Coming to America: Five International Franchises That Found Success in the U.S.

Franchising can be a great way to expand a business on a global scale. The franchising structure can streamline the process for businesses to move into foreign markets more efficiently, and franchising can be a more cost-effective expansion model, too.

These five concepts are not only established in their home countries, but also in the United States, and they reign as the globetrotting leaders in the wide world of franchising. 

Check them out — no passport required.

Tim Hortons

• Country of Origin: Canada
• U.S. Headquarters: Miami, Florida

Tim Hortons has nearly 3,700 locations in its home country, and with the Canadian chain serving more coffee than any other brand in the United States (aside from Seattle-based Starbucks), the fast-food franchise leads Franchise Direct’s Top 100 Global Franchises at Number 15 overall.

H&R Block

• Country of Origin: Canada 
• U.S. Headquarters: Kansas City, Missouri

Tax season may be over, but H&R Block is here to stay as the brand continues to grow its estimated 10,265-plus unit financial and accounting service franchise throughout the U.S. and Canada. H&R Block ranks 24 on the Top 100 Global Franchises 2021 list. 

InterContinental Hotels and Resorts

• Country of Origin: England
• U.S. Headquarters: Atlanta, Georgia

This English hospitality and hotel management leader follows right behind H&R Block at the 25th spot from Franchise Direct’s Top 100 Global Franchises in 2021. With an estimated 5,895 units across all of Holiday Hospitality Franchising, LLC, prospective franchisees can expect growth across the franchisor’s dozens of brands such as Hotel Indigo and Holiday Inn.

PIRTEK USA

• Country of Origin: Australia
• U.S. Headquarters: TBD

PIRTEK USA is a new-to-the-United States hydraulic hose and repair franchise from Australia that is positioned in 28th place on Franchise Direct’s Top 100 Global Franchises 2021 list. Although it has no current United States base, the Aussie brand is accepting USA applicants for its B2B repair concept that has more than 40 years of franchising experience.

Paris Baguette*

• Country of Origin: South Korea
• U.S. Headquarters: Moonachie, New Jersey

The fast-casual bakery brand has an estimated 4,000 units worldwide and a menu that includes fresh baked goods, including sandwiches, pastries and hot and cold beverages.