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In the world of business, it&rsquo;s crucial that a brand makes itself known on the local level&nbsp;to remain competitive. Many consumers can easily recognize brand names and logos, but they fail to understand that a&nbsp;&ldquo;chain restaurant&rdquo; is actually owned and operated by someone who lives in their community.&nbsp;

More so than ever before, those personal connections in local markets can make a difference when it comes to a potential customer&nbsp;choosing&mdash;or not choosing&mdash;the competition. And that&#39;s why&nbsp;creating important relationships&nbsp;as soon as&nbsp;new residents move into a community is the goal of <a href="http://welcomematfranchising.com/franchise-opportunities/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=welcomemat-services-wants-to-make-new-movers-your-new-customers-6888" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Welcomemat Services</a>, a franchise concept based in Atlanta.

The concept fueling Welcomemat&nbsp;is simple and effective. When a person moves to a new community, they receive a package in the mail with vouchers for free gifts at the participating merchants in the area. When the new resident uses the voucher, it&rsquo;s collected by the Welcomemat franchisee and sent back to the Welcomemat data center where codes are scanned and demographics are compiled. The businesses can then tailor their products or services to the information they receive from the Welcommat franchise. After taking advantage of their gift, customers also receive a thank you note from the business along with some type of bounce back offer or more information from the store where the gift was redeemed.

&ldquo;In essence, we are a system of local business owners whose goal is to drum up business for other local business owners,&rdquo; said Brian Mattingly, founder and CEO of Welcomemat Services. &ldquo;We understand that the strongest bond you can create with a customer is being there when they are new to a city and trying to get the lay of the land. We are continuously improving our approach, technology and services to best capture that audience.&rdquo;

When Mattingly and his wife, Michelle, created Welcomemat Services in 2003, they envisioned building an innovative company to help local mom-and-pop shops compete to reach new customers who had just moved to the area. With approximately 50 million people moving every year (that&rsquo;s one in six people in the U.S.), the Mattingly&rsquo;s pinpointed new movers as the ideal target audience for small-business owners&mdash;and for good reason. According to the New York Times bestseller The Power of Habit, Charles Duhigg explains that a precisely timed advertisement sent to a new homebuyer can change someone&rsquo;s shopping patterns for years. And that&rsquo;s exactly what Welcomemat Services has set out to do in a much more high-tech, data-driven way.

&ldquo;Our programs target new movers who move into an area by presenting invitations and offers to try various businesses and organizations in their community, helping them get acclimated to their surroundings,&rdquo; Mattingly said. &ldquo;While most other marketing company programs stop there, leaving businesses asking for the results of the marketing efforts, Welcomemat Services provides extensive data back to our business clients. This allows the business owners to better understand the demographics and buying tendencies of their customers&mdash;a &lsquo;big-data&rsquo; solution for small business.&rdquo;

By combining traditional direct mail marketing with an innovative platform that monitors the use of each offer sent to new movers, Welcomemat Services provides the most extensive data collection in the industry. Every time a new mover uses an invitation from the welcome package, it&rsquo;s tracked. Business owners are given access to the most significant demographic, socio-graphic and geographic data, helping them learn more about their customers to make additional business decisions.

Welcomemat Services&rsquo; approach was not just specific to the established small-business owner, but also the future through franchising. With opportunities available at a franchise fee of $44,750, Welcomemat Services has positioned itself perfectly among the lower investment franchises, all while maintaining a very scalable and expandable model.

Today, by leveraging the low startup expenses and the ability for small-business owners to market and support fellow small-business owners in their local communities, Welcomemat Services has grown to more than 60 units. And by utilizing the same approach to data collection and marketing strategies that large companies implement, Welcomemat Services hopes to continue changing the face of direct mail marketing in the years to come.

&ldquo;We help turn people into small-business owners, and in turn, they help fellow business owners expand their local marketing efforts,&rdquo; Mattingly said. &ldquo;We are a true win-win business for all communities.&rdquo;

Welcomemat Services Wants to Make New Movers Your New Customers

1851 Franchise

https://www.youtube.com/embed/J8HP5L1xl-U

Using technology, big data and local marketing, Welcomemat Services is driving new business to local shops.


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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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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

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

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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

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<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.


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

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

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Welcomemat Services Wants to Make New Movers Your New Customers

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