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In life, we seem conditioned to chase a perceived light at the end of the tunnel. We do it in our personal lives and in our business lives. But what’s the rush?In business, people use this saying to describe the feeling of being overwhelmed. “I just don’t see the light at the end of the tunnel,” they say. But what if that isn’t necessary? What if you are making a mistake by chasing this idea? What if this causes you to skip over celebrated moments? What if this happens to create another all-too-common sentiment: that life passed you by?What if these lights are meant to be found daily? What if the light has been blinding you the entire time? What if each item knocked off your checklist is a light, or that meal you ate perfectly within your health guidelines was a light?&nbsp;What. If. You. Could. Evolve. Your. Mindset.Would this create more happiness? Would you feel more fulfilled and less overwhelmed? Would you find more peaceful moments?&nbsp;The silver lining in rough moments is that they should create pause and reflection to help you reset your outlooks. This happens when tragedy hits us. It forces us to understand our own mortality. When we understand our own mortality, we adjust our mindset.So, if you are reading this column and feeling overwhelmed – in life, at work, anywhere — remember a few things:<ol><li>You will die someday.</li><li>On that day you will no longer feel overwhelmed.</li><li>Is that the light you are looking for?</li><li>Or, are you looking for smiles every minute of every hour of every day?</li><li>The light you perceive you are looking for may not exist in the fashion you think it lives.</li></ol>I don’t claim to be perfect at this, but I do think a lot about finding purpose and value in the singular moments. Then, hopefully, the collection of a ton of small awesome things may equal a bright light that when I see it, I see it with grace and comfort knowing the blinding of life brought me more happiness than not.

Stop Chasing the Light at the End of the Tunnel

1851 Franchise

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Comfort Keepers

Field Support Team Helps Define Franchisee Success at Comfort Keepers®

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TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Marks 40 Years of Success With New Signings, New Franchisees and System Growth

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Beansquad

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

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KLA Schools

KLA Schools Marks a Year of Growth, Innovation and Educational Impact in 2025

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Shuckin' Shack

Shuckin’ Shack’s 4th Annual Fresh & Raw Tour Raises Over $72,000 for Blood Cancer United

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

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

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Hardee's Franchise - ARC Burger Lawsuit - 1851 Franchise

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

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

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

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California Pizza Kitchen’s Sale Is the Latest in the Era of PE-Backed Turnarounds in Franchising

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

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

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

The Top 15 Pet Supplies and Retail Franchises for 2025

The Top 15 Pet Supplies and Retail Franchises for 2026

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

Photo of group of dogs standing together in day care facility

Top Pet Boarding and Day Care Franchise Opportunities for 2026

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When candidates look for the best franchises to buy, they often start with familiar categories. But some of the most compelling models on the market fall outside traditional food, fitness or home services. Today’s buyers are leaning into unique franchise opportunities with sharper focus, easier operations and real staying power. Below are five unexpected franchises that continue to get attention for their tight models and strong financial performance.<h2>1. Residential Dumpster Rental —&nbsp;<a href="https://bintheredumpthatfranchise.com/">Bin There Dump That</a></h2>Bin There Dump That stands out in the waste-services category with a hyper-focused model built around clean, driveway-safe residential dumpsters. Unlike traditional junk removal, franchisees deliver compact bins designed for homeowners tackling renovations, moves and cleanouts. The business benefits from low labor needs, predictable rental cycles and strong repeat demand from contractors and real estate partners, making it one of the more unexpected franchises buyers are now considering for its simplicity and solid unit economics.<h2>2. Drone Inspection Services —&nbsp;<a href="https://bluenoseaerial.com/franchising/">Blue Nose Aerial Imaging</a></h2>Blue Nose Aerial Imaging offers professional-grade drone inspections for roofing, insurance, utilities and commercial real estate. Trained pilots provide detailed imaging and data analysis without the risk of ladders or lifts. The model stays lean — no storefront, small startup costs and a wide customer base — which positions franchisees to scale quickly as demand grows across multiple industries.<h2>3. Paint-Protection Film &amp; Vehicle Enhancement —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tintworld.com/franchise-opportunities/">Tint World</a></h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-tint-world-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2723226">Tint World</a> is best known for automotive window tinting, but its paint-protection film (PPF) business has become a major driver of growth. PPF, ceramic coatings and detailing packages offer strong ticket averages and consistent demand from car enthusiasts and everyday drivers. With a structured training program and national purchasing power, Tint World gives franchisees a profitable entry point into the booming vehicle-appearance market.<h2>4. VR Arcade Entertainment —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.virtualrealityfranchise.com/">Ctrl V</a></h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/growth-club/ctrl-v-virtual-reality-franchise">Ctrl V</a> is one of the first virtual-reality arcade franchises in North America, offering immersive gaming experiences for individuals, parties and corporate events. The concept requires a modest footprint and relies on steady walk-in traffic plus group bookings. Many locations see strong margins since the model is powered by software, subscriptions and repeat visits rather than heavy labor or inventory.<h2>5. Dog-Poop Cleanup —&nbsp;<a href="https://doodycallsfranchising.com/">DoodyCalls</a></h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/doodycalls/info">DoodyCalls</a>, which is part of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.authoritybrands.com/">Authority Brands</a> platform, shows how even the most unexpected ideas can become highly profitable. The pet-waste removal service appeals to busy families, HOA communities and commercial properties looking for convenience and cleanliness. With recurring weekly routes, low overhead and a recession-resistant service need, franchisees often build dense territories and reliable revenue streams.As franchising continues to evolve, more entrepreneurs are discovering that unconventional ideas often create the biggest advantages — less competition, clearer differentiation and loyal customer bases. These five concepts prove that a great franchise doesn’t need to fit a traditional mold to deliver meaningful returns. For buyers willing to think beyond the familiar, the next standout opportunity may come from a category they never expected.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.&nbsp;

5 Unusual but Profitable Franchises You’ve Never Heard Of

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

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A new study indicates that United States companies&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/news/story/ai-drives-worst-october-layoffs-in-over-20-years-6748836/">cut more than 150,000 jobs this month</a>, the most positions cut in October in over two decades.Generally, the U.S. job market sees an increase in positions as the holidays near, with seasonal and temporary jobs ramping up in areas like retail, food service, hospitality, warehousing and logistics. But Amazon announced this week that it will lay off 14,000 corporate workers (cuts which could wind up being the largest in Amazon’s three decades) in addition to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wsj.com/business/logistics/united-parcel-service-ups-q3-earnings-report-2025-stock-jobs-layoffs-1d954f75">nearly 50,000 jobs dropped by UPS</a> in 2025.Conducted by outplacement firm&nbsp;<a href="https://www.challengergray.com/">Challenger, Gray &amp; Christmas Inc.</a>, the new study states that the October cuts are the most significant since 2003, as the rise of the smart phone was beginning to take hold, upending the way business is conducted fast.What’s in play this time and how can it impact franchises?<h2>The Rise of AI</h2>Like smartphones before it, the brisk onset of AI is continually shaking up the way American work gets done.Overall, the U.S. has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.latimes.com/business/story/2025-11-06/us-companies-announce-most-october-job-cuts-in-over-20-years">lost more than one million jobs</a> in 2025 (the most since COVID radically altered the work landscape five years ago). Recent U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bls.gov/opub/ted/2025/ai-impacts-in-bls-employment-projections.htm">Bureau of Labor Statistics numbers</a> indicate that AI could take a particularly quick hold in the computing, business/financial, architectural/engineering and legal sectors.&nbsp;Historically speaking, as jobs disappear amidst layoffs, franchising has generally highlighted a road forward for those looking to invest in and take more control of both their futures and careers.<h2>The Impact on Franchising</h2>While the food industry continues to experiment with ideas like robotics and automation in an effort to simplify repetitive kitchen tasks and streamline processes, AI is typically utilized for two reasons: the quick delivery of data and improvement of overall work efficiency.While franchised restaurant chains have begun attempting to incorporate AI as part of a more convenient drive-thru experience, there’ve been&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ckgyk2p55g8o">hiccups</a>.&nbsp;But using AI to deliver reams of data insights has proven to be an invaluable tool when it comes to identifying trends, delivering more accurately-targeted marketing efforts while improving digital ad optimization, potentially boosting overall business.In terms of improving services like scheduling and inventory management, AI can have a positive impact on the work experience while enhancing productivity.&nbsp;On the customer side, AI-generated data can help franchised businesses better personalize the services offered to their customer base. It can also double as a much quicker way to assess areas for improvement as assessed via customer feedback and reviews. Chatbots and virtual assistants can handle ideas like customer inquiries and even reservations, simplifying processes while improving the overall guest experience.&nbsp;<h2>What’s Next?</h2>Like most tech, the onset of AI is progressing quickly in a largely unabated fashion.Even with the holiday package shipping season approaching, AI seems to be at least partially responsible for 2025 cuts in the warehousing and logistics sectors (as evidenced by significant recent cuts at both Amazon and UPS).&nbsp;While speculation tends to vary, some studies indicate that AI could eliminate&nbsp;<a href="https://fortune.com/2025/10/07/100-million-jobs-at-risk-of-elimination-senator-bernie-sanders-report-ai-kill-40-hour-workweek/">more than 100 million jobs</a>, especially in the entry-level or low wage sectors, over the next 10 years.But while areas like computing seem to face imminent peril, the franchising world continues to provide options for the independent-minded entrepreneur looking to take control of their futures and career.&nbsp;Read the original article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/news/story/ai-drives-worst-october-layoffs-in-over-20-years-6748836/">here</a>.For more recent news on AI’s impact on franchising, check out these related articles on 1851 Franchise:<ul><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/ai-is-reshaping-franchising-100-billion-valuations-and-hyper-localized-advertising-2729847#stories">AI Is Reshaping Franchising: $100 Billion Valuations and Hyper-Localized Advertising</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/how-franchise-brands-can-prepare-for-the-rise-of-ai-driven-advertising-2729548#stories">How Franchise Brands Can Prepare for the Rise of AI-Driven Advertising</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/coffee-and-analytics-ai-can-supercharge-your-franchise-content-marketing-2728309">Coffee and Analytics: AI Can Supercharge Your Franchise Content Marketing</a></li></ul>

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AI-Fueled Layoffs Reshape the U.S. Job Market — And Highlight Franchising’s Resilience

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Scenthound Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2025

Stop Chasing the Light at the End of the Tunnel

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