Franchising is a popular business model in the United States, with some of the biggest franchises dominating the market. According to one estimate, the top 10 largest franchise companies in the US account for more than half of total franchise revenues nationwide. Today, we’re going to explore some of the largest. As well as these well-known names, plenty of other Guerrilla Franchising opportunities will be well worth your time.
McDonald’s
McDonald’s is one of the largest with over 40,000 restaurants across the country and $112 billion in system-wide sales. First founded in 1955, this fast-food giant is the world leader in hamburgers, fries, and shakes. In terms of franchising, McDonald’s offers a variety of options from traditional franchising to more modern “non-traditional” franchising. All over the world, McDonald’s provides a recognizable brand, excellent support, and access to resources.
Subway
Subway is another popular franchise, with over 37,000 locations in the US alone and $17.5 billion in sales in 2018. Subway was established in 1965 and has since become one of the largest sandwich chains in the world. Subway provides a variety of franchising opportunities, from traditional franchising to joint ventures and multi-unit agreements.
7-Eleven
7-Eleven is one of the largest franchises in the US with over 78,000 locations across the country and $95 billion in sales in 2019. 7-Eleven offers a variety of franchising options, including traditional franchising, joint ventures, and international expansion. Why is it called 7-Eleven? The name comes from the company’s original store hours which were 7am to 11pm. Over the years, the company has expanded its hours and now offers 24-hour service.
Burger King
Burger King has more than 19,000 locations across the United States. Its menu consists of burgers, chicken sandwiches, and salads. The company began franchising in 1963 and now generates close to $24 billion in annual sales. Boasting a wide assortment of menu items, Burger King is a popular destination for many people looking for quick and tasty meal options.
KFC
You’ve probably started to notice a theme here: the biggest franchises in the United States are mostly fast-food restaurants. KFC, or Kentucky Fried Chicken, is no exception. It has more than 26,000 locations in the US and brings in about $31 billion in annual sales. Not only does KFC offer its famous fried chicken but it also offers a wide variety of other meal options such as wraps, sandwiches, and salads.
Ace Hardware
Next, we have Ace Hardware, which is the largest hardware cooperative in the United States and brings in about $22 billion a year in sales. As one of the nation’s top franchises, there are more than 5,500 Ace Hardware stores in operation. As well as selling a variety of hardware products for do-it-yourself projects, they also offer helpful advice and assistance to customers.
Domino’s Pizza
Domino’s Pizza is another major franchise in the United States, with around 19,000 locations throughout the country. It brings in over $17 billion in annual sales and is known for its delicious pizza, as well as other menu items like pasta, chicken wings, and desserts. Domino’s offers delivery or carryout options and often has deals like 2-for-1 pizzas or discounted combos, making it a popular choice for pizza lovers.
If you’re interested in starting a franchise of your own, all of these may be good options to consider. They offer great products and services, as well as brand recognition and customer loyalty, making them great choices for entrepreneurs looking to start a successful business. However, it’s important to do your research and remember that hundreds of franchising options exist aside from these huge names!
