We all dream of one day owning our own business. Perhaps it’s a brick-and-mortar storefront that we can see and touch, or it’s a service we provide to others. And while there are no guarantees in life, franchising is often seen as a safe and profitable way to go. You’ll be able to invest in your business, but you’ll also be able to reap the benefits of an already established brand. But with so many different franchises out there, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. So, what is the most profitable franchise to get into?
- McDonald’s
Brand recognition is key to profitability, and there’s no brand more recognizable than McDonald’s. The fast-food giant has been in business for over half a century and shows no signs of slowing down. With over 39,000 locations worldwide, it’s clear that people can’t get enough of McDonald’s burgers and fries. Owning a McDonald’s guarantees you a loyal customer base and a high chance of success. With that said, buying a McDonald’s franchise is not cheap. The startup costs, including the franchise fee, real estate, and equipment, can range from $1 million to $2.2 million. Potential franchisees also need to have liquid assets of at least $500,000. So, if you’re looking for a profitable franchise but don’t have deep pockets, McDonald’s may not be the right choice for you.
- Dunkin’ Donuts
Like McDonald’s, Dunkin’ Donuts is a household name. The coffee and donut chain has been around for nearly 70 years and has over 12,000 worldwide. Dunkin’ Donuts is especially popular in the Northeast, where there are over 1,000 stores. The company continues to grow, with plans to open another 1,000 stores in the next few years. The franchise fee for Dunkin’ Donuts is $40,000, and the total investment can range from $228,620 to $1,695,550. Franchisees must also have at least $250,000 and liquid assets of at least $75,000.
- 7-Eleven
7-Eleven is the world’s largest convenience store chain, with over 66,000 locations worldwide. The company started in 1927 as an ice house in Dallas, Texas, and has since grown into a global powerhouse. 7-Eleven has been expanding its reach in recent years, with new stores popping up in cities across the United States. The franchise fee for 7-Eleven is $10,000, and the total investment can range from $37,550 to $2 million. Franchisees must also have at least $100,000 in liquid assets and liquid assets of at least $50,000.
- Subway
Subway is the world’s largest sandwich chain, with over 44,000 locations in over 112 countries. The company started in 1965 as a single store in Bridgeport, Connecticut and has since expanded to become a global brand. Subway is especially popular with millennials, who make up a large portion of its customer base. The franchise fee for Subway is $15,000, and the total investment can range from $116,000 to $263,000. Franchisees must also have at least $80,000 and liquid assets of at least $30,000.
- KFC
KFC is one of the most popular fast-food chains globally, with over 20,000 locations in 140 countries. The company is best known for its fried chicken, a staple of the KFC menu. KFC has been in business for over 70 years and shows no signs of slowing down. The franchise fee for KFC is $45,000, and the total investment can range from $1.3 million to $2.5 million. Franchisees must also have at least $1.5 million in liquid assets of at least $750,000.
- UPS Store
The UPS Store is a franchise chain of shipping and printing stores owned and operated by the United Parcel Service (UPS). The UPS Store started in 1980 and has grown to over 4,700 locations worldwide. The franchise fee for the UPS Store is $29,950, and the total investment can range from $154,200 to $406,700. Franchisees must also have liquid assets of at least $75,000.
- Taco Bell
Taco Bell is one of the most popular Mexican fast-food chains globally, with over 7,000 locations in 26 countries. The company is best known for its tacos and burritos, which are a staple of the Taco Bell menu. The franchise fee for Taco Bell is $25,000, and the total investment can range from $1.2 million to $2.6 million. Franchisees must also have at least $1.5 million and liquid assets and at least $750,000.
- Graze Craze Franchise
This company is a leader in the charcuterie business with a modern concept focusing on healthy and delicious grazing boards. The company has a proven business model with years in the industry. The franchise fee for Graze Craze is $49,500, and the total investment can range from $150,000 to $175,000.
