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

HomeTeam Inspection Service

Photo of four HomeTeam Inspection Service inspectors

The HomeTeam Advantage: 30 Years Strong and Still Growing

hometeam-30-year-legacy

Mathnasium

Mathnasium Franchise - James Temple - 1851 Franchise

Fast Growth and Bold Moves: James Temple’s Journey to Franchise Ownership With Mathnasium Learning Centers

mathnasium-franchise-james-temple

TruBlue Home Service Ally

TruBlue Accelerates Growth in 2025 With Record-Breaking Midyear Momentum

trublue-accelerates-growth-in-2025-with-record-breaking-midyear-momentum

Caring Transitions

Building a Legacy With Caring Transitions: How Franchisees Create Lasting Impact While Growing a Successful Business

building-a-legacy-with-caring-transitions-how-franchisees-create-lasting-impact-while-growing-a-successful-business

Why Andrew Boules Chose Mathnasium Learning Centers and Built a Six-Unit Franchise Portfolio Fast

mathnasium-franchise-andrew-boules-six-locations

Buying a Franchise Masterclass

 Franchise Opportunities

Get Support Buying a Franchise

How to Buy a Franchise White Paper

How to Buy a Franchise

How to Sell Franchises

How to Grow a Franchise

Find a Franchise Supplier

1851 Franchise Opportunities

Franchisor News

Franchisor Power Rankings

FranCamp Mastermind Summit

Franchise Development Website Builder

Franchise Resources

What ALEC-Laffer's Report Means for Franchising

Website Awards

Power Rankings

About 1851

Advertise on 1851

Contact 1851 Editorial

Terms of Use

1851 Login

GROWTH CLUB LOGIN

facebook

instagram

twitter

linkedin

youtube

U.S. Budget Deficit Rises as Tariff Revenues Increase — Potential Considerations for Franchising

us-budget-deficit-rises-as-tariff-revenues-increase-potential-considerations-for-franchising

Dickey's Franchisee Backlash - Lawsuits - Disputes - 1851 Franchise

Texas-Based Dickey’s Barbecue Pit Grapples with Franchisee Backlash

dickeys-barbecue-pit-franchisee-lawsuits

Design with person in blazer, with laptop, holding sign that reads "LOOKING FOR A JOB"

Uptick in Jobless Claims Points to Continued Instability in Labor Market

jobless-claims-franchise-growth

Extraordinary Brands Acquires CycleBar and Rumble, Shaking Up Boutique Fitness Franchising

extraordinary-brands-cyclebar-rumble-boxing-acquisition

NJCAR v. Ford - New Jersey Supreme Court Limits Standing Under Franchise Practices Act

New Jersey Supreme Court Limits Standing Under Franchise Practices Act

new-jersey-franchise-practices-act-njcar-v-ford

Hooters Leans Into Franchising With Closure of 30 Company-Owned Stores - Agg - 1851 Franchise

Hooters Leans Into Franchising With Closure of 30 Company-Owned Stores

hooters-franchise-model-company-owned-closures

Rising Jobless Claims Could Signal Challenges — and Opportunities — for Franchising

rising-jobless-claims-affect-franchising

"Come in, We're OPEN" sign against abstract background

Small Business Optimism Dips, Raising Concerns for Franchise Owners

small-business-optimism-dips-raising-concerns-for-franchise-owners

Hely and Hiral Patel Bring Their Longtime Dream to Life With The Brass Tap

brass-tap-franchise-pasadena-maryland-hely-hiral-patel

1851 Keyword - The Secret To Succeeding With a Part-Time Franchise Is Picking the Right Model

The Secret To Succeeding With a Part-Time Franchise Is Picking the Right Model

part-time-franchises-picking-the-right-model

graphic for a spotlight from 1851 franchise featuring Kevin Rarick from caring transitions

Army Veteran Returns Home To Launch Caring Transitions Franchise in Reading, Pennsylvania

kevin-rarick-caring-transitions-reading-pa

1851 Franchise Deep Dive graphic with Sparkle Squad logo

Sparkle Squad Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2025

franchise-deep-dive-sparkle-squad-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data

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

MORE STORIES LIKE THIS