8 Most Successful Franchises of All Time

Some prefer owning a franchise due to its low-risk and high-potential investment. However, selecting the best franchise that offers the maximum return on investment is vital for success. While many entrepreneurs can find opportunities in lesser-known brands, some famous companies are timeless and provide the most revenue. Choosing one of these eight successful franchises will ensure you don’t waste time, money, and effort operating a business. 

1. Chick-fil-A

Chick-fil-A operates on the “We are better together” motto. It’s one of the core values of this popular fast-food chain that serves delicious chicken sandwiches. The brand embarks on inclusion, diversity, and equity in everything they do. Chick-fil-A invites more franchise candidates from Canada, Puerto Rico, and the United States. Additionally, Chick-fil-A requires a modest initial capital investment of around $10,000. On top of financial obligations, the brand challenges franchise candidates to be committed and 100 percent hands-on.

Number of franchise units: 2,898 restaurants across 48 states

2. The UPS Store

With an experienced national brand backing franchisees, The UPS Store promises a comprehensive training program to ensure top-notch service. Buying a franchise from The UPS Store means you’ll gain access to financing assistance. Also, the brand helps you select a site, negotiate a lease, and expand networks with other franchise owners. One of the reasons why you must buy a UPS franchise is getting national marketing and advertising campaigns to grow your business.

Number of franchise units: 5,100

3. Ace Hardware Corporation

Launched in 1924, Ace Hardware Corporation is the brainchild of four hardware shop owners who came together to give people every hardware tool they need in one store. The brand is dedicated to offering the best service and helping the communities they serve. The brand strengthens its connection with customers by giving back to communities and helping those in need. The company also supports charitable giving and philanthropic activities to retail store owners, vendors, consumers, and team members. 

Number of franchise units: 5,554

4. McDonald’s

McDonald’s offers the best franchising structure worldwide, claiming its “unmatched” prowess in the franchising hemisphere. With such impeccable brand recognition, the company aims to administer customer satisfaction and put people first. The company’s other core values include inclusion, community, integrity, and family. With over 60 years of traction in the fast-food service, buying a McDonald’s franchise is a foolproof win.

Number of franchise units: 38,000 in over 100 countries

5. Anytime Fitness

Garnering over four million active members worldwide, Anytime Fitness is the first fitness franchise on seven continents. The brand has accumulated around $87.2 billion in revenue worldwide. Anytime Fitness’s unparalleled growth is why this is a good investment. Its annual projected growth rate is 7.8 percent from 2014 to 2019. Also, if you’re looking for a culture that harnesses determination and play, Anytime Fitness is your best bet. Its culture banks on People, Purpose, Profits, and Play. 

Number of franchise units: 2,361

6. Snap-on Tools

Snap-on Tools sells high-quality diagnostic and repair tools and equipment to a projected record of calls. It lets franchisees operate a mobile store, wherein franchisees decide the routes. Its proven business model makes this company one of the most successful franchises. They offer custom software, sales support, an R&D engine, a distribution system, and an established brand everyone recognizes. Moreover, buying a franchise from Snap-on Tools means franchisees can transfer business assets, own multiple Snap-on franchise units, and possibly gain access to financing help. 

Number of franchise units: 4,300

7. 7-Eleven

Since its founding in 1927, 7-Eleven has gained a foothold in the convenience store niche. With over 9,000 stores in the United States, franchisees are assured of instant brand recognition. Brand strength is one of 7-Eleven’s strongest suits, deeming it one of the top 10 successful franchises worldwide. The brand also invests in comprehensive marketing for its primary headquarters, branches, and franchisees. 

Number of franchise units: 71,000

8. Wendy’s

Wendy’s still upholds the founder’s mission of making it the most beloved restaurant brand. Buying a Wendy’s franchise means having a transformational financial opportunity that impacts generations. The brand created the Build-to-Suit program, which helps fuel growth in underdeveloped areas. With this program, franchisees shell out a lesser capital investment and may lease or sublease from Wendy’s for a slight premium. 

Number of franchise units: 7,049