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In the first part of August, 1851 Franchise is rolling out a series of articles spotlighting the leading restaurant franchises across different categories. This series is designed to offer in-depth information, assisting prospective franchisees in making well-informed decisions about where to invest and identifying the industry sectors with significant growth potential. As we enter the latter half of 2024, the restaurant industry stands at a pivotal juncture, characterized by remarkable growth and significant challenges. This year's sales are forecasted to exceed $1.1 trillion, marking a new milestone for an industry that will employ over 15.7 million people by the end of the year.&nbsp;The National Restaurant Association's&nbsp;<a href="https://restaurant.org/research-and-media/research/research-reports/state-of-the-industry/?utm_source=press&amp%3Butm_medium=press&amp%3Butm_campaign=SOI24&amp%3Butm_content=assoc&utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-restaurant-industry-in-2024-a-state-of-the-industry-overview-2726918" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">2024 State of the Restaurant Industry Report</a> provides a comprehensive overview, highlighting key trends and statistics that paint a vibrant — albeit complex — picture of the industry. Here are some of the primary takeaways.&nbsp;<h4>Positive Sales Outlook Amid Challenges</h4>Nearly 8 in 10 restaurant operators predict their sales will increase or hold steady compared to 2023 levels. This optimism is tempered by the reality of&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchising-trends-2024-second-half-2726604">ongoing challenges</a>. Elevated food and labor costs, supply chain disruptions and the need for more employees continue to strain profitability. For example, 77% of operators said their restaurant experienced supply delays or shortages of key food or beverage items in 2023,. Despite these hurdles, the industry remains resilient, adapting through strategic changes and technological investments. Real Estate Challenges and Smaller FootprintsThe current real estate market for restaurants is marked by high demand and low availability, leading to increased competition and higher rental costs. With&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nar.realtor/magazine/real-estate-news/commercial/will-the-commercial-market-hit-the-reset-button-in-2024?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-restaurant-industry-in-2024-a-state-of-the-industry-overview-2726918" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">approximately 35 million square feet</a> of new retail space developed across the U.S., the competition for prime locations has intensified. Securing prime real estate for new locations has become increasingly difficult due to limited availability of ideal sites, high rental costs and fierce competition among brands. The commercial vacancy rate in cities like Houston is only 4%, driving up occupancy costs beyond pre-pandemic levels. Higher interest rates also contribute to inflation, raising the costs of construction materials and labor, further complicating the financial landscape for securing new properties.In response, many franchisors are rethinking their operational strategies, focusing on minimizing the physical footprint required for each location. According to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.us.jll.com/en/trends-and-insights/research/retail-market-outlook?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-restaurant-industry-in-2024-a-state-of-the-industry-overview-2726918" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">JLL</a>, 68% of restaurant deals in the first quarter of 2024 were for spaces under 2,500 square feet, highlighting a trend towards smaller footprints due to technological efficiencies.<h4>Leveraging Technology to Maximize Space Efficiency</h4>One key approach to overcoming real estate challenges is integrating advanced technology solutions into operations to optimize space usage and enhance efficiency both in the front-of-house (FOH) and back-of-house (BOH). Here’s a deeper dive into how restaurant operators can leverage technology:<ul><li>Kiosks and Self-Service Stations: Implementing kiosks reduces the need for large dining areas by speeding up service and minimizing customer wait times. Taco Bell's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tacobell.com/taco-bell-go-mobile?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-restaurant-industry-in-2024-a-state-of-the-industry-overview-2726918" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">“Go Mobile” prototype</a> is an example, with an average store size of 1,325 square feet.</li><li>Delivery and Pick-Up Areas: Designated zones for online orders can significantly reduce the space needed for traditional dine-in services. McDonald's&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/mcdonalds-franchise-creates-cosmcs-spinoff-fast-food-concept-2723161">CosMc’s spinoff</a> and Burger King's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/burger-king-restaurant-redesign-suspended-kitchen-lockers?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-restaurant-industry-in-2024-a-state-of-the-industry-overview-2726918" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">suspended kitchen design</a> exemplify how to optimize space for quick turnarounds.</li><li>Drive-Thrus: Incorporating multiple drive-thru lanes with digital menu boards and mobile app ordering allows operators to serve more customers without extensive indoor seating. Brands like&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nrn.com/fast-casual/sweetgreen-open-its-first-location-pickup-drive-thru?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-restaurant-industry-in-2024-a-state-of-the-industry-overview-2726918" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Sweetgreen</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nrn.com/quick-service/chick-fil-testing-two-new-restaurant-designs-meet-digital-demand-0?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-restaurant-industry-in-2024-a-state-of-the-industry-overview-2726918" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Chick-fil-A</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nrn.com/fast-casual/shake-shack-testing-combo-meals-and-desserts-select-locations?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-restaurant-industry-in-2024-a-state-of-the-industry-overview-2726918" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Shake Shack</a> are leading this trend.</li><li>Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Automation: AI-driven systems can optimize kitchen layouts and workflows, reducing the space required for food preparation. Automation in order processing, inventory management and scheduling can streamline operations, making it feasible to operate in smaller locations without compromising service quality.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.yum.com/wps/portal/yumbrands/Yumbrands/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-restaurant-industry-in-2024-a-state-of-the-industry-overview-2726918" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Yum! Brands</a> leverages an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2023/06/17/restaurant-ai-streamline-food-prep-ordering.html?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-restaurant-industry-in-2024-a-state-of-the-industry-overview-2726918" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AI-powered ordering module</a> that informs managers of how much product to order weekly, for example.&nbsp;</li></ul><h4>Technological Integration and Consumer Preferences</h4>Consumers, particularly younger generations, are increasingly&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/technology-in-restaurant-franchises-how-tech-is-changing-the-dining-landscape-2724124">integrating technology</a> into their dining experiences. In 2023, nearly half of the operators made technology investments to enhance customer experiences, and this trend is expected to grow, with 60% planning further tech investments in 2024. The focus areas include making ordering and payment processes easier and faster, which consumers have identified as key areas where technology can improve their dining experiences. McDonald’s, for example, leverages&nbsp;<a href="https://www.qsrmagazine.com/slideshow/14-glimpses-fast-food-restaurant-future/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-restaurant-industry-in-2024-a-state-of-the-industry-overview-2726918" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">easy ordering and payment ID technology</a> to streamline transactions by recognizing customers at the display screen.&nbsp;<h4>Employment Trends and Labor Market</h4>The restaurant industry is set to add 200,000 jobs in 2024, bringing total employment to 15.7 million. However, staffing remains a critical issue, with 45% of operators reporting&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/the-unique-challenges-of-staffing-restaurant-franchises-2726564">insufficient staff to meet customer demand</a>. The use of gig workers and technology to fill staffing gaps is also becoming more common.<h4>Consumer Behavior and Off-Premises Dining</h4>A majority of&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/move-over-millennials-restaurant-operators-are-finding-ways-to-cater-to-generation-z-5129">millennials and Gen Z adults</a> consider takeout an essential part of their lifestyle. This trend is driving restaurants to expand their off-premises offerings, including delivery, carry-out and drive-thru services. Nearly 31% of operators expect off-premises sales to increase in 2024.<h4>The Role of Loyalty Programs</h4><a href="https://1851franchise.com/10-franchise-restaurants-with-the-best-loyalty-programs-2723997">Loyalty programs</a> are proving to be a valuable tool in driving repeat business. More than half of all consumers participate in a loyalty or reward program, with millennials leading the way. These programs not only incentivize repeat visits but also encourage consumers to choose restaurants where they can earn rewards, even if less convenient.<h2>Introducing Our Series on the Top Restaurant Franchises of 2024</h2>To navigate this dynamic landscape, potential franchisees need reliable insights and analysis. Throughout the first half of August, 1851 Franchise will publish a series of articles highlighting the top restaurant franchises in various categories. This series aims to provide comprehensive information to help prospective franchisees make informed decisions about which franchises to invest in and understand the areas of the industry poised for growth.Our upcoming articles will cover the following topics:<ul><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/15-best-full-service-restaurant-franchises-2726884">Top Full Service Restaurant Franchises of 2024</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/best-restaurant-franchises-top-burger-restaurants-of-2024-2726608">Top Burger Restaurants of 2024</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/qsr-franchises-best-restaurant-franchises-top-quick-service-restaurant-2024-2726858#buying-a-franchise">Top QSR Restaurant Franchises of 2024</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/15-best-chicken-restaurant-franchises-2726867#buying-a-franchise">Top Chicken Restaurant Franchises of 2024</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/top-15-sandwich-restaurant-franchises-for-2024-2726706#buying-a-franchise">Top Sandwich Restaurant Franchises of 2024</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/best-restaurant-franchises-top-mexican-restaurants-of-2024-2726928#buying-a-franchise">Top Mexican Restaurant Franchises of 2024</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/15-best-coffee-restaurant-franchises-2726869#buying-a-franchise">Top Coffee Restaurant Franchises of 2024</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/best-restaurant-franchises-top-dessert-restaurant-franchises-of-2024-2726624#featured">Top Dessert Restaurant Franchises of 2024</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/salad-restaurant-franchises-top-2024-2726942#featured">Top Salad Restaurant Franchises of 2024</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/best-restaurant-franchises-top-italian-restaurants-of-2024-2726687#buying-a-franchise">Top Italian Restaurant Franchises of 2024</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/15-emerging-restaurant-franchises-to-watch-in-2024-2726849#buying-a-franchise">Top Emerging Restaurant Franchises of 2024</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/best-restaurant-franchises-top-established-restaurants-of-2024-2726843#buying-a-franchise">Top Established Restaurant Franchises of 2024</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/15-best-drive-thru-restaurant-franchises-2726882#buying-a-franchise">Top Drive Thru Restaurant Franchises of 2024</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/best-restaurant-franchises-top-fast-food-restaurants-of-2024-2726956#featured">Top Fast Food Restaurant Franchises of 2024</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/restaurant-franchises-high-item-19-for-2024-2726982#buying-a-franchise">Top High Item 19 Restaurant Franchises of 2024</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/15-best-vegetarian-friendly-restaurant-franchises-2726870#buying-a-franchise">Top Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurant Franchises of 2024</a></li></ul>Each article will delve into the specific strengths, opportunities, and market positions of the leading franchises within each category, offering valuable insights for anyone considering a venture into the restaurant franchise space.Stay tuned to 1851 Franchise as we explore the vibrant and ever-evolving restaurant industry, providing the knowledge and resources needed to succeed in this dynamic market. &nbsp;

2024 Restaurant Industry Overview: Trends, Growth, and Top Franchises | 1851 Franchise

1851 Franchise

From fast food spots to salad bars and chicken joints to coffee shops, 1851 Franchise is highlighting some of the the top restaurant franchises in various categories.

The Restaurant Industry in 2024: A State of the Industry Overview

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Biscuit Belly Franchising

Biscuit Belly Targets Expansion in Houston as the Franchise Brunch Brand Seeks Texas Growth

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Layne's Chicken Fingers

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A Franchisee Partner, Not Just a Franchisor: How Layne’s Leadership Teams Work Alongside Operators

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Busy Bee Jumpers

Jump Ahead: How Busy Bee’s Technology Gives Franchisees a Booking and Deployment Edge

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Jollibee

How Jollibee’s Flexible Real Estate Strategy Is Opening Doors in Nontraditional Markets

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Mellow Mushroom

How Mellow Mushroom’s Flexible Formats Help It Adapt to Every Market Opportunity

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Design with Precision Garage Door Service team members

RF Investment Partners and Burlington Capital Join Forces to Acquire Top Precision Garage Door Franchise

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Private Equity Fuels Jiffy Lube’s Next Chapter as Monomoy Strikes $1.3 Billion Deal

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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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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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1851 Franchise 12 Lists of Christmas, Beauty, Spa, Personal Care Franchises

From full-service luxury spas to high-tech medspas and specialized wellness studios, these unique franchise models cater to the specialized needs of modern beauty and wellness enthusiasts.

The 12 Top Franchise Lists of Christmas: Beauty, Spa and Personal Care Franchises for 2026

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The automotive industry continues to show resilience, and its growth is largely driven by steady demand for accessible, high-quality car care. The United States automotive service market was valued at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/united-states-automotive-service-market">over $199 billion this year</a>, and it’s expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5.98% over the next five years, representing a projected value of over $266 billion by 2030.For entrepreneurs, this stability and the variety of opportunities available in the automotive space make it an attractive industry for investments.Here are the top 15 automotive brands to consider for 2026:<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-aamco-transmissions-and-total-car-care-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2726640">AAMCO Transmissions &amp; Total Car Care</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://franchises.aamco.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/growth-club/aamco-transmissions-franchise-opportunity">Growth Club Website</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$236,800 - $361,200</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;530+&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>AAMCO is a trusted name in the auto repair space, specializing in transmission work and other, more complex car care services. With over 60 years of experience, the brand is a true category-leader with a strong reputation among consumers.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-mighty-auto-parts-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2724565">Mighty Auto Parts</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.mightyfranchise.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/growth-club/mighty-auto-parts-franchise">Growth Club Website</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$247,000 - $595,600</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;95&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Mighty Auto Parts focuses on the distribution of auto parts, lubricants and shop supplies for automotive service providers. With an efficient parts system and rapid order fulfillment capabilities, franchisees can run an efficient, high-volume business.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/milexmr-transmission-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-for-2025-2728544">Milex/Mr. Transmission</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://moranfamilyofbrands.com/milex-auto-care-franchise">Milex Franchise Website</a></li><li><a href="https://moranfamilyofbrands.com/mr-transmission">Mr. Transmission Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/growth-club/milex-mr-transmission-franchise">Growth Club Website</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$267,300 - $362,700</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;111&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Milex and Mr. Transmission are part of the larger&nbsp;<a href="https://moranfamilyofbrands.com/">Moran Family of Brands</a>. With the option to develop individual Milex or Mr. Transmission businesses as well as co-branded Milex&nbsp;and Mr. Transmission locations, franchisees have flexibility in their investment and are able to tap into multiple revenue streams under one roof.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/turbo-tint-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-for-2025-2728451">Turbo Tint</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://franchise.turbotint.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/growth-club/turbo-tint-automotive-franchise">Growth Club Website</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$295,510 - $415,400</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;20&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Turbo Tint offers window film services, a high-margin and relatively niche service. With efficient operations thanks to installs that can typically be completed in about an hour, Turbo Tint franchisees benefit from a high-volume, relatively low-complexity business model.<h2>HardTop Hotel</h2><ul><li><a href="https://hardtophotelfranchise.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/growth-club/hardtop-hotel-franchise-opportunities">Growth Club Website</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$120,200 - $193,460</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;5&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>HardTop Hotel is a specialized concept catering to owners of hard- and soft-top vehicles, offering installation services, hard- and soft-tops for rent and sale, and storage solutions for those who like to remove the tops of their vehicles for the warmer seasons. In addition to the revenue created by sales, rentals and installation services, franchisees benefit from the longer-term stability of the storage model.<h2>Christian Brothers Automotive</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.christianbrothersfranchise.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$550,250 - $680,400</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;300+&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Christian Brothers Automotive is a full-service repair franchise that focuses on great customer service. With a values-driven brand, Christian Brothers Automotive franchisees have an opportunity to build a more meaningful, community-centric business in an industry that is often viewed by customers as highly commodity-driven.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-grease-monkeys-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2721791">Grease Monkey</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://greasemonkeyfranchise.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$291,320 - $1,972,033</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;370+&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Grease Monkey is a quick-service auto franchise known primarily for its efficient oil changes and preventative maintenance services. By focusing on ease and efficiency in an industry that can sometimes be unpredictable or deliver subpar customer service, Grease Monkey franchisees can become the trusted resource for regular car care in their communities.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-jiffy-lube-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2720873">Jiffy Lube</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://franchise.jiffylube.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$232,000 - $520,000 (excluding real estate costs)</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;2,000+&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Jiffy Lube is one of the largest quick-service oil change and maintenance brands. The business model is designed for volume, and it encourages repeat visits from individual customers, creating strength and stability for franchisees.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-maacos-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2724767">Maaco</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://maacofranchise.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$196,000 -&nbsp; $3,994,000</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;360+&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Maaco is an automotive franchise providing painting, cosmetic services and collision repair. Because Maaco is a body shop, as opposed to a standard maintenance brand or express oil change establishment, it leverages more specialized services and can stand out in the auto industry at large.&nbsp;<h2>Midas</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.midasfranchise.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$106,650 - $1,132,640 (including both new and conversion opportunities)</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;975 in the U.S., 2,000+ worldwide&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Midas is a full-service auto repair and maintenance brand, offering both new-unit and business conversion options. With a few key service areas, including brakes, exhaust, tires, oil, steering, suspension and wheels, Midas can market multiple services to a single customer base, positioning franchisees to capture additional revenue.<h2>No-H2O</h2><ul><li><a href="https://noh2o.com/car-wash-franchise/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$134,550 - $162,500</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;30&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>No-H2O is a waterless, mobile car wash and detailing franchise. By excluding the use of water, No-H2O is more mobile and flexible than traditional wash and detail concepts, and it appeals to the growing eco-conscious crowd.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-take-5-oil-changes-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2723018">Take 5 Oil Change</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://take5franchise.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$287,145 - $2,053,642 (including both new and conversion opportunities)</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;1,100+&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Take 5 Oil Change is a convenience-driven oil change franchise that allows customers to stay in their cars for the duration of the service and targets a 10-minute maintenance time. This makes throughput more straightforward for franchisees and their teams, and it appeals to the busy customers of today.<h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-tint-world-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2723226#stories">Tint World</a></h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.tintworld.com/franchise-opportunities/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$239,950 - $449,950</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;135+&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Tint World is a specialized vehicle and window film franchise offering tinting, detailing and other “automotive styling” services. By combining frequently sought services, like window tinting, with more specialized ones, like audio, lighting and other accessories, Tint World franchisees are positioned as the one-stop shop for vehicle enhancement.<h2>Tommy’s Express Car Wash</h2><ul><li><a href="https://tommys-express.com/franchise/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$4,976,759 - $8,522,378</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;215+&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Tommy’s Express Car Wash operates high-volume, express tunnel car-wash facilities that focus on speed without sacrificing quality. With precise equipment that automates much of the wash process, franchisees can keep labor costs low and scale more efficiently.<h2>Valvoline Instant Oil Change</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.viocfranchise.com/">Franchise Website&nbsp;</a></li><li>Investment Range:&nbsp;$192,375 - $3,483,550</li><li>Unit Count:&nbsp;1,875&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Valvoline is a prominent national brand offering oil changes and preventative maintenance services. The brand boasts 18 consecutive years of same-store sales growth, and though it’s a nationally recognized brand, Valvoline notes there are still prime territories available, offering a unique combination of brand strength and recognition and future growth potential.From national giants like Jiffy Lube and Valvoline to specialty brands like Turbo Tint and HardTop Hotel, the automotive franchise space offers a diverse range of opportunities for all kinds of investors. Whether you’re drawn to the stability of recurring maintenance services or the innovation of tech-driven, specialized brands, these top franchises have the power necessary to drive your dreams forward.For more information on automotive franchise opportunities, check out these related resources from 1851 Franchise:<ul><li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tvx0H511MtQ">Why Buy an Automotive Franchise? Drive Your Business to Success</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/automotive-franchises-are-driving-into-the-future-with-tech-and-trust-2730075">Automotive Franchises Are Driving Into the Future With Tech and Trust</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/growth-club/industry/best-automotive-franchise-opportunities">How To Start an Automotive Franchise Business</a></li></ul>

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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.

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Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: A fast-casual restaurant brand serving made-from-scratch sandwiches, salads, soups and pizzas rooted in Southern hospitality.


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