Our list of franchise companies that are best positioned for growth even in uncertain times.
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August
4, 2020
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Every year in December, we publish in Entrepreneur a list of the “hottest” categories we have forecast for the franchise expansion in the coming year. And we usually publish an update on this list every summer – not the categories, but the information about the rapidly growing or newly launched franchisees in those categories.
But this year, as we were preparing to update the list, we were faced with the question: should we change the categories from those we listed in December when the world looked and felt completely different? While companies in some of these categories were not considered essential and were affected by the COVID 19 shutdowns, many also found creative ways to continue serving customers during this period. And we believe that even those who haven't done so will ultimately benefit from the fact that absence makes the heart beat faster. It is unlikely that anyone will ever take for granted the opportunity to go to the gym or family entertainment center. In the end, we just removed a few categories (including breakfast, Mexican food, and juices / acai bowls that are on our list of "Top 200 Food Franchises") and added one that has grown in popularity over time Shutdowns: home improvement.
The road ahead will still bring many challenges for companies in every industry, and different franchisors and franchisees will tackle these challenges differently. So keep in mind that this list is not a recommendation from a specific franchise company. It is more important than ever to do your own research before investing in an opportunity. Read the FDD, consult accountants and lawyers, and speak to existing and former franchisees to decide if the franchise is right for you. For more information on a specific franchise, click on the company name.
ChildcareEntertainment / RecreationFitness BusinessHealthHome ImprovementPetsRestoration Services
childcare
Childcare businesses were even more important this year than ever for key workers who couldn't stay at home with their little ones. And those parents who could stay at home have probably received new appreciation for the work these companies do to raise and care for their children. As the economy opens up again and more parents return to the office, this category should only continue to grow.
Genius kids
Preschool, daycare and public enrichment programs
Entertainment / recreation
Entertainment and recreation companies were understandably not considered essential during the downtimes. Yet people needed more than ever to keep themselves busy and distracted from the world – and many of these companies found creative ways to meet that need, such as offering DIY take-away projects and online party services.
Ctrl V.
Arcades of virtual reality
Funtopia
Climbing and family entertainment facilities
Sky zone
Trampoline parks / entertainment centers
Fitness company
When the pandemic broke out, many fitness franchises were able to turn quickly and offer courses to their customers online. Still, many people were keen to go back to the gym when the restrictions were lifted, and since health is more important than ever, this already strong category should only see more growth in the future.
Alkalign Studios
Group fitness courses, streaming fitness courses, nutrition coaching
Fit4Mom
Prenatal and postpartum fitness and wellness programs
Honor yoga
Yoga, meditation, teacher training, retreats
Jazzercise
Group fitness courses, conventions, clothing and accessories
9th round
Kickboxing fitness circuit training centers
StretchLab
Supported stretching courses and associated therapy services
UFC Gym
Boxing, kick boxing, Brazilian jiu jitsu, intensive interval training and group fitness courses
health
Being healthy has become more important than ever, so this small but growing category is likely to look more attractive to potential franchisees than ever. And there is something for everyone here, from traditional health services to alternative offerings such as acupuncture, cryotherapy, IV therapy and cannabis.
4ever young
Preventive health, wellness and aesthetic services
iCryo
Cryotherapy, wellness and pain therapy services
101 mobility
Sales and service of mobility and accessibility devices
Pharmabox
Sales of over-the-counter pharmaceutical products
Vegan fine foods
Vegan health and beauty shops / cafes / vitamin and supplement shops
handyman
As people spent more time in their homes, many turned to home improvement, repair, and remodeling projects to keep themselves busy. Most hardware stores and service companies were able to remain open during this time and adjust their services to maintain adequate social distance and hygiene, with some even targeting virtual consultations.
ABC seamless
Seamless siding, soffit, cover, gutters, windows, roof
GarageExperts
Garage cupboards, floor coatings, organization products
Glass doctor
Installation, repair and exchange of glass from car / residential / commercial
Imeca
Timber and hardware stores
Mr. Appliance
Installation and repair of household and commercial equipment
Mr. Handyman
Repair, maintenance and improvement services for residential and commercial buildings
RenuKrete
Laying, treating, repairing and restoring concrete floors
Window world
Replacement windows, doors, siding and other products for exterior remodeling
Pets
According to the American Pet Products Association, Americans spent an estimated $ 75 billion on their furry friends last year, and although spending in other areas has decreased, people are still willing to sacrifice for their pets. In addition, most pet stores remained qualified as "essential companies" during decommissioning, and other companies, such as day care centers for dogs, remained open to care for medical pets.
Dogtopia
Day care, food and wellness offers for dogs
EarthWise Pet
Pet food and supplies, grooming, self-washing, training and walking
Cover
Delivery of pet products
Petland
Pets, pet supplies, meals, daycare, care
petNmind
Natural animal feed and accessories; Wash the dog yourself
Woofies
Dog walk, pet care, mobile pet care
Zoom space
Indoor dog training and socialization, pet products
Restoration services
Restoration companies have long had a reputation for being recession-proof, and they can now prove it. Since disasters do not stop regardless of the circumstances, they were obviously seen as essential companies and many found their services more in demand than usual during the downtimes.
Bio-One
Cleaning of crime scenes and trauma scenes
Duraclean
Carpet and upholstery cleaning, disaster protection, mold remediation
1-800 packouts
Packaging, cleaning, storage and restoration of building contents
PuroClean
Restoration and restoration of property damage
Servpro
Cleaning, restoring fire, water and other damage
Spaulding decon
Crime scene, meth laboratory and hoard cleaning; Mold remediation; Buying a house
Steamatic
Insurance / disaster restoration, cleaning, mold remediation, air quality control
