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Who run the world? Amazon.&nbsp;In 2019, the retail landscape has experienced some drastic changes—and by drastic changes, we mean, has experienced a full-out assault that saw store closure counts in the U.S. <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/12/business/retail-store-closings.html?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-10-retail-franchises-to-watch-in-2020-2711701" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">exceed their 2018 total by April</a>. It’s not over, either, as analysis from investment bank UBS projects some <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/pamdanziger/2019/04/10/retail-downsizing-will-accelerate-as-75000-stores-will-be-forced-to-close-by-2026/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-10-retail-franchises-to-watch-in-2020-2711701#4fc37b32339e" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">75,000 stores will be forced out of business by 2026</a>.&nbsp;Amid such instability, though, a select few brick-and-mortar businesses seem to have cracked the code to persevering in the face of changing consumer preferences that greatly favor the e-commerce space, namely through investing in opportunities to foster points of connection with their audiences.&nbsp;“Over the past year—and really, over the past few years—retailers have needed to double down on their marketing efforts to raise brand awareness and create important, meaningful engagement with customers across all channels,” Nick Titus, VP of Marketing for <a href="https://minutemanpressfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-10-retail-franchises-to-watch-in-2020-2711701" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Minuteman Press International</a>, explained. “The retailers who market to meet customers at multiple touchpoints and offer personalized experiences will be the ones who thrive the most.”While many retailers differ in the products and services they peddle, it’s a specialized offering a willingness to innovate that is keeping these franchise brands relevant in the face of great turbulence.Batteries Plus BulbsLocations: 735-plusInvestment range: $189,250 to $366,350Franchise opportunity website: <a href="https://batteriesplusfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-10-retail-franchises-to-watch-in-2020-2711701" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://batteriesplusfranchise.com/</a>When your inventory consists of a product that can’t be shipped by law, your business is officially Amazon-proof. Such is the reason Batteries Plus Bulbs sells more than 85 million batteries and light bulbs annually—and as a result, has carved out a space for itself as a trusted, reliable and knowledgable provider in the communities in which it operates. Thanks to a retail footprint, an e-commerce presence and a model for generating commercial customers, the brand offers franchisees multiple revenue streams from which to profit.&nbsp;What you can learn from this brand: The average net revenue for the top 25% of Batteries Plus Bulbs’ stores is <a href="https://batteriesplusfranchise.com/batteries-plus-franchise-revenue/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-10-retail-franchises-to-watch-in-2020-2711701" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">nearly $1.4 million</a>. Not bad for a franchise that sells batteries and lightbulbs! Contrary to its name, though, Batteries Plus Bulbs has, in fact, expanded its offering to generate additional business for its franchise partners, most notably through key fob programming and replacement and device repair services.&nbsp;DrPhoneFixLocations: 400-plusInvestment range: $92,000 to $175,000Franchise opportunity website: <a href="https://drphonefixfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-10-retail-franchises-to-watch-in-2020-2711701" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://drphonefixfranchise.com/</a>With more than 77% of the U.S. owning a smartphone, the mobile repair industry is big business. And while DrPhoneFix’s primary focus is on repairing smartphones whatever their issue may be, its services extend to laptops and other devices, as well. DrPhoneFix boasts a turnkey business model that requires no relevant industry experience as a precursor to ownership, making its franchise opportunity particularly accessible to entrepreneurs seeking ample training and support. The brand also serves as its own wholesale distributor of accessories and parts, ensuring franchisee operating costs remain low and profits high.What you can learn from this brand: In addition to a traditional brick-and-mortar storefront offering, DrPhoneFix offers prospective franchisees the option to open a location inside of their local Walmart, a unique value proposition that requires little-to-no buildout and comes with a built-in customer pool of over 140 million U.S. customers per week.Wireless ZoneLocations: 392Investment range: $160,000 to $394,500Franchise opportunity website: <a href="https://wirelesszonefranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-10-retail-franchises-to-watch-in-2020-2711701" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://wirelesszonefranchise.com/</a>Wireless Zone is the largest independent Verizon Wireless retailer in the country, selling wireless devices, smart home products, Bluetooth accessories and more. With the backing of a brand as prominent in the national lexicon as Verizon, Wireless Zone exudes credibility while simultaneously maintaining the hyperlocal feel and community-centric customer service that has become the calling card of its locations since 1988.What you can learn from this brand: Over the years, Wireless Zone has adapted to the concurrently evolving technology and retail landscapes to thrive in the wireless retail space. The brand’s track record of innovating in step with the times is shaping up to be more important than ever as the nation prepares for the advent of 5G. With Verizon’s 5G wireless network technology set up to be first-to-market in the U.S., Wireless Zone is prepared to adopt the rollout from the jump with a number of 5G-ready phones that support faster downloads, better video streaming and virtual or augmented reality capabilities.Minuteman PressLocations: Nearly 1,000 worldwideInvestment range: $100,000 to $150,000Franchise opportunity website: <a href="https://minutemanpressfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-10-retail-franchises-to-watch-in-2020-2711701" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://minutemanpressfranchise.com/</a> Minuteman Press is a B2B franchise that provides products and services of all kinds to small businesses. The brand’s offering covers marketing, advertising and other everyday needs for a given location’s local business community, creating connection points for its franchise system in their local markets. Minuteman Press emphasizes personalized customer service that aims to provide business partners with the advice and guidance that saves money and increases sales for the long-term, establishing itself as a trusted partner to its clients.What you can learn from this brand: Most of the time, taking a look inward results in generating success outward. Such was the case for Minuteman Press, who recently explored ways to make its physical locations stand out better to further aid in driving traffic through its doors.&nbsp;“Three years ago, we redesigned our window graphics and we have seen a huge impact in our franchise locations’ visibility,” Titus said. “The new graphics are fresh, clean, and clearly explain what we can provide to our customers, such as creative design, digital printing, promotional products, and signs and banners. They help our locations stand out among other retailers and help drive traffic to our locations where our franchise owners are ready and willing to assist them.”Digital DocLocations: 37Investment range: $73,000 to $151,000Franchise opportunity website: <a href="https://www.digitaldocrepair.com/franchise/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-10-retail-franchises-to-watch-in-2020-2711701" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.digitaldocrepair.com/franchise/</a> Digital Doc is another mobile device repair and retail franchise that has carved out a valuable space for itself in a world that’s becoming more digital by the day. The franchise’s business focuses largely on repair, with accessory sales as a secondary revenue source. Plus, with low start-up costs, low overhead and the backing of a multi-brand parent company in Merrymeeting Group, Digital Doc’s franchise opportunity is among the most accessible in the retail space.What you can learn from this brand: Digital Doc emerged in 2010 at a time when mobile devices were not yet a part of the majority of the U.S.’ everyday lives. The brand quickly grew alongside the industry and is poised to continue to, as estimates show approximately 25 billion internet-connected devices are expected to exist by 2020. Digital Doc also thrives in small footprints, with the maximum square footage its locations occupy being 1,200 square feet. The brand also has streamlined supply chain processes that include pre-negotiated contracts with preferred suppliers for franchisees to take advantage of.BoConceptLocations: 300-plusInvestment range: $350,000 to $750,000Franchise opportunity website: <a href="https://www.boconcept.com/en-us/franchise?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-10-retail-franchises-to-watch-in-2020-2711701" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.boconcept.com/en-us/franchise</a>Danish furniture franchise BoConcept, while known for its sophisticated furniture designs that are as functional as they are chic, has evolved its offering beyond retail into the “lifestyle brand” category by offering a personalized interior design service to provide franchisees with a powerful selling tool. BoConcept is also growing its B2B business, building its presence in residential, office and hospitality settings.What you can learn from this brand: After being named ‘Best Lifestyle Franchise’ at the Global Franchise Awards and reaching the 300-unit milestone in 2019, BoConcept directed its attention to expansion <a href="https://www.franchising.com/news/20191105_boconceptrsquos_profitable_franchise_opportunity_p.html?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-10-retail-franchises-to-watch-in-2020-2711701" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">through multi-unit franchise deals</a> over the next few years with plans to grow to more than 600 stores. BoConcept is poised to benefit from the eventual change in American interior design preferences <a href="https://www.franchisetimes.com/news/August-2019/BoConcept-Sees-Americans-Embracing-Modern-Design/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-10-retail-franchises-to-watch-in-2020-2711701" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">toward the more minimalist and clean-lined modern styles trending elsewhere across the globe</a>.&nbsp;uBreakiFixLocations: 543Investment range: $60,400 to $220,850Franchise opportunity website: <a href="https://www.ubreakifix.com/franchising?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-10-retail-franchises-to-watch-in-2020-2711701" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.ubreakifix.com/franchising</a>Device repair franchise uBreakiFix distinguishes itself from competitors in the space with affordable repair services for customers and an affordable franchise opportunity for prospective business owners. Founded on the idea a perfectly good phone shouldn’t have to be replaced in whole due to just a cracked screen, uBreakiFix has since grown its offering to focus on tech repairs of all kinds. Plus, with a relatively short signing-to-opening time of four to six months, owners can expect to be generating business (and profits) soon after investing.What you can learn from this brand: Unlike many other retail franchises, uBreakiFix is positioned to grow with the digital onset instead of be replaced by it, aiding in the brand’s growth and staying power. Through positioning that dubs the brand fixers of “anything with a power button,” steadily increasing smartphone prices and a growing consumer cognizance as it relates to e-waste, uBreakiFix experienced 66% year-over-year growth in 2019.Rent-A-CenterLocations: 2,300-plus corporately-owned locations, 180-plus franchisedInvestment range: $355,392 to $582,430Franchise opportunity website: <a href="https://racfranchising.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-10-retail-franchises-to-watch-in-2020-2711701" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://racfranchising.com/</a>Rent-A-Center is, by far, the most dominant player in the rent-to-own segment of the retail industry. A strong national presence coupled with an offering that eliminates the need for credit gives consumers ample reason to return to their local Rent-A-Center store whenever they’re in need of furniture, major appliances, electronics and computers but are unable to make a large down payment.What you can learn from this brand: Rent-A-Center backed into franchising in a different way than most brands do, establishing itself through corporate stores that are now being sold to entrepreneurs in a large-scale refranchising initiative. The brand is moving a significant number of its stores from corporate to local ownership through partnerships with multi-unit operators to purchase the rights to an entire market and take over between 30 and 50 stores.Buddy’s Home FurnishingsLocations: 300-plusInvestment range: $385,166 to $912,594Franchise opportunity website: <a href="http://www.mybuddysfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-10-retail-franchises-to-watch-in-2020-2711701" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.mybuddysfranchise.com/</a>Buddy’s Home Furnishings is a rent-to-own business with a robust inventory, carrying furniture, appliances, electronics, computers and more. Buddy’s offers consumers flexible payment options including weekly or monthly rental or lease purchase programs, with an instant approval program that expedites the renting process. Buddy’s doesn’t have a fixed inventory, allowing itself to evolve to carry whatever consumers are looking for in a given moment or time period, which has helped the brand triple in size since being acquired by NewCo in 2013.What you can learn from this brand: In July 2019, Buddy’s was acquired by Liberty Tax in a move that marked the latter company’s strategic shift in offering from tax service business to investment company. Buddy’s gets to go along for the ride thanks to the aforementioned 2013 private equity investment that helped the brand grow to its current size <a href="https://www.furnituretoday.com/industry-issue/liberty-tax-acquires-buddys/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-10-retail-franchises-to-watch-in-2020-2711701" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">and up its valuation to $122 million</a>, making it an attractive addition to Liberty Tax’s portfolio. Franchising clearly has private equity’s attention, and Buddy’s is a testament to the value that this kind of capital infusion can generate.CPR Cell Phone RepairLocations: 700-plusInvestment range: $55,650 to $170,500Franchise opportunity website: <a href="https://www.cellphonerepair.com/franchise/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-10-retail-franchises-to-watch-in-2020-2711701" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.cellphonerepair.com/franchise/</a>Whether consumers are seeking walk-in, drop-off, or heck, even mail-in device repair services, CPR Cell Phone Repair locations have it all. The franchise also has a retail component to its business model, as well, selling smartphones, game systems and their necessary parts and accessories, as well.What you can learn from this brand: CPR Cell Phone Repair is another brand that benefitted from an acquisition in 2019 <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/assurant-acquires-global-cell-phone-203000995.html?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-10-retail-franchises-to-watch-in-2020-2711701" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">when it was bought from previous parent company Merrymeeting Group by Assurant</a>, a housing and lifestyle-focused investment company. As part of the agreement, CPR gets to continue operating as an independent entity while simultaneously benefitting from Assurant’s resources and financial backing, creating a perfect scenario—and strong franchisee selling point—for a brand with an already large presence looking toward international growth.

Top 10 Retail Franchises To Watch in 2020

1851 Franchise

E-commerce, beware—these retail franchise brands are not just weathering the storm, they’re thriving. 1851 dug into the top retail brands in the franchise space.

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Extraordinary Brands

NEIGHBORHOOD barre Expands Through Franchising Nationwide With a Model Built for Local Communities

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Keke's Breakfast Cafe

Keke’s Breakfast Cafe Has Bold Franchise Growth Plans for 2026

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Comfort Keepers

What Care Services Do Comfort Keepers® Franchisees Provide? A Look at Personalized In-Home Care and Owner Responsibilities

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Wild Bill's Craft Beverage Company

Wild Bill's San Diego Signing - Drew St. Cyr - 1851 Franchise

From Marine to Franchise Owner: Why Drew St. Cyr Is Bringing Wild Bill’s to San Diego

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Layne's Chicken Fingers

Photo of Layne's Chicken Fingers franchisees, UW-La Crosse alums, Luke and Josh Bergeson

Why These University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Alums Bought Into Layne’s Chicken Fingers

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

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Yum! Brands Pizza Hut Sale - 1851 Franchise

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

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

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Photo of SONIC franchise logo against blue sky backdrop

KBP Brands Acquires 78 SONIC Locations Across Five States

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

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

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

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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.


Newk’s Eatery Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2026

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Window Genie Franchise - Deep Dive 2025 - 1851 Franchise

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: Window Genie is an owner-led, multi-service exterior cleaning brand with recurring demand and Neighborly backing that simplifies operations and supports growth.

Window Genie Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hardee's Franchise - ARC Burger Lawsuit - 1851 Franchise

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

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

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

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

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

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The linear sales funnel is dying. Prospective buyers are no longer filling out a form at first glance and waiting for the phone to ring. They’re doing the majority of the heavy lifting before they even make themselves known to the franchisor. For franchisors, this means one key thing: you must know exactly where candidates spend their time. No guesswork. And you have to adjust your strategy accordingly.And, in today's buyer world, the biggest buzz term is 2026's ride or die for franchise brands – Ai.&nbsp;If you are trying to sell a franchise today, you must meet candidates where they are (four walls, Ai, website, social advertising).&nbsp;Focusing on a strong digital footprint first and then lead generation will help the brand with validation and will lay the foundation for trust before the first conversation even happens. Still, franchisors must know where to find their candidates and be confident the candidates are being sent to the right place.“We consistently see the strongest lead performance from Google Search (paid and organic), social platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and our franchise development website,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinlsnyder">Erin Snyder</a>, head of franchise development at&nbsp;<a href="https://handelsicecream.com/handels-franchise/">Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream</a>. “Because all awareness and advertising efforts ultimately funnel candidates to our development site, maintaining a highly optimized, mobile-first web presence is critical for conversion.”<h2>The "Hidden" Channels: Authentic Research via AiSEO</h2>While Google and major portals are often where a candidate might start a broad search, the deep research happens in the shadows. This is where candidates scroll, mindlessly or otherwise, simply observing rather than clicking “apply” immediately; or, ask Ai chatbots about the best franchises to buy, the blind spots, the why nots, and, of course, the whys.Right now, Ai plays a key role in this research stage. Buyers want the truth.&nbsp;For franchisors, this means your content strategy must pivot. It is no longer enough to post stock photos of happy business owners. You must document the journey, showing the behind-the-scenes reality that proves your concept has staying power.<h2>The Pivot From Print to Digital Interactivity</h2>While print media has been a channel for franchise development in the past, its static nature has made it less effective as the buyer’s journey has shifted to digital. Buyers are generally looking for channels that will allow them to click, read and continue the search immediately.“Traditional print media has largely become a thing of the past for franchise development,” Snyder said. “What has been encouraging, though, is seeing many of these publications successfully pivot to digital formats that offer greater interactivity, stronger analytics and far better linkability than print ever could.”This creates a more dynamic experience for the candidate. In addition to a digital article, franchisors can embed a “day in the life” video, for example, or hyperlink a deeper dive on costs and profits for instant validation.This shift also allows franchisors to track return on investment more effectively. Instead of guessing if an article or ad worked, digital publications allow you to see exactly who clicked through, allowing for retargeting and smarter budget allocation.<h2>The Conversion Hub: Your Mobile-First Website</h2>Once a candidate has discovered you on Google, watched your videos on TikTok and read about you in a digital publication, they finally arrive at the destination: your franchise development website.This is the bottom of the funnel, where you will win or lose a candidate. Because all other channels point here, your website cannot just be a digital brochure. It has to be a conversion engine. And crucially, it must work perfectly on a smartphone.The question can’t just be “Do we have a website?” Questions about the website should surround usability and readability. Is navigation easy on a smartphone? Does the site load quickly? Is it readable? If a prospect has to pinch-and-zoom to read your investment costs and financial performance, they will leave.An optimized, mobile-first presence is critical because it serves as the collection point; all other awareness efforts funnel potential franchisees to the site. The user experience here should validate the trust built on other channels. However, accessibility is only half the battle; the content itself must be unsparingly open. The website is the channel where you must prove your value proposition with hard data.“Across all channels, the messaging needs to be clear, concise and consistent,” Snyder said. “Candidates should be able to easily find transparent investment ranges and financial requirements, a clear value proposition, compelling franchisee success stories, key differentiators from competitors and straightforward next steps for how to inquire.”When you treat your website as a transparency engine rather than a gatekeeper, you change the dynamic of the eventual sales call. A candidate who has already consumed your financial data and success stories arrives at the inquiry stage educated and qualified. This allows the development team to skip the basic fact-finding and move straight to strategy and fit.“When a candidate submits an inquiry, the first conversation should build on what the candidate has already learned,” Snyder said “ensuring they understand the opportunity they are considering, clarifying details, personalizing the discussion to their goals and moving them into a structured education process rather than starting from scratch.”<h2>Allocating the Budget: The "Ideal Candidate" Approach</h2>While a presence across multiple channels — from search and social to digital publications — is key, understanding exactly how much to invest in each option is the next hurdle. There is no single, magical approach to budgeting; a brand selling multi-million-dollar franchises needs to develop a presence in different places than a low-cost, mobile franchise will.To spend effectively, you must deeply understand your ideal franchisee profile. Once you know who is investing, you can begin working on where to find them. For example, a high-net-worth investor might be on LinkedIn and reading digital trade journals, while a first-time investor or someone seeking an owner-operator model might be influenced by local Facebook ads.“Franchisors should start by understanding their ideal franchisee profile and then allocate budget toward the channels where those prospects spend the most time,” Snyder said. “The mix will naturally look different for a high-investment, multi-unit candidate than for a first-time owner-operator. Beyond that, it’s critical to consider overall brand awareness and invest in channels that consistently get both the brand and the franchise opportunity in front of qualified prospects. A balanced approach that supports both awareness and lead capture tends to produce the strongest results.”<h2>Key Takeaways and Next Steps:</h2>Make sure you have a content footprint that answers the top 25 questions asked about your brand in Ai and Google searchs.Review your mobile experience: Open your franchise development site on your phone. If it takes more than three seconds to load or if the "Apply" button is hard to find, fix it immediately.Embrace "lo-fi" video content: You don't need a production crew. Use a smartphone to record "day in the life" videos with your franchisees and post them to social to build authentic trust.Ensure transparency and continuity:&nbsp;Candidates need to be able to find the information they’re looking for, and the experience should be consistent between a social page and a franchise development site. Make sure your value proposition is clear across all channels.Embrace innovation, but don’t count out the classics:&nbsp;Look at the whole picture. Many candidates are exploring opportunities on supplemental platforms like social media or in the results of a Google search, but they’re still looking at the franchise development site, too. Don’t confine yourself to the “old reliable” methods, but don’t leave them behind, either.Budget by persona, not platform: Don't just "do Facebook ads." Define exactly who your buyer is, and spend your money only on the channels where that specific person consumes content.For more information on franchise growth channels, check out these related stories on 1851 Franchise:<ul><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/how-to-use-social-media-marketing-to-promote-your-franchise-2727185#stories">How To Use Social Media Marketing To Promote Your Franchise</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/building-a-franchise-website-that-converts-key-features-and-best-practices-2727363#stories">Building a Franchise Website That Converts: Key Features and Best Practices</a></li><li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlfduHqGy7I">How to Sell Franchises | The Buyer Persona</a></li></ul>

To succeed in the shifting landscape, franchisors must understand the buyer’s journey, identify the ideal franchisee profile, and build a digital presence that meets candidates where they are.

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