The Top 10 Celebrities Who Love Franchising

It’s not uncommon for celebrities to venture outside of their day jobs into the world of business. For some, that means starting their own businesses while others have fallen in love with franchising, benefitting from brand name power and a built-in support system.

Here are 10 celebrities who have made a name for themselves in the industry, whether that’s as a franchisee or franchisor. 

Shaquille O’Neal

Shaq’s impressive franchising portfolio has included 155 Five Guys hamburger establishments, which represented 10% of the total company, 17 Auntie Anne’s Pretzels restaurants, nine Papa John’s restaurants, a “few” Krispy Kremes, 150 car washes, 40 24-Hour Fitness gyms and a movie theater in his native Newark. 

O’Neal has also explored the other side of franchise ownership. In 2018, O’Neal founded chicken sandwich brand Big Chicken, backed by a dream team of partners including JRS Hospitality and Authentic Brands Group. In 2021, he officially became a franchisor after launching the Big Chicken franchise concept. 

Mark Wahlberg

Wahlburgers was started by actor Mark Wahlberg and his brothers Donnie and Paul. The restaurant began expanding in 2014, and the family used a reality show to promote the brand. The Wahlbergs designed Wahlburgers to have a comfortable atmosphere that appeals to every generation. Paul Wahlberg, the brand’s head chef, shaped the menu based on his father's barbecue grill and homemade French fries.

Venus Williams

Not only is Venus Williams one of the most famous tennis players in the world, but she is also a very successful entrepreneur and a multi-unit franchise owner with juice and smoothie franchise Jamba. While looking for healthier dining choices, Williams fell in love with the Jamba brand, which was called Jamba Juice at the time. She now owns several locations in the Washington D.C. area. 

Jimmy Buffet

Although only international locations of Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville are franchised, it gives global investors an opportunity to open a restaurant with worldwide brand awareness. What started as a restaurant has turned into a resort-style business, featuring hotels, cruises and residences, in addition to its eateries and merchandise stores.

Phil Mickelson

Phil Mickelson is regarded as one of the richest golfers in the world. This is not only thanks to his impressive golf career but also to his smart investments such as franchising. Mickelson famously owns several Five Guys franchises in Orange County, California. 

Pitbull

Armando Christian Perez, better known as Pitbull, unveiled a partnership with Fransmart —  the mastermind behind brands such as Qdoba, Five Guys and The Halal Guys —  to support Latino-owned franchises. Together, Pitbull and Fransmart’s first initiative will be growing the Chicago-based fast casual Mexican concept Cilantro Taco Grill, which currently has 15 stores open.

Megan Thee Stallion

In 2021, Popeyes announced a new partnership with rapper Megan Thee Stallion, which included a new hot sauce called Megan Thee Stallion Hottie Sauce, a co-branded merch line and a five-unit franchise development deal. 

Rick Ross

Rick Ross owns at least 30 Wingstop franchises and even gifted one to his son for his 16th birthday. In 2017, Ross expanded his franchise portfolio with the purchase of the Checkers* and Rally’s location he frequented in his youth in Carol City, Florida. 

Floyd Mayweather

In 2018, Floyd Mayweather, one of the most iconic athletes of all time, entered the franchisor ring with his concept: Mayweather Boxing + Fitness. With a proprietary workout platform developed by the champ himself, Mayweather Boxing + Fitness offers an inclusive, high-intensity fitness experience that’s designed to help people become the best they can be.

Brave Williams

Chart-topping songstress and Netflix star Brave Williams made her debut as a first-time franchisee with fitness franchise Workout Anytime in Lanham, Maryland. After enduring a series of personal challenges, Williams discovered solace in fitness. Even before franchising, Williams already had a robust experience in the fitness world, transforming over 1,000 clients with her small business Brave Williams Fitness Club. 

Whether you want to join Megan Thee Stallion in the spicy world of Popeyes or explore the fitness scene with Floyd Mayweather, these 10 celebrities offer great inspiration for anyone looking to get into the world of franchising. And at the 1851 Growth Club, we can help you find the right franchise for you at the right price point with your best interests at heart. Reach out today to start building your franchise legacy!