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Lightbridge Academy, The Solution for Working Parents&reg;, <a href="https://lightbridgeacademy.1851franchise.com/details/2703816/Lightbridge-Academy-s-Solution-for-Working-Parents-and-Focus-on-Care-for-the-Entire-Family-Make-it-a-Standout-Franchise-Opportunity?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=lightbridge-academys-corporate-advantage-program-provides-incredible-value-to-franchisees-parents-and-employers-2704125" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">differentiates itself from other child care franchises in the segment</a> with its Circle of Care philosophy, extending its support from the child to the parents and then throughout the local community. One way the brand accomplishes this is through its <a href="http://lightbridgeacademy.com/corporate-programs/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=lightbridge-academys-corporate-advantage-program-provides-incredible-value-to-franchisees-parents-and-employers-2704125" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Corporate Advantage Program</a>.

Through the program, <a href="https://lightbridgeacademy.1851franchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=lightbridge-academys-corporate-advantage-program-provides-incredible-value-to-franchisees-parents-and-employers-2704125" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lightbridge Academy</a> partners with area businesses and corporations meeting its program requirements to provide a discount to their employees. The benefit of this program is threefold: employers are able to offer a valuable child care benefit; their employees receive a discount to a high quality early education program for their children; and Lightbridge Academy franchisees are able to build enrollment and support the needs of dual-income working families.

&ldquo;The Corporate Advantage Program provides value to parents, employers and franchisees,&rdquo; said Martha Echevarria, enrollment manager at Lightbridge Franchise Company. &ldquo;The program is extremely well received by parents, not only because of the savings, which can be over $1,000 per year, but also because of additional services such as back-up care, preferred status on waiting lists and most importantly, the peace of mind necessary for them focus on their busy day at work. Employers understand that productivity depends on their employees having reliable child care and franchisees are able to serve more dual income families - a key demographic for us.&rdquo;

Former center director Kim Cafferata, now franchise business coach at Lightbridge Franchise Company, has experienced the Corporate Advantage Program from the center level and through her relationships with the franchisees she supports in building their businesses.

&ldquo;Another benefit of the Corporate Advantage Program is the targeted manner in which our franchisees are able to spread the word about Lightbridge Academy to employees working in businesses in our community. Word-of-mouth influences a parent&rsquo;s decision and they often look for a referral from someone they trust,&rdquo; said Cafferata. &ldquo;It is helpful to answer many preliminary questions at company benefits fairs and helps to build trust with many first time or expecting parents.&rdquo;

Started in 2009, the Lightbridge Academy Corporate Advantage Program is available at no cost to qualified companies meeting their criteria which includes having 50 or more employees in proximity to their centers and willing to share information about Lightbridge Academy. In exchange, participating companies enjoy being an employer of choice and offer the many benefits associated with a child care program.

&ldquo;The Corporate Advantage Program is just one example of how Lightbridge Academy&rsquo;s approach encompasses all those within our Circle of Care,&rdquo; said Brenda Febbo, chief marketing officer of Lightbridge Franchise Company. &ldquo;Lightbridge Academy offers solutions for the working parent and this program is a perfect example of one of the many ways we support them. Participating companies understand these types of benefits enable their employees to be more productive, less stressed, and in turn, develop a strong loyalty to their company. It clearly benefits the employee and the employer, and most importantly, the child receives a one-of-a-kind educational experience.

Currently, the 90+ unit franchise system attributes 28 percent of the company&rsquo;s enrollment to the Corporate Advantage Program.

&ldquo;One major advantage for Lightbridge Academy franchisees is that our marketing team manages the outreach to companies in the area,&rdquo; said Echevarria. &ldquo;In addition to franchisees forwarding requests, we have established relationships with large companies, which have branches across the country. When opening centers in new markets, the local branches of these companies help to provide an enrollment base before franchisees even open the doors to their center. We provide all the information necessary for their Human Resources departments to establish this child care benefit.&rdquo;

In addition to the outreach done by the Lightbridge marketing team, parents looking to enroll their children help bring on companies to the program, as well.

&ldquo;Prospective families looking to enroll often need assistance getting this program set up with their employer,&rdquo; said Echevarria. &ldquo;They&rsquo;ll inquire about a discount, find out the program exists, and then ask us to reach out to their human resources department. It&rsquo;s a win-win for everyone. We provide a valuable benefit to a company that enables their employees to save thousands of dollars a year while receiving quality child care and Lightbridge franchisees receive the enrollment necessary to build healthy businesses.&rdquo;

Cafferata adds, &ldquo;Parents seek referrals from someone they trust. They don&rsquo;t know the schools or centers in the area and their employer can support them by providing some options. Plus, the program gives companies a competitive advantage and provides reliable care so their employee is more productive and able to focus on their work because they know their child is in good hands.&rdquo;

As the cost of child care continues to rise, programs like the Corporate Advantage Program help bridge the gap for parents looking for a quality early education program that they can afford. It often gives them the boost needed to make this important decision.

&ldquo;Lightbridge offers a quality early childhood program for the children and, in some cases, a gap may exist from a cost standpoint. For some, this savings can make all the difference,&rdquo; said Echevarria.

The Corporate Advantage Program is just one of many that set Lightbridge Academy apart from other centers in the segment. The fast-growing franchise brand is primed for a record-setting year of growth, with plans to expand in Florida, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio and Virginia. For more information about Lightbridge Academy franchise opportunities, please visit <a href="http://lightbridgeacademyfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=lightbridge-academys-corporate-advantage-program-provides-incredible-value-to-franchisees-parents-and-employers-2704125" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://lightbridgeacademyfranchise.com/</a>.

&nbsp;

Lightbridge Academy’s Corporate Advantage Program Provides Incredible Value to  Franchisees, Parents and Employers

1851 Franchise

Corporate-run program provides leads for franchisees, discounts to parents and reliable care that employers can count on

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

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

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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

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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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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

rf-burlington-precision-garage-door-acquisition

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.


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

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

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

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Lightbridge Academy’s Corporate Advantage Program Provides Incredible Value to Franchisees, Parents and Employers

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