1851

A great website is essential for attracting potential franchisees. But in order to make it great, you have to understand what is working and what is not. This is where website analytics come in.&nbsp;With insights ranging from tracking search engine optimization (SEO) efforts to conversion optimization, franchisors can strategically allocate resources, refine marketing campaigns, and ultimately elevate their digital presence. Here’s what you should know about website analytics.&nbsp;<h3>Key Analytics Tools to Understand</h3>One of the most common tools for web statistics is Google Analytics. This Google tool provides valuable insights into how users interact with a website, helping businesses make data-driven decisions to improve their online presence and user experience.&nbsp;In order to measure a website, a business first has to create a Google Analytics account. They then need to add a small piece of JavaScript measurement code to each page on the site. Now, every time a user visits a web page, the tracking code will collect information about how that user interacted with the page.For example, Google Analytics can track the number of visitors to a website, along with information about their geographic location, browser and device. It also identifies the sources of website traffic, distinguishing between direct traffic, organic search, paid search, referral traffic and other channels. Franchise owners can set up goals to track specific actions or conversions, such as completing a purchase, filling out a form or spending a certain amount of time on the site.Additionally, Google Analytics provides real-time data on website activity, allowing users to see immediate changes in traffic and user behavior. It can also be integrated with other Google products, such as Google Ads, to provide a comprehensive view of online marketing efforts.Google Search Console (GSC), Looker Data Studio and Google Ads are best for web trafficking, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/bianca-anderson/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=website-analytics-understanding-your-franchises-online-performance-2723983" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Bianca Anderson</a>, marketing manager and SEO strategist at customer relationship management platform&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hubspot.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=website-analytics-understanding-your-franchises-online-performance-2723983" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">HubSpot</a>.“GSC is my go-to for organic performance data, but it does have its limitations when it comes to filtering and analyzing larger sets of URLs,” she noted. “That's when I turn to Looker Data Studio, which seamlessly integrates with GSC and lets me use advanced filtering and analyze larger groups of URLs.”&nbsp;And for tracking keywords, Anderson said that she finds it important to use third-party tools such as SEMrush and Ahrefs. However, it's worth noting that these tools also have their limitations. For example, Anderson has noticed that some of them have lagging monthly search volume data, especially in newer and more explosive niches like artificial intelligence. And in those cases, she expands her toolkit to include Google Ads’ Keyword Planner, which tends to have more up-to-date data for these topics.&nbsp;“Don't shy away from using different tools and sources to gather and cross-reference data,” said Anderson. “It's often necessary to get a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of your SEO efforts.”<h3>Why Understanding Analytics Is Important</h3>Having an understanding of analytics and what they mean is crucial in running a successful franchise website. Knowing where your website traffic comes from can make all the difference in marketing strategies. Website analytics break down traffic sources, distinguishing between organic search, direct traffic and referrals. Understanding the channels that drive the most visitors empowers franchises to allocate resources efficiently. For instance, if social media is a significant driver of traffic, focusing on targeted social media campaigns can be a wise decision.“If you've got a marketing team, they need to be Google Analytics certified,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/linton-dowling/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=website-analytics-understanding-your-franchises-online-performance-2723983" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Linton Dowling</a>, vice president of marketing at franchise sales organization&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/raintree">Raintree</a>. “It is so vitally important to understand where people are converting, where they're bouncing —&nbsp; things like that.”The ultimate goal of a franchise website is often to convert visitors into franchisees. Website analytics enable conversion tracking by monitoring actions such as form submissions, purchases or other desired outcomes. By analyzing conversion data, franchises can identify successful marketing campaigns and optimize underperforming ones. This data-driven approach helps in refining strategies to maximize the return on investment.Dowling also suggested employing features such as a heatmap, A/B testing, session recordings and personalization testing to enhance the effectiveness of digital strategies.&nbsp;“This allows me to take a step further and see how visitors interact with a website,” he said. “This tells me whether moving a button, or changing the color of a button, will help. I can also test two different headlines to see which is going to convert better.”&nbsp;Website analytics serve as a powerful tool for franchises to gain actionable insights into user behavior, traffic sources, conversions, content effectiveness and responsiveness. By leveraging this data, brands can make informed decisions, refine their online strategies and ultimately enhance the overall digital experience for prospective franchisees.&nbsp;

Website Analytics: Understanding Your Franchise's Online Performance

1851 Franchise

Website analytics play a pivotal role in providing insights into user behavior, engagement and the effectiveness of online strategies. 

website-analytics-understanding-your-franchises-online-performance

Pet Wants

3 Keys to Franchise Success with Pet Wants: Passion, Support, and Hard Work

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How This Health Care Professional Turned a Personal Pet Problem Into a Growing Business With Pet Wants

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Lawn Doctor

Photo of former Lawn Doctor franchise owners Todd & Janis Rucker

Former Lawn Doctor Employees Journey Back to Ownership Led to Succession Success Story

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FSC Franchise Co.

image of the brass tap and FSC Franchise Co's ownership effect

The Brass Tap: Why This Bar Franchise Thrives with Strong Margins and Evolving Offerings

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Keke's Breakfast Cafe

How Keke’s Breakfast Cafe Builds Local Demand Through National Marketing Leadership

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Prince St. Pizza Partners With Dave’s Hot Chicken Franchisee for National Growth

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KKR to Acquire Nothing Bundt Cakes in $2 Billion Deal -  1851 Franchise

KKR to Acquire Nothing Bundt Cakes in $2 Billion Deal

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FTC Settlement Puts New Focus on Franchise Disclosure Standards - 1851 Franchise

FTC Settlement Puts New Focus on Franchise Disclosure Standards

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Applebee’s Franchisee Files for Bankruptcy as Dine Brands Moves to Acquire 53 Units - 1851 Franchise

Applebee’s Franchisee Files for Bankruptcy as Dine Brands Moves to Acquire 53 Units

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Why Skilled Trades Are Emerging as the Economy’s Most AI-Resilient Careers

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A class-action lawsuit filed late last month in U.S. District Court in Chicago&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/lawsuit-accuses-mcdonalds-deception-mcrib-has-no-rib-meat/">accuses McDonald's of deceptive advertising over its iconic McRib sandwich</a>, arguing that the product’s name and marketing mislead consumers into believing it contains actual pork rib meat. The plaintiffs, representing several states, claim the fast-food chain has intentionally cultivated hype and scarcity around the McRib through limited-time releases and advertising campaigns, most recently bringing the sandwich back in November. "The name 'McRib' is a deliberate sleight of hand. By including the word ‘Rib’ in the name of the sandwich, McDonald's knowingly markets the sandwich in a way that deceives reasonable consumers, who reasonably (but mistakenly) believe that a product named the 'McRib' will include at least some meaningful quantity of actual pork rib meat, which commands a premium price on the market," the lawsuit said. "McDonald's does this despite knowing that the sandwich in fact does not contain any meaningful quantity of actual pork rib meat — indeed, none at all."Instead, the complaint alleges that the sandwich contains no rib meat at all and is made from restructured pork derived from lower-grade cuts.&nbsp;"Put simply: consumers have been materially misled en masse as a result of McDonald's deceptive labeling and marketing into purchasing sandwiches that they would not otherwise have purchased, or would only have paid less for, had they known the truth," the lawsuit said.McDonald’s strongly disputed the claims. "This lawsuit distorts the facts, and many of the claims are inaccurate,” McDonald’s said in a statement. “Food quality and safety are at the heart of everything we do — that's why we're committed to using real, quality ingredients across our entire menu. Our fan-favorite McRib sandwich is made with 100% pork sourced from farmers and suppliers across the U.S. We've always been transparent about our ingredients so guests can make the right choice for them."<a href="https://1851franchise.com/the-mcrib-has-returned-is-mcdonalds-bouncing-back-2714359">The McRib</a>, first introduced in 1981, has since become a cult favorite, cycling on and off menus over the decades and achieving nationwide availability in 2020.Read the full CBS News article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/lawsuit-accuses-mcdonalds-deception-mcrib-has-no-rib-meat/">here</a>.

The class-action suit claims the cult-favorite sandwich’s name, shape and pricing deceive customers about what they’re really buying.

McDonald’s Faces Lawsuit Alleging McRib Contains No Actual Rib Meat

mcdonalds-faces-lawsuit-alleging-mcrib-contains-no-actual-rib-meat

<a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500">Entrepreneur’s 2026 Franchise 500</a> has arrived, and it demonstrates a few key shifts within the industry. The ranking, widely recognized as the gold standard, weighs key data points — including costs and fees, size and growth, support and brand strength — to determine the final list. This year, the results point to an industry that’s both leaning into legacy brands and embracing niche, innovative ones that address the shifting business and investing landscape.<h2>The Top 10 Brands of 2026</h2>Familiar powerhouses dominate the top 10, but notably, Jersey Mike’s moved into the No. 1 spot, dethroning Taco Bell.<ol><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-jersey-mikes-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2720908">Jersey Mike’s</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/taco-bell-franchise-deep-dive-2720788">Taco Bell</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-dunkin-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2720835">Dunkin’</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-ace-hardware-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2720851">Ace Hardware</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/kumon-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-for-2025-2729462">Kumon</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-wingstop-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2720864">Wingstop</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-the-ups-store-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2727441">The UPS Store</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-hampton-by-hiltons-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2722575">Hampton by Hilton</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/culvers-franchise-costs-fees-roi-2025-2720843">Culver’s</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-mcdonalds-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-for-2025-2720737#stories">McDonald’s</a></li></ol><h2>Other Shifts and Market Trends</h2>While the top 10 features familiar quick-service restaurants, the ranking also highlights the popularity of other community-focused and need-based models.Beyond the household names, the 2026 ranking highlights the strength of home services franchises; the “care economy,” with both childcare and senior care models; and other specialized industries that were previously fragmented by many independent organizations.For the broader economy, the Franchise 500 proves that franchising remains one of the most stable vehicles for wealth creation. Top brands this year suggest investors are no longer looking for just the biggest name or newest fad. Rather, they’re gravitating toward brands with strong infrastructure and recession-resistant, utility-focused models.View the full ranking&nbsp;<a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500">here</a>.

2026 Franchise 500 design with Jersey Mike's, Dunkin', Taco Bell, Ace Hardware, and Kumon

The latest rankings reveal a new leader, a surge in the “care economy,” and an emphasis on stability, infrastructure and recession resistance. 

The 2026 Franchise 500: New Rankings and Market Shifts

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<a href="https://princestreetpizza.com/">Prince St. Pizza</a> has partnered with a&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-daves-hot-chicken-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2723529">Dave’s Hot Chicken</a> franchisee to support its national expansion,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pizzamarketplace.com/news/prince-st-pizza-partners-with-daves-hot-chicken-franchisee-for-national-expansion/#:~:text=Prince%20St.%20Pizza%2C%20a%20New%20York%2Dbased%20pizzeria,the%20country%2C%20according%20to%20a%20press%20release.">Pizza Marketplace recently reported</a>. The New York-based brand has joined forces with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawrencekourie/">Lawrence Kourie</a>, founder and largest franchisee of Dave’s Hot Chicken, to grow its footprint across the country. Kourie’s experience opening and operating locations in multiple markets will help the brand as it enters new territories."Lawrence has built and operated one of the fastest-expanding restaurant concepts in the country, but what stands out is his disciplined approach to growth and brand integrity," said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawrence-longo-342856/?skipRedirect=true">Lawrence Longo</a>, CEO of Prince St. Pizza. "He understands how to develop a concept without losing what made it special in the first place, which is critical as we enter this next phase."The expansion will use Kourie’s existing infrastructure and operations to introduce Prince St. Pizza into new markets. Each location will aim to reflect the same experience as the brand’s original Nolita shop."I have spent years evaluating restaurant concepts, and it is rare to find one that delivers both a strong product and a clear identity," Kourie said. "What Prince St. has built is difficult to truly replicate. The focus now is on growing the brand in a way that preserves that foundation while introducing it to new communities."Kourie is a key operator within the Dave’s Hot Chicken system,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/daves-hot-chicken-sold-to-roark-capital-in-1-billion-deal-to-fuel-global-expansion-2729557#stories">which Roark Capital acquired in a $1 billion deal in 2025</a>. The partnership connects Prince St. Pizza to an operator with experience scaling a brand that has attracted major private equity investment.Read the full article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pizzamarketplace.com/news/prince-st-pizza-partners-with-daves-hot-chicken-franchisee-for-national-expansion/#:~:text=Prince%20St.%20Pizza%2C%20a%20New%20York%2Dbased%20pizzeria,the%20country%2C%20according%20to%20a%20press%20release.">here</a>.Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.1851growthclub.com">www.1851growthclub.com</a> and start your journey.

Prince St. Pizza is teaming up with a leading Dave’s Hot Chicken franchisee to expand nationwide, tapping proven operator experience to drive growth.

According to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260312305776/en/RF-Expands-Residential-and-Commercial-Services-Portfolio-with-Investment-in-Precision-Garage-Door-Service-Franchisee">recent release</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://rf-partners.com/">RF Investment Partners</a>, a group focused on flexible capital solutions and value-add support to lower-middle-market businesses, has teamed up with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.burlingtoncp.us/">Burlington Capital Partners</a>, a group focused on family, founder and operator-owned lower-middle-market businesses, to acquire a prominent multi-territory&nbsp;<a href="https://franchise.neighborly.com/precision-door">Precision Garage Door Service</a> franchise.The investment marks the seventh platform for RF within the service space. Precision Garage Door Service, which is part of the larger&nbsp;<a href="https://www.neighborly.com/">Neighborly</a> ecosystem, specializes in the installation, maintenance and repair of garage doors.&nbsp;“We are proud to partner with management and the Burlington team to support continued growth by investing in people and operational excellence,”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-fidler-6787143">Peter Fidler</a>, managing partner and co-founder of RF Investment Partners, said in the release. “The sector continues to present compelling opportunities given the essential nature of garage door repair, and we look forward to building on Precision’s strong foundation to drive long-term value.”This deal is part of the broader trend toward institutionalized multi-unit and multi-territory operators. Previously, franchising was largely viewed as the place for “mom-and-pop” businesses. And while franchises remain small, local businesses, the aggressive entry of private equity firms focused on operators (franchisees) rather than the brand (franchisor) is bringing new energy to small business ownership.Read the full release&nbsp;<a href="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260312305776/en/RF-Expands-Residential-and-Commercial-Services-Portfolio-with-Investment-in-Precision-Garage-Door-Service-Franchisee">here</a>.Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.1851growthclub.com">www.1851growthclub.com</a> and start your journey.

Design with Precision Garage Door Service team members

The strategic investment marks the seventh residential services platform for RF and reflects a growing institutional desire for high-potential, operator-led franchises.

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

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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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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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Beef 'O' Brady's Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2026

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: Beef ‘O’ Brady’s is a family sports pub concept built around community, casual dining and lifelong local loyalty.

beef-o-bradys-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data

Visiting Angels Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2026

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: Visiting Angels is a senior home care franchise focused on in-home support for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

visiting-angels-franchise-costs-fees-profit

BrightStar Care Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2026

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: BrightStar Care is a home health care franchise that provides both medical and non-medical services.

franchise-deep-dive-brightstar-cares-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data

Amada Senior Care Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2026

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: Amada Senior Care is a non-medical home care, assisted living placement, and related senior-support services with multiple revenue streams.

Website Analytics: Understanding Your Franchise's Online Performance

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