5 “Essential Business” Franchises to Buy

As states across the United States started issuing stay-at-home orders in March, businesses and services were divided into two sectors, essential and non-essential. Essential businesses mostly include gas stations, grocery stores and necessary health services. However, other businesses, such as liquor stores, marijuana dispensaries, big box retailers, and home improvement services were also deemed “essential” in certain states.

With the economy rapidly approaching recession and unemployment is at an all-time high, the franchising industry is expecting a bump in activity, with people wanting to take control of their future post-COVID-19. Because the future of our economy is unknown, and many are predicting a second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, an “essential business” may be the best franchise to buy during these uncertain times.

Here are five "essential business" franchises all prospective franchisees should consider.

1. Nurse Next Door

Seniors are the most at-risk group to coronavirus, and as states across the U.S. begin to reopen, it is important for this population to stay home until a vaccine is found for the deadly virus. Nurse Next Door, an in-home senior care service, enables the elderly to push off their move to a retirement home and receive the care they need from their own homes. In-home care is an essential service that may see a boost in services while family members may not be able to visit their loved ones out of precaution.

2. Monster Tree Service

Monster Tree Service, a tree care and removal service, keeps a safe social distance of about 80 feet up in your trees. Tree services will always be needed whether it be residential yards or corporate campuses. 

3. Footprints Floors*

Footprints Floors specializes in installing hardwood floors, carpet, tile floors, backsplashes and laminates. As construction is considered an essential business, this brand has implemented free virtual estimates on new projects in order to respect customers’ personal space and limit unnecessary human interaction. As a franchisee, you will consult and lead the estimate, advise the customer on how to properly measure their floors and send an estimate once completed. The company is taking all necessary steps to maintain the safety of their team and customers.

4. Pet Supplies Plus

The bottom line is people own pets and pets need food. Pet Supplies Plus, a leading retailer for pet food and supplies, among other pet supply retailers, have actually seen a surge in sales during the COVID-19 pandemic. During uncertain economic times, Pet Supplies Plus offers omni-channel shopping options. While most storefronts have been open for curbside pickup, ecommerce has also been a popular option for pet owners.

5. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK*

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK is the largest franchised moving company in North America with each franchise being independently owned and operated. Currently, there are more than 380 locations and 3,000 trucks operating in 44 U.S. states in addition to Canada, Ireland, and the UK. With moving considered essential, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK has adjusted the business procedures to safely serve their customers. Aside from wearing gloves, movers are instructed to disinfect trucks after every move, carry hand sanitizer on them and have disinfecting wipes in all trucks to wipe down steering wheels and door handles.