Coast — with plans to scale even further.1851 spoke with the duo to learn more about their backgrounds, their collective path to franchising and their plans for the future with&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/twomenandatruck/info">TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK</a>. Here’s what they had to say:&nbsp;1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What do you want us to know?Stephen Westerman: We’re twin brothers — grew up together, been best friends our whole life and share most of our life experiences. We went into business together 12 or 13 years ago, starting with a bathroom remodeling business. We were looking for areas to explore and started looking into TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK. We’ve been working together our whole lives — we both went to college at the same time.Matthew Westerman: We always wanted to work together, and that really started back in high school when we were building houses with our dad. After we got separate jobs post-college, we decided we really wanted to open a business together.1851: What was your perception of franchising prior to becoming a franchisee, and what do you want people to know about franchising now that you are in it?Stephen: We both got our master’s degrees and ended up getting jobs as movers at TWO MEN AND A TRUCK. We worked with them while getting our degrees — did that for about two years — and eventually moved through almost all the positions at that location, up to general managers. We stayed there until we opened our bathroom remodeling business. We always liked the franchise system with that brand. When we decided we wanted to add another business line, we didn’t immediately think of franchising, but we were open. When we realized there was a junk franchise connected, we thought it might be the right concept.1851: What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?Stephen: What sold us on this franchise was our experience with TWO MEN AND A TRUCK. We were already really drawn to the junk industry, and when we saw that TWO MEN was behind this too, we knew they had the strength of the corporate office. Once we saw the team behind it, we realized it was a really brilliant team for support, and that made us a lot more comfortable moving forward.1851: What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth?Stephen: Our intention is to turn this into a multi-million dollar franchise. But our most important goal is just customer service — to serve the Gulf Coast and help remove stress from people’s lives by removing the junk in their spaces. Hopefully we’ll open two more franchises.Matthew: Our end goal would be sweeping the Gulf Coast — that would be about three franchises total.1851: What advice do you have for other people thinking about becoming franchise owners?Stephen: Life is risky. Don’t be afraid of risk. The only real risk in life is taking no risk at all.ABOUT TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK:Headquartered in Michigan, TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK is a full-service junk removal company that is committed to conquering your clutter. The company handles furniture pickup, appliance removal, debris cleanouts, and more, offering a hassle-free experience for residential and commercial customers. With over 70 locations across 23 U.S. states, the brand operates as a franchise-based business, and each location is independently owned and operated. TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK is part of ServiceMaster® Brands, a leading franchise provider of needs-based residential and commercial services in the restoration, cleaning, moving, and bioremediation industries. ServiceMaster was founded as one of America’s first franchise businesses and does business under seven brands today across 50 states and nine countries that generate more than $3.5B in system-wide sales. TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK is the sister brand of TWO MEN AND A TRUCK, a trusted moving company founded in 1985, which operates 430 locations in 48 U.S. states, as well as in Canada, Ireland, and the United Kingdom.

image of stephen westerman and matthew westerman, owners Fort Walton Beach Two men and a junk truck

Twin Brothers Move From Managers to Owners with New TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK Franchise on the Gulf Coast

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For&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/elimcohen/">Eli Cohen</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://layneschickenfranchising.com/">Layne’s Chicken Fingers</a> represents more than just a restaurant — it’s the foundation for his next great venture and an extension of C5’s mission to&nbsp;build enduring, high-performing businesses through disciplined growth, great leadership and strong local teams.&nbsp;Drawn by Layne’s leadership, simplicity and scalability, Cohen and his team plan to develop 40 locations over the next decade across West Texas, San Antonio and the Coastal Bend — bringing the Soon to be Famous™ concept to new communities throughout the region.1851 Franchise spoke with Cohen to learn more about his background, his path to Layne’s and his vision for C5 Restaurants.1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What do you want us to know?Eli Cohen:&nbsp;Getting into QSR franchising is really my second act — and it’s been an exciting evolution. I built my first career in commercial real estate, co-founding a firm that acquired and operated more than $600 million in multifamily properties across the country. As the market matured and returns compressed, I started looking for my next challenge — something that combined entrepreneurship, operations and real estate.That search led to the restaurant industry and the formation of C5 Restaurants, our operating platform. I targeted the acquisition of the top-performing Fazoli’s franchise group in West Texas specifically because of the exceptional team in place — experienced operators with the capability and desire to grow well beyond those six locations.What drew me to QSR is that it still scratches the same itch I’ve always loved — every new restaurant is also a real estate deal. Developing 40 Layne’s locations over the next decade means 40 great projects to bring to life, and that part of the process is a lot of fun for me. Layne’s Chicken Fingers became the natural next step: a Texas-born brand with strong leadership, simple operations, and a culture that fits perfectly with how we build teams.1851 Franchise: What was your perception of franchising prior to becoming a franchisee, and what do you want people to know about franchising now that you are in it?Cohen:&nbsp;Early on, I viewed franchising primarily as a real estate and investment vehicle — a way to own great locations and benefit from proven systems. But after stepping into the business, I’ve come to appreciate how powerful the model can be when it’s built around the right people.At C5 Restaurants, we see franchising as a platform to scale exceptional operators — not just a brand replication exercise. When a franchisor has a strong culture and a clear playbook, it allows local teams like ours to focus on execution, leadership and community impact. That combination of structure and autonomy is what makes the model work.1851 Franchise: What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?Cohen:&nbsp;I met with a lot of different brands, but Layne’s stood out immediately. There’s tremendous momentum in the chicken category, and I wanted a concept that could grow meaningfully across our Texas markets — West Texas, San Antonio and the Coastal Bend. But beyond the product and market opportunity, it really came down to the people.The Layne’s leadership team felt like true partners from day one. They’re smart, grounded and focused on sustainable growth. I also love the simplicity of the menu — it’s delicious, operationally clean and designed to scale. The economics work, the prototype is efficient, and the team has a disciplined approach to site selection and development.One thing that really impressed me was their willingness to say no. I brought them a ground-up site that looked great on paper — high visibility, strong traffic counts — but they turned it down because it wasn’t the right trade area. That level of discipline and long-term thinking is rare, and it reinforced that we were partnering with the right brand.For us at C5, Layne’s is more than a brand — it’s a platform to build great teams and great communities across South and West Texas.1851 Franchise: What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth?Cohen:&nbsp;Our goal with C5 is to build a platform with real scale. We’re developing 40 Layne’s Chicken Fingers locations over the next decade, starting in West Texas and expanding through San Antonio, Corpus Christi and surrounding markets. Each region has strong demographics, steady growth and plenty of room for a Texas-born brand like Layne’s to thrive.We’re building a business designed for longevity — not just rapid unit growth. That means investing early in leadership, systems and infrastructure that can support dozens of restaurants efficiently. We already have a seasoned team in place with decades of experience operating high-volume restaurants, and that allows us to grow aggressively while maintaining quality and consistency.The long-term vision is to make C5 one of the leading multi-unit operators in Texas — a company known for building great teams and running great brands at scale.1851 Franchise: Is there anything else about your story you want us to know?Cohen:&nbsp;The most important part of what we’re building is the people behind it. We have an incredibly experienced team in Texas — operators who’ve been together for decades and know how to run great restaurants. They’re the reason we can grow with confidence.When I bought the Fazoli’s business, I wasn’t just acquiring restaurants — I was partnering with a team that had the talent and drive to build something much larger. That same group is now helping lead our Layne’s development under C5 Restaurants, and we’re continuing to add new talent as we expand. At the end of the day, great brands are built by great people, and we’re fortunate to have both.1851 Franchise: What advice do you have for other people thinking about becoming franchise owners?Cohen:&nbsp;Talk to as many franchisees as you can. You learn a lot from hearing directly from the people already running the business day to day — what’s working, what’s challenging and how the franchisor supports them. When I was evaluating different brands, that part of the process told me almost everything I needed to know.Every single Layne’s franchisee I spoke with not only called me back but was genuinely enthusiastic about the brand and the leadership team. That kind of culture doesn’t happen by accident. It’s a good reminder that you’re not just buying a franchise — you’re joining a system. Make sure it’s one where people are happy to be part of it.ABOUT LAYNE'S CHICKEN FINGERSFounded in 1994 in College Station, the original location became a Texas A&amp;M legend known for its small-town charm, friendly service, iconic chicken fingers and secret sauce. While opening corporate locations across the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the leadership team focused on fine tuning its operations and starting to franchise.&nbsp;&nbsp;Franchise opportunities range from $451,500 to $1,050,000 with different buildout options available. Learn more about franchising&nbsp;<a href="https://layneschickenfranchising.com/">here</a>.

1851 Franchisee Spotlight graphic with photo of Eli Cohen, Layne's Chicken Fingers logo

C5 Restaurants Grows its Texas Footprint with 40 Layne’s Chicken Fingers Locations Planned Statewide

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<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-deitzer-410b59176/">Joe Deitzer’s</a> path to franchising is far from traditional. After finishing high school, he pursued a career in cooking, eventually landing as executive chef at a summer camp. A lifelong passion for writing soon led him back to the classroom, where he attended college, worked toward a degree in English and explored work opportunities in UX content writing before pivoting to a role in screen printing. Suffice it to say, joining his father, David Deitzer, in co-ownership of a&nbsp;<a href="https://freshcoatfranchise.com/">Fresh Coat Painters</a> franchise wasn’t quite on the radar yet.Eventually, franchising became the perfect intersection where timing, opportunity and family could all meet. David, a seasoned small-business operator and CFO who’s helped grow many small businesses, was pondering the idea of a retirement investment while Joe sought greater stability and an opportunity to grow professionally. Together, the father and son settled on&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/freshcoat/info">Fresh Coat Painters</a>, a brand with a strong proven business model refined over more than two decades, clear processes and the ability to provide painting services that truly matter to their Northwest Arkansas neighbors.“My dad and I get along well. We’ve had success together in the past, like hiking the Appalachian Trail together. So, we’re trying to build a family-focused, community-centered enterprise. It just seemed like the right fit for us,” Joe said. “We wanted to do something real, help our community and offer a service people would appreciate. Franchising gave us the support to get started without having to figure everything out ourselves.”Now, as both partners and co-owners, Joe and David are ready to turn that vision into a family-focused, community-centered reality that blends entrepreneurial drive with a strong commitment to great quality and strong customer service.1851 Franchise sat down with Joe to discuss his transition into the painting and ownership sector with Fresh Coat Painters, his experience learning alongside his father and the importance of strong franchising support. Here’s what he had to say:1851 Franchise:&nbsp;Can you frame your personal story for us? How did you end up in franchising?Joe Deitzer: Sure. My background is in cooking. After high school, I worked my way up to chef and became the executive chef of a Christian summer camp where I live. Later, I went back to school for an English degree because I’d wanted to be a writer since I was a teenager.I graduated from John Brown University about a year and a half ago. While earning my degree, I did a UX content writing internship for three years. After graduating, I couldn’t find work in the UX industry, so I worked at a shop that screen prints t-shirts for just under a year.My dad was a small business owner when I was growing up. He’s now a CFO for small businesses that can’t afford one full-time. And he’s great with small business operations. He was looking for a good investment for retirement, and I was looking for a better job. Franchising seemed like a good fit. Through one of his friends, who sells franchises, we explored several options.&nbsp;We wanted something real that could help the community and offer a service people would appreciate. Painting seemed like the right fit.1851:&nbsp;How did you decide franchising made sense for you?Joe: My dad instilled an entrepreneurial spirit in me and my two older sisters. He gets excited about business ideas. And I share that to some degree. We discussed different business options, like woodworking, but franchising made sense because we didn’t want to start from scratch.Franchising offered support and processes to help us succeed from the start rather than figuring everything out ourselves.1851:&nbsp;What was your perception of franchising before becoming a Fresh Coat Painters franchisee and what do you want people to know now as you get ready to launch the business?Joe: I used to think franchising was for people who wanted it easy, maybe looking down on smaller operators. I also heard stories about people cutting corners, like operating without insurance or a business license.Now, I see franchising as a way to help people succeed in what they love. For us, that’s painting. We equip others to run their business properly, handle finances and provide excellent service.1851:&nbsp;What made you pick the brand and what excites you most about Fresh Coat Painters?Joe: I like their commitment to quality, both in painting and customer service. One of our commitments is the “333” rule: pick up the phone on the third ring, provide a quote within three days and start painting within three weeks. The brand equips its Fresh Coat Painters to deliver on that promise.1851:&nbsp;What are your goals for the business? Is there a plan for growth?Deitzer: Like any business owner, I want to be successful and grow. My mission is to offer the best painting services in Northwest Arkansas, provide for my family and contribute positively to the community.1851:&nbsp;What advice do you have for potential franchise owners?Deitzer: I’m just starting out myself. But I’d say keep hope alive, work hard, take action, manage your to-do lists and provide great customer service. That’s how you’ll separate yourself from the competition.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/freshcoat/info">https://1851franchise.com/freshcoat/info</a>.ABOUT FRESH COAT PAINTERS:Fresh Coat Painters, the residential and commercial painting franchise under the Strategic Franchising Systems umbrella, offers a low-cost, high-margin business model that gives entrepreneurs from all walks of life the chance to become successful business owners in the communities they serve. Since starting in 2004, Fresh Coat has expanded to over 190 franchise locations nationwide. Thanks to its unparalleled professionalism and affordable business model, it has become one of the leading concepts in the booming residential and commercial painting segment. With continued year-over-year growth, Fresh Coat is well on its way to achieving its overall goal of becoming a truly iconic painting brand.

Father-Son Duo Brings Fresh Coat Painters Franchise to Northwest Arkansas

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When Erik Andersen left behind a decades-long legal career, he didn’t expect his next chapter to involve hauling couches instead of cases. But when his cousin and business partner, Rikki Forgwe, invited him to join the family’s&nbsp;<a href="https://franchise.twomenandatruck.com/">TWO MEN AND A TRUCK®</a> operations, Andersen saw a way to build something lasting — and community-focused.With their second&nbsp;<a href="https://franchise.twomenandajunktruck.com/">TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK</a> location now open in McHenry, Illinois, Andersen and Forgwe are growing what began as a family effort to help people through life’s biggest transitions. To Andersen, junk removal isn’t only about clearing space, it’s about finding new purpose for the things people leave behind. From hosting warehouse sales to donating furniture and home goods, the duo is focused on keeping reusable items out of landfills and helping their neighbors in the process.After years in the courtroom, Andersen has found joy in something far more hands-on — seeing families breathe easier after a move or cleanup, knowing they helped turn a stressful task into a positive experience. For him, that’s what success looks like now.1851 Franchise spoke to Andersen about his franchise journey with TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK and his plans for the future. Here’s what he had to say:&nbsp;1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What did you do before franchising, and how did you decide franchising made sense for you?Erik Andersen:&nbsp;I was a trial lawyer for about 25 years and needed something new. When the pandemic came along, my cousin and partner, Rikki, had been running two moving franchises for some time. The old owner always told him, “When I’m ready to sell, you get first dibs.” Rikki brought me in, and we bought the two moving companies.We’d always wanted to do junk removal, but it took time to get our footing on the moving side and get established. Once we did, we started the junk business. We bought a new, larger building in North Aurora and doubled our space in McHenry, which allowed us to expand into junk removal.1851: What was your perception of franchising prior to becoming a franchisee, and what do you want people to know about franchising now that you are in it?Andersen:&nbsp;My perception of franchising was very different. As a lawyer, when I represented a franchisor or franchisee, the goal was always to keep them as separate as possible so one wouldn’t be liable for the other.What’s been great about working with the TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK and&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/twomenandatruck/info">TWO MEN AND A TRUCK</a> franchises is that it’s the opposite. Other franchisees root for you to succeed and help you out. The home office has struck a great balance — supportive but still giving you the freedom to do things your own way.Especially with the junk side, they’ve been very helpful. I was lucky to come into moving with an established business, but getting the junk removal off the ground was new. The franchise has been really supportive and has a solid playbook to help you get started.1851:&nbsp;What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?Andersen:&nbsp;For me, it was my partner, Rikki, and the opportunity he gave me. Rikki knew the business, and going into business with a family member you love and trust made it an easy decision. The franchises were already well established in our communities — TWO MEN AND A TRUCK had been here for about 20 years between the two locations — and I could see it was a successful business.1851:&nbsp;What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth?&nbsp;Andersen:&nbsp;What I hope to achieve is to be a one-stop shop for families and community members who are transitioning — whether they’re moving or just doing a spring cleaning. What really got us into junk removal was seeing a need. We’d be helping someone move, and they’d say, “I don’t want 20 percent of my furniture. Can you help me?” At the time, I had to say no and watch them call another junk removal company. There’s such a natural connection between moving and junk removal, and it was frustrating not to offer the full range of services our customers needed. I want to change that.1851:&nbsp;Is there anything else about your story you want us to know?Andersen:&nbsp;We’re trying hard not to take everything to the dump and rehome items instead. We’re having a sale this weekend where we’ll be giving away a lot of old furniture and knickknacks. I have a large warehouse that’s basically turned into a thrift store. What we don’t sell, we plan to donate. We’re trying to connect with local organizations that can make use of extra furniture and household goods.It does save us money on disposal fees, but more importantly, many customers care about where their belongings end up. They want to know their family heirlooms aren’t going to waste.It’s a challenge finding outlets to donate or store items. Most people in this business take everything straight to the dump so they don’t have to handle it again, but we’re trying to do better. We want to make a difference by repurposing, rehoming and upcycling what others might call junk. The saying is true — one person’s trash is another’s treasure. Every load has at least one piece worth saving.1851:&nbsp;What advice do you have for other people thinking about becoming franchise owners?Andersen:&nbsp;My advice would be to talk not just to the franchisor but also to other franchisees. If you can find a franchise like TWO MEN AND A TRUCK, where both the franchisor and other franchisees support you and work together, then the franchise model is a great one to be part of.ABOUT TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK:Headquartered in Michigan, TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK is a full-service junk removal company that is committed to conquering your clutter. From furniture pickup and removal, getting rid of appliances, debris cleanouts, and more, TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK will do it all, so you don’t have to. TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK is part of ServiceMaster® Brands, a leading franchise provider of needs-based residential and commercial services in the restoration, cleaning, moving, and bioremediation industries. ServiceMaster was founded as one of America’s first franchise businesses and does business under seven brands today across 50 states and nine countries that generate more than $3.5B in system-wide sales. TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK is the sister brand of TWO MEN AND A TRUCK which is a national, full-service franchised moving company with each franchise being independently owned and operated. Currently, there are more than 430 locations and 3,000 trucks operating in 47 U.S. states in addition to Canada, Ireland, and the UK. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK has performed more than 9.5 million moves since its inception in 1985.

1851 Franchisee Spotlight with photo of Erik Andersen & TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK logo

Former Trial Lawyer Expands Family-Run Moving Business With Second TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK® Location

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Many people see their pets as part of the family. With that mindset becoming the norm, services like day care and quality boarding are no longer seen as extras, but as an important part of giving pets a happy, healthy life. This shift, coupled with a rising “do it for me” mentality and increased need for care due to return-to-office mandates, positions daycare and boarding concepts very favorably.For entrepreneurs looking to break into the industry and cater to growing demand, these 15 boarding and daycare franchises are great opportunities for 2026:<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-happy-cat-hotel-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2722849">Happy Cat Hotel &amp; Spa</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://happycatfranchising.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/growth-club/happy-cat-hotel-franchise-costs">Growth Club</a></li><li>Investment Range: $398,000 - $878,000</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;12</li></ul>Happy Cat Hotel &amp; Spa carves out a unique and underserved niche in the pet care market by focusing specifically on cats. With a boutique model that provides a quiet, dog-free environment, the brand appeals to discerning cat owners. And, with themed suites, grooming services and a retail component, franchisees can capture multiple streams of revenue.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-the-dog-stop-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2723230">The Dog Stop</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://thedogstop.com/franchise-opportunities/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/growth-club/dog-stop-franchise">Growth Club</a></li><li>Investment Range: $553,500 - $1,112,800</li><li>Unit Count: 35+</li></ul>The Dog Stop operates an all-in-one model that provides day care, boarding, grooming and training services. With a focus on safety and highly trained staff, the franchise appeals to pet parents with high standards and can be run as a semi-absentee model with the right people in place.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-dogtopias-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2721549">Dogtopia</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.dogtopia.com/franchising-us/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$543,095 - $1,399,180</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;285+&nbsp;</li></ul>Dogtopia is a premium franchise focused on dog day care. The brand has a membership model that encourages recurring visits, creating a stable and predictable revenue stream for franchisees.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-central-bark-usa-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725648">Central Bark</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://centralbarkfranchising.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$569,200 - $1,394,250</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;40+&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Central Bark leverages a science-backed, “whole dog care” approach. While its primary offering is doggy day care, it focuses on enrichment through play, learning and socialization, and it also gives dogs an ample chance to rest. The brand’s weekly attendance policy keeps dogs acclimated and provides predictable revenue for franchisees.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-dogdrop-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2724575">Dogdrop</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.dogdrop.co/franchise">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$360,800 - $650,160</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;4&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Dogdrop is a modern, tech-forward brand that focuses on convenient pet care for busy pet owners, often in high-traffic neighborhoods. A smaller footprint lowers the initial investment and, by focusing exclusively on day care services, franchisees can elevate service and become the local experts.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-hounds-town-usas-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2721298">Hounds Town USA</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://houndstownusa.com/franchising/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$475,875 - $1,278,489</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;75+</li></ul>Hounds Town USA is a dog day care concept that uses a proprietary system to group dogs by temperament and psychology, encouraging safer, more comfortable play between animals. Because Hounds Town USA focuses on a dog-friendly, “no frills” build-out, initial costs can be lower than other day care concepts.<h2>Leader of the Pack</h2><ul><li><a href="https://leaderofthepackfranchise.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$341,665 - $647,304</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;2</li></ul>Leader of the Pack is a full-service franchise. Though it began as a dog training concept, it evolved to provide day care and boarding services, too. One of the brand’s key differentiators is its cage-free approach, catering to pet owners who do not want their animals crated or in single kennels for the duration of their stay.<h2>K9 Resorts</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.k9franchise.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$2,280,530 - $3,604,802</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;48&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>K9 Resorts is a luxury “five-star hotel” experience for dogs, offering an elevated experience for discerning dog owners. The brand has state-of-the-art facilities and a model that focuses on higher-margin overnight boarding, which positions franchisees to reach profitability sooner.<h2>Camp Run-A-Mutt</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.camprunamutt.com/franchise/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$526,000 - $1,040,000</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;12&nbsp;</li></ul>Camp Run-A-Mutt’s cage-free model, which includes dogs being supervised 24/7, appeals to a large segment of pet owners. With additional amenities like splash ponds and live cameras, the brand has several differentiators that help it stand out in the market.<h2>All American Pet Resorts</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.allamericanpetresorts.com/franchise-opportunities/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $798,000 - $1,650,000</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;12</li></ul>All American Pet Resorts is a premium boarding facility that offers more of a “resort” experience. With a 24/7 human presence and pet “suites,” rather than cages or crates, All American Pet Resorts prioritizes comfort — and peace of mind for the pet parent — and a healthy, safe experience.<h2>Preppy Pet</h2><ul><li><a href="https://preppypet.com/preppypetfranchises/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$100,000 - $300,000</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;20+&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Preppy Pet is a lower-investment, high-potential pet care model. In addition to boarding dogs, the brand will care for cats, birds and small animals, which broadens the potential client base and diversifies revenue streams.<h2>Playful Pack</h2><ul><li><a href="https://playfulpack.com/franchising">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$286,250 - $489,000</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;12&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Playful Pack is a modern day care and boarding franchise that focuses on creating an engaging, enriching experience for each dog. By providing mental and physical stimulation, the brand stands out above other day care models that rely exclusively on play groups for exercise.<h2>Camp Bow Wow</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.campbowwow.com/franchising">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$1,216,577 - $2,037,471</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;220+</li></ul>Camp Bow Wow offers a full-service model that allows pets to receive grooming and training services while at “camp.” As a major national brand, Camp Bow Wow provides franchisees instant credibility, and the brand’s commitment to safety and transparency is an attractive attribute for pet parents.<h2>Pet Play Place</h2><ul><li><a href="https://petplayplace.com/franchise/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;<a href="https://petplayplace.com/contact/">Contact franchisor</a></li><li>Unit Count: 2</li></ul>Pet Play Place is a franchise brand focused on a fun, innovative enrichment experience. With day care and boarding, “oasis” play and themed events, the brand has multiple ways for franchisees to engage their communities and capture revenue.<h2>TailWaggers Doggy Daycare</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.tailwaggersdoggydaycare.com/franchising">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $712,300 - $1,107,667&nbsp;</li><li>Unit Count: 9</li></ul>TailWaggers is a day care and boarding franchise that offers all-day play, enrichment activities and careful socialization. With temperature-controlled facilities and no scheduled nap times, TailWaggers positions itself as a trustworthy provider for local pet parents.The pet boarding and daycare space is thriving, largely driven by pet owners who view their pets as family and are hesitant to leave them home alone or crated all day. With a range of models, from straightforward, lower-investment brands to niche, luxury concepts, there is an investment opportunity for any entrepreneur looking to get their start in the lucrative pet industry.For more information on pet-related franchise opportunities, check out these related stories on 1851:<ul><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/central-bark-celebrates-the-power-of-rescue-with-therapy-dog-petunia-2726159#stories">Central Bark Celebrates the Power of Rescue With Therapy Dog Petunia</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/growth-club/industry/pet-animal-franchise-opportunities">How to Buy a Profitable Pet Franchise Business</a></li></ul>

Photo of group of dogs standing together in day care facility

Top Pet Boarding and Day Care Franchise Opportunities for 2026

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The pet grooming industry is expected to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/pet-grooming-market">grow to $17.9 billion by the end of 2025 and surpass $42.8 billion by 2035</a>. Pet owners are putting more money toward care and services, influenced by the push to treat pets like family and the rising interest in organic and hypoallergenic products.Alongside the rise of mobile and at-home grooming services, boutique concepts such as Petbar, as well as established players like Dogtopia and Woof Gang Bakery, are meeting demand and giving entrepreneurs the chance to enter a market that shows no signs of slowing down.Here are 15 pet grooming franchises worth considering for 2025.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/petbar/petbar-franchise-deep-dive-2729714#stories">Petbar</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.petbarinc.com/franchise/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/petbar">1851 Newsroom&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $256,700 - $585,950.</li><li>Unit Count: 32</li></ul>Petbar offers a boutique-style pet wash with both self-service and full-service options. The brand is built around the growing demand for high-quality grooming, giving owners a chance to invest in a $2 billion market. Franchisees benefit from strong support and the ability to grow in a fast-expanding industry.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-the-dog-stop-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2723230">The Dog Stop</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://thedogstop.com/franchise-opportunities/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/growth-club/dog-stop-franchise">Growth Club</a></li><li>Investment Range: $553,500 - $1,112,800</li><li>Unit Count: 35+&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>The Dog Stop provides an all-in-one dog care experience with grooming, day care, training, boarding and retail. Each location is designed to keep dogs active, social and healthy while offering convenience to pet owners. Franchisees step into a system that prioritizes quality care and multiple revenue streams.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-dogtopias-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2721549">Dogtopia</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.dogtopia.com/franchising-us/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $543,095 - $1,399,180&nbsp;</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;285+</li></ul>Dogtopia started in 2002 with the idea of “indoor dog parks” and has grown into one of the largest dog day care systems in North America. Locations provide safe spaces for dogs to play while owners are at work. The brand has strong momentum with nearly 300 units operating.<h2>Bubbly Paws</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.bubblypaws.com/new-page-1">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$197,409 - $370,920</li><li>Unit Count: 16</li></ul>Bubbly Paws runs modern grooming salons that also give pet owners the option to wash their own dogs. The stores, which work with local rescues, have a cheerful look and include small retail sections. Franchise owners can serve both customers who want professional grooming and those who prefer a do-it-yourself option.<h2>Salty Dawg Pet Salon &amp; Bakery</h2><ul><li><a href="https://saltydawgfranchise.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $194,750 - $470,450</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;3&nbsp;</li></ul>Salty Dawg creates a stress-free, transparent grooming experience for pets. The concept features open environments, skilled stylists and a culture of kindness. Customers can also enjoy the bakery, adding a retail boost to the business.<h2>Woof Gang Bakery</h2><ul><li><a href="https://franchise.woofgangbakery.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $184,420 - $506,620</li><li>Unit Count: 90+</li></ul>Woof Gang Bakery has been around since 2007 and now grooms over one million dogs per year. Grooming makes up the majority of its business, but stores also sell high-quality food, treats, and health products. With more than 90 locations open, the brand continues to expand across the U.S.<h2>HydroDog</h2><ul><li><a href="https://hydrodog.com/mobile-dog-grooming-franchise-2/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $44,448 - $216,558</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;25+</li></ul>HydroDog is a mobile grooming service that arrives at customers’ homes in fully equipped vans. The brand focuses on providing a calm, stress-free experience for pets, even those that are nervous. Franchisees also have opportunities to connect with local communities through charity partnerships.<h2>See Spot Grooming</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.seespotgrow.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $150,375 - $252,935</li><li>Unit Count: 4</li></ul>See Spot Grooming is built around safety and education, with services designed to make pets feel calm and comfortable. The brand focuses on being open with pet owners and keeping them informed about the process. Franchise owners can count on strong standards and training to help them create lasting trust with their customers.<h2>Groombar</h2><ul><li><a href="https://groombar.com/franchising/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $288,000 - $595,500</li><li>Unit Count: 160+</li></ul>Groombar is part of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earthwisepetfranchise.com/">EarthWise Pet</a> family, a group with decades of experience in pet wellness and grooming. The concept includes both mobile and stand-alone spas, backed by a support team with proven systems. With more than 160 units, Groombar offers strong brand recognition in the market.<h2>Dapper Tails</h2><ul><li><a href="https://dappertailsfranchising.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$103,500 - $242,000</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;12</li></ul>Dapper Tails began as a family-run mobile grooming business and has grown into a multi-van operation. The brand is built on a luxury, stress-free experience for pets and their owners. Franchisees get access to a proven model and training to launch their own mobile grooming service.<h2>Sparkle Dog Care</h2><ul><li><a href="https://sparkledogcare.com/franchise">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $235,750 - $472,750</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;7</li></ul>Sparkle Dog Care offers grooming services that put a dog’s health and comfort first. The brand avoids heavy retail sales and instead builds a community feel around its salons. For franchise owners, it’s a way to give customers reliable care at a price that makes sense.<h2>Puparazzi</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.puparazzimobile.com/franchise84901b6d">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $75,000 - $150,000</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;2</li></ul>Puparazzi is a mobile grooming service that treats pets like stars. The brand was created with a love for both animals and family, bringing grooming right to the customer’s front door.&nbsp;<h2>Kontota Grooming</h2><ul><li><a href="https://kontotafranchising.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $100,000 - $120,000</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;10</li></ul>Kontota is a mobile grooming franchise designed for convenience and lifestyle flexibility. The model is low-cost, home-based and appeals to customers willing to pay more for at-home service. Owners benefit from steady demand and the chance to scale without heavy overhead.<h2>Furry Land Mobile Grooming</h2><ul><li><a href="https://furryland.us/furry-land-franchise/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $137,002 - $309,702</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;70+&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Furry Land brings cage-free, one-on-one grooming directly to clients’ homes. The company has expanded quickly to more than 70 units nationwide since its founding in 2017. With a focus on pet comfort and owner convenience, it gives franchisees a proven path in mobile grooming.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-vanity-fur-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2723210">Vanity Fur</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://vanityfurfranchise.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $73,895 - $92,975</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;3&nbsp;</li></ul>Vanity Fur is a mobile grooming brand that serves both dogs and cats in fully equipped vans. The service is designed to handle pets of all sizes, including seniors and larger breeds, with extra care. Franchise owners benefit from strong demand and repeat appointments.Whether it’s mobile grooming, boutique salons or full-service shops, these brands give pet owners more choices than ever. For entrepreneurs, investing in this space now means getting in on an industry that is only going to keep expanding.For more information on pet-related franchise opportunities, check out these related stories on 1851:<ul><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/petbar-franchise-deep-dive-2729714#stories">petbar Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2025</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/petbar/petbar-franchise-opportunity-boutique-pet-grooming-2729681">How petbar Makes Pets and Their Owners Happy as Part of the Family in a Clean and Fun Environment</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-pet-supplies-plus-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2720865#stories">Franchise Deep Dive: Pet Supplies Plus Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data</a></li></ul>

The 15 Top Pet Grooming Franchises To Consider for 2025

The 15 Top Pet Grooming Franchises To Consider for 2026

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<a href="https://www.chick-fil-a.com/franchise">Chick-fil-A</a> is one of the most recognizable names in the quick-service restaurant industry. With its signature chicken sandwiches, customer-first culture and impressive per-unit sales, the brand is often at the top of the list for entrepreneurs researching restaurant franchises. But if you’re wondering how to buy a franchise with&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/the-rise-of-chick-fil-a-americas-number-one-chicken-franchise-2727483#stories">Chick-fil-A</a>, you’ll quickly realize that this opportunity comes with a unique set of requirements — and not everyone qualifies.<h2>Chick-fil-A Franchise Requirements</h2>Chick-fil-A is different from most restaurant franchises because it doesn’t take a large amount of money to get started.&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/how-much-does-a-chick-fil-a-franchise-cost-2715278#stories">The franchise fee is $10,000</a>, and applicants don’t need to show a specific net worth or liquid assets. The lower cost, however, comes with a trade-off. The company has one of the toughest application processes in franchising and places strict rules on how the business must be run.To be considered for a Chick-fil-A franchise, applicants need to show that they can legally run a business in the United States and have a solid professional background. The brand generally looks for people with at least five years of work experience and some history of leading teams. A clean financial record is important, too, since anyone with a bankruptcy on file won’t move forward in the process. The $10,000 franchise fee has to come directly from the candidate’s own funds rather than loans or gifts. On top of that, operators are expected to commit to the restaurant full time, which means stepping away from other active business ventures and putting all of their focus into building and leading their Chick-fil-A location.Candidates also need to be fluent in written and spoken English and commit to full-time, hands-on involvement in the restaurant. In fact, Chick-fil-A expects its franchisees to divest from any other active business ventures so that they can focus entirely on operating their location.Meeting these requirements does not guarantee acceptance. Chick-fil-A receives tens of thousands of applications each year but approves only about one percent, making the opportunity one of the most competitive in franchising.<h2>A Hands-On, Operational Model</h2>One thing that makes Chick-fil-A stand out is how it expects its restaurants to be run. Owners can’t just hire managers and step back like in many other franchises. Instead, operators are expected to be hands-on with the daily business.Chick-fil-A also keeps more control over key parts of the operation than most franchisors. The company chooses the location, builds the restaurant and provides the equipment. The operator’s main role is to deliver excellent service and lead a team that meets the brand’s standards.This is not a passive investment or a multi-unit opportunity. Chick-fil-A intentionally limits each franchisee to a single location, ensuring that operators are deeply engaged in leading their restaurant and contributing to the surrounding community. For many, this model is appealing because it emphasizes leadership and culture-building rather than simply financial investment.<h2>Why It Matters</h2>For people thinking about franchising, Chick-fil-A’s requirements show why the brand is both appealing and difficult to get into. The low cost to start, the strong name recognition and the sales numbers make it one of the most appealing restaurant franchises out there, but the rules and competitive selection process make it a tough opportunity to land.On the other hand, the strict operational structure, high profit-sharing arrangement and extremely competitive application process can make it a tough fit for entrepreneurs who want more flexibility or who prefer to run multiple concepts at once.If you are considering how to buy a franchise with Chick-fil-A, it’s important to carefully evaluate whether you align with the brand’s expectations. The operators who tend to do well are the ones who like being in the restaurant every day, working with their team and serving customers. For people who want to be closely involved in one business, the Chick-fil-A model can be both profitable and satisfying.For more info on Chick-fil-A, check out these related stories on 1851 Franchise:<ul><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/chick-fil-a-takes-the-crown-as-the-nations-premier-chicken-chain-2727486#stories">Chick-fil-A Takes the Crown as the Nation’s Premier Chicken Chain</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/the-pros-and-cons-of-owning-a-chick-fil-a-franchise-2725069#stories">The Pros and Cons of Owning a Chick-fil-A Franchise</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/chick-fil-a-emerges-as-the-leader-in-the-us-chicken-chain-industry-2727457#stories">Chick-fil-A Emerges as the Leader in the U.S. Chicken Chain Industry</a></li></ul>

Do You Qualify? A Look at the Chick-fil-A Franchise Requirements

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Americans are spending more on their pets than ever before. Data from the&nbsp;<a href="https://americanpetproducts.org/industry-trends-and-stats">American Pet Products Association&nbsp;</a>shows the industry hit $152 billion in 2024, and sales are expected to reach $157 billion in 2025.With 77% of pet owners saying the economy hasn’t affected their spending, pet supply and retail franchises are positioned to thrive in this environment of steady consumer demand and rising industry growth.For entrepreneurs, this resilience makes pet supply and retail franchises an appealing path to ownership right now. Here are 15 top options to consider.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-pet-wants-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2722308">Pet Wants</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://petwantsfranchise.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/petwants">1851 Newsroom&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $137,850 - $219,000</li><li>Unit Count: 160+</li></ul>Pet Wants sells fresh, small-batch pet food and wellness products delivered straight to pet owners. The brand started in 2010 and has grown into a flexible franchise model with mobile and retail options. Owners benefit from strong community engagement and a scalable system.<h2>Pet Evolution</h2><ul><li><a href="https://petevolutionfranchising.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/growth-club/pet-evolution-care-franchise">Growth Club</a></li><li>Investment Range: $595,300 - $1,225,500</li><li>Unit Count: 28</li></ul>Pet Evolution calls itself the “Whole Foods for Pets,” offering premium food, grooming, toys and a self-serve dog wash. The brand also created a Good Life Membership and a Mobile Nail Van for steady, recurring income. With a focus on healthy food and high standards, it appeals to pet owners who want the best for their animals.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-the-dog-stop-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2723230">The Dog Stop</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://thedogstop.com/franchise-opportunities/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/growth-club/dog-stop-franchise">Growth Club</a></li><li>Investment Range: $553,500 - $1,112,800</li><li>Unit Count: 35+</li></ul>The Dog Stop is a full-service pet care center with day care, boarding, grooming, training and retail. Dogs enjoy indoor and outdoor play yards while owners find food, toys and treats in the store. It’s designed as a one-stop shop for dogs and their families.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-pet-supplies-plus-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2721654">Pet Supplies Plus</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.petsuppliesplusfranchising.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $540,520 - $1,975,005</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;735+</li></ul>Pet Supplies Plus is one of the largest pet retail chains in the country with a neighborhood-style approach. Stores carry food, supplies, small animals and offer grooming and wash stations. Founded in 1988, the brand continues to expand nationwide.<h2>Wild Birds Unlimited</h2><ul><li><a href="https://franchise.wbu.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $226,601 - $378,977</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;340+</li></ul>Wild Birds Unlimited sells products for backyard bird feeding and nature watching. Customers can find bird food, feeders and accessories in its stores across North America. The franchise has grown to more than 300 locations by serving a loyal community of bird enthusiasts.<h2>Petland</h2><ul><li><a href="https://petland.com/franchise-opportunities/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $315,500 - $1,080,500</li><li>Unit Count: 200+ worldwide</li></ul>Petland has been around since 1967 and now operates worldwide. The stores sell pets, food, and supplies, and also focus on animal care and adoption programs. Franchisees benefit from a long history, strong systems and an international presence.<h2>Ben's Barketplace</h2><ul><li><a href="https://bensbarketplace.com/own-a-bens/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $241,500 - $414,500</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;10</li></ul>Ben’s Barketplace is a small chain that sells premium food, treats, toys and other essentials for pets. The brand puts a big focus on healthy diets and natural products for dogs and cats. With 10 locations, it has built its reputation around community and local service.<h2>Pet Depot</h2><ul><li><a href="https://petdepot.net/retail-franchise/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$177,500 - $1,734,500</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;22&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Pet Depot runs in different formats, from full pet stores to veterinary hospitals and smaller Barkery shops. The company is known for carrying natural pet foods and giving franchisees strong buying power and marketing help. Owners get the backing of a big brand while still being able to keep a local, independent feel.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-earthwise-pet-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2725581">EarthWise Pet</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.earthwisepetfranchise.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $486,500 - $863,000</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;160+</li></ul>EarthWise Pet focuses on natural food, grooming and wellness products for dogs and cats. Many stores include self-wash stations and professional grooming services. With more than 160 locations, it combines specialty retail with growing consumer demand for healthy pet care.<h2>The Healthy Animal</h2><ul><li><a href="http://www.thehealthyanimal.com/franchise/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$101,700 - $198,700</li><li>Unit Count: 2</li></ul>The Healthy Animal is a very small but growing brand with just two locations. It focuses on natural, healthy food and products for pets. Owners get the chance to build a business in a niche with strong local connections..<h2>Woof Gang Bakery&nbsp;</h2><ul><li><a href="https://franchise.woofgangbakery.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $184,420 - $506,620</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;90+</li></ul>Woof Gang Bakery is a pet shop that also offers grooming and fresh-baked treats for dogs. The stores stand out for their bright look, boutique-style products, and personal service. With more than 90 locations, the brand has become well known in the pet retail market.<h2>Wag N' Wash</h2><ul><li><a href="https://wagnwashfranchising.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range: $520,520 - $1,357,600</li><li>Unit Count: 25+</li></ul>Wag N’ Wash is a pet store that sells food, toys and grooming products while also giving owners a place to wash their pets. The shops are designed to feel fun and welcoming for the local community. By mixing retail with services, the brand brings in steady foot traffic and repeat customers.<h2>Paw Street Market</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.pawstreetmarket.com/service/franchise-inquiries/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pawstreetmarket.com/service/franchise-inquiries/">Contact franchisor</a></li><li>Unit Count: 6 (Canada)</li></ul>Paw Street Market is a Canadian pet retail chain with six locations. It offers food, treats and supplies for dogs and cats. The brand focuses on local service and specialty products.<h2>Trophy Pet Foods</h2><a href="https://www.trophypetfoods.co.uk/franchise-opportunities/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a>Investment Range: £13,995 minimumUnit Count: 11 (U.K.)Trophy Pet Foods is a U.K.-based franchise that delivers British-made, natural pet food straight to customers’ doors. Franchisees act as nutritional advisors, offering free consultations and building lasting relationships with pet owners while providing ethically approved, premium recipes. With a proven system and strong consumer demand for quality and convenience, Trophy gives owners the chance to run a flexible business rooted in care for pets.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-hounds-town-usas-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2721298">Hounds Town USA</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.houndstownfranchise.com/">Franchise Website</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$475,875 - $1,278,489</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;75+</li></ul>Hounds Town USA offers day care, boarding, grooming and pet taxi services. Facilities are designed for fun, safe and affordable pet care. With more than 75 units, the franchise is growing quickly in the booming pet services sector.Spending on pets is at an all-time high, and demand shows no signs of slowing down. From small specialty shops to nationwide chains, these franchises give owners different ways to serve pet families. For anyone looking to run a business, it’s a chance to step into a growing market built around the bond people have with their pets.For more information on pet-related franchise opportunities, check out these related stories on 1851:<ul><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/dogtrainingelite/dog-training-elite-franchisees-go-from-the-oil-fields-to-the-dog-park-2726257">Dog Training Elite Franchisees Go From the Oil Fields to the Dog Park</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/petwants/how-pet-wants-franchisees-rapidly-grow-their-businesses-from-mobile-to-brick-and-mortar-locations-2726266#growing-a-franchise">How Pet Wants Franchisees Rapidly Grow Their Businesses from Mobile to Brick-and-Mortar Locations</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/petbar/petbar-franchise-opportunity-boutique-pet-grooming-2729681">How petbar Makes Pets and Their Owners Happy as Part of the Family in a Clean and Fun Environment</a></li></ul>

The Top 15 Pet Supplies and Retail Franchises for 2025

The Top 15 Pet Supplies and Retail Franchises for 2026

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