Top 15 High Investment Emerging Franchises

There’s no need to get sticker shock when looking at these franchises–sometimes a larger initial splurge can actually lead to financial success down the road. By making a large investment at the start, franchisees who choose to buy into these business models are equipped with the tools and infrastructure necessary to succeed in their respective industries.

Here are a few emerging franchise concepts that are worth the extra investment.

1. The Brass Tap*

As the craft beer segment continues to grow, The Brass Tap has positioned itself as an industry leader. Offering an upscale setting, this franchise is focused on providing a premium customer experience while offering rotating beverage options on tap. With its dedication to presentation and quality, the franchise is continuing to build its momentum.

Cost: $664,050 to $1,223,000

2. Famous Toastery

Famous Toastery is making waves in the better breakfast segment. At Famous Toastery, customer service is the number one priority as the brand maintains the motto that, “every server is your server.” This brunch destination, which originated in North Carolina in 2005, has expanded to now include locations in Colorado, Georgia, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Virginia. The brand is constantly seeking out new growth opportunities.

Cost: $601,500 to $1,044,000

3. K-9 Resorts Daycare & Luxury Hotels

K-9 Resorts Daycare & Luxury Hotels traces its history back to 2005. Just five short years later, the brand began its franchising program in order to allow fellow pet lovers a chance to get involved in the business and follow their passions. The company strives to provide high quality pet care to families in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Cost: $915,655 to $1,292,859

4. Lo-Lo’s Chicken and Waffles

Fans of soul food should check out the franchise opportunity offered by Lo-Lo’s Chicken and Waffles. This award-winning brand serves an assortment of dishes made from scratch each day. Since its founding in 2002, the company has served up delicious and authentic recipes that founder Larry ‘Lo-Lo’ White created in his grandmother’s restaurant during his youth.

Cost: $850,000 to $2,300,000

5. Ruby’s Diner

Ruby’s Diner offers a slice of life from the 1940’s. This franchise offers classic favorites such as burgers, fries and shakes. The brand is focused on using the highest quality ingredients available in order to deliver an unforgettable experience for guests. Tracing its roots back to the 80’s, this company has locations across California, New Jersey, Nevada, Texas and Pennsylvania.

Cost: $737,500 to $1,922,000

6. Buffalo Wings & Rings

One brand transcending the traditional sports bar model is Buffalo Wings & Rings. The franchise has perfected a club-level restaurant experience with a vibrant menu to match. The Cincinnati-based franchise began in 1984 and has since reached 59 locations. Buffalo Wings & Rings has received multiple awards including a place in Franchise Business Review’s top 40 Food Franchises.

Cost: $1,244,000 - $3,085,000

7. Red Lion Hotels

Red Lion Hotels offers an affordable midsize hotel option for travelers. The brand features a range of desired amenities for guests including but not limited to free Wi-Fi and high-comfort lodging. The company is owned by the RLH Corporation, which oversees several other hotel brands that cover a large range of price options. 

Cost: $641,250 - $38,740,000

8. Roy Rogers

In the quick service segment, Roy Rogers offers a tried-and-true menu filled with classic crowd favorites including hamburgers, chicken and roast beef. The brand includes a unique feature known as the ‘Fixin’s Bar,’ which is designed to allow guests to customize meals without having to place a special order. The dining experience continues to draw in fans and potential franchisees alike with its Western decor theme.

Cost: $868,250 - $1,580,950

9. ZIPS Dry Cleaners

In 1996, ZIPS Dry Cleaners opened in the Baltimore-Washington area. The brand began as a chain of eight locations and has since surpassed the forty unit mark. ZIPS is closely tied to local communities and donates garments that are not claimed to various charitable organizations.

Cost: $855,350 - $1,139,600

10. Rock & Brews

With a name coined in the presence of KISS members Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, Rock & Brews certainly has an interesting history. Founded by former concert promoter Dave Furano, his brother Dell and Michael Zislis, this family-friendly rock ‘n’ roll franchise is one to watch, with plans to open more than ten restaurants in the next 5-7 years.

Cost: $1,510,000 to $2,505,000

11. Arooga’s Grille House & Sports Bar

With a determination to use cutting edge technology and eco-friendly resources, Arooga’s Grille House & Sports Bar provides an elevated sports bar experience. The brand follows a mission statement tied to ensuring excellent food and service to present and future guests. The concept strives to provide both value and entertainment across all locations. 

Cost:  $1,313,400 to $3,996,900

12. Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza

Blaze Pizza brings an assembly-line approach to pizza. The fast-casual franchise offers a customer experience centered on delivering high quality pizzas in just 180 seconds. It is important to note that Blaze requires franchisees to be multi-unit operators and does not sell single franchise locations, which is responsible for the higher initial investment.

Cost: $319,800 to $858,000

13. My Salon Suite

My Salon Suite was created to give beauty entrepreneurs an opportunity to become business owners. Tracing its roots back to New Orleans in 2010, this franchise now offers locations from coast to coast within 13 states. The grooming brand was ranked #6 on Entrepreneur’s Top Franchises of 2017 list.

Cost: $371,150 to $959,250

14. Curio Collection by Hilton

For travelers drawn to staying in unique hotels, the Curio Collection by Hilton is sure to inspire. These one-of-a-kind lodging options joined the franchise industry in 2014. There are currently 35 locations within this upscale hotel collection, all with different personalities and distinctive elements of character. The collection is designed to offer an unusual and authentic experience for guests. 

Cost: $3,540,555 - $97,365,200

15. Rockin’ Jump

Rockin’ Jump is a family-friendly indoor trampoline park brand that has been franchising since 2013. The brand strives to offer a venue for guests to have fun while getting fit. The company also serves as a place for families to host birthday parties and other celebrations while giving parents peace of mind knowing kids have a safe area to play.

Cost: $1,404,000 - $2,907,500