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<ul><li>Brand:&nbsp;<a href="https://onigillyfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=onigilly-franchise-emerging-franchises-2026-koji-kanematsu-2731305" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Onigilly</a></li><li>Number of Units: 7</li><li>Initial Investment Range:&nbsp;$265,132 - $606,976</li><li>ROI Potential: $1,415,971 - $1,593,862 (total gross sales, FY 2024)</li><li>Units Sold Last Year: 5</li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/onigilly">1851 Franchise Newsroom</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/growth-club/onigilly-japanese-kitchen-franchise">1851 Growth Club Profile</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/onigilly-franchise-costs-fees-profits-and-data-for-2025-2728816">Franchise Deep Dive</a></li></ul>Onigilly has officially earned a place on 1851 Franchise’s&nbsp;2026 Fastest Growing Emerging Franchises list — a recognition that highlights brands shaping the future of franchising through innovation, momentum and strong demand. As interest from franchisees continues to climb, Onigilly is entering a pivotal phase of expansion.“We designed our concept: it’s portable, but it’s like sandwiches and burgers,” Kanematsu said. “It’s portable like burgers and sandwiches, and it’s healthy, like Japanese healthy food. It’s like fast food, but a healthier version — the niche and unique Japanese option.”<h2>History and Origin Story</h2>Onigilly took shape in the San Francisco Bay Area after founder Koji Kanematsu moved to the United States in 2006 and struggled to find onigiri. He also noticed how often school lunches fell short and wanted to offer a more nourishing, grab-and-go option. The brand traces its roots to 2008, starting with a food cart and growing into multiple Bay Area locations, with a stated mission of making onigiri a more familiar staple for American diners.“It’s been 18 years since we started,” Kanematsu said. “We didn’t scale. We didn’t want to scale at early stages because I felt we were not ready because my vision was to become like Subway, but the Japanese version. So, we needed to design a system first — supply chain and co-packing and automation.”<h2>Why the Franchise Stands Out</h2>Onigilly’s model is built to be easy to run: a small footprint, no hood-driven cooking and an operation designed to keep labor light while delivering the same product every time. Onigilly’s franchise positioning highlights a small-format build (marketed as under 500 square feet) and strong sales potential, a combination that puts it in a different lane than many full-kitchen fast-casual concepts.“Our requirement is small — 250 square feet minimum,” Kanematsu said. “We don’t need seating space. We need a sink and power, but you don’t need restaurant experience, and you don’t need heavy vapors. We use automation — not 100% robotic, but 30% to 40% — so our labor is low.”<h2>System Growth and 2026 Momentum</h2>Over the past year, the biggest shift has been moving from a long-tested single-operator playbook to a franchising pipeline with real estate momentum built in. Instead of asking franchisees to start at square one on site selection, the brand has leaned into pre-negotiated shopping center opportunities so candidates can align a lease and franchise agreement on the same timeline.“We started franchising last September. We officially got approved for the FDD, and now we already have four or five committed,” Kanematsu said. “They are already signed or ready to sign the agreement.”<h2>Why Now Is the Moment for New Franchisees</h2>In shopping centers, most guests make fast decisions. Onigilly is built for that kind of traffic — quick to order, easy to carry and different enough to stand out from the standard food court routine.“People’s options are to go to your food court and get a heavy, greasy meal or get a pretzel, but we added a third option,” Kanematsu said. “So we are popular in shopping centers.”<h2>Looking Ahead</h2>Heading into 2026, Onigilly plans to keep growing with a measured approach, lining up strong operators with the right sites and focusing on expansion in California markets it knows well. The goal is to help new owners get their first unit running smoothly, then scale from there. The brand’s broader ambition remains national accessibility for onigiri, but the near-term focus is disciplined execution and repeatable openings.“Next year, we keep the same strategy. We are actively looking for more locations in the San Francisco Bay Area and San Diego,” Kanematsu said. “We could go a little faster as we learn this year.”With a compact footprint, a simplified build and a site-first approach to development, Onigilly is positioning itself to grow without losing the consistency it spent years building. As the brand adds new locations and deepens its presence in key California markets, it is aiming to give franchisees a clear path to launch, learn and scale at a steady pace.Stay tuned throughout the rest of the month for 1851 Franchise's full Fastest Growing Emerging Franchises series to explore the other innovative brands making waves in the industry.

Onigilly - 2026 Fastest Growing Emerging Franchises - 1851 Franchise

1851 Franchise’s Fastest Growing Franchises: Onigilly

1851 Franchise

How Onigilly is bringing portable Japanese onigiri to high-traffic shopping centers with a small-footprint model built for efficient operations and measured franchise growth.

1851 Franchise’s Fastest Growing Emerging Franchises of 2026: Onigilly

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Right at Home

Right at Home Margaret Haynes?Named 2026 McKnight’s Women of Distinction Hall of Honor Honoree

Right at Home Leader Margaret Haynes Named 2026 McKnight’s Women of Distinction Hall of Honor Honoree

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Wild Bill's Craft Beverage Company

How This Franchisee Built a Sustainable Business With Wild Bill’s Craft BeverageCo.

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Layne's Chicken Fingers

Photo of person dipping Layne's Chicken Fingers in sauce

Why Layne’s Chicken Fingers Shines as the Real Chicken Finger Contender: What Franchisees Should Know

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Right at Home Targets Clermont County and Nearby Rural Communities for In-Home Care Growth

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Minuteman Press International

Minuteman Press franchise team, Galveston, Texas.

Minuteman Press Franchise Owner Dennis Murray Talks Career Change to Printing in Galveston, TX

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McDonald’s and Burger King Take the QSR Burger Wars to Social Media

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Yum! Brands Pizza Hut Sale - 1851 Franchise

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

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Restaurants Stand Out in 2025 Hiring as Consumers Look for Simple Treats

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Photo of SONIC franchise logo against blue sky backdrop

KBP Brands Acquires 78 SONIC Locations Across Five States

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

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

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

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

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

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

The 7 Best Drive-Thru Coffee Franchises To Buy in 2026

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When assessing potential franchise ownership opportunities, there’s an important question: what kind of support do franchisors provide? Understanding the unique operational,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/chapter-11-training-and-supporting-your-franchisees-2722733#stories">training</a> and strategic support systems available (which can vary by franchisor) can help prospective franchise owners consider whether a brand is properly aligned with their resources and ultimate goals in terms of both profits and growth.<h2>Expert Insight: Real-Time Access, Operational Guidance</h2>What kind of support do franchisors provide? An accessible franchisor can take the prospective franchise owner far. And sometimes there’s a benefit to working with a smaller franchisor who can prioritize the delivery of personalized support. Taking advantage of the opportunity to access franchisor leadership – an important part of the franchise Discovery Day experience – can also pay dividends down the line.“Right now, I literally have franchisees texting me, and we're on the phone most of the time the same day or I answer via text. So, take advantage of getting into founders’ brains and getting to see C-level people as much as possible while you can,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.booxkeepingfranchise.com/">BooXkeeping</a> CEO&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxemma/">Max Emma</a>. “I always tell my franchises, ‘Take advantage of that. Because once we become bigger, as much as I want to spend time with you, I may not be able to get to you right away.’”<h2>Types of Support to Expect</h2><ol><li>Operational Support – The franchisor often provides daily guidance, from troubleshooting problems to giving advice on workflow improvements. Direct access to leadership can accelerate problem-solving. &nbsp;</li><li>Training Programs – Most&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/the-role-of-franchisors-in-supporting-low-cost-franchise-success-2725551">franchisors</a> offer structured onboarding as well as initial and ongoing training to ensure franchise owners stay up to speed on best practices and industry trends. &nbsp;</li><li>Communication Channels – Weekly town halls, online messaging platforms and focused support staff can provide franchisees multiple ways to ask questions and receive feedback in a timely manner. &nbsp;</li><li>Mentorship Opportunities – Smaller systems sometimes enable franchise owners to correspond directly with company founders or other executives who can deliver personalized insight from their franchising experience. &nbsp;</li><li>Strategic Guidance – Beyond operations, franchisors can provide advice on growth strategies, marketing campaigns and business development, assisting franchisees with the challenging process of franchise scalability.</li></ol><h2>Making the Most of Franchisor Support</h2>So, what kind of support do franchisors provide? Understanding the support structure can be a critical element of success in franchise ownership. Potential zees should assess leadership accessibility, existing training programs and the quality level of the ongoing operational guidance provided. By utilizing franchisor support in a proactive manner, new franchise owners can better navigate challenges, positioning themselves for more sustained success.The bottom line is, from launch through long-term growth,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/strategicfranchising/the-role-of-franchisor-support-in-driving-franchisee-success-2730403">franchisor support</a> can make a big impact on a franchise owner’s journey.&nbsp;“Operational support. We are available for our franchises whenever they need us,” Emma said. “In a lot of cases, it's as simple as sending us a text.”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.

What kind of support do franchisors provide?

What kind of support do franchisors provide? In this expertly sourced guide, learn more on operational guidance, training and mentorship with strategic advice for franchisee success.

What Kind of Support Do Franchisors Provide? A Guide for Prospective Franchisees

what-kind-of-support-do-franchisors-provide-a-guide

What territory rights do franchisees receive? A full comprehension of the scope, protections and boundaries of a franchise territory is critical for potential franchise owners pondering the idea of entrepreneurship. Knowing your rights can help deliver operational efficiency, prevent conflicts and guide strategic expansion that can pay dividends down the line.<h2>How Franchise Territories Are Determined</h2>Territories aren’t randomly assigned. Traditional population data remains part of an evolving process. But new tech is driving advances too — tools which provide a starting recommendation can then be refined with the franchisee.&nbsp;“There are a number of factors. There are a lot of algorithms that go into it that give you a good mix of both residential and some commercial space as well as how the different road systems allow for traffic flow. We also use mapping software,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://uwrgfranchise.com/">United Water Restoration Group</a> President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-moore/">Bob Moore</a>. “Our territories are 250,000 population. We can tweak them a little bit — shave off a zip code or two here and there, add another one there, things like that — until we come up with the appropriate territory.”<h2>Protected vs. Non-Exclusive Territories</h2>What territory rights do franchisees receive? Most — but not all — are offered&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-territories-and-exclusivity-agreements-2726485">protected</a> territories. Such protection can help ensure that franchise owners have a clear lane in which to grow their business without interference from nearby units.“Our territories are protected. Meaning, if you and I were neighbors, I could not do work in your area, and you couldn't do my work in my area — unless we invited each other,” Moore said. “So it is exclusive territory. We run monthly reports to make sure there aren't infractions.”<h2>Key Considerations for Franchisees</h2><ol><li>Understand How Territories Are Assigned – Population size, traffic patterns and geographic features can dictate territorial boundaries. &nbsp;</li><li>Check Territory Rights – It’s important to confirm whether a given territory is protected or non-exclusive, avoiding potential conflicts down the line. &nbsp;</li><li>Plan for Expansion – Franchise growth should align with both demand and operational readiness. It’s important to plan expansion properly to avoid costly mistakes. &nbsp;</li><li>Monitor Compliance – Some franchises use reporting systems and job software to minimize territorial overlap. “In our job software, if you plug in a job outside your contractual&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/integrity-franchise-group/impactoffranchiseterritoryongrowth-2727969">zip code</a>, it asks you to double-check whether it’s an open space,” Moore said. “Or if you need to contact your neighbor.”</li></ol><h2>Final Takeaways</h2>So, what territory&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-territory-rights-franchising-rules-2730020">rights</a> do franchisees receive? Protected territories can give franchise owners a reliable area to operate and build out. But overall success depends on careful planning, strong operational management and a thorough understanding of the rules of engagement necessary for nearby neighboring units. But by actively managing a territory and evaluating potential opportunities for expansion of the franchised business, prospective zees can build a thriving franchise business.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.

What territory rights do franchisees receive?

What territory rights do franchisees receive? In this guide, learn more about territory rights, including protections and expansion tips, with expert insights from UWRG President Bob Moore.

What Territory Rights Do Franchisees Receive? A Guide

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For&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/why-these-tenured-franchisees-continue-to-grow-with-trublue-2726985">Tim and Kay Diemont</a>, owning a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.trubluefranchise.com/">TruBlue Home Service Ally</a> franchise in Yorktown, Virginia, is a shared purpose. Over the past decade, the couple has built one of&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/info">TruBlue’s</a> most successful and enduring operations, all while strengthening their marriage, deepening their community connections and setting an example for what family-owned franchising can achieve.By the time TruBlue came into their lives, both Tim and Kay were ready for a new chapter.“Tim was working as a regional director of stores and in charge of the East Coast. I had been with the same architectural firm for 20 years,” Kay said. “Tim was tired of the corporate demands, traveling and wanted to be home more. He also wanted to be doing something that would be rewarding and help in our community — the community where we raised our two sons. My employer was getting ready to retire and, since [Tim and I] had always wanted to work together, the timing seemed perfect for both of us.”The couple’s shared vision aligned perfectly with&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/why-trublue-is-a-strong-franchise-choice-in-the-growing-senior-industry-2728519">TruBlue’s mission of helping seniors and busy families maintain their homes with ease and peace of mind</a>.<h2>From Marriage Partners to Business Partners</h2>Transitioning from life partners to business partners came naturally to the Diemonts.“Since we were already partners, this new partnership was an easy transition,” Kay said. “Tim knew how to manage people and had been in a leadership position for many years. I was already trained administratively and had worked in marketing for both the architectural firm and for a local mayor. So, my community connections were very strong in this area.”Their complementary skill sets have proven invaluable. A U.S. Air Force veteran originally from Michigan, Tim brought strong operational and leadership experience from his years managing retail teams. Kay, who has lived in the Yorktown area her entire life, leveraged her local relationships and administrative background to handle marketing and office management.The couple’s oldest son, Derrick, is a systems engineer who has contributed to the business over the years. “His expertise with setting up our computer needs and just his overall help with the business was and continues to be a huge plus,” Kay said.The Diemonts say that working together has improved their&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/strategicfranchising/work-life-balance-as-a-franchise-owner-is-it-possible-2728825">work-life balance</a> rather than complicating it. “Since we work together, our schedules are the same,” Kay said. “We can take as much time off as we want or need, and we enjoy traveling extensively every year.”<h2>Choosing TruBlue for Their Family’s Next Chapter</h2>When the Diemonts first began exploring franchise ownership, they were drawn to opportunities that allowed them to&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/the-top-25-franchise-brands-committed-to-serving-their-communities-2724335">serve their community</a>.“Tim was looking into a senior care franchise and at the time the one he was interested in pursuing was already taken in our area,” Kay said. “The person he was speaking with at&nbsp;<a href="https://strategicfranchising.com/">Strategic Franchising</a> mentioned a new franchise they were developing. It sounded like a perfect fit for someone who already knew managerial and handyman skills. We were one of the first to open a TruBlue, and we have been the proud owners since 2013.”The TruBlue model — focused on home maintenance, handyman services and senior safety — felt like the right blend of purpose and practicality. “Tim always had faith and knew we would be a success,” Kay said. “The model for TruBlue was perfect! Our co-workers, family and friends loved the concept, and we had customers lined up before we ever purchased our territory.”<h2>Family Ownership in Action</h2>As business partners, the Diemonts run their franchise with the same&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/how-a-franchisor-can-cultivate-a-strong-franchise-community-2722789">teamwork and communication</a> that have defined their marriage for nearly five decades.“We have great partners, who are like-minded to bounce ideas through,” Kay said. “All our employees know they can come to either one of us with a question or a problem and 98% of the time, they will get the exact response from us. The other small percentage is only due to Tim’s knowledge of certain handyman jobs and mine would be administrative questions regarding invoicing or payroll.”That united front has helped them build a loyal team and a strong reputation throughout Yorktown and the surrounding Peninsula communities. “Our client base is strong because we provide our customers with a good service at a great value, and it is continually growing,” Kay said. “Our employees are happy to be a part of our team and we are sure all of them would stay with or continue with any new owner, whether it be family or someone new.”<h2>Building a Family Legacy</h2>After more than 10 years in business, the Diemonts have watched TruBlue grow from a small emerging concept into a&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/trublue-accelerates-growth-in-2025-with-record-breaking-midyear-momentum-2730055">nationally recognized brand</a>. But for them, the most important growth has been personal — and local.“Hopefully, we have built a business that either one of our sons would be proud to carry on in the future,” Kay said. “Our client base is strong because we provide our customers with a good service, at a great value and it is continually growing.”The couple takes special pride in supporting local seniors, veterans and busy families. “Making our customers and employees happy and doing something good within our community for our seniors and veterans has been the most rewarding,” Kay said. “As a veteran and family-owned business, we take great pride in providing a service to those who have served our country and to their families. For our seniors and busy adults, providing them with peace of mind and someone they can trust in their homes is a very big deal to us as a company and as a family. Everyone’s home is their castle, and we always hope TruBlue of Yorktown makes them feel that way.”<h2>The Rewards of Working Together</h2>When asked about the hardest or most surprising part of running a family business, Kay didn’t hesitate: “Probably how easy it has been to work together. Nothing has been hard about it for us personally. Our skill sets matched pretty good.”For Tim and Kay, the past decade has been defined by collaboration, connection and community — and the next one promises more of the same.“Overall, everything we dreamed about running our own business has come true,” Tim said. “This is a great way of life.”

Discover how Tim and Kay Diemont leveraged their personal partnership to create a thriving, lasting legacy in the home maintenance franchise space.

Why This Couple Left Corporate America to Build a Community-Focused TruBlue Business in the Town Where They Raised Their Sons

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

Hardee's Franchise - ARC Burger Lawsuit - 1851 Franchise

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

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

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As the health and wellness business in America continues to fill out, the fitness industry is growing alongside it. The industry now generates&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/industry/gym-fitness-franchises/5599/">over $7 billion</a> in annual revenue, with a revenue increase of nearly 3% in 2023 alone.Rebounding since COVID, both big box and boutique franchises have shown&nbsp;<a href="https://athletechnews.com/fitness-franchising-by-the-numbers-10-key-stats/">membership growth</a>, with premium establishments up 21% compared to a whopping enrollment bump of almost 70% on the budget gym side.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>The Pros And Cons Of Big Box Gyms</h3>When it comes to choosing the right fitness franchise, there are pros and cons to each.Big box gyms are able to cast a wider net, attracting a clientele ranging anywhere from newbie to seasoned veteran, with a lower cost of entry potentially attracting even the marginally curious to the idea of a well-established, properly marketed brand.&nbsp;Big box and other low-cost fitness franchises are also able to capitalize on services like personal training and retail amenities, increasing revenue.Driven by recurring membership fees, big box gyms generally cost less. However, the wider net cast in terms of building a clientele, tends to require more equipment in a bigger space, increasing costs like rent. And with a wider array of workout machines to both service and maintain, additional costs tend to follow.<h3>The Pros And Cons Of Boutique Fitness Concepts</h3>On the boutique side, franchises are typically able to offer a more personalized fitness experience, catering to niche markets with an eye on community, quality and loyalty. However, a more hands on approach to management and day-to-day operations may also be necessary to deliver the more customized, immersive experience often demanded of the more boutique environment.As a result, boutique fitness concepts are typically able to capitalize on a more premium pricing model driven by the idea of exclusivity.But, while less equipment in a smaller space can help rein in expenses, it can also be difficult to build the more specific clientele required by the boutique experience, rendering selection of proper location crucial.<h3>Finding The Right Fit</h3>As potential franchisees assess the available opportunities in the fitness franchise realm, it’s important to ponder a number of factors which can impact the bottom line.In terms of budgeting, a full understanding of both initial investment and ongoing operational costs is crucial.&nbsp;Getting to know the customer and surrounding area can help franchisees assess just how much the consumer is looking to pay for a gym membership, helping clarify the big box versus boutique decision when it comes to the question of how to buy a franchise.There’s also market saturation, with big box gyms in particular becoming an increasingly crowded marketplace.On the management side, it’s important for franchisees to seize upon a specific approach, whether it’s applying a more hands on style to the level of personal interaction required on the boutique side or focusing on the moving parts in play in the larger, more complex big box environment.&nbsp;When it comes to buying a fitness franchise, an understanding of the consumer, proper assessment of the marketplace and specific approach to management can go a long way towards avoiding potential risk, helping franchisees find success as they ponder entrepreneurship via fitness franchises.For more info on fitness franchises, check out these related stories on 1851 Franchise:<ul><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/fitness-franchises-2025-trends-opportunities-2729600">The Rise of Fitness Franchises in 2025: Trends, Opportunities and What to Expect</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/top-health-and-wellness-franchises-2729821">Top 15 Health and Wellness Franchises Opportunities for 2025</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/fitness-wellness-franchise-guide-2729443">How To Choose the Right Fitness or Wellness Franchise for You</a></li></ul>

Buying a fitness franchise, people exercising

As the fitness industry continues to grow fast, the decision for potential franchisees lies in whether to invest in big box or boutique gym franchise opportunities.

Boutique vs. Big Box Gym Franchises: Which Offers Best ROI in the $7 Billion Fitness Market?

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No-H2O Franchise Deep Dive - Costs, Fees, Profit and Data - 1851 Franchise

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: No-H2O is a waterless, app-driven car-care model with mobile, pop-up or static formats, low infrastructure, quick ramp-up, matched marketing and systemwide accounts.

No-H2O Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2025

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Ellianos Coffee Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2025

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: A drive-thru specialty coffee franchise focused on speed, quality and Southern hospitality.

1851 Franchise’s Fastest Growing Emerging Franchises of 2026: Onigilly

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