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Brands turn to franchising when their model has proven itself to be scalable, profitable and appealing. Whether a brand is on the younger side or fully established, franchising provides a great path to growth when corporate-owned locations have worked through challenges to experience success and feel prepared to take on development efforts. Here are some brands who pressed go on franchising in 2018.

Vio Med Spa

<a href="https://www.viomedspa.com/own-a-vio/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=brands-that-became-franchises-in-2018-and-whats-next-2708688" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="text-decoration-line:none" target="_blank">Vio Med Spa</a> bills itself as a healthy&nbsp;aesthetic enhancement alternative to expensive, invasive procedures. The brand&rsquo;s offerings include facials, injectables and body sculpting in a welcoming and comfortable space. Vio Med Spa staffs are comprised of medical professionals who offer individualized services to customers to help them achieve their skincare/aesthetic goals. The brand&rsquo;s business model places a lot of emphasis on customer service to build a long-term relationship with customers, one of its key market differentiators. They also have a diverse range of offerings which allows franchisees to have multiple revenue streams. 

Fat Tuesday

<a href="https://fattuesday.com/international-franchisee-information/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=brands-that-became-franchises-in-2018-and-whats-next-2708688" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="text-decoration-line:none" target="_blank">Fat Tuesday</a>, a sister concept to the Louisiana-based chain New Orleans Original Daiquiris, specializes in frozen drinks and bringing the party atmosphere of New Orleans to tourist destinations throughout the U.S. and beyond. The brand has operated for more than 30 years and is established in many vacation destinations. Fat Tuesday turned to franchising in 2018 as part of an aggressive expansion effort aimed at bringing Fat Tuesday&rsquo;s unique, established concept to new cities. The brand&rsquo;s unique business model has cornered its market; few competitors exist in the quick-service frozen drink segment, giving Fat Tuesday opportunity in its strategic pursuit of growth. 

Home Clean Heroes*

<a href="https://homecleanheroesfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=brands-that-became-franchises-in-2018-and-whats-next-2708688" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="text-decoration-line:none" target="_blank">Home Clean Heroes</a> provides simplified, modernized and flexible home cleaning services in various customizable packages that plug into the individual schedules of its customers. The first indoor home service brand under the Buzz Franchise Brands umbrella, Home Clean Heroes adopted the applicable systems from its sister brands to position its franchise offering as one backed by a proven formula. Home Clean Heroes turns to franchising with a tested model and strategic development plan conceived by incubating the brand at a local and regional level.

I Heart Mac &amp; Cheese

<a href="http://www.iheartmacandcheese.com/franchise/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=brands-that-became-franchises-in-2018-and-whats-next-2708688" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="text-decoration-line:none" target="_blank">I Heart Mac &amp; Cheese</a> is a Florida-based restaurant concept that specializes in customizable macaroni and cheese and grilled cheese sandwiches. Making a real impact on a classic comfort food with its made-to-order, personalized offering, I Heart Mac &amp; Cheese grew its popularity and customer base in its home state for 2 years before beginning to offer franchise opportunities in 2018. The brand can operate in limited real estate due to the lack of fryers or large machinery needed to serve menu items, something the brand hopes accelerates expansion across America. 

Taboonette

<a href="https://taboonette.com/franchise/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=brands-that-became-franchises-in-2018-and-whats-next-2708688" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="text-decoration-line:none" target="_blank">Taboonette Middleterranean Kitchen</a>, the fast casual spinoff of famous New York restaurant Taboon, launched its franchise opportunity in September. Taboonette&rsquo;s menu is based off of the same slow-cooked, healthy fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern fare made famous at Taboon, modified for a quick-service setting. The brand pointed to the established reputation of its parent restaurant as evidence of a proven concept &ldquo;rather than a trendy gimmick,&quot; Taboonette president Danny Hodak said in the release. 

Stacked Pickle

<a href="https://stackedpickle.com/franchise/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=brands-that-became-franchises-in-2018-and-whats-next-2708688" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="text-decoration-line:none" target="_blank">Stacked Pickle</a> is an Indianapolis, Indiana-based sports bar and restaurant that prides itself on a family-friendly, community-centric atmosphere and a great menu at a low price point. Former NFL player Gary Brackett has been at the helm of Stacked Pickle since 2014, expanding what was once a neighborhood sports bar into 9 corporate locations throughout Indiana. The brand turned to franchising because of Brackett&rsquo;s prior experience in the industry, whereas a franchisee, he saw how a different sports bar concept than the one he was attached to could capitalize on the opportunity in a crowded segment. Stacked Pickle has two franchised locations in development in Houston and Orlando, Florida, and is focusing on expansion in Missouri and Colorado. 

Big Blue Swim School

<a href="https://www.bigblueswimschool.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=brands-that-became-franchises-in-2018-and-whats-next-2708688" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="text-decoration-line:none" target="_blank">Big Blue Swim School</a> was founded in 2010 by competitive swimmers John Lonegran and Chris DeJong to help kids of all ages and levels develop swim skills. Big Blue Swim School hires full-time teachers who go through rigorous, continuous training to provide each child with personalized lessons and a consistent learning environment. Facilities are designed to unique specifications that promote safety and comfortability and lessons come at an affordable, flat fee that can be reduced even further if customers choose Big Blue&rsquo;s recurring service offering. The brand&rsquo;s emphasis on operations and technology drew attention from investors, allowing the Big Blue to pursue franchising to achieve growth beyond its Chicago-area presence, with a goal of opening 21 locations by 2021.

Brands That Became Franchises in 2018 and What’s Next

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Learn more about emerging and established brands that began offering franchise agreements in 2018 to take their concepts far and wide.

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

3 Keys to Franchise Success with Pet Wants: Passion, Support, and Hard Work

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How This Health Care Professional Turned a Personal Pet Problem Into a Growing Business With Pet Wants

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Lawn Doctor

Photo of former Lawn Doctor franchise owners Todd & Janis Rucker

Former Lawn Doctor Employees Journey Back to Ownership Led to Succession Success Story

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FSC Franchise Co.

image of the brass tap and FSC Franchise Co's ownership effect

The Brass Tap: Why This Bar Franchise Thrives with Strong Margins and Evolving Offerings

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Keke's Breakfast Cafe

How Keke’s Breakfast Cafe Builds Local Demand Through National Marketing Leadership

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Prince St. Pizza Partners With Dave’s Hot Chicken Franchisee for National Growth

prince-st-pizza-partners-with-daves-hot-chicken-franchisee-for-national-growth

KKR to Acquire Nothing Bundt Cakes in $2 Billion Deal -  1851 Franchise

KKR to Acquire Nothing Bundt Cakes in $2 Billion Deal

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FTC Settlement Puts New Focus on Franchise Disclosure Standards - 1851 Franchise

FTC Settlement Puts New Focus on Franchise Disclosure Standards

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Applebee’s Franchisee Files for Bankruptcy as Dine Brands Moves to Acquire 53 Units - 1851 Franchise

Applebee’s Franchisee Files for Bankruptcy as Dine Brands Moves to Acquire 53 Units

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

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A class-action lawsuit filed late last month in U.S. District Court in Chicago&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/lawsuit-accuses-mcdonalds-deception-mcrib-has-no-rib-meat/">accuses McDonald's of deceptive advertising over its iconic McRib sandwich</a>, arguing that the product’s name and marketing mislead consumers into believing it contains actual pork rib meat. The plaintiffs, representing several states, claim the fast-food chain has intentionally cultivated hype and scarcity around the McRib through limited-time releases and advertising campaigns, most recently bringing the sandwich back in November. "The name 'McRib' is a deliberate sleight of hand. By including the word ‘Rib’ in the name of the sandwich, McDonald's knowingly markets the sandwich in a way that deceives reasonable consumers, who reasonably (but mistakenly) believe that a product named the 'McRib' will include at least some meaningful quantity of actual pork rib meat, which commands a premium price on the market," the lawsuit said. "McDonald's does this despite knowing that the sandwich in fact does not contain any meaningful quantity of actual pork rib meat — indeed, none at all."Instead, the complaint alleges that the sandwich contains no rib meat at all and is made from restructured pork derived from lower-grade cuts.&nbsp;"Put simply: consumers have been materially misled en masse as a result of McDonald's deceptive labeling and marketing into purchasing sandwiches that they would not otherwise have purchased, or would only have paid less for, had they known the truth," the lawsuit said.McDonald’s strongly disputed the claims. "This lawsuit distorts the facts, and many of the claims are inaccurate,” McDonald’s said in a statement. “Food quality and safety are at the heart of everything we do — that's why we're committed to using real, quality ingredients across our entire menu. Our fan-favorite McRib sandwich is made with 100% pork sourced from farmers and suppliers across the U.S. We've always been transparent about our ingredients so guests can make the right choice for them."<a href="https://1851franchise.com/the-mcrib-has-returned-is-mcdonalds-bouncing-back-2714359">The McRib</a>, first introduced in 1981, has since become a cult favorite, cycling on and off menus over the decades and achieving nationwide availability in 2020.Read the full CBS News article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/lawsuit-accuses-mcdonalds-deception-mcrib-has-no-rib-meat/">here</a>.

The class-action suit claims the cult-favorite sandwich’s name, shape and pricing deceive customers about what they’re really buying.

McDonald’s Faces Lawsuit Alleging McRib Contains No Actual Rib Meat

mcdonalds-faces-lawsuit-alleging-mcrib-contains-no-actual-rib-meat

<a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500">Entrepreneur’s 2026 Franchise 500</a> has arrived, and it demonstrates a few key shifts within the industry. The ranking, widely recognized as the gold standard, weighs key data points — including costs and fees, size and growth, support and brand strength — to determine the final list. This year, the results point to an industry that’s both leaning into legacy brands and embracing niche, innovative ones that address the shifting business and investing landscape.<h2>The Top 10 Brands of 2026</h2>Familiar powerhouses dominate the top 10, but notably, Jersey Mike’s moved into the No. 1 spot, dethroning Taco Bell.<ol><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-jersey-mikes-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2720908">Jersey Mike’s</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/taco-bell-franchise-deep-dive-2720788">Taco Bell</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-dunkin-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2720835">Dunkin’</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-ace-hardware-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2720851">Ace Hardware</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/kumon-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-for-2025-2729462">Kumon</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-wingstop-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2720864">Wingstop</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-the-ups-store-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2727441">The UPS Store</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-hampton-by-hiltons-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2722575">Hampton by Hilton</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/culvers-franchise-costs-fees-roi-2025-2720843">Culver’s</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-mcdonalds-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-for-2025-2720737#stories">McDonald’s</a></li></ol><h2>Other Shifts and Market Trends</h2>While the top 10 features familiar quick-service restaurants, the ranking also highlights the popularity of other community-focused and need-based models.Beyond the household names, the 2026 ranking highlights the strength of home services franchises; the “care economy,” with both childcare and senior care models; and other specialized industries that were previously fragmented by many independent organizations.For the broader economy, the Franchise 500 proves that franchising remains one of the most stable vehicles for wealth creation. Top brands this year suggest investors are no longer looking for just the biggest name or newest fad. Rather, they’re gravitating toward brands with strong infrastructure and recession-resistant, utility-focused models.View the full ranking&nbsp;<a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500">here</a>.

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

The latest rankings reveal a new leader, a surge in the “care economy,” and an emphasis on stability, infrastructure and recession resistance. 

The 2026 Franchise 500: New Rankings and Market Shifts

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<a href="https://princestreetpizza.com/">Prince St. Pizza</a> has partnered with a&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-daves-hot-chicken-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2723529">Dave’s Hot Chicken</a> franchisee to support its national expansion,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pizzamarketplace.com/news/prince-st-pizza-partners-with-daves-hot-chicken-franchisee-for-national-expansion/#:~:text=Prince%20St.%20Pizza%2C%20a%20New%20York%2Dbased%20pizzeria,the%20country%2C%20according%20to%20a%20press%20release.">Pizza Marketplace recently reported</a>. The New York-based brand has joined forces with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawrencekourie/">Lawrence Kourie</a>, founder and largest franchisee of Dave’s Hot Chicken, to grow its footprint across the country. Kourie’s experience opening and operating locations in multiple markets will help the brand as it enters new territories."Lawrence has built and operated one of the fastest-expanding restaurant concepts in the country, but what stands out is his disciplined approach to growth and brand integrity," said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawrence-longo-342856/?skipRedirect=true">Lawrence Longo</a>, CEO of Prince St. Pizza. "He understands how to develop a concept without losing what made it special in the first place, which is critical as we enter this next phase."The expansion will use Kourie’s existing infrastructure and operations to introduce Prince St. Pizza into new markets. Each location will aim to reflect the same experience as the brand’s original Nolita shop."I have spent years evaluating restaurant concepts, and it is rare to find one that delivers both a strong product and a clear identity," Kourie said. "What Prince St. has built is difficult to truly replicate. The focus now is on growing the brand in a way that preserves that foundation while introducing it to new communities."Kourie is a key operator within the Dave’s Hot Chicken system,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/daves-hot-chicken-sold-to-roark-capital-in-1-billion-deal-to-fuel-global-expansion-2729557#stories">which Roark Capital acquired in a $1 billion deal in 2025</a>. The partnership connects Prince St. Pizza to an operator with experience scaling a brand that has attracted major private equity investment.Read the full article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pizzamarketplace.com/news/prince-st-pizza-partners-with-daves-hot-chicken-franchisee-for-national-expansion/#:~:text=Prince%20St.%20Pizza%2C%20a%20New%20York%2Dbased%20pizzeria,the%20country%2C%20according%20to%20a%20press%20release.">here</a>.Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.1851growthclub.com">www.1851growthclub.com</a> and start your journey.

Prince St. Pizza is teaming up with a leading Dave’s Hot Chicken franchisee to expand nationwide, tapping proven operator experience to drive growth.

According to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260312305776/en/RF-Expands-Residential-and-Commercial-Services-Portfolio-with-Investment-in-Precision-Garage-Door-Service-Franchisee">recent release</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://rf-partners.com/">RF Investment Partners</a>, a group focused on flexible capital solutions and value-add support to lower-middle-market businesses, has teamed up with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.burlingtoncp.us/">Burlington Capital Partners</a>, a group focused on family, founder and operator-owned lower-middle-market businesses, to acquire a prominent multi-territory&nbsp;<a href="https://franchise.neighborly.com/precision-door">Precision Garage Door Service</a> franchise.The investment marks the seventh platform for RF within the service space. Precision Garage Door Service, which is part of the larger&nbsp;<a href="https://www.neighborly.com/">Neighborly</a> ecosystem, specializes in the installation, maintenance and repair of garage doors.&nbsp;“We are proud to partner with management and the Burlington team to support continued growth by investing in people and operational excellence,”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-fidler-6787143">Peter Fidler</a>, managing partner and co-founder of RF Investment Partners, said in the release. “The sector continues to present compelling opportunities given the essential nature of garage door repair, and we look forward to building on Precision’s strong foundation to drive long-term value.”This deal is part of the broader trend toward institutionalized multi-unit and multi-territory operators. Previously, franchising was largely viewed as the place for “mom-and-pop” businesses. And while franchises remain small, local businesses, the aggressive entry of private equity firms focused on operators (franchisees) rather than the brand (franchisor) is bringing new energy to small business ownership.Read the full release&nbsp;<a href="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260312305776/en/RF-Expands-Residential-and-Commercial-Services-Portfolio-with-Investment-in-Precision-Garage-Door-Service-Franchisee">here</a>.Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.1851growthclub.com">www.1851growthclub.com</a> and start your journey.

Design with Precision Garage Door Service team members

The strategic investment marks the seventh residential services platform for RF and reflects a growing institutional desire for high-potential, operator-led franchises.

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

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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

newks-eatery-franchise-costs-fees-profit

Beef 'O' Brady's Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2026

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: Beef ‘O’ Brady’s is a family sports pub concept built around community, casual dining and lifelong local loyalty.

beef-o-bradys-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data

Visiting Angels Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2026

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: Visiting Angels is a senior home care franchise focused on in-home support for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

visiting-angels-franchise-costs-fees-profit

BrightStar Care Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2026

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: BrightStar Care is a home health care franchise that provides both medical and non-medical services.

franchise-deep-dive-brightstar-cares-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data

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.

Brands That Became Franchises in 2018 and What’s Next

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