1851

As franchising continues to evolve alongside consumer expectations and market shifts, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of transformation across every industry — from&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/top-full-service-restaurant-franchises-2728477">restaurants</a> to&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/growth-club/industry/senior-care-franchise-opportunities">senior care</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/growth-club/industry/pet-animal-franchise-opportunities">pet services</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/top-8-low-cost-fitness-franchises-for-2024-2726114">fitness</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/best-education-franchises-to-buy-in-2024-2724675">education</a> and beyond. For both franchisors and franchisees, staying on top of emerging trends is essential to remaining competitive, scalable and relevant.Here’s a look at the most important trends driving the future of franchising — and how some of the biggest brands are leading the charge.<h2>1. AI and Automation Are Reshaping Franchise Operations</h2>Artificial intelligence is no longer a novelty — it's a necessity. Franchise brands across industries are integrating AI to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences and boost profitability.​<ul><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-jersey-mikes-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2720908">Jersey Mike’s</a> has&nbsp;<a href="https://investors.soundhound.com/news-releases/news-release-details/soundhound-and-jersey-mikes-introduce-voice-ai-phone-ordering?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-future-of-franchising-trends-and-predictions-for-2025-and-beyond-2729140" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">partnered with SoundHound</a> AI to implement a voice AI ordering system. This technology answers 100% of calls and can take multiple orders simultaneously, improving efficiency and customer satisfaction.</li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-mcdonalds-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-for-2025-2720737">McDonald's</a> is implementing&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/mcdonalds-gives-its-restaurants-an-ai-makeover-2134f01e?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-future-of-franchising-trends-and-predictions-for-2025-and-beyond-2729140" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AI-enabled drive-thrus and virtual assistant tools</a> across its 43,000 restaurants. These technologies aim to improve order accuracy, predict equipment maintenance needs and reduce employee stress by automating routine tasks.</li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/kfc-franchise-deep-dive-2720768">KFC</a>, under Yum! Brands, is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.yum.com/wps/portal/yumbrands/Yumbrands/news/press-releases/introducing+byte+by+yum+an+ai+driven+restaurant+technology+platform+powering+customer+and+team+member+experiences+worldwide?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-future-of-franchising-trends-and-predictions-for-2025-and-beyond-2729140" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">utilizing AI</a> for demand forecasting, inventory management and personalized marketing. AI-driven systems help reduce waste, optimize resources and enhance customer engagement through targeted promotions.</li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-dunkin-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2720835">Dunkin'</a> has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.crunchtime.com/blog/how-dunkin-cut-time-to-create-schedules-in-half-across-its-vast-franchise-network?utm_source=chatgpt.com&utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-future-of-franchising-trends-and-predictions-for-2025-and-beyond-2729140" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">partnered with Crunchtime</a> to implement an automated scheduling platform, cutting scheduling time by 50% across its vast franchise network. This move enhances operational efficiency and employee satisfaction.</li></ul><h2>2. Innovative Store Designs and Formats</h2>Franchise brands are reimagining their physical spaces to meet changing consumer preferences and operational needs.​<ul><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/where-did-subway-go-wrong-2721389">Subway</a> is rolling out&nbsp;<a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/subway-unveils-new-global-restaurant-design-302302096.html?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-future-of-franchising-trends-and-predictions-for-2025-and-beyond-2729140" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">its "Fresh Forward 2.0" restaurant design</a> globally in 2025. The redesign focuses on enhancing guest experience, improving convenience and driving franchisee profitability through modernized layouts and digital integrations.</li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/what-does-it-cost-to-open-a-7-eleven-franchise-2725065">7-Eleven</a>&nbsp;plans to build&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nrn.com/restaurant-operations/7-eleven-plans-to-open-500-new-stores-from-2025-through-2027?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-future-of-franchising-trends-and-predictions-for-2025-and-beyond-2729140" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">500 new "food forward" stores</a> between 2025 and 2027. These stores will feature in-store restaurants, premium products, and innovative technologies to enhance the shopping experience .​</li></ul><h2>3. Strategic Partnerships and Technological Collaborations</h2>Collaborations with tech companies are enabling franchises to accelerate innovation and stay competitive.​<ul><li><a href="https://www.yum.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-future-of-franchising-trends-and-predictions-for-2025-and-beyond-2729140" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Yum! Brands</a> has&nbsp;<a href="https://investors.yum.com/news-events/financial-releases/news-details/2025/Yum-Brands-to-Accelerate-AI-Innovation-in-an-Industry-First-Collaboration-With-NVIDIA/default.aspx?utm_source=chatgpt.com&utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-future-of-franchising-trends-and-predictions-for-2025-and-beyond-2729140" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">partnered with NVIDIA</a> to develop AI-powered drive-thru systems for its brands, including Taco Bell, KFC and Pizza Hut. The technology aims to optimize order-taking, reduce wait times and enhance overall customer satisfaction.</li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/how-to-open-a-dunkin-franchise-2719279">Dunkin'</a> collaborated with<a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/dunkin-brands-turns-hubkonnect-self-204625570.html?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-future-of-franchising-trends-and-predictions-for-2025-and-beyond-2729140" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"> HubKonnect</a> to implement AI-driven local store marketing solutions across its U.S. locations, enabling data-driven decision-making and targeted marketing efforts .​</li></ul><h2>4. Niche and Purpose-Driven Brands Are Gaining Traction</h2>Consumers are gravitating toward brands that align with their values, leading to growth in niche and purpose-driven franchises. Some of the brands making waves in the industry include:<ul><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/petwants/info">Pet Wants</a>, a pet health and wellness company, has&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/petwants/investing-in-purpose-how-pet-wants-franchisees-are-transforming-pet-nutrition-2728325">surpassed 150 franchise territories</a>, delivering small-batch pet food directly to consumers' homes and experiencing double-digit sales growth.</li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">Caring Transitions</a> offers senior relocation, downsizing and estate sale services, addressing the growing need for compassionate support during life transitions.</li></ul><h2>5. Health, Wellness and Home Services Are Leading Investment Trends</h2>The demand for services that promote well-being and convenience continues to rise, making health, wellness and home services attractive sectors for franchise investment. Some up-and-coming examples include:<ul><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/info">TruBlue Home Service Ally</a> provides handyman and home maintenance services, enabling seniors to age in place safely and comfortably.</li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/woodhouse-spas/info">Woodhouse Spas</a> offers a luxury wellness experience with strong franchise support, diverse revenue streams, and a proven model for success in the growing spa industry.</li></ul><h2>Final Thoughts: The Road Ahead for Franchising</h2>The franchising landscape in 2025 and beyond is characterized by innovation, inclusivity and alignment with consumer values. Brands that embrace technology, support multi-unit growth, foster inclusive ownership and cater to niche markets are well-positioned for sustained success.Growing and selling franchises is difficult. No great franchise did it alone. Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisors grow their franchises with confidence? Visit<a href="https://www.1851growthclub.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-future-of-franchising-trends-and-predictions-for-2025-and-beyond-2729140" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">&nbsp;www.1851growthclub.com</a> and see what we can do for you.

The Future of Franchising in 2025: Trends & Predictions

1851 Franchise

From AI-driven operations to purpose-led ownership, franchising in 2025 is evolving rapidly. Here’s how major brands are adapting — and what it means for the next generation of franchisees.

The Future of Franchising: Trends and Predictions for 2025 and Beyond

the-future-of-franchising-trends-and-predictions-for-2025-and-beyond

Lawn Doctor

Happinest-Lawn-Doctor-Franchisee-Ralph-Valle-Profile-Jacksonville-FL-June-2025

From Near-Quit to 7 Figures: Success With Lawn Doctor in Jacksonville, Florida

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Atomic Wings

Atomic Wings Debuts in Metro East With Fairview Heights Grand Opening

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Pet Wants

Pet Wants Shares Expert Tips on Cleaning Pet Gear Safely in the Dishwasher

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Griswold

Griswold in Andover, Minnesota, Connects Students and Seniors Through Pen Pal Program

griswold-in-andover-minnesota-connects-students-and-seniors-through-pen-pal-program

HomeTeam Inspection Service

Photo of HomeTeam Inspection Service franchisee Max Moarefdoust

Corporate Employee Turned Owner Illustrates the Power of the HomeTeam Model

max-moarefdoust-hometeam-success

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