Growing a Franchise
With over 2,000 new franchise businesses expected this year, Georgia is leading the United States in franchise expansion thanks to a booming population and pro-business policies.
In 2025, Georgia isn’t just open for business; it’s becoming the gold standard for franchise growth nationwide. According to the International Franchise Association’s (IFA) 2025 Franchising Economic Outlook, Georgia is projected to lead all 50 states in franchise development, fueled by a potent mix of economic opportunity, population growth, tax reforms and a statewide focus on infrastructure and education.
The numbers speak for themselves. Georgia is expected to add 2,152 new franchise businesses this year alone — the highest increase in the nation — bringing the total to 34,156 units, a 6.7% growth rate. Franchise-generated jobs are set to grow by 20,617, totaling 361,287 direct employees. Notably, the sector is projected to contribute $37.4 billion to the state’s economy by 2025.
This surge not only places Georgia at the top of the national list but also highlights the state’s growing appeal to both franchisors and franchisees.
"For those considering a franchise investment or IFA members growing their brands, 2025 is poised to be a banner year,” said Matt Haller, IFA president and CEO, in a press release earlier this year. “Franchising in Georgia remains a major driver of growth and upward economic mobility.”
Georgia’s economic success in franchising is no accident. The state has worked diligently to create a business-friendly environment, offering consistent support for both established enterprises and emerging brands. In 2025, the state is making significant investments in infrastructure and education, alongside resource plans to support new industries and business owners. These initiatives are designed not just to attract entrepreneurs, but to ensure they have the tools and talent needed to thrive.
Proposed state income tax reforms aimed at accelerating tax cuts are also making Georgia more appealing from a financial standpoint. Lower tax burdens allow franchisees to reinvest in their businesses and expand faster.
Franchises succeed when they’re planted in the right markets, and Georgia’s demographic trends make it fertile ground. The state’s population reached 11.1 million in 2024, reflecting a 4.7% increase since 2020. That growth is largely driven by migration from higher-cost states and metropolitan areas as people seek affordable living and career opportunities.
This influx of new residents creates demand for everything from food and fitness to health care and home services, all areas where franchising excels. As a result, brands across industries are rushing to establish themselves in cities and suburbs across Georgia.
Georgia’s leadership in franchise growth is part of a broader trend across the Southeast and Southwest. These regions are projected to outpace the rest of the U.S. in 2025 franchise output, with Georgia standing at the forefront. According to the IFA report, the Southeast will see output growth of 6.2%, and the Southwest will grow by 8.5%.
Nationally, franchise output is expected to surpass $936 billion, with over 210,000 new jobs added in the sector. But Georgia is setting the pace with more units, more jobs and greater economic impact than any other state.
The sectors expected to grow the most in 2025 include personal services (up 4.3%) and retail food, products and services (up 3.5%). Georgia’s diverse economy and market demand make it an ideal state for franchises across these high-performing categories.
From home services and education to health, fitness and quick-service restaurants, brands are finding room to grow, and succeed, in the Peach State.
Every great franchisee had help. Franchisees turn to Growth Club to leverage its 100+ years of franchise experience to help navigate the difficulty of finding the right franchise opportunity. Visit www.1851growthclub.com and see what we can do for you.
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