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FBR Issue 1 - 2018

Top 200 Franchise Opportunities of 2018

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SPECIAL REPORT<br />

FranchiseBusinessREVIEW<br />

Ratings and Reviews of the Best Franchise Opportunities by Franchisees<br />

<strong>2018</strong><br />

GUIDE TO<br />

TODAY’S TOP<br />

FRANCHISES<br />

Rated by the Franchisees<br />

Who Own Them<br />

Jim and Debbie Womack have owned<br />

their Goddard School franchise in<br />

Chesterfield, VA since 2002.<br />

Home Care Assistance’s<br />

Mission Resonated with<br />

Franchisee Carol White<br />

PAGE 23<br />

<strong>2018</strong>’s<br />

Top 200<br />

Franchises<br />

PAGE 12<br />

Ronnie Bowyer Sees Yogi<br />

Bear’s Jellystone Park As<br />

a Way to Unite Families<br />

PAGE 27


Never look at a house<br />

the same way again.<br />

(from now on, all you’ll see are dollar signs)<br />

PROVEN SYSTEM TO BUY & SELL HOUSES<br />

Be your own boss with continuous mentoring and franchise support.<br />

FINANCING FOR QUALIFYING ACQUISITION & REPAIRS<br />

We make it easy to keep your business running smoothly.<br />

ONGOING SUPPORT<br />

Learn to lead your franchise to success from the franchise system that has<br />

purchased over 75,000 homes since 1996.<br />

VALUECHEK ®<br />

Take the guesswork out of estimating repairs with a sophisticated software<br />

system that helps you steer clear from making costly mistakes.<br />

You are in the right location at the right time to be a<br />

HomeVestors ® franchisee, what are you waiting for?<br />

HomeVestorsFranchise.com<br />

800-230-0385<br />

*Each franchise office is independently owned and operated.


Make<br />

your move<br />

DON’T WAIT TO INVEST IN THE AWARD-WINNING<br />

BRAND THAT HAS EARNED OVER 95 MONTHS OF<br />

CONSECUTIVE GROWTH! GIVE US A CALL TODAY!<br />

888.519.0843 | franchise.twomenandatruck.com<br />

This advertisement is not an offering to sell a franchise. An offering can be made only by Franchise Disclosure Document that has been registered with and approved by the<br />

appropriate agency in your state if your state requires such registration. Individual franchise performance will vary.


TM<br />

TIME TO<br />

GRAB THE WHEEL<br />

We are Franchise Business Review’s top auto franchise 11 years running, with an industryleading<br />

$1.442MM in average unit volume. We’ll always be right behind you, with the tools and<br />

support you need to succeed in your own business. We’ve never closed a store even though 90%<br />

of our franchisees had no prior automotive experience. What’s more, our reputation for open,<br />

honest customer service and top-notch auto care has garnered us a 4.5-star Google rating.<br />

DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES?<br />

DISCOVER MORE ABOUT WHAT DRIVES OUR SUCCESS AT<br />

CHRISTIANBROTHERSFRANCHISE.COM<br />

The Average Unit Volume (AUV) for a CBA franchise in 2016 was $1,444,954, as published in Item 19 of our April 2017<br />

Franchise Disclosure Document. This figure reflects the 134 CBA franchises that were opened for the entire years of<br />

2015 and 2016. Of these 134 CBA franchises 60 (44.8%) had higher AGS. Gross sales is defined as all gross revenue<br />

derived from labor, parts and sub-contracted labor/parts and supplies. This AGS is industry leading for non-tire sellers.


JARROD<br />

INDEPENDENT<br />

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL<br />

LOOKING FOR MORE TOOLS<br />

AND SUPPORT TO HELP<br />

GROW HIS BUSINESS<br />

SUE<br />

PRESIDENT & CEO<br />

ERA FRANCHISE SYSTEMS, LLC<br />

OFFERS A COLLABORATIVE<br />

APPROACH FOCUSED ON<br />

DRIVING PRODUCTIVITY<br />

Our best-in-class resources, tech tools and shared<br />

expertise empower affiliated professionals to<br />

grow their business their way.<br />

ExploreERA.com<br />

© <strong>2018</strong> ERA Franchise Systems LLC. A Realogy company. All Rights Reserved. ERA Franchise Systems LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair<br />

Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. ERA and the ERA logo are registered service marks<br />

licensed to ERA Franchise Systems LLC.


Be the<br />

Hometown<br />

Pizzeria<br />

LOOKING TO JOIN A TIME-TESTED, THRIVING BUSINESS<br />

AND AN AWESOME COMMUNITY?<br />

It’s time to look into opening a Pizza Factory franchise and<br />

experience our fun, family-focused and welcoming atmosphere.<br />

See why our franchisees rated us top 40<br />

in the <strong>FBR</strong> Franchisee Satisfaction Survey!<br />

pizzafactoryfranchises.com<br />

1-562-340-6925


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises<br />

Features //<strong>2018</strong><br />

9 11 22<br />

7 Letter from the Founder and CEO<br />

A Franchise Ranking 13 Years in the Making<br />

9 200 Paths to Success<br />

Digging into <strong>2018</strong>’s Best Franchise Brands<br />

12 THE LIST<br />

Best of the Best: Top 200 Franchises<br />

26 Legal Perspective:<br />

Reviewing and Assessing the Franchise Disclosure Document<br />

28 Hall of Fame<br />

11 Franchises Enter Our Hall of Fame<br />

30 Marketplace: Franchise Opportunities<br />

More on the franchisee approved<br />

franchise opportunities for <strong>2018</strong><br />

Franchisee Profiles<br />

23 Carol White, Home Care Assistance<br />

27 Ronnie Bowyer, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park<br />

35 Jesse Zook, MaidPro<br />

37 Renee Mansour, Minuteman Press<br />

39 Jodi Glacer, Senior Care Authority<br />

+<br />

Reviews, interviews, satisfaction awards,<br />

and more resources are available at:<br />

www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com<br />

LEARN WHAT FRANCHISING IS LIKE<br />

FROM REAL FRANCHISEES<br />

Access insightful franchisee Q&As, strategic advice and more.<br />

Visit FranchiseBusinessReview.com<br />

For more information on this report, visit: www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com | 5


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises<br />

A Franchise Ranking<br />

13 Years in the Making<br />

When I founded Franchise Business Review back in 2005, my goal was simple: to create the<br />

best franchise information resource available for entrepreneurs. At that time, there were over<br />

fifty different franchise websites, but none of them offered reviews and ratings of franchise<br />

opportunities based on the actual performance and satisfaction of real franchise owners.<br />

So we set out to change the world of franchising—to help identify the very best investment<br />

opportunities in the marketplace. 13 years later, we have researched nearly 1,200 franchise<br />

companies, and surveyed over 300,000 franchisees. And we’ve learned a lot along the way.<br />

As you are probably aware, there are thousands of franchise companies operating in North<br />

America. What you may not know is that many of those companies do NOT offer a very solid<br />

investment opportunity. Franchising is almost always successful for the franchise company,<br />

but less so for the franchisee. That’s why choosing the right franchise to invest in is such an<br />

important choice.<br />

<strong>2018</strong> marks our 13th Annual Franchisee Satisfaction Awards. Once again, we have identified<br />

the leading franchise companies in the marketplace today that have the highest levels of<br />

satisfaction and performance among their franchisees. We hope that you find this list of our<br />

award-winning brands a helpful resource. And no matter which franchise you chose to invest<br />

in, we wish you the best of success on your new entrepreneurial journey!<br />

Franchising is almost<br />

always successful for<br />

the franchise company,<br />

but less so for the<br />

franchisee. That’s why<br />

choosing the right<br />

franchise to invest in is<br />

such an important choice.<br />

Happy Franchising!<br />

Eric Stites, Founder and CEO<br />

Franchise Business Review is the leading franchise market research firm that performs<br />

independent surveys of franchisee satisfaction and franchise buyer experiences.<br />

Before you invest in any franchise opportunity, read our reports to get the facts<br />

from those who know best — franchisees. We publish quarterly research reports,<br />

examining segments of franchising including the Top 200 Franchise Opportunities,<br />

Top Low-Cost Franchises, Top Multi-Unit Franchises, Top Food & Beverage Franchises,<br />

and Top Franchises for Veterans. All publications are available digitally at<br />

FranchiseBusinessReview.com.<br />

Eric Stites, CEO & Managing Director<br />

Michelle Rowan, President & COO<br />

C.J. Fleck, Senior Web Developer<br />

Michael Kupfer, Online Marketing Manager<br />

Ali Forman, B2B Marketing Manager<br />

Nicole Kenney, Client Operations Manager<br />

Linda Lorrey, Client Consultant<br />

Wes Graves, Client Consultant<br />

Amy LaLime, Client Services Manager<br />

Margot Doering, Accounting<br />

The Secret Agency, Design and Production<br />

Call us at 866-397-6680<br />

HOW WE IDENTIFY THE TOP FRANCHISES<br />

Participation in Franchise Business Review’s franchisee satisfaction<br />

research is free for all North American franchise systems with<br />

a minimum of 10 franchisees. For this report we looked at franchisee<br />

satisfaction from over 28,000 franchisees representing over 300 brands<br />

that we collected between May 2016 and November 2017. We asked<br />

each franchisee to answer 33 benchmark questions ranking their<br />

franchise in the areas of financial opportunity, training and support,<br />

leadership, operations and product development, core values (e.g., honesty<br />

and integrity of franchisor), general satisfaction, and the franchisee<br />

community. We also asked them to answer an additional 16 questions<br />

about their market area, demographics, business lifestyle, overall<br />

enjoyment running their franchise, and role in the franchisee community.<br />

From this data, we identified our list of top franchises with the highest<br />

franchisee satisfaction. More detailed information about our research<br />

methodology is available at FranchiseBusinessReview.com. Surveys to<br />

determine the Top Franchises for 2019 are underway. If you are<br />

a franchisor and would like to participate, please call 866-397-6680<br />

or contact info@FranchiseBusinessReview.com.<br />

For more information on this report, visit: www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com | 7


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises<br />

Above: Keith Fogel, a Soccer Shots franchise partner, running a Soccer Shots session.<br />

Right, top: HouseMaster franchisee Chris Holwell consults with a customer.<br />

Right, bottom: The Sparks Family, Mosquito Joe of North Atlanta.<br />

200 Paths to Success<br />

Digging into <strong>2018</strong>’s Best Franchise Brands<br />

WHY SATISFACTION MATTERS<br />

By all accounts, <strong>2018</strong> is a great time to buy<br />

a franchise. Many franchise companies<br />

are coming off of their best year in the<br />

past decade. Many franchise operators are<br />

experiencing increased revenue growth and<br />

profitability. And on top of that, the recent tax<br />

reform efforts by congress promise to create<br />

an improved economic environment for small<br />

business ownership.<br />

Yet, no matter how good things look for<br />

franchising, nothing guarantees your success<br />

as a franchise owner. Prospective franchisees<br />

must thoroughly research any opportunity<br />

they are considering to determine if the concept<br />

is viable and the right fit for them.<br />

One of the best ways to know if a franchise<br />

opportunity is really as good as it appears is to<br />

review the company’s franchisee satisfaction<br />

data. Not all brands survey their franchisees,<br />

but those who do offer a wealth of information<br />

on the company’s leadership, culture, training<br />

and support, financial outlook, and franchisee<br />

community.<br />

In the past 18 months, we have surveyed<br />

over 28,000 franchisees to find out exactly<br />

how satisfied they are with their franchise<br />

businesses. We’ve researched hundreds of<br />

Continued on page 11.<br />

For more information on this report, visit: www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com | 9


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises<br />

Why Culture Matters<br />

Making sure you find the right fit<br />

Buying a franchise requires extensive homework to ensure the<br />

business agreement you’re entering into is a smart investment,<br />

from digging into unit profitability and income to franchise fees to<br />

terminations and transfers. But, like all companies, every franchise<br />

brand also has its own unique culture, which can have just as<br />

significant of an impact on your success and enjoyment of the<br />

business.<br />

Culture is subjective—it can’t be evaluated in percentages or<br />

profits and losses. So how do you know if the franchise you’re<br />

considering is going to be the right cultural fit for you?<br />

Find a product or service you can get behind.<br />

Look for a franchise that can make you money, but also delivers a<br />

product or service that you can get excited about.<br />

Russ Russell turned his passion for travel into a job. He spent a<br />

year researching franchise business opportunities before landing on<br />

Cruise Planners, a home-based travel agency business. Says Russell,<br />

“Cruise Planners just kept popping up on my radar. For years, I had<br />

planned adventures for friends, family and myself, attending to<br />

every detail from hotels, trains, flights, tours and even a city-by-city,<br />

six-country tour. And then a light bulb went off … ‘I can do this for a<br />

career’ and I haven’t looked back.”<br />

For others, like Tim and Anne Mackin, it was the experience<br />

of caring for a sick parent that hit home and inspired them to<br />

open a home care business. After doing their research they chose<br />

FirstLight Home Care, a Cincinnati, Ohio-based franchise company<br />

with over 200 locally-owned offices throughout the U.S.<br />

“We then looked at businesses in the community that provided<br />

elder care,” says Tim Mackin. “We had some sense of what services<br />

were offered in our community and we wanted to be a part of<br />

something with impact—where we could give back. What we<br />

discovered is that not all franchises are the same. When we met with<br />

FirstLight, we just knew it was a good fit—and that we, personally,<br />

would want the FirstLight family to care for our loved ones.”<br />

Make sure the brand’s core values align<br />

with your own values.<br />

Ask the franchisor what the brand’s mission and core values are,<br />

and how that influences the culture and your everyday business<br />

ownership.<br />

Kathryn Boyce, who owns two MaidPro franchises in Florida,<br />

wanted a job that allowed her to help others and have the flexibility<br />

to pursue her other passions. “My job isn’t just a job; it’s a way of<br />

life,” says Boyce. I get to spend my time helping people and I even<br />

have time for my own personal hobbies and interests, such as helping<br />

animal shelters. Owning a MaidPro franchise gives me the freedom<br />

to help my staff care for their families. I love the other franchisees<br />

and home office staff members. To me, they’re family.”<br />

Talk to franchisees about the support<br />

they receive from their franchisor.<br />

One of the benefits of owning a franchise is gaining access to<br />

a community of franchisees who share advice and support each.<br />

Talk to current franchisees, and ask how the franchisor creates<br />

a culture of sharing and learning among franchise owners.<br />

Kathleen Kuhn, President of HouseMaster, a home inspection<br />

franchise with 279 locations throughout the U.S., is committed<br />

to fostering camaraderie among their franchisees.“There’s just this<br />

great culture of support,” says Kuhn. “Franchisees on their own will<br />

visit other franchisees. They absolutely bend over backwards to help<br />

each other and I think when you first start franchising, now for us it<br />

was decades ago, you don’t realize that part of building a successful<br />

franchise company is that you’re also expanding your support<br />

network exponentially. It’s a very positive influence.”<br />

Most franchisors hold an annual convention, but many also offer<br />

peer performance groups, mentorship programs, and regional<br />

meetings to provide franchisees an opportunity to share advice and<br />

support each other, fostering a cooperative, rather than competitive,<br />

culture.<br />

Finally, ask the franchisor how their franchisees<br />

rate them on core values and culture.<br />

Franchise Business Review specializes in measuring franchisee<br />

satisfaction by asking franchise owners how they rate their franchisor<br />

in eight key areas, including core values, franchisee community, and<br />

training and support. What current franchisees say about their brand<br />

in these areas can help you determine if there truly is a culture of<br />

support in the system. Visit FranchiseBusinessReview.com for reviews<br />

and ratings on top brands in these areas and more.<br />

Culture and the Satisfaction Gap<br />

<strong>FBR</strong>’s Top 200<br />

Quality of franchise’s products & services<br />

63<br />

Quality of Training & Support provided<br />

53<br />

0 20 40 60 80 100<br />

Score on 100-Point Scale<br />

All other franchise brands<br />

71<br />

Core Values (aggregate of four separate questions)<br />

70<br />

77<br />

84<br />

10 | For more information on this report, visit: www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises<br />

Continued from page 9.<br />

different brands, and our Top Franchises list<br />

this year includes the best of the best that<br />

franchising has to offer.<br />

THE BENEFITS OF FRANCHISING<br />

Franchising offers many advantages over<br />

starting a business from scratch, which has led<br />

to it being one of the fastest-growing sectors<br />

of our economy. Clearly, one of the biggest<br />

benefits of investing in a franchise is that you<br />

are investing in a proven concept—a business<br />

with a successful track record and many<br />

successful franchisees.<br />

A good franchise company will provide<br />

all the tools you need to succeed—training,<br />

marketing, mentorship, coaching, and ongoing<br />

support. All you need to provide is the<br />

drive and the passion to make the business<br />

thrive in your local community.<br />

We’ve done the hard part of identifying the<br />

very best franchises available based on the<br />

actual performance and satisfaction of their<br />

owners to start researching. All the companies<br />

on our list offer great franchise opportunities.<br />

Now, it’s your job to find the one that really gets<br />

you excited about owning your own business.<br />

FINDING THE RIGHT FRANCHISE<br />

FOR YOU<br />

We know that investing in a franchise is a big<br />

decision. Not only does the business model<br />

need to be the right fit for your skills, but you<br />

need to find a company that’s the right cultural<br />

fit for you as well.<br />

“Culture is a very important part of our<br />

brand identity, and we have taken a very<br />

strategic approach to cultivating our culture,”<br />

explains Sean Manning, President & CEO,<br />

Payroll Vault. “Having a conscious understanding<br />

of culture allows culture to percolate<br />

and develop at each organizational level,<br />

and straighten the cultural experience for<br />

everyone in contact with the Payroll Vault<br />

organization.”<br />

“We believe strong leadership creates a<br />

healthy culture,” says Tim Williams, Director<br />

of Franchise Development at DoubleDave’s<br />

Pizzaworks. “One of our core values is to<br />

build open and honest relationships through<br />

communication. We foster consistent brand<br />

messaging and offer continuing education, as<br />

well as top-level field support to reinforce the<br />

attitudes and behavior of the leadership staff<br />

Rhea Lana’s franchisees host children’s consignment events across the country.<br />

who set the tone for the brand. Optimism,<br />

integrity, teamwork, and recognition are all<br />

part of our consistent message.”<br />

As you explore different franchise opportunities,<br />

each one will have a different feel when<br />

it comes to their company culture (see Why<br />

Culture Matters on page 10). Some companies<br />

are very formal and professional. Others have<br />

a more laid back approach to business and life.<br />

Ask yourself… “Are these the kind of people<br />

I would enjoy working with?”<br />

When we asked Mark Hemmeter, CEO of<br />

Office Evolution about their unique company<br />

culture, his eyes widened. “Our culture<br />

is comprised of five key values: Win-Win,<br />

Simplicity, Authenticity, Ownership and the<br />

one that seems to resonate the strongest,<br />

Ohana—a Hawaiian word which translates<br />

to “family”, but more globally, as a group of<br />

people working together for the common<br />

good of all.”<br />

BUILDING YOUR DREAM BUSINESS<br />

WITH REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS<br />

While franchising offers many great opportunities,<br />

it’s important to understand that<br />

owning and operating a successful franchise<br />

requires a lot of hard work. Franchising is not<br />

some silver bullet to overnight riches. The<br />

successful franchisees that we talk to every<br />

day have all worked really hard to get to where<br />

they are.<br />

“It’s important to have realistic expectations<br />

of what business ownership is all about,”<br />

explains Eric Stites, founder and CEO of<br />

Franchise Business Review. “Most franchise<br />

businesses—like any new business—require<br />

several years of hard work before they start to<br />

take off. Many franchisees tell us that building<br />

their franchise business is the hardest thing<br />

they’ve ever done.”<br />

It’s important to be honest with yourself<br />

before investing in a franchise business. Are<br />

you truly passionate about this business? Are<br />

you really willing to put in the hard work to<br />

make your new business a success?<br />

We asked franchise executives how they<br />

insure new franchisees are coming into their<br />

systems with realistic financial expectations<br />

for the business, as well as a detailed understanding<br />

of the time commitment their new<br />

business will require.<br />

Payroll Vault’s Manning put it this way:<br />

“Entrepreneurship is exciting and should<br />

be fostered with a clear understanding that<br />

risks exist, and if discussed, can be mitigated<br />

to focus on opportunity. Business ownership<br />

success is more of a journey than instant gratification.<br />

The journey, resulting experiences,<br />

and knowledge you gain are all added values<br />

to business ownership.”<br />

Continued on page 22.<br />

For more information on this report, visit: www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com | 11


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises<br />

THE LIST<br />

Best of the Best:<br />

Top 200 Franchises<br />

ADVERTISING & SALES<br />

* Our Town America — more on p. 30<br />

Advertising services<br />

N2 Publishing<br />

Private neighborhood publications<br />

Survey<br />

Date<br />

Sep.<br />

2017<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

Startup<br />

Investment<br />

$63,300 –<br />

$86,250<br />

$975 –<br />

$5,650<br />

Cash<br />

Requirement<br />

Total<br />

Units<br />

$70,000 61<br />

$975 –<br />

$5,650<br />

763<br />

Proforma<br />

Print & promotional product supplier<br />

Sep.<br />

2016<br />

$4,730 –<br />

$50,195<br />

$29,500 700<br />

Welcomemat Services<br />

Printing & marketing services<br />

June<br />

2017<br />

$58,830 –<br />

$87,180<br />

$75,000 75<br />

Town Money Saver<br />

Advertising services<br />

March<br />

2017<br />

$5,700 –<br />

$17,000<br />

$5,000 –<br />

$12,500<br />

49<br />

Discovery Map — more on p. 38<br />

Alternative advertising maps<br />

Sep.<br />

2017<br />

$35,250 –<br />

$44,950<br />

$50,000 134<br />

AUTOMOTIVE<br />

* Christian Brothers Automotive<br />

Automotive repair — more on p. 2<br />

Dec.<br />

2016<br />

$458,950 –<br />

$555,350<br />

$85,000 174<br />

* Snap-on Tools — more on p. 21<br />

Automotive services<br />

Sep.<br />

2017<br />

$169,503 –<br />

$350,231<br />

$35,603 –<br />

$52,203<br />

4852<br />

RNR Tire Express<br />

Custom wheels & tires<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

$400,000 –<br />

$700,000<br />

$400,000 –<br />

$700,000<br />

110<br />

“The energy, creativity and<br />

dedication is superior to<br />

most I have experienced<br />

in business.”<br />

Mighty Auto Parts<br />

Automotive retailer<br />

Auto Appraisal Network<br />

Automotive appraisal services<br />

Priceless Car Rental<br />

Used car rental & leasing<br />

Aug.<br />

2016<br />

March<br />

2016<br />

May<br />

2017<br />

$175,000 –<br />

$275,000<br />

$12,000 –<br />

$30,000<br />

$159,000 –<br />

$459,607<br />

$100,000 109<br />

$3,000 –<br />

$10,000<br />

27<br />

$50,000 142<br />

– RNR Tire Franchisee<br />

Tint World<br />

Automotive services<br />

Sep.<br />

2017<br />

$108,000 –<br />

$198,000<br />

$50,000 52<br />

BUSINESS SERVICES<br />

* FASTSIGNS — more on inside back cover<br />

Visual business communications<br />

April<br />

2017<br />

$182,329 –<br />

$267,520<br />

$80,000 746<br />

Sanford Rose Associates<br />

Recruiting services<br />

Sep.<br />

2017<br />

$108,250 –<br />

$143,580<br />

$108,250 82<br />

* Sandler Training — more on p. 41<br />

Business consulting & coaching<br />

March<br />

2017<br />

$88,150 –<br />

$105,750<br />

$100,000 260<br />

* Minuteman Press — more on p. 37<br />

Printing & marketing services<br />

Aug.<br />

2017<br />

$62,207 –<br />

$161,865<br />

$50,000 965<br />

* ActionCOACH<br />

Business coaching<br />

Jan.<br />

2017<br />

$61,250 –<br />

$108,441<br />

$40,000 775<br />

* Brightway Insurance<br />

Financial services<br />

Jan.<br />

2017<br />

$107,700 –<br />

$160,325<br />

$75,000 141<br />

*Full Satisfaction Report Available at<br />

www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com<br />

Best in Category<br />

10-year Hall of Fame Member<br />

Featured on our Best of the Best List for 10 or more years.<br />

The @WORK Group<br />

Recruiting services<br />

YESCO<br />

Visual business communications<br />

Dale Carnegie<br />

Leadership training<br />

* Murphy Business & Financial<br />

Business brokers<br />

Feb.<br />

2017<br />

Feb.<br />

2017<br />

Feb.<br />

2017<br />

June<br />

2016<br />

$99,500 –<br />

$174,500<br />

$64,300 –<br />

$350,000<br />

$42,200 –<br />

$186,500<br />

$57,525 –<br />

$116,650<br />

$100,000 115<br />

$60,000 164<br />

$50,000 –<br />

$200,000<br />

221<br />

$50,000 190<br />

12 | For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises<br />

Survey<br />

Date<br />

Startup<br />

Investment<br />

Cash<br />

Requirement<br />

Total<br />

Units<br />

BUSINESS SERVICES (CONTINUED)<br />

* Supporting Strategies<br />

Bookkeeping services<br />

April<br />

2017<br />

$77,130 –<br />

$102,390<br />

$100,000 71<br />

Sir Speedy<br />

Printing & marketing services<br />

March<br />

2017<br />

$275,000 –<br />

$350,000<br />

$100,000 249<br />

Office Evolution<br />

Virtual office services<br />

March<br />

2017<br />

$217,000 –<br />

$749,000<br />

$285,000 40<br />

The Alternative Board<br />

Business coaching & advisory boards<br />

July<br />

2017<br />

$44,496 –<br />

$90,066<br />

$45,000 –<br />

$90,000<br />

259<br />

InXpress<br />

Business shipping<br />

July<br />

2017<br />

$65,300 –<br />

$160,200<br />

$65,000 300<br />

PIP Printing & Document Services<br />

Printing & marketing services<br />

March<br />

2017<br />

$275,000 –<br />

$350,000<br />

$275,000 –<br />

$350,000<br />

83<br />

Speedpro Imaging<br />

Printing & marketing services<br />

May<br />

2016<br />

$3,152,000 –<br />

$377,700<br />

$150,000 132<br />

CHILD SERVICES<br />

* Soccer Shots<br />

Youth sports<br />

Dec.<br />

2016<br />

$35,000 –<br />

$45,000<br />

$18,000 198<br />

TGA Premier Sports<br />

Youth sports<br />

High Touch High Tech<br />

Hands-on science programs<br />

Young Rembrandts<br />

Children's art classes<br />

KidsPark<br />

Children's play park<br />

Goldfish Swim School<br />

Swim lessons<br />

Snapology<br />

STEM/STEAM programs & activities<br />

Amazing Athletes<br />

Early childhood development<br />

College Nannies + Sitters + Tutors<br />

Childcare & tutoring services<br />

* TSS Photography — more on p. 38<br />

Sports, school & event photography<br />

Aug.<br />

2017<br />

Aug.<br />

2017<br />

Aug.<br />

2017<br />

Aug.<br />

2017<br />

Sep.<br />

2017<br />

Jan.<br />

2017<br />

Aug.<br />

2016<br />

Oct.<br />

2016<br />

July<br />

2017<br />

$16,300 –<br />

$67,350<br />

$62,750 –<br />

$69,000<br />

$41,250 –<br />

$48,120<br />

$185,000 –<br />

$340,000<br />

$1,335,283 –<br />

$2,932,358<br />

$34,500 –<br />

$70,000<br />

$25,000 –<br />

$55,650<br />

$176,700 –<br />

$228,700<br />

$20,400 –<br />

$74,000<br />

$16,300 –<br />

$67,350<br />

116<br />

$37,650 33<br />

$40,000 106<br />

$45,000 –<br />

$65,000<br />

$450,000 –<br />

$600,000<br />

17<br />

59<br />

$24,000 42<br />

$17,500 95<br />

$60,000 100<br />

$10,500 169<br />

“MaidPro’s system is<br />

phenomenal. They<br />

provide business and<br />

marketing support<br />

through assigned<br />

coaches. Additional<br />

support is only a phone,<br />

email, or case away,<br />

and they are prompt<br />

at responding to issues<br />

we encounter.”<br />

– MaidPro Franchisee<br />

The Little Gym<br />

Early childhood development<br />

Oct.<br />

2016<br />

$185,750 –<br />

$436,000<br />

$75,000 –<br />

$100,000<br />

385<br />

British Swim School<br />

Swim lessons<br />

June<br />

2017<br />

$40,000 –<br />

$90,000<br />

$40,000 –<br />

$90,000<br />

44<br />

CompuChild<br />

Children's technology education<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

$18,300 –<br />

$33,000<br />

$10,000 40<br />

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE<br />

* MaidPro — more on p. 35<br />

House cleaning & maid services<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

$74,560 –<br />

$204,450<br />

$75,000 221<br />

Aire-Master of America<br />

Commercial hygiene service<br />

Dec.<br />

2016<br />

$39,584 –<br />

$142,400<br />

$50,000 111<br />

* Office Pride — more on p. 33<br />

Commercial cleaning services<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

$59,500 –<br />

$107,200<br />

$60,000 137<br />

For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com | 13


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises<br />

THE LIST<br />

Best of the Best:<br />

Top 200 Franchises<br />

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE (CONTINUED)<br />

Jan-Pro (Master Franchisors)<br />

Commercial cleaning service<br />

Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning<br />

Carpet cleaning<br />

Survey<br />

Date<br />

Sep.<br />

2017<br />

Oct.<br />

2016<br />

Startup<br />

Investment<br />

$3,985 –<br />

$51,105<br />

$40,000 –<br />

$60,000<br />

Cash<br />

Requirement<br />

Total<br />

Units<br />

$1,000 9000<br />

$35,900 340<br />

Anago Cleaning Systems (Master Franchisors)<br />

Commercial cleaning services<br />

Dec.<br />

2017<br />

$197,000 –<br />

$298,000<br />

$197,000 –<br />

$298,000<br />

40<br />

Rooterman<br />

Plumbing & drain cleaning services<br />

July<br />

2016<br />

$46,750 –<br />

$137,600<br />

$18,000 611<br />

* The Maids — more on p. 42<br />

Cleaning & maid services<br />

March<br />

2017<br />

$76,100 –<br />

$164,650<br />

$60,000 1208<br />

“I am very impressed with<br />

how caring the franchisor<br />

is and their commitment<br />

to franchisee success is<br />

evident in all they do.”<br />

– Huntington Learning Center Franchisee<br />

Two Maids & A Mop<br />

House cleaning & maid services<br />

You've Got MAIDS<br />

House cleaning & maid services<br />

Buildingstars<br />

Commercial cleaning services<br />

* Image One — more on p. 43<br />

Commercial cleaning services<br />

EDUCATION<br />

June<br />

2017<br />

June<br />

2016<br />

Aug.<br />

2017<br />

June<br />

2017<br />

$47,200 –<br />

$127,950<br />

$40,379 –<br />

$118,772<br />

$2,245 –<br />

$53,200<br />

$29,750 –<br />

$103,208<br />

$30,000 31<br />

$40,379 78<br />

$1,000 572<br />

$15,000 78<br />

* The Goddard School<br />

Early childhood education<br />

July<br />

2017<br />

$706,700 –<br />

$750,700<br />

$150,000 434<br />

* Mathnasium<br />

Math learning center<br />

April<br />

2017<br />

$102,750 –<br />

$143,610<br />

$102,750 900<br />

* The Learning Experience<br />

Early childhood education<br />

April<br />

2017<br />

$199,875 –<br />

$384,150<br />

$125,000 191<br />

Huntington Learning Center<br />

Tutoring services<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

$110,070 –<br />

$225,650<br />

$60,000 300<br />

Online Trading Academy<br />

Trading/investment education<br />

Sep.<br />

2017<br />

$250,000 –<br />

$500,000<br />

$100,000 29<br />

Top Five Franchise Sectors<br />

by Median Pre-Tax Income*<br />

Sector<br />

Average<br />

Pre-tax Income<br />

Median<br />

Investment<br />

Business Services $87,500 $112,000<br />

The Tutoring Center<br />

Tutoring services<br />

Best In Class Education Centers<br />

Tutoring services<br />

Creative World School<br />

Early childhood education<br />

May<br />

2017<br />

July<br />

2017<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

$90,000 –<br />

$130,000<br />

$62,800 –<br />

$121,880<br />

$600,000 –<br />

$4,100,000<br />

$90,000 106<br />

$62,800 –<br />

$121,880<br />

$600,000 –<br />

$500,000<br />

59<br />

30<br />

Home Services $87,500 $118,000<br />

FINANCIAL & TAX<br />

Real Estate $87,500 $267,000<br />

Senior Services $81,250 $108,000<br />

Food & Beverage $75,000 $508,000<br />

* Data based on franchisees owning their<br />

business for at least two years. Income figures<br />

are self-reported by franchise owners and not<br />

verified by Franchise Business Review.<br />

* Payroll Vault Franchising — more on p. 31<br />

Payroll services<br />

Estrella Insurance<br />

Financial services<br />

FITNESS<br />

* Crunch Fitness<br />

Fitness club<br />

Aug.<br />

2017<br />

Oct.<br />

2016<br />

Sep.<br />

2017<br />

$22,800 –<br />

$82,569<br />

$49,950 –<br />

$84,000<br />

$1,200,000 –<br />

$1,600,000<br />

$35,750 –<br />

$82,569<br />

$25,000 –<br />

$50,000<br />

$300,000 –<br />

$400,000<br />

40<br />

113<br />

197<br />

Orangetheory Fitness<br />

Fitness club<br />

Nov.<br />

2017<br />

$327,600 –<br />

$634,100<br />

$150,000 722<br />

9Round<br />

Kickboxing fitness<br />

March<br />

2016<br />

$66,600 –<br />

$102,700<br />

$24,000 445<br />

14 | For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises<br />

Survey<br />

Date<br />

Startup<br />

Investment<br />

Cash<br />

Requirement<br />

Total<br />

Units<br />

FITNESS (CONTINUED)<br />

Baby Boot Camp<br />

Fitness programs<br />

Nov.<br />

2017<br />

$4,570 –<br />

$10,800<br />

$4,570 108<br />

ILOVEKICKBOXING.COM<br />

Kickboxing fitness<br />

April<br />

2016<br />

$206,500 –<br />

$301,500<br />

$50,000 214<br />

Burn Boot Camp — more on p. 47<br />

Women's fitness center<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

$105,630 –<br />

$168,900<br />

$100,000 102<br />

30-Minute Hit<br />

Boxing & kickboxing circuit<br />

June<br />

2017<br />

$77,000 –<br />

$121,000<br />

$25,000 50<br />

The MAX Challenge<br />

Fitness programs<br />

Oct.<br />

2016<br />

$112,694 –<br />

$212,769<br />

$25,000 91<br />

Planet Fitness<br />

Fitness club<br />

World Gym<br />

Fitness club<br />

FOOD & BEVERAGE<br />

* Kona Ice<br />

Ice cream/Yogurt/Frozen treats<br />

Culver’s<br />

Quick-service<br />

March<br />

2017<br />

Nov.<br />

2016<br />

July<br />

2017<br />

Aug.<br />

2017<br />

$853,390 –<br />

$2,882,070<br />

$762,200 –<br />

$3,212,500<br />

$120,225 –<br />

$143,025<br />

$1,845,000 –<br />

$4,155,000<br />

$600,000 1371<br />

$100,000 213<br />

$20,000 951<br />

$350,000 –<br />

$600,000<br />

610<br />

“Burn continually<br />

introduces me to<br />

new ways to be<br />

innovative and creative<br />

within my location.”<br />

– Burn Boot Camp Franchisee<br />

Fazoli’s Restaurants<br />

Fast casual<br />

May<br />

2017<br />

$1,098,000 –<br />

$1,739,818<br />

$250,000 210<br />

Wings Etc.<br />

Fast casual<br />

June<br />

2017<br />

$300,000 –<br />

$780,000<br />

$300,000 –<br />

$780,000<br />

57<br />

Captain D’s<br />

Fast casual<br />

June<br />

2017<br />

$771,000 –<br />

$1,003,000<br />

$350,000 523<br />

* Checkers & Rally's<br />

Quick-service<br />

May<br />

2017<br />

$96,414 –<br />

$1,501,265<br />

$250,000 870<br />

The Wendy's Company<br />

Quick-service<br />

June<br />

2017<br />

$300,000 –<br />

$3,000,000<br />

$2,000,000 6564<br />

LaRosa’s Pizzeria<br />

Fast casual<br />

Tropical Smoothie Cafe<br />

Fast casual<br />

Nothing Bundt Cakes<br />

Snack retailer<br />

Lenny's Sub Shop<br />

Quick-service<br />

Hwy 55 Burgers Shakes & Fries<br />

Casual dining<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

Nov.<br />

2017<br />

May<br />

2017<br />

Aug.<br />

2017<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

$800,000 –<br />

$1,000,000<br />

$198,050 –<br />

$478,550<br />

$392,875 –<br />

$545,475<br />

$188,216 –<br />

$396,146<br />

$191,255 –<br />

$385,155<br />

$500,000 65<br />

$125,000 541<br />

$150,000 168<br />

$75,000 96<br />

$125,000 135<br />

“The franchise system<br />

overall is fantastic.<br />

They provide an excellent<br />

product, advertising,<br />

advisory, and support<br />

services.”<br />

– LaRosa’s Pizza Franchisee<br />

Zaxby's<br />

Fast casual<br />

Nov.<br />

2016<br />

$352,000 –<br />

$664,300<br />

$300,000 946<br />

* Hungry Howie’s Pizza & Subs — more on p. 8<br />

Quick-service<br />

Nov.<br />

2017<br />

$251,375 –<br />

$495,850<br />

$100,000 548<br />

Scooter's Coffee<br />

Fast casual<br />

Aug.<br />

2017<br />

$334,000 –<br />

$514,000<br />

$100,000 172<br />

The Haagen-Dazs Shoppe Company —<br />

Ice cream/Yogurt/Frozen treats<br />

more on<br />

p. 35<br />

July<br />

2017<br />

$164,158 –<br />

$542,408<br />

$80,000 –<br />

$200,000<br />

207<br />

* Pizza Factory — more on p. 4 & 42<br />

Fast casual<br />

Aug.<br />

2017<br />

$156,000 –<br />

$643,500<br />

$90,000 108<br />

For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com | 15


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises<br />

THE LIST<br />

Best of the Best:<br />

Top 200 Franchises<br />

FOOD & BEVERAGE (CONTINUED)<br />

Golden Corral Buffet & Grill — more on p. 40<br />

Casual dining<br />

Penn Station<br />

Quick-service<br />

Survey<br />

Date<br />

Nov.<br />

2016<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

Startup<br />

Investment<br />

$2,120,644 –<br />

$6,170,713<br />

$293,102 –<br />

$593,027<br />

Cash<br />

Requirement<br />

Total<br />

Units<br />

$500,000 482<br />

$300,000 310<br />

* East Coast Wings & Grill — more on p. 34<br />

Casual dining<br />

April<br />

2017<br />

$658,875 –<br />

$1,133,502<br />

$250,000 35<br />

Jamba Juice<br />

Fast casual<br />

Oct.<br />

2016<br />

$201,000 –<br />

$619,300<br />

$350,000 953<br />

Fuzzy's Taco Shop<br />

Fast casual<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

$597,000 –<br />

$1,262,000<br />

$250,000 139<br />

Biggby Coffee<br />

Beverages<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

$220,000 $70,000 254<br />

Questions to Ask Franchisors<br />

Goodcents Deli Fresh Subs<br />

Quick-service<br />

Sep.<br />

2017<br />

$156,972 –<br />

$306,522<br />

$50,000 –<br />

$200,000<br />

80<br />

To help determine if the franchise you are<br />

considering is a good investment, ask the<br />

franchisor the following questions:<br />

• How long has the franchisor been<br />

franchising?<br />

Donatos Pizza<br />

Quick-service<br />

Eggs Up Grill<br />

Fast casual<br />

Buffalo Wings & Rings<br />

Fast casual<br />

July<br />

2017<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

Jan.<br />

2017<br />

$449,000 –<br />

$667,000<br />

$510,414 –<br />

$887,897<br />

$1,224,000 –<br />

$3,085,000<br />

$449,000 –<br />

$667,000<br />

$50,000 –<br />

$100,000<br />

152<br />

24<br />

$300,000 57<br />

• What is the expertise/experience of the<br />

executive team?<br />

Toppers Pizza<br />

Quick-service<br />

Aug.<br />

2016<br />

$291,666 –<br />

$527,152<br />

$150,000 99<br />

• Is this business financially sound?<br />

Ask if they can provide three years’ of<br />

audited accounts and current management<br />

accounts and have your accountant look<br />

at them.<br />

• How many existing franchise owners are<br />

there? How many franchise owners have<br />

failed? Why did they fail?<br />

• What data is there to prove the viability<br />

of the marketplace? Is there a long-term<br />

market for the products or services?<br />

Bahama Buck’s<br />

Ice cream/Yogurt/Frozen treats<br />

* Happy & Healthy Products<br />

Ice cream/Yogurt/Frozen treats<br />

DoubleDave's Pizzaworks Systems<br />

Quick-service<br />

Costa Vida<br />

Fast casual<br />

Zoup!<br />

Quick-service<br />

Sep.<br />

2016<br />

April<br />

2017<br />

Sep.<br />

2017<br />

Sep.<br />

2016<br />

June<br />

2016<br />

$223,346 –<br />

$720,825<br />

$45,000 –<br />

$90,000<br />

$115,500 –<br />

$420,000<br />

$485,000 –<br />

$890,000<br />

$321,400 –<br />

$609,400<br />

$100,000 104<br />

$45,000 –<br />

$90,000<br />

$115,500 –<br />

$420,000<br />

$485,000 –<br />

$890,000<br />

$321,400 –<br />

$609,400<br />

65<br />

37<br />

39<br />

87<br />

• Who are the main competitors and how<br />

do they compare to the franchise in terms<br />

of price, quality, delivery, and service?<br />

• How much is the start-up investment<br />

and what does it include?<br />

• How much will you have to pay the<br />

franchisor on an ongoing basis?<br />

• What are the financial projections for<br />

your business?<br />

HEALTH & PERSONAL SERVICES<br />

Palm Beach Tan<br />

Beauty services<br />

* My Salon Suite<br />

Private, spacious salon suites<br />

BioPed Footcare Centres<br />

Custom orthotics<br />

Sport Clips — more on p. 48<br />

Hair cutting<br />

Dec.<br />

2016<br />

Nov.<br />

2017<br />

Dec.<br />

2016<br />

June<br />

2016<br />

$503,070 –<br />

$811,140<br />

$395,000 –<br />

$955,000<br />

$165,000 –<br />

$230,000<br />

$189,300 –<br />

$354,500<br />

$250,000 438<br />

$150,000 68<br />

$25,000 51<br />

$200,000 1,740<br />

• Is there a set territory? How does<br />

the franchisor prevent its franchisees<br />

cannibalizing business from each other?<br />

Fastest Labs<br />

Drug alcohol & DNA testing services<br />

June<br />

2016<br />

$74,650 –<br />

$88,900<br />

$50,000 26<br />

• How long is the term of the franchise<br />

agreement? Can you renew it?<br />

• How long does it take to be up and<br />

running once the agreement is signed?<br />

HOME SERVICES<br />

* CertaPro Painters<br />

Painting<br />

Miracle Method Surface Refinishing<br />

Bathroom & kitchen remodeling<br />

Jan.<br />

2017<br />

Aug.<br />

2017<br />

$134,750 –<br />

$169,500<br />

$75,000 –<br />

$138,000<br />

$80,000 483<br />

$55,000 –<br />

$120,000<br />

141<br />

16 | For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises<br />

Survey<br />

Date<br />

Startup<br />

Investment<br />

Cash<br />

Requirement<br />

Total<br />

Units<br />

HOME SERVICES (CONTINUED)<br />

* HouseMaster — more on p. 40<br />

Professional home inspections<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

$61,100 –<br />

$106,150<br />

$45,000 320<br />

Budget Blinds<br />

Custom blinds and window coverings<br />

Dec.<br />

2016<br />

$99,240 –<br />

$202,070<br />

$59,950 1077<br />

* DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen<br />

Home remodeling<br />

June<br />

2017<br />

$99,745 –<br />

$288,955<br />

$200,000 –<br />

$400,000<br />

38<br />

Surface Specialists Systems<br />

Home remodeling<br />

May<br />

2017<br />

$43,200 –<br />

$56,000<br />

$25,000 45<br />

Property Damage Appraisers<br />

Property damage assessments<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

$20,300 –<br />

$41,950<br />

$20,300 –<br />

$41,950<br />

264<br />

Shine Window Care & Holiday Lighting<br />

Window cleaning<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

$23,000 –<br />

$98,750<br />

$23,000 –<br />

$98,750<br />

21<br />

Questions to Ask Franchisees<br />

Garage Experts<br />

Garage organization<br />

Bloomin Blinds<br />

Custom blinds and window coverings<br />

WOW 1 DAY PAINTING<br />

Painting<br />

Tailored Living<br />

Home organization solutions<br />

USA Insulation<br />

Home insulation & weatherization<br />

California Closets<br />

Custom closets and organizers<br />

Sep.<br />

2017<br />

June<br />

2017<br />

Oct.<br />

2016<br />

Sep.<br />

2016<br />

Feb.<br />

2017<br />

July<br />

2017<br />

$48,497 –<br />

$86,426<br />

$35,000 –<br />

$85,000<br />

$90,000 –<br />

$130,000<br />

$131,130 –<br />

$269,950<br />

$203,250 –<br />

$268,500<br />

$127,500 –<br />

$377,000<br />

$30,000 30<br />

$40,000 40<br />

$50,000 43<br />

$124,950 195<br />

$75,000 38<br />

$150,000 164<br />

Before you invest, talk to as many<br />

franchisees as possible in the brand you’re<br />

considering. There are many questions<br />

you may have. Here are some we find<br />

particularly useful:<br />

• Did the opening of your business go<br />

according to plan?<br />

• How effective and useful was your initial<br />

training and is the ongoing training?<br />

• How much support does the franchisor<br />

give you on a day-to-day basis?<br />

Go Mini's<br />

Portable storage<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

$208,441 –<br />

$396,645<br />

$200,000 –<br />

$400,000<br />

80<br />

• If you run into problems, does the<br />

franchisor help you solve them?<br />

* The Glass Guru — more on p. 37<br />

Window restoration<br />

* Kitchen Solvers<br />

Home remodeling<br />

The Grout Doctor<br />

Grout repair services<br />

ShelfGenie<br />

Shelving solutions<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

Aug.<br />

2017<br />

Jan.<br />

2017<br />

Nov.<br />

2017<br />

$64,150 –<br />

$183,000<br />

$60,000 –<br />

$80,000<br />

$12,000 –<br />

$40,000<br />

$70,100 –<br />

$125,250<br />

$64,150 89<br />

$75,000 52<br />

$10,000 77<br />

$70,100 –<br />

$125,250<br />

172<br />

• Does the franchisor visit you regularly?<br />

• How helpful are the operations and<br />

training manuals?<br />

• If the franchisor supplies products,<br />

do they arrive on time and is their<br />

quality consistent?<br />

• How long did it take to break even?<br />

PET SERVICES<br />

In Home Pet Services<br />

Pet sitting & dog walking service<br />

The Dog Wizard<br />

Dog training<br />

Sit Means Sit Dog Training — more on p. 36<br />

Dog training<br />

Dogtopia<br />

Dog daycare and boarding<br />

Sep.<br />

2017<br />

Sep.<br />

2016<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

$9,200 –<br />

$35,100<br />

$47,400 –<br />

$59,850<br />

$45,000 –<br />

$93,850<br />

$416,032 –<br />

$1,071,075<br />

$9,200 –<br />

$35,100<br />

$47,400 –<br />

$59,850<br />

13<br />

19<br />

$45,000 126<br />

$200,000 60<br />

• When did you make a profit?<br />

• What was your first year gross revenue?<br />

What is it now?<br />

• Has turnover and profitability been in<br />

line with what the franchisor told you<br />

it would be?<br />

• Does the franchisor facilitate franchisees<br />

interacting with each other?<br />

• How helpful are the other franchisees?<br />

REAL ESTATE<br />

• What do you wish you had known going<br />

into business that you did not?<br />

Keller Williams<br />

Real estate<br />

Sotheby’s International Realty<br />

Real estate<br />

Oct.<br />

2016<br />

Jan.<br />

2017<br />

$183,947 –<br />

$336,995<br />

$194,650 –<br />

$627,000<br />

$183,947 730<br />

$63,650 –<br />

$206,000<br />

607<br />

• Is there anything you would have done<br />

differently?<br />

For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com | 17


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises<br />

THE LIST<br />

Best of the Best:<br />

Top 200 Franchises<br />

REAL ESTATE (CONTINUED)<br />

Weichert Real Estate<br />

Real estate<br />

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate<br />

Real estate<br />

Survey<br />

Date<br />

Sep.<br />

2017<br />

Jan.<br />

2017<br />

Startup<br />

Investment<br />

$50,000 –<br />

$364,700<br />

$65,170 –<br />

$540,000<br />

Cash<br />

Requirement<br />

$50,000 –<br />

$364,700<br />

Total<br />

Units<br />

463<br />

$100,000 293<br />

Showhomes Home Staging<br />

Home staging<br />

Jan.<br />

2017<br />

$45,300 –<br />

$78,000<br />

$10,000 55<br />

ERA — more on p. 3<br />

Real estate<br />

Jan.<br />

2017<br />

$4,800 –<br />

$221,900<br />

$4,800 –<br />

$221,900<br />

2370<br />

* HomeVestors of America —<br />

Realty renovation<br />

more on<br />

inside front<br />

cover<br />

Dec.<br />

2016<br />

$44,000 –<br />

$347,250<br />

$50,000 –<br />

$55,000<br />

884<br />

HomeSmart International<br />

Real estate<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

$65,500 –<br />

$205,000<br />

$50,000 124<br />

United Country Real Estate<br />

Real estate<br />

Sep.<br />

2017<br />

$16,290 –<br />

$42,510<br />

$15,000 443<br />

“For 13 years, Home<br />

Instead has provided<br />

us outstanding support<br />

and inspiration to grow<br />

my business. I couldn’t<br />

ask for more from<br />

our franchisor.”<br />

– Home Instead Senior Care Franchisee<br />

RETAIL<br />

* Wild Birds Unlimited<br />

Nature retailer<br />

Pinch A Penny<br />

Pool supplies retailer<br />

Rhea Lana’s — more on p. 41<br />

Children’s consignment<br />

Just Between Friends<br />

Children’s consignment<br />

* Big Frog Custom T-Shirts<br />

Clothing retailer<br />

Nov.<br />

2017<br />

Jan.<br />

2017<br />

Feb.<br />

2017<br />

Aug.<br />

2017<br />

March<br />

2017<br />

$146,693 –<br />

$228,406<br />

$230,000 –<br />

$300,000<br />

$19,050 –<br />

$38,950<br />

$32,774 –<br />

$45,449<br />

$189,200 –<br />

$239,200<br />

$40,000 323<br />

$230,000 –<br />

$300,000<br />

$10,000 –<br />

$13,500<br />

238<br />

85<br />

$45,000 160<br />

$50,000 81<br />

Color Me Mine<br />

Property painting studio<br />

March<br />

2017<br />

$134,300 –<br />

$174,800<br />

$134,300 –<br />

$174,800<br />

148<br />

Mainstream Boutique<br />

Women's clothing retailer<br />

April<br />

2017<br />

$115,000 –<br />

$241,500<br />

$35,000 75<br />

Family Fare<br />

Convenience store retailer<br />

Sep.<br />

2016<br />

$33,800 –<br />

$201,700<br />

$31,800 87<br />

Verlo Mattress Factory Stores<br />

Mattress retailer<br />

May<br />

2017<br />

$228,500 –<br />

$305,000<br />

$228,500 –<br />

$305,000<br />

59<br />

SENIOR SERVICES<br />

* Home Instead Senior Care<br />

In-home senior care<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

$115,000 –<br />

$125,000<br />

$55,000 1095<br />

* Visiting Angels — more on p. 32<br />

In-home senior care<br />

July<br />

2016<br />

$77,985 –<br />

$102,285<br />

$43,950 628<br />

* FirstLight Home Care — more on p. 6<br />

In-home senior care<br />

May<br />

2017<br />

$97,681 –<br />

$141,726<br />

$65,000 245<br />

Right at Home<br />

In-home senior care<br />

Feb.<br />

2017<br />

$78,250 –<br />

$137,900<br />

$150,000 558<br />

Assisting Hands<br />

In-home senior care<br />

Aug.<br />

2017<br />

$70,550 –<br />

$147,500<br />

$38,500 111<br />

* Amada Senior Care<br />

In-home senior care<br />

March<br />

2017<br />

$87,710 –<br />

$174,654<br />

$80,000 107<br />

Home Care Assistance — more on p. 23<br />

In-home senior care<br />

Sep.<br />

2017<br />

$199,000 –<br />

$223,950<br />

$125,000 153<br />

18 | For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises<br />

Survey<br />

Date<br />

Startup<br />

Investment<br />

Cash<br />

Requirement<br />

Total<br />

Units<br />

SENIOR SERVICES (CONTINUED)<br />

* Homewatch CareGivers<br />

In-home senior care<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

$83,000 -<br />

$131,000<br />

$50,000 198<br />

* Senior Care Authority — more on p. 39<br />

Assisted living placement services<br />

May<br />

2017<br />

$52,350 -<br />

$78,150<br />

$50,000 45<br />

* CarePatrol — more on p. 45<br />

Assisted living placement services<br />

Nov.<br />

2017<br />

$64,649 -<br />

$84,699<br />

$75,000 150<br />

SERVICES<br />

Precision Concrete Cutting<br />

Concrete maintenance services<br />

Feb.<br />

2017<br />

$150,000 –<br />

$176,500<br />

$150,000 –<br />

$176,500<br />

55<br />

* Weed Man<br />

Lawn care<br />

* Two Men and A Truck — more on p. 1<br />

Moving services<br />

Truly Nolen of America<br />

Pest control<br />

Bin There Dump That<br />

Residential dumpster rentals<br />

FRSTeam<br />

Home restoration<br />

July<br />

2017<br />

March<br />

2017<br />

Jan.<br />

2017<br />

Feb.<br />

2017<br />

Nov.<br />

2016<br />

$68,453 –<br />

$85,513<br />

$95,000 –<br />

$666,000<br />

$50,200 –<br />

$293,000<br />

$150,000 –<br />

$225,000<br />

$32,000 –<br />

$380,500<br />

$50,000 656<br />

$80,000 –<br />

$190,000<br />

392<br />

$35,000 322<br />

$150,000 –<br />

$225,000<br />

$25,000 –<br />

$35,000<br />

106<br />

56<br />

“I love that when I’m<br />

struggling with an issue,<br />

I can always turn to<br />

the franchise support<br />

center for training<br />

and guidance.”<br />

– Homewatch CareGivers Franchisee<br />

Complete Weddings and Events<br />

Wedding & event services<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

$30,350 –<br />

$48,650<br />

$10,000 200<br />

* Fish Window Cleaning<br />

Window cleaning<br />

Nov.<br />

2017<br />

$83,225 –<br />

$146,200<br />

$83,225 –<br />

$146,200<br />

271<br />

* Fibrenew<br />

Leather & vinyl repair services<br />

Oct.<br />

2016<br />

$75,000 –<br />

$101,800<br />

$20,000 –<br />

$100,000<br />

250<br />

College Hunks Hauling Junk<br />

Junk removal services<br />

March<br />

2017<br />

$83,300 –<br />

$208,000<br />

$40,000 102<br />

* Window Genie — more on p. 31<br />

Window cleaning<br />

July<br />

2017<br />

$90,800 –<br />

$140,000<br />

$50,000 121<br />

* U.S. Lawns<br />

Commercial grounds care<br />

Nov.<br />

2016<br />

$53,500 –<br />

$81,300<br />

$40,000 267<br />

Linc Service Network<br />

Commercial HVAC services<br />

Feb.<br />

2017<br />

$66,350 –<br />

$136,000<br />

$66,350 –<br />

$136,000<br />

172<br />

Critter Control<br />

Wildlife control & removal<br />

Aug.<br />

2017<br />

$12,250 –<br />

$80,500<br />

$12,250 –<br />

$80,500<br />

102<br />

Real Property Management<br />

Residential property management<br />

Sep.<br />

2017<br />

$86,795 –<br />

$113,795<br />

$75,000 295<br />

101 Mobility<br />

Mobility equipment services<br />

Aug.<br />

2017<br />

$114,060 –<br />

$210,120<br />

$100,000 148<br />

Precision Door Service<br />

Garage door services<br />

April<br />

2016<br />

$56,960 –<br />

$510,789<br />

$50,000 77<br />

* Mosquito Joe<br />

Mosquito control services<br />

Aug.<br />

2016<br />

$66,600 –<br />

$127,500<br />

$30,000 234<br />

Signal 88 Security — more on p. 43<br />

Private security services<br />

Aug.<br />

2017<br />

$73,000 –<br />

$268,400<br />

$45,000 369<br />

Creative Colors International<br />

Leather & vinyl repair services<br />

July<br />

2017<br />

$94,975 –<br />

$122,250<br />

$84,000 78<br />

Leather Medic<br />

Leather & vinyl repair services<br />

June<br />

2016<br />

$49,500 –<br />

$59,500<br />

$25,000 27<br />

For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com | 19


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises<br />

THE LIST<br />

Best of the Best:<br />

Top 200 Franchises<br />

SERVICES (CONTINUED)<br />

NaturaLawn of America<br />

Lawn care<br />

Service Team of Professionals<br />

Restoration services<br />

Survey<br />

Date<br />

June<br />

2017<br />

Sep.<br />

2017<br />

Startup<br />

Investment<br />

$42,500 –<br />

$112,650<br />

$78,600 –<br />

$138,500<br />

Cash<br />

Requirement<br />

$42,500 –<br />

$112,650<br />

Total<br />

Units<br />

71<br />

$56,000 37<br />

PortraitEFX<br />

Sports, school & event photography<br />

Oct.<br />

2016<br />

$9,995 –<br />

$25,000<br />

$9,995 –<br />

$25,000<br />

55<br />

MarbleLife<br />

Stone restoration<br />

April<br />

2017<br />

$50,000 –<br />

$65,000<br />

$30,000 40<br />

SPORTS & REC<br />

“Each day my business<br />

is more profitable than<br />

yesterday due to the<br />

strong support by HQ.<br />

They are funding lots<br />

of promos and programs<br />

so I don't have to.”<br />

– CruiseOne Franchisee<br />

American Poolplayers Association<br />

Pool league<br />

Kampgrounds of America/ KOA<br />

Camping services<br />

* Pinot’s Palette<br />

Paint & sip<br />

APEX Fun Run<br />

School fundraising program<br />

* Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park — more on p. 27<br />

Camping services<br />

Rockin' Jump<br />

Indoor trampoline arena<br />

Sep.<br />

2017<br />

Oct.<br />

2016<br />

May<br />

2017<br />

April<br />

2016<br />

March<br />

2017<br />

July<br />

2017<br />

$20,070 –<br />

$28,090<br />

$27,500 –<br />

$4,462,925<br />

$63,400 –<br />

$204,200<br />

$106,000 –<br />

$138,700<br />

$100,000 –<br />

$2,000,000<br />

$1,404,000 –<br />

$2,907,500<br />

$20,070 324<br />

$7,500 481<br />

$80,000 188<br />

$40,000 89<br />

$200,000 84<br />

$400,000 32<br />

Wine and Design<br />

Wine & painting studio<br />

June<br />

2016<br />

$46,160 –<br />

$95,000<br />

$50,000 76<br />

TECHNOLOGY<br />

TeamLogic IT<br />

IT services<br />

March<br />

2017<br />

$160,000 $60,000 135<br />

TRAVEL & HOSPITALITY<br />

* CruiseOne — more on p. 44<br />

Travel agency<br />

Oct.<br />

2017<br />

$3,245 –<br />

$21,850<br />

$3,500 1159<br />

* Cruise Planners<br />

Travel agency<br />

June<br />

2017<br />

$10,495 –<br />

$22,667<br />

$10,495 2433<br />

Expedia CruiseShipCenters<br />

Travel agency<br />

March<br />

2017<br />

$150,000 –<br />

$250,000<br />

$100,000 225<br />

20 | For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com


TM


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises<br />

FRANCHISE PLAYERS<br />

Athletes Turn to Franchising<br />

We’ve long been associating athletes with specific<br />

brands they agree to represent in advertisements<br />

and sponsorships. Michael Jordan is still the first to<br />

come to mind for many. Tom Brady, Roger Federer,<br />

and Danica Patrick are just a few of the other names<br />

often associated with well-known brands. But these<br />

are often strictly a marketing initiative and not a true<br />

reflection of products and services the athletes decide<br />

to use and endorse organically.<br />

The same cannot be said for athletes investing in a<br />

franchise business. In fact, in many ways it’s quite the<br />

opposite. Pro athletes, like others earning a sizeable<br />

income, need to find smart ways to protect and<br />

Redskins Tight End Vernon Davis chose<br />

invest their assets. Increasingly, we see some athletes<br />

Jamba Juice as his franchise investment.<br />

turning to business ownership — and specifically<br />

franchise ownership — as a way to combine that<br />

financial security with brands and products they’re<br />

passionate about.<br />

The roster of pro athlete franchisees includes current and retired players across a<br />

wide swath of sports, with the NFL seemingly being the most likely to produce the next<br />

franchise owner. Drew Brees, current and long time New Orleans Saints quarterback,<br />

owns several locations of franchise giant Jimmy John’s, as well as a number of the<br />

regional Louisiana-based Walk-On’s Bistreaux and Bar. Keyshawn Johnson, a wide<br />

receiver best known for his time with the New York Jets and Tampa Bay Buccaneers in<br />

the 1990s and 2000s, is the owner of multiple Panera Bread franchise locations.<br />

Outside of the NFL, we identified a number of additional well-known pro athletes who<br />

have turned to franchising as an investment opportunity. NBA legends Magic Johnson<br />

(T.G.I. Friday’s franchise owner) and the aforementioned Shaquille O’Neal (Five Guys<br />

and Auntie Anne’s franchise owner) top the list in terms of name recognition. Jamal<br />

Mashburn and his portfolio of Outback Steakhouses and Papa John’s locations trails not<br />

far behind.<br />

Jamba Juice is one of just a handful of brands that can boast pro athlete franchise<br />

owners and a spot on Franchise Business Review’s list of the Top 200 Brands for <strong>2018</strong>.<br />

In fact, Jamba Juice’s franchisee network includes both tennis star Venus Williams and<br />

Washington Redskins tight end Vernon Davis.<br />

“Franchising is a smart choice because all of the heavy lifting has been done. The<br />

brand is proven, the concept works, and people value the products,“ Davis told Franchise<br />

Business Review about what inspired him to choose to open a franchise business.<br />

Of course, there is more to the decision than simply the franchise business model.<br />

Investors are then faced with the multitude of brands from which to choose. For many, it<br />

comes down to an alignment of values and interests.<br />

“Jamba is the right brand for me because they care about what I care about: healthy<br />

living, active lifestyle, and community service,“ explained Davis. The brand has been<br />

effective at engaging consumers with these tenets, leading to a captive audience, loyal<br />

customers, and, ultimately, more satisfied franchise owners.<br />

It should be noted that the franchise experience for pro athletes and other celebrities<br />

is likely to be different than that of most franchisees. Some, especially those still active in<br />

their respective sports, will take more of an absentee owner role, with a business partner<br />

or general manager handling the day-to-day and back office responsibilities of the<br />

business. And for those who do have the time and inclination to stay involved, leveraging<br />

star power to help market their business and the brand at large may be a more impactful<br />

use of their resources.<br />

Still, it’s important to note that franchising has become a popular way for athletes to<br />

not only invest their earnings in a business with a strong opportunity for high returns,<br />

but also as a way to further connect with their fans and local communities, through the<br />

brands, products, and initiatives that matter most to them.<br />

Photo courtesy of Jamba Juice.<br />

Continued from page 11.<br />

“Our goal is to be as transparent as possible,”<br />

shared Jim Westover, VP of Operations at<br />

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts.<br />

“We have an experienced team that educates<br />

candidates on profitably operating a Jellystone<br />

Park. We provide research and site demographics<br />

for each location, conduct prospective<br />

owners’ workshops onsite at a park, and invite<br />

candidates to our annual franchise meeting<br />

where they interact with current owners.”<br />

Talking with franchisees is an import step<br />

in your franchise research. Most franchisees<br />

will be very honest about their business experience,<br />

and the challenges they’ve faced and<br />

overcome to grow their business.<br />

“We encourage our candidates to read<br />

through our franchisee survey from Franchise<br />

Business Review, as it covers a lot of what<br />

ownership entails,” adds Westover.<br />

“Our franchise candidates are carefully<br />

vetted before awarding them with a license<br />

to join the Ohana to ensure a good fit for all,”<br />

says Office Evolution’s Hemmeter. “We insist on<br />

multiple validation calls with our existing franchisees<br />

so that candidates get the story from the<br />

mouths and minds of their future peers, not just<br />

a Franchise Disclosure Document.”<br />

Speaking with franchisees will provide<br />

you with great insights on the business you<br />

are considering. But don’t just stop there. Get<br />

out and visit franchise locations. Speak with<br />

employees and customers. Volunteer to work<br />

for a franchisee for a few days, and really get to<br />

know what goes on inside the business.<br />

“We provide potential franchisees the<br />

opportunity to completely immerse themselves<br />

in our brand by spending time in our<br />

restaurants, getting to know other franchisees,<br />

and our leadership team,” says Angela Coppler,<br />

Director of Franchise Development at<br />

The Wendy’s Company. “Our intent is to<br />

form a relationship with a partner that shares<br />

our brand values, business goals, and desire to<br />

drive sustainable growth and success.”<br />

UNDERSTANDING COMPETITIVE<br />

STRENGTHS AND CHALLENGES<br />

Every successful franchise business has its<br />

own unique competitive advantages. Understanding<br />

what these advantages are, and how<br />

they will apply in your local market also needs<br />

to be part of your homework.<br />

22 | For more information on this report, visit: www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises<br />

The best franchise companies are innovative and<br />

embrace constant change as part of their culture.<br />

Others, are slow to embrace and adapt to change,<br />

which in some cases can be lethal.<br />

FEATURED<br />

Franchisee<br />

Franchise companies are the experts at<br />

whatever business they are in, and they can<br />

help train you and support you in that business.<br />

However, you need to be the local market<br />

expert. How many potential customers are in<br />

your area and how will you attract them? Who<br />

are your competitors and how successful are<br />

their businesses?<br />

“The Payroll Vault brand is very community<br />

and client service focused,” says Manning.<br />

“We leverage the available local resources and<br />

take a consultative interest in the people and<br />

businesses we serve and make it part of our<br />

culture. Payroll Vault’s vision says it best…<br />

We are focused on being the most recognizable<br />

payroll outsourcing company with the<br />

highest customer satisfaction."<br />

The food sector is one of the largest and<br />

most popular in franchising—yet also one of<br />

the most challenging when it comes to competing<br />

for consumers’ dollars at the local level.<br />

“As I look at the vast choices in our market<br />

segment, it’s tough to isolate differentiators,”<br />

says DoubleDave’s Pizzaworks Director of<br />

Franchise Development, Tim Williams. “What<br />

we are is authentic, following one of our core<br />

values of being adventurous, creative and<br />

open-minded. We build a positive team and<br />

family spirit through a creative and fun atmosphere,<br />

delivering WOW through service.”<br />

GROWTH AND CHANGE<br />

Most franchise agreements are at least five<br />

to ten years in length—some longer. When<br />

you are exploring franchise opportunities, it’s<br />

also important to understand the long-term<br />

growth plans of the brand, as well as how the<br />

industry may change in the years ahead.<br />

Change is constant in franchising. New<br />

technologies have helped make businesses<br />

much more efficient and effective. Some have<br />

even completely changed industries overnight<br />

(think Uber).<br />

How might the business that you are thinking<br />

about opening be impacted—both positively<br />

and negatively—by new technologies and<br />

other changes? The best franchise companies<br />

are innovative and embrace constant change<br />

as part of their culture. Others, are slow to<br />

embrace and adapt to change, which in some<br />

cases can be lethal (think Blockbuster).<br />

“We’ve been operating for 30-plus years,<br />

so we understand the importance of making<br />

changes related to design, technology, operations,<br />

etc. to stay current with our franchisee<br />

and customers’ expectations,” explains CEO<br />

Mary Jane Riva at Pizza Factory. “We have a<br />

team member dedicated to strategizing for our<br />

growth, and this includes mapping out where<br />

and when advancements occur. As we make<br />

changes, we want to improve the customer<br />

experience, while also staying true to who we<br />

are—We Toss’em, They’re Awesome!”<br />

“For the past few years technology has not<br />

only improved our organizational efficiency,<br />

but we can also leverage technology to support<br />

opportunity for the business clients and their<br />

staff that we support with payroll services,”<br />

shared Payroll Vault’s Manning. “Our ‘Why’<br />

statement is ‘Re-Defining How Small Business<br />

Does Payroll’. That puts us in great position<br />

to evaluate change and find the opportunity<br />

behind it to help others be more successful in<br />

the future.”<br />

A FINAL WORD OF ADVICE<br />

We know that your head is spinning—full of<br />

questions about taking the leap to franchise<br />

ownership. To that end, we asked a number of<br />

franchise executives what tips and advice they<br />

have for franchisee candidates.<br />

“I am often asked what skills it takes to be<br />

successful with a Payroll Vault franchise business,<br />

and the answer is simple—the skill to see<br />

and learn new skills under a clear vision,” says<br />

Manning. “Success leaves clues, and those<br />

clues are the foundation to your future success.<br />

Continued on page 25.<br />

Carol White<br />

Home Care Assistance<br />

Prescott, Arizona<br />

Franchisee since 2015<br />

What was it about the franchise model and or<br />

leadership that led you to purchase it? At first I<br />

was drawn to the leadership. The founders’ story<br />

resonated with me because I, too, had difficulty<br />

finding good quality care for my mother who had<br />

vascular dementia. I liked the fact that corporate<br />

had a youthful executive team and was on the<br />

cutting edge with evidence-based proprietary<br />

programs for seniors. And finally, I was drawn to<br />

the business model. I liked the focus on private<br />

pay clients who could afford quality care, the<br />

retail storefront and large territories with room to<br />

grow. In the end, it was a leap of faith because I<br />

had never owned my own business.<br />

What do you like most about your job? I’m proud<br />

to be a small business owner creating jobs in the<br />

community and providing a higher standard of<br />

care to seniors. Because I’ve hired a professional<br />

staff, I’m able to devote most of my time working<br />

“on the business” instead of “in the business”.<br />

How did you fund your franchise? I established<br />

my business as a C-Corp and funded it via<br />

Rollovers as Business Startups (ROBS). It was<br />

a way to invest funds from my 401(k) without<br />

paying early withdrawal penalties or taxes.<br />

What advice do you have for prospective<br />

franchise buyers? Follow the model, listen to<br />

your franchise coach, and take every opportunity<br />

to learn by attending the conventions and<br />

regional meeting and by listening to the<br />

webinars.<br />

For more information about Home Care<br />

Assistance opportunities, call (888) 834-3844<br />

or visit franchise.homecareassistance.com.<br />

For more information on this report, visit: www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com | 23


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises<br />

— Find the best funding option for you by visiting the Franchise Financing section of FranchiseBusinessReview.com. —<br />

Funding Your Franchise: You Have Options<br />

Jeremy Ames, President & Co-founder of Guidant Financial, contributed to this artcle<br />

There are a few significant differences in financing a multi-unit<br />

franchise versus a single unit, though many of the same financing<br />

solutions will work for both. Aside from the usual cash, credit cards<br />

or even asking for financial support from family and friends,<br />

the most common methods used to finance multi-unit franchise<br />

purchases include loans from the Small Business Administration,<br />

401(k) business financing, unsecured loans and portfolio loans.<br />

Here’s what you need to know about each:<br />

SBA Business Loans<br />

Loans from the Small Business Administration (SBA) are one of the<br />

most popular financing methods for business owners of all kinds, from<br />

start-ups to franchises. SBA business loans are not directly from the<br />

SBA. Rather, the SBA encourages banks to lend to small business owners<br />

with preferable terms and low interest rates. In return, the SBA<br />

covers 75 to 85 percent of the loan for the bank if the loan defaults.<br />

This creates a win-win situation for both the lender and borrower.<br />

When it comes to multi-unit franchises, SBA lenders usually look<br />

at each individual unit and also at the collective performance of all the<br />

units. Most lenders want to see at least two years of profitable tax<br />

returns with the initial business prior to applying for funding for<br />

another location. The sooner the business becomes profitable and the<br />

stronger a borrower is, the more flexible lenders are. For example, if<br />

the borrower shows a strong credit score, has prior business experience<br />

in the industry and is able to put down a significant down payment<br />

(more than 20 to 30 percent), the bank may be willing to approve<br />

funding for more than one location simultaneously.<br />

SBA Loan Eligibility Requirements<br />

• 20 percent down payment for an existing business purchase<br />

or 30 percent for a start-up<br />

• 640+ credit score<br />

• Personal collateral required<br />

• Industry experience preferred<br />

• Secondary income preferred<br />

401(k) Business Financing<br />

With 401(k) business financing (formally known as Rollovers for<br />

Business Start-ups or ROBS), you can use up to 100 percent of funds<br />

from an existing retirement account to buy or start a small business<br />

or franchise without taking a taxable distribution or getting a loan.<br />

Funding through ROBS has been an option since the Employee<br />

Retirement Income Security Act passed in 1974, and it’s growing in<br />

popularity.<br />

Since ROBS doesn’t involve taking a loan, there are no monthly<br />

payments or interest rates, and there are no collateral or minimum<br />

credit score requirements. ROBS can also be used in combination with<br />

an SBA loan, allowing business owners to use retirement funds as the<br />

down payment for the loan.<br />

The process for funding a single-unit franchise versus multiple<br />

units is the same with 401(k) business financing. You can either roll<br />

100 percent of your retirement funds during the initial transaction to<br />

use for one or multiple units, or choose to use a lesser amount initially<br />

to open the first location, then complete another rollover when<br />

you’re closer to opening your second location. However, there are<br />

timing considerations to take into account, especially if you plan to<br />

open multiple units within the first two years. In this case, you may<br />

choose to open your first location using an SBA loan, then use ROBS<br />

as the down payment for a second loan so you can show lenders<br />

strong liquidity.<br />

ROBS Eligibility Requirements<br />

• At least $50,000 in a rollable retirement account<br />

• No minimum credit score requirements<br />

• No down payment needed<br />

Unsecured Loans<br />

If you don’t want to jeopardize personal property in order to obtain<br />

financing, unsecured loans provide up to $150,000 without any collateral.<br />

Unsecured loans work like small business credit cards, consisting<br />

of multiple lines of revolving credit that can be used and paid back<br />

as needed. But instead of relying on collateral, lenders look at your<br />

creditworthiness to secure the loan. As such, a high credit score and<br />

solid borrowing history is necessary.<br />

Unsecured loans have no use-of-proceeds requirements, so the<br />

funds can be used for your first franchise location or subsequent units.<br />

It’s important to note that this type of loan shows up as revolving<br />

credit on one’s credit report and can have a meaningful impact on a<br />

credit score, especially if payments are not made on time. For that<br />

reason, we recommend using unsecured loans as a last resort and only<br />

as a short-term financing solution.<br />

Unsecured Loan Eligibility Requirements<br />

• 690+ credit score<br />

• Credit utilization rate below 50%<br />

• Minimal recent credit inquiries<br />

• No recent derogatory comments on your credit report<br />

Portfolio Loans<br />

If you own stocks, bonds, mutual funds or other eligible securities, you<br />

can borrow up to 80 percent against the value of your portfolio without<br />

having to liquidate your holdings. Portfolio loans, also referred to as<br />

stock loans or securities-based lending, work like a revolving line of<br />

credit—allowing you to finance a business or franchise by borrowing<br />

(and repaying) at will. Because of this, they’re ideal for financing multiunit<br />

franchises as you can use as much as you need, pay it back, and<br />

then borrow again when you’re ready to move forward with additional<br />

locations—all without getting a new loan.<br />

For a detailed walkthrough on funding your franchise, visit www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com/Toolkit<br />

24 | For more information on this report, visit: www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises<br />

Continued from page 23.<br />

“Be actionable and willing to execute<br />

proven methodologies,” continued Manning.<br />

“Look at entrepreneurship as an adventure,<br />

and the satisfaction you receive from the journey<br />

will naturally emerge. When you thrive<br />

on the entrepreneurial experience it is easy<br />

to love your career path and the work you do<br />

everyday.”<br />

“There is no such thing as too much<br />

research,” says Westover of Yogi Bear’s<br />

Jellystone Park. “Whether you are a potential<br />

operator or investor, make sure the brand<br />

is a good fit both personally and financially.<br />

Talk to as many franchisees as possible. Franchise<br />

Business Review surveys, which provide<br />

financial insight as well as feedback on how<br />

franchisees feel about the brand, are great<br />

resources.”<br />

Tim Williams put it this way: “I would<br />

say make sure your franchise opportunity<br />

has a well established management training<br />

program and continuing support. At Double-<br />

Dave’s Pizzaworks, we have a well designed<br />

and extensive six-week management training<br />

program that we offer to either a new franchisee<br />

to help learn the ropes or an existing<br />

franchisee that needs additional support.”<br />

And finally, from Mark Hemmeter at Office<br />

Evolution, “Don’t rush… take your time to<br />

determine what is important to you and seek<br />

out the opportunities that can provide them.<br />

Emerging brands can be great ground floor<br />

opportunities; so don’t discount them in favor<br />

of over-saturated, mature brands.<br />

“Stay away from fad businesses and those<br />

that are prone to high fluctuations during<br />

recessionary times,” continued Hemmeter.<br />

“Be sure you are capitalized properly to<br />

ensure you can get through the ramp up stage<br />

to profitability. Find a franchisor that is operating<br />

company-owned locations in tandem<br />

with their franchise locations so they can test<br />

thoroughly before rolling out new initiatives.”<br />

Great advice from some of the best in the<br />

industry! Take your time, do your homework,<br />

talk to franchisees. In the end, invest in a<br />

business that you are passionate about and<br />

gets you excited.<br />

We wish you the best of success!<br />

Check out these additional resources at<br />

www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com for more<br />

information: Why Franchising? and Getting<br />

Started in Franchising.<br />

Franchisee Satisfaction Snapshot:<br />

Top 200 Franchises vs. All Other Franchises<br />

<strong>FBR</strong>’s Top 200<br />

All other franchise brands<br />

I enjoy being part of this organization<br />

77<br />

87<br />

I respect my franchisor<br />

My franchisor operates with a high level of honesty and integrity<br />

73<br />

72<br />

86<br />

85<br />

Investment in this business has been consistent with my expectations<br />

56<br />

69<br />

Overall satisfaction with franchise<br />

54<br />

71<br />

Overall rating of franchisor and opportunity<br />

55<br />

74<br />

Would you “do it again” knowing what you know today?<br />

64<br />

80<br />

Would you recommend this franchise to others?<br />

68<br />

85<br />

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100<br />

Score on 100-Point Scale<br />

* Scores represent the weighted Franchise Satisfaction Index (FSI) calculated using benchmarking data from approximately<br />

28,000 individual franchise owners.<br />

For more information on this report, visit: www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com | 25


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises<br />

LEGAL PERSPECTIVE<br />

All franchise companies operating in the U.S. are required by law to provide the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)<br />

to prospective franchisees who are seriously considering investing in their franchise opportunity.<br />

Once you narrow down your franchise choices, it is advisable to hire a franchise lawyer to help you understand the specific<br />

details of a franchise system’s FDD and their franchise agreement. For this publication, Franchise Business Review<br />

has teamed up with an experienced franchise law firm to offer some insights into the legal nuances of the FDD.<br />

Reviewing and Assessing<br />

the Franchise Disclosure Document<br />

By Richard L. Rosen and Michelle Murray-Bertrand<br />

Richard L. Rosen is the Managing Member and Michelle Murray-Bertrand is an Associate<br />

at the Richard L. Rosen Law Firm, PLLC.<br />

For a person with entrepreneurial aspirations,<br />

but who does not have the business experience<br />

(or the desire) to develop and institute<br />

a sustainable business model from scratch,<br />

franchising has become the “go to” option.<br />

In the typical franchise model, the franchisee<br />

acquires the right to operate a business under<br />

an established brand name (usually a federally<br />

registered trademark), using a market<br />

tested business model that is supported by the<br />

franchisor on an ongoing basis, in exchange<br />

for the payment of: (i) an initial franchise fee;<br />

and (ii) continuing royalties and marketing<br />

contributions.<br />

In theory, (but not always in fact), franchising<br />

takes out “some” of the hard work<br />

necessary for starting a business from scratch,<br />

which is why it is such an enticing option.<br />

However, the franchise option comes with a<br />

variety of risks, many of which are statutorily<br />

required to be disclosed to prospective franchisees<br />

in the form of a Franchise Disclosure<br />

Document known as the FDD.<br />

FDD disclosures are heavily regulated<br />

on both the federal and state level. On the<br />

federal level the Federal Trade Commission<br />

regulates franchising via the FTC Franchise<br />

Rule, which was first enacted in 1979 and was<br />

amended in 2007. Under the FTC Franchise<br />

Rule, franchisors are mandated to provide a<br />

prospective franchisee with certain material<br />

information prior to the sale and purchase of<br />

a franchise.<br />

In the FDD this information is disclosed<br />

under twenty-three (23) categories that are<br />

referred to as “Items”. Under these twentythree<br />

(23) Items, a franchisor must disclose,<br />

among other things:<br />

• certain background information<br />

about itself, its parent, predecessor(s)<br />

and affiliates;<br />

• the franchisor’s key executives (including<br />

sales and operations managers and brokers)<br />

and describe their business experience;<br />

• all material prior (going back 10 years) and<br />

pending litigations in which the franchisor,<br />

its predecessor(s), parent and affiliates as<br />

well as the key executives were (or are)<br />

involved (including, lawsuits pertaining to<br />

state and federal injunctions, and/or felony<br />

convictions of key executives);<br />

• all past and present bankruptcies involving<br />

the franchisor, its predecessor(s), parent<br />

and affiliates as well as its key executives;<br />

• the initial franchise fee and all recurring<br />

or occasional fees associated with operating<br />

the franchised business;<br />

• an estimate of the franchisee’s initial<br />

investment necessary in order to<br />

commence operations, which includes<br />

the expenses payable under the franchise<br />

agreement as well as other costs (such as,<br />

rent, construction, furniture/fixtures,<br />

signage, training, legal and accounting fees,<br />

computers, etc.) that are necessary to open<br />

the franchisee’s franchised business;<br />

• the franchisee’s principal obligations<br />

disclosed in the FDD or provided for in the<br />

franchise agreement and other agreements;<br />

• franchisor’s obligations under the franchise<br />

agreement to provide assistance to the<br />

franchisee;<br />

• the assigned territory and any sales<br />

restrictions within that territory; and<br />

• financial performance representations<br />

(such as, past or projected revenues or<br />

sales, gross income, net income or profits)<br />

and representations about the actual or<br />

potential financial performance of its<br />

franchised and/or franchisor-owned units,<br />

if the franchisor so elects.<br />

In addition to the information about the franchisor<br />

and its key executives, the FDD includes,<br />

as exhibits, the form of franchise agreement<br />

and multi-unit development agreement that<br />

26 | For more information on this report, visit: www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises<br />

will govern the franchise relationship as well as<br />

descriptions of their key provisions.<br />

To protect the prospective franchisee, the<br />

franchisor is prohibited from meeting with,<br />

taking money from, or entering into an agreement<br />

with the prospective franchisee for a<br />

period of 14 days (for New York, a period of 10<br />

business days) following the date the prospective<br />

franchisee receives the franchisor’s FDD.<br />

All states follow the FTC Franchise Rule<br />

and require that franchisors operating in their<br />

states prepare an FDD with the requisite disclosures<br />

and exhibits. Some states, however,<br />

take it a step further.<br />

In approximately 15 states (called “registration<br />

states”), the franchisor and the disclosure<br />

document must be registered and approved<br />

by the appropriate state agency before the<br />

franchisor can commence any franchise sales<br />

activities. In other states, commonly referred<br />

to as “relationship states”, the state:<br />

• governs the franchisors’ ability to terminate<br />

or refuse renewal of the franchise agreement,<br />

by requiring that a franchisor have<br />

“good cause” to terminate or not renew a<br />

franchise agreement;<br />

• imposes restrictions on transfer;<br />

• grants franchisees the right to form an<br />

association with other franchisees in the<br />

same system; and<br />

• obligates the franchisor to repurchase<br />

inventory upon the termination or expiration<br />

of a franchise.<br />

While these state and federal laws appear<br />

complex, they were enacted to prevent franchisors<br />

from engaging in unfair and deceptive<br />

practices in the offer and sale of franchises,<br />

which, in turn, enables prospective franchisees<br />

to make an informed investment decision<br />

about the purchase of their franchise.<br />

Although the FDD is primarily viewed as a<br />

disclosure document, upon which prospective<br />

franchisees may rely in deciding on whether<br />

or not to make such a life-altering investment,<br />

the FDD is also a liability document which<br />

may subject franchisors, in violation of federal<br />

or state franchise laws, to civil and criminal<br />

penalties.<br />

If a franchisor violates the FTC Franchise<br />

Rule, such violation constitutes a violation of<br />

the U.S. Federal Trade Commission Act, and<br />

grants the FTC the right to sue franchisors<br />

in federal court and seek any or all of the<br />

following remedies: (i) civil penalties of up to<br />

$11,000 per violation; (ii) injunctions enjoining<br />

violations of the FTC Franchise Rule,<br />

including barring franchise sales in the United<br />

States; and (iii) restitution, rescission, or damages<br />

on behalf of the affected franchisees.<br />

On the state level, a franchisor who has<br />

violated the state’s disclosure and/or registration<br />

statute may be subject to an investigation<br />

that can lead to civil proceedings against the<br />

franchisor and, in some instances, its principals<br />

or other “responsible persons”. Under<br />

these proceedings the state may seek an array<br />

of remedies (including, but not limited to: (1)<br />

rescission of the franchise agreement; (2) payment<br />

of restitution, and/or fines; (3) obtaining<br />

an injunction; (4) the recovery of attorney’s<br />

fees; and (5) prohibiting the franchisor from<br />

offering and selling franchises in that state.<br />

Some violations of state disclosure and/or<br />

registration statutes can give rise to criminal<br />

liability for the franchisor and potentially its<br />

principals, directors, officers and/or senior<br />

management, if such person(s) participated<br />

in the prohibited conduct. Unlike the federal<br />

law, which only grants causes of action to the<br />

federal government, disclosure/registration<br />

states allow aggrieved franchisees to bring a<br />

private right of action against the franchisor,<br />

most commonly an action for rescission of the<br />

franchise agreement (which puts the parties<br />

back to where they were before they signed<br />

the agreement) and/or an action for actual<br />

damages (including, reasonable attorneys’ fees<br />

and expenses).<br />

The FDD is the window into the operations<br />

of the franchisor, and it is important that it is<br />

read carefully by both the prospective franchisee<br />

and by an attorney who is well versed in<br />

franchise law, who can give prospective franchisees<br />

guidance in their hopes of becoming<br />

entrepreneurs.<br />

Franchise Business Review also offers an<br />

inexpensive, on-demand video series within<br />

our Franchise Buyer’s Toolkit. Our toolkit<br />

provides an in-depth breakdown of the FDD,<br />

as well as resources to help you figure out<br />

how much money your new business might<br />

make, how to finance your franchise business,<br />

and advice on hiring a franchise attorney.<br />

All this is available online www.Franchise<br />

Business Review.com/Toolkit.<br />

FEATURED<br />

Franchisee<br />

Ronnie<br />

Bowyer<br />

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park<br />

Burleson, TX<br />

Franchisee since 2009<br />

What was it about the franchise model and/<br />

or leadership that led you to purchase it?<br />

There were three main things that attracted me<br />

to Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park: Brand recognition,<br />

a track record of increasing revenue system<br />

wide, and the abundance of guidance, coaching,<br />

experience and wisdom.<br />

What do you like most about your job?<br />

The people. Being part of Jellystone we are able<br />

to provide a catalyst to bring families together.<br />

I love being able to work with a staff that<br />

expands generations.<br />

How did you fund your franchise?<br />

Did you receive any discounts/incentives?<br />

At the time we joined there were no fees,<br />

as LSI/Jellystone was celebrating their<br />

40th anniversary.<br />

What advice do you have for prospective<br />

franchise buyers? What do you wish you<br />

had known prior to going into franchising?<br />

I would recommend anyone considering buying<br />

a franchise do their homework. By this I mean<br />

calling current franchisees and asking them every<br />

question you can think of. We also visited other<br />

parks and asked a ton of questions. We did our<br />

“homework” prior to signing so we felt that we<br />

knew exactly what we were doing. I just wish we<br />

had found Jellystone sooner.<br />

For more information about Yogi Bear’s<br />

Jellystone Park opportunities, call (240) 675-<br />

7901 or visit www.jellystonefranchise.com.<br />

For more information on this report, visit: www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com | 27


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises<br />

HALL<br />

OF<br />

FAME<br />

Franchise<br />

11 Franchises Enter Our Hall of Fame<br />

Business Review’s Franchise Hall of Fame<br />

highlights brands that reach the remarkable milestone<br />

of being rated among the best franchise opportunities<br />

10 or more times.<br />

This year, we are proud to induct 11 wonderful<br />

companies, each having demonstrated an ongoing<br />

dedication to the success and satisfaction of their<br />

franchise owners.<br />

Happy and Healthy<br />

(2009-<strong>2018</strong>)<br />

Home Instead Senior Care<br />

(2009-<strong>2018</strong>)<br />

Weed Man USA<br />

(2006, 2009-2015, 2017-<strong>2018</strong>)<br />

“Many H&H franchisees<br />

have been in business for<br />

15, 20 years or more! That<br />

longevity demonstrates our<br />

commitment to treating our<br />

franchisees like family. We<br />

do EVERYTHING we tell them<br />

we will do. Providing ongoing<br />

support and encouragement<br />

as a committed partner<br />

to their success is our<br />

top priority.”<br />

Linda Kamm,<br />

Owner<br />

“At Home Instead Senior Care, we are dedicated<br />

to providing franchisees the resources they need<br />

to train and develop leaders in management and<br />

caregiving. This enables our franchises and their<br />

teams to succeed in our mission of enhancing<br />

the lives of older adults and their families.”<br />

“We’ve always been focused<br />

on unit-level profitability.<br />

Because we grew up in lawn<br />

care, we are very much in<br />

tune with where you need to<br />

have your [financials]. One of<br />

the big benefits of being part<br />

of a franchise system is that<br />

you are never alone; you have<br />

partners that are there for<br />

you and always looking for<br />

ways to make your business<br />

profitable.”<br />

Jennifer Lemcke,<br />

COO<br />

Jeff Huber,<br />

CEO<br />

28 | For more information on this report, visit: www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises<br />

Ronn Cordova,<br />

Vice President,<br />

Development<br />

“The Maids International…dedication to our franchisees success is our first<br />

priority. With a solid, established executive experience with earning power,<br />

we commit the resources including on-going coaching, mentorship from<br />

established franchisees and peer groups which keep our franchisee family<br />

members engaged and growing.”<br />

“We are committed to surveying our network annually with Franchise<br />

Business Review. Sustained growth results from a franchisor prioritizing the<br />

needs of franchisees throughout the lifecycle of their business, and the <strong>FBR</strong><br />

survey is an objective way to measure the results of our support.”<br />

Dave Mattson,<br />

CEO & President<br />

Additional Inductees:<br />

“We benchmark ourselves against the industry. It’s nice to know where<br />

we stand compared to other franchises because all franchisors are islands<br />

amongst ourselves. All franchisors worry about growing their franchise<br />

organization, but most never really try to figure out where they stand<br />

against the industry.”<br />

Home Care Assistance<br />

(2008-2009, 2011-<strong>2018</strong>)<br />

The Maids<br />

(2008-2016, <strong>2018</strong>)<br />

Homewatch CareGivers<br />

(2008-2016, <strong>2018</strong>)<br />

Sandler Training<br />

(2008-2009, 2011-<strong>2018</strong>)<br />

Precision Concrete Cutting<br />

(2006, 2010-<strong>2018</strong>)<br />

Julie R. Smith,<br />

President & Chief<br />

Executive Officer<br />

Franchises on <strong>FBR</strong>'s<br />

Best of the Best List<br />

for 10 or More Years<br />

Their consistent placement<br />

highlights their commitment<br />

to their franchisees.<br />

ActionCOACH<br />

AdvantaClean<br />

Aire-Master of America<br />

American Poolplayers Association<br />

Anago Cleaning Systems<br />

Budget Blinds<br />

CertaPro Painters<br />

Christian Brothers Automotive<br />

FASTSIGNS<br />

Happy & Healthy Products, Inc.*<br />

Home Care Assistance*<br />

Home Instead Senior Care*<br />

HomeVestors of America<br />

Homewatch Caregivers*<br />

HouseMaster<br />

Jan-Pro Cleaning Systems<br />

Kampgrounds of America/ KOA<br />

MaidPro<br />

Mathnasium<br />

Miracle Method Surface Refinishing<br />

Murphy Business & Financial<br />

Office Pride Commercial Cleaning Services<br />

Our Town America<br />

Palm Beach Tan<br />

Paul Davis<br />

PIP Printing & Document Services*<br />

Precision Concrete Cutting*<br />

Proforma*<br />

Sandler Training*<br />

Sir Speedy<br />

Snap-on Tools<br />

Sotheby's International Realty<br />

Surface Specialists Systems*<br />

TeamLogic IT<br />

The Maids*<br />

Truly Nolen of America<br />

Two Men and A Truck<br />

Weed Man*<br />

Wild Birds Unlimited<br />

PIP Printing &<br />

Document Services<br />

(2008-2016, <strong>2018</strong>)<br />

Proforma (2009-<strong>2018</strong>)<br />

Surface Specialists Systems<br />

(2006, 2008, 2011-<strong>2018</strong>)<br />

* First year on The List<br />

For more information on this report, visit: www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com | 29


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises // MARKETPLACE<br />

ADVERTISING & SALES ADVERTISING & SALES AUTOMOTIVE<br />

Discovery Map<br />

Startup Investment: $35,250 – $44,950<br />

Cash Requirement: $50,000<br />

Total Units: 134<br />

Discovery Map International is the nation’s<br />

leading map and guide publishing franchise.<br />

We are recognized as an integral player in the<br />

marketing, travel and tourism industry.<br />

Publishing maps since 1981, we’ve spent<br />

considerable time and resources developing our<br />

franchise system. Along the journey we have<br />

learned a fair bit about creating maps, selling<br />

ads, and building economies of scale. With our<br />

comprehensive training and support, we provide<br />

you with a head start on your road to a successful<br />

franchise.<br />

With our recent expansion in Europe the<br />

possibilities are endless. The journey starts here.<br />

For more information on Discovery Map<br />

opportunities, call (802) 316-4060 or visit<br />

www.discoverymapfranchise.com/<strong>FBR</strong>.<br />

Town Money Saver<br />

Startup Investment: $5,700 – $17,000<br />

Cash Requirement: $5,000 – $12,000<br />

Total Units: 49<br />

Since 1992, Town Money Saver has offered local<br />

business owners high-quality advertising that<br />

attracts repeat customers and maximizes their<br />

return on investment. This hometown approach<br />

leads to lasting relationships with advertisers,<br />

which is the foundation of what we do. With our<br />

Performance Awarded Franchise Opportunity, you<br />

can earn your own business without fees. Show<br />

us you are the right fit, and we will give you the<br />

tools and support to effectively operate your<br />

business. As a Town Money Saver franchisee, you<br />

can make a difference to your customers, to your<br />

town, and to your life.<br />

For more information on Town Money Saver<br />

opportunities, call (800) 481-8696 or visit<br />

www.tmsfranchising.com.<br />

Snap-on Tools<br />

Startup Investment: $169,503 – $350,231<br />

Cash Requirement: $35,603 – $52,203<br />

Total Units: 4,852<br />

Snap-on Incorporated is a leading global<br />

innovator, manufacturer, and marketer of<br />

tools, diagnostics, and equipment solutions<br />

for professional users. Product lines include<br />

hand and power tools, and are sold through<br />

its franchisees, company-direct sales, and<br />

distributor channels, as well as over the internet.<br />

For more information on Snap-on Tools<br />

opportunities, call (877) 476-2766<br />

or visit www.snaponfranchise.com.<br />

The Nation’s Premier New Mover Marketing Franchise<br />

INDUSTRY INNOVATOR FOR OVER 45 YEARS<br />

Our Town America<br />

ANNIVERSARY<br />

Helping Local Businesses Connect with<br />

New Customers & Helping New Movers<br />

Adjust to their New Community<br />

Top Franchise for Veterans • Top B2B Franchise • Top Multi-Unit Franchise • Top Innovative Franchise<br />

• Rated Top 50 Franchise for 13 Years 1<br />

• Quick Ramp Up<br />

• Home-based<br />

• Flexibility<br />

Quality of Life<br />

• Scalable Business<br />

• Residual Income<br />

• Low Overhead<br />

• Sales & Service<br />

No Production<br />

• Enhanced Mobile App<br />

• <strong>FBR</strong> 10-year Hall of Fame 1<br />

• <strong>FBR</strong> All-time Top Company 1<br />

800.497.8360 X236 • ourtownamerica.com<br />

Ask us<br />

about our<br />

Veteran<br />

Discount!<br />

Our Town America, A Franchising Corporation<br />

13900 US Highway 19 N | Clearwater, FL 33764-7238<br />

MN Residents: Minnesota Franchise Registration No: F-6498 (Unit); F-7645 (RD)<br />

NY Residents: This advertisement is not an offering. An offering can only be made<br />

by a prospectus filed first with the Department of Law of the State of New York.<br />

Such filing does not constitute approval by the Department of Law. 1 www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com<br />

FR-20171128-<strong>FBR</strong><br />

30 | For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com


BUSINESS SERVICES<br />

“We’re just excited to do something for ourselves where we have the power to<br />

create our own success and make a real impact on the community every day.”<br />

- Brent & Melissa Windsor, Owners of Window Genie of the East Valley<br />

Office Evolution<br />

Startup Investment: $217,000 – $749,000<br />

Cash Requirement: $285,000<br />

Total Units: 40<br />

Office Evolution is a fast-growing franchise<br />

providing executive suites, flexible office<br />

spaces, virtual offices and professional business<br />

services to independent professionals and small<br />

businesses. We are ideal for entrepreneurs<br />

looking for a scalable business that creates<br />

recurring revenue:<br />

• Residual income from clients that typically<br />

remain members for years.<br />

• High-growth industry. Demand for flexible and<br />

virtual office space is exploding in popularity.<br />

• Multiple revenue streams from executive suites,<br />

meeting rooms and other services.<br />

• Semi-absentee model allows franchisees to<br />

focus on growing.<br />

For more information on Office Evolution<br />

opportunities, call (877) 475-6300 or visit<br />

www.officeevolutionfranchise.com.<br />

LET THE POWER OF THE GENIE WORK FOR YOU<br />

• 23 year old proven business model<br />

• Multiple services, multiple revenue streams<br />

• Protected territories<br />

• Top low-cost franchise<br />

• Top mobile, home-based franchise<br />

• Subsidiary of Dwyer Group®<br />

Call to learn more! 800.700.0022 WindowGenieFranchise.com<br />

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE<br />

Maidpro<br />

Startup Investment: $74,560 – $204,450<br />

Cash Requirement: $75,000<br />

Total Units: 221<br />

MaidPro prides itself on its proven<br />

groundbreaking technology, creative marketing,<br />

established brand identity, and stellar support<br />

to its franchisees. MaidPro offers you the<br />

advantages of rapid growth, low start-up costs,<br />

manageable hours, and recurring revenue.<br />

MaidPro has received Franchise Business<br />

Review's Four-Star Rating and Franchise 50<br />

awards for franchisee satisfaction every year<br />

from 2006-2017. MaidPro is also offering a<br />

veteran discount valued at $15,000 for U.S. and<br />

Canadian veterans. Join a franchise family that<br />

gives you control and ownership of your business<br />

with unmatched 24/7 support.<br />

For more information on MaidPro<br />

opportunities, call (888) 624-3776<br />

or visit www.maidprofranchise.com.<br />

For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com | 31


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises // MARKETPLACE<br />

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE<br />

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE<br />

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE<br />

Oxi Fresh<br />

Startup Investment: $40,000 – $60,000<br />

Cash Requirement: $35,900<br />

Total Units: 340<br />

Oxi Fresh franchisees use the company's<br />

oxygenated cleaning products to clean<br />

carpets for both residential and commercial<br />

customers. Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning ® is a green,<br />

revolutionary cleaning system built on the power<br />

of oxygen. Oxi Fresh combines the advantages of<br />

protected territories, turnkey marketing programs<br />

and a variety of tools to give franchisees that<br />

competitive edge.<br />

For more information on Oxi Fresh<br />

opportunities, call (720) 963-6193 or visit<br />

www.oxifresh.com/carpet-cleaning-companies/<br />

carpet-cleaning-franchise.<br />

Rooterman<br />

Startup Investment: $46,750 – $137,600<br />

Cash Requirement: $18,000<br />

Total Units: 611<br />

Rooter-Man has been named the top plumbing<br />

franchise by Entrepreneur Magazine 12 years in<br />

a row. Rooter-Man Franchise offers a unique, low<br />

cost solution to franchise ownership, with a flat<br />

rate pricing system (no royalty on percentage<br />

of sales). Rooter-Man Franchisees are granted<br />

an Exclusive Franchise License for their chosen<br />

territories, and become part of a team of<br />

independent dealers working together under<br />

a nationally branded website and recognized<br />

trademark, with proven systems for success. In<br />

today’s economy National Branded Websites<br />

have the edge over the independent owner/<br />

operator, as consumers look to do business with<br />

brands they trust<br />

For more information on Rooterman<br />

opportunities, call (800) 700-8062 or visit<br />

www.rooterman.com.<br />

The Maids<br />

Startup Investment: $76,100 – $164,650<br />

Cash Requirement: $60,000<br />

Total Units: 1,208<br />

The Maids is the most trusted name among<br />

residential cleaning companies because we<br />

consistently deliver value through quality service<br />

and premium products that meet or exceed our<br />

customers’ expectations.<br />

The Maids offers deep cleaning services in<br />

over 90 major U.S. and Canadian cities and<br />

remains one of the best franchises to open.<br />

As a franchisee of The Maids, you’re part of a<br />

nationally recognized residential home cleaning<br />

service. We’re driven by a model of innovation,<br />

technology and efficiency, and committed to the<br />

success of each of our franchisees. That’s why<br />

The Maids remains one of the top franchises to<br />

own in communities across North America.<br />

For more information on The Maids franchise<br />

opportunities, please call (800) 843-6243 or<br />

visit www.maids.com/franchise.<br />

America’s Choice in<br />

Senior Homecare ®<br />

Join a Caring Family That Cares for Families<br />

• Most recolonized brand in senior care<br />

• Comprehensive training, continuing<br />

guidance and support<br />

• Our operations team has combined<br />

industry experience of 100+ years<br />

• National TV, Internet and radio<br />

advertising<br />

• 2016 average franchise generated<br />

$1.2mm gross revenue<br />

A fantastic business and rewarding<br />

opportunity could be<br />

in your future!<br />

America’s Choice in Homecare<br />

www.VisitingAngelsFranchise.com<br />

32 | For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com


EDUCATION<br />

FINANCIAL & TAX<br />

The Tutoring Center<br />

Startup Investment: $90,000 – $130,000<br />

Cash Requirement: $39,000<br />

Total Units: 106<br />

The Tutoring Center’s ideal candidate seeks a<br />

balance between work and time with family<br />

and friends, and is an individual who possesses<br />

traits of integrity, quality, enthusiasm, service,<br />

and teamwork. We know these traits are what<br />

it takes to be successful! The Tutoring Center’s<br />

ideal franchisee is a person who is passionate<br />

about helping children succeed; possesses<br />

an entrepreneurial spirit; has the drive to do<br />

well in this industry; and wants to change the<br />

lives of children in his/her community. Being<br />

a part of our elite franchise team means you<br />

will be appreciated for making a significant<br />

difference for the children in your neighborhood.<br />

No professional sales, business, or teaching<br />

experience required.<br />

For more information on The Tutoring Center<br />

opportunities, call (562) 984-0830 or visit<br />

www.tutoringcenter.com.<br />

Estrella Insurance<br />

Startup Investment: $49,950 – $84,000<br />

Cash Requirement: $25,000 – $50,000<br />

Total Units: 113<br />

Serving proudly our customers with exceptional<br />

service and a professional atmosphere for over<br />

30 years. With over 100 locations in Florida,<br />

California and Arizona, we are dedicated to the<br />

continued success of our franchisees. Owners are<br />

assisted in every aspect before opening and have<br />

continual support from our management staff.<br />

Extensive training is provided periodically<br />

enhancing owners’ ability to maximize the income<br />

potential. Developing strong relationships with<br />

many major insurance companies; providing<br />

quality to our customers, providing superior<br />

Marketing and Advertising in Spanish and English,<br />

including all media: TV, radio, outdoor and, most<br />

importantly, online, our most successful<br />

campaigns are referrals from satisfied customers.<br />

For more information on Estrella Insurance<br />

opportunities, call (888) 511-7722 or visit<br />

www.Estrellafranchise.com.<br />

BE YOUR<br />

OWN BOSS.<br />

Choose your franchise<br />

business today from<br />

ones rated highest<br />

by the franchisees<br />

who own them.<br />

Visit <strong>FBR</strong>50.com<br />

Exceptional<br />

Franchisee<br />

Satisfaction Rates<br />

• Industry leader for 25 years<br />

• Low overhead<br />

• Recurring revenue stream<br />

• Comprehensive franchisee support<br />

• Faith-based franchise<br />

Franchise Business Review reports Office Pride as<br />

having one of the highest satisfaction rates among<br />

ALL franchise systems.<br />

Our Values Make Us Different<br />

Integrity • Professionalism • Exceeding Expectations<br />

OfficePrideFranchise.com<br />

For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com | 33


TM<br />

SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises // MARKETPLACE<br />

FITNESS FOOD & BEVERAGE FOOD & BEVERAGE<br />

Burn Boot Camp<br />

Startup Investment: $105,630 – $168,900<br />

Cash Requirement: $100,000<br />

Total Units: 102<br />

Invest in a company that invests in community.<br />

At our core, Burn Boot Camp thrives on<br />

igniting global health transformation, through<br />

empowering women to maximize the quality of<br />

their lives. With each door we open and with<br />

every life we touch, we are building and fostering<br />

strong communities nationwide. Exceeding 100<br />

open locations and 325 total awarded locations,<br />

it is clear to see that Burn Boot Camp is growing<br />

at an exponential rate. NOW is the time to<br />

secure your future and take the next step toward<br />

becoming a Burn franchise partner. Change your<br />

life while changing lives!<br />

For more information on Burn Boot Camp<br />

opportunities, call (980) 292-0771<br />

or visit www.burnbootcamp.com/own-a-burn.<br />

Checkers<br />

Startup Investment: $96,414 – $1,501,265<br />

Cash Requirement: $250,000<br />

Total Units: 870<br />

GET THERE FASTER WITH CHECKERS & RALLY’S!<br />

Franchisees achieve their financial and growth<br />

goals faster with Checkers & Rally’s because<br />

of our low initial investment, strong return<br />

on investment, nimble modular building<br />

construction, and competitive franchise growth<br />

incentives. For over 30 years, we have focused<br />

on bold and flavorful food, amazing value for our<br />

guests, and restaurant profitability. Amid seven<br />

consecutive years of same-store sales growth and<br />

870+ restaurants, we still have top-tier market<br />

availability in all major US markets. Discover why<br />

Checkers & Rally's was named one of the BEST<br />

FRANCHISE DEALS by QSR Magazine in 2017 &<br />

2016.<br />

For more information on Checkers<br />

opportunites, call (888) 913-9135 or visit<br />

www.checkersfranchising.com.<br />

Kona Ice<br />

Startup Investment: $120,225 – $143,025<br />

Cash Requirement: $20,000<br />

Total Units: 951<br />

Here at Kona Ice, we know why we’ve succeeded<br />

and reached these ranks of the #1 New Franchise<br />

(Entrepreneur Magazine 2013), top in Franchisee<br />

Satisfaction (Franchise Business Review and<br />

Franchise Update), #1 in Category (Dessert<br />

Franchise in Entrepreneur Magazine) and made<br />

the Fastest Growing List for the past five years.<br />

It’s the combination of a fresh concept, strong<br />

corporate support with a vision, and a desire to<br />

make the world a better place. Here are some<br />

reasons why Kona Ice is different: proprietary<br />

nutritional product, ancillary equipment,<br />

patented Flavorwave, established brand, quick<br />

startup, fixed royalty, low overhead. Contact us<br />

for more information today!<br />

For more information on Kona Ice<br />

opportunities, call (800) 566-2423<br />

or visit www.ownakona.com.<br />

Unparalleled Unit Level Support includes:<br />

- an entire division dedicated to Unit Economics<br />

- data-driven profitability analysis<br />

- assistance with local store marketing<br />

It’s All About the EBITDA<br />

Our Franchisees Averaged<br />

Full Service Restaurants - listed<br />

as Top Franchise Value<br />

$322,182.30 in 2016<br />

franchising@eastcoastwings.com<br />

www.EastCoastWingsFranchise.com<br />

“Future 50” in growth for<br />

small chains in America<br />

*This advertisement is not an offering of a franchise. An offering can be made only by prospectus. We only<br />

sell franchisees in states where our offering is registered. “EBITDA as submitted by our full service franchised<br />

restaurants operating in 2016 as published in item 19 of our April 2017 Franchise Disclosure Document.<br />

Individual financial performance will vary.”<br />

©2017 East Coast Wings & Grill All Rights Reserved<br />

2Lead generation ad 12.15.2017.indd 1<br />

12/20/17 12:18 PM<br />

34 | For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com


FOOD & BEVERAGE<br />

FOOD & BEVERAGE<br />

FEATURED<br />

Franchisee<br />

LaRosa’s<br />

Startup Investment: $800,000 – $1,000,000<br />

Cash Requirement: $500,000<br />

Total Units: 65<br />

LaRosa’s is a family-style pizzeria serving over<br />

40 menu items for dine in, carry-out or delivery.<br />

For over 60 years, we’ve demonstrated consistent<br />

performance and proven Guest appeal. Our full<br />

service concept features a dining room, bar and<br />

party area. All pick-up and delivery orders are<br />

taken in our unique Guest Service Center. Guests<br />

enjoy world class service, and relationship<br />

management technology uses Guest order data<br />

to drive our loyalty program.<br />

For more information on LaRosa’s opportunites,<br />

call (513) 347-5660 or visit www.larosas.com/<br />

franchise.<br />

Have your DESSERT<br />

and own it too!<br />

Pizza Factory<br />

Startup Investment: $156,000 – $643,500<br />

Cash Requirement: $90,000<br />

Total Units: 108<br />

Founded 30 years ago, Pizza Factory has become<br />

well known for serving fresh, high-quality pizza,<br />

sandwiches, salads and more. The brand is<br />

also widely recognized for its close community<br />

connection, which includes its iconic “No Bully<br />

Zone” program and impactful fundraising<br />

partnerships. Currently, there are more than 100<br />

locations based in five states throughout the<br />

West Coast. Pizza Factory looks to add additional<br />

franchise locations in key markets throughout the<br />

country, with a special focus on Texas, Colorado,<br />

New Mexico, Wyoming and Montana.<br />

For more information on Pizza Factory<br />

opportunities, call (562) 340-6925<br />

or visit www.pizzafactoryfranchises.com.<br />

Jesse Zook<br />

MaidPro<br />

Greater Philadelphia, PA:<br />

Collegeville, Exton, Wayne,<br />

and Chestnut Hill<br />

Franchisee since 2006<br />

What was it about the franchise model and/<br />

or leadership that led you to purchase it?<br />

The MaidPro model gives me powerful tools<br />

(marketing, technology, etc.) to run my business.<br />

In addition, the cultural leadership and vision<br />

for the company is what truly impressed me<br />

and ultimately led to my decision to become a<br />

franchisee.<br />

What prior business experience, education,<br />

and/or skills have you found particularly<br />

helpful? I studied Information Science at<br />

University of Pittsburgh which helped me think<br />

about my business as a set of systems. I’ve<br />

been able to scale my business and delegate<br />

responsibility to others as I’ve improved these<br />

hard and soft systems.<br />

What do you like most about your job? The<br />

roles in my company have a lot of flexibility. I<br />

like being able to work when and where I prefer.<br />

I have a lot of room to choose what I’m working<br />

on; I enjoy taking deep dives into different areas<br />

of my business. I’m free to work on side projects<br />

as well.<br />

How did you fund your franchise? Despite the<br />

relatively low cost to start a MaidPro, I needed<br />

outside funding since I was only two years out<br />

of college when starting up. I’m grateful to have<br />

my father as an equity partner. Later, MaidPro<br />

helped me grow by financing my expansion into<br />

additional markets.<br />

What advice do you have for prospective<br />

franchise buyers? I was briefly a franchisee for<br />

a food service company and there was a major<br />

culture clash going on in that organization.<br />

When zeroing in on a franchise, speak to as<br />

many franchisees as you can and spend time<br />

with them. You are marrying into the brand,<br />

the corporate franchisor, and the franchisee<br />

community. I feel deeply aligned with MaidPro’s<br />

culture and at home in the organization.<br />

Call us for more information!<br />

Häagen-Dazs Shoppe, Inc.<br />

Development<br />

(612) 337-3314<br />

Molly.Hanson@US.Nestle.com<br />

For more information about MaidPro<br />

opportunities, call (888) 624-3776<br />

or visit www.maidprofranchise.com.<br />

For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com | 35


TM<br />

SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises // MARKETPLACE<br />

HOME SERVICES<br />

HOME SERVICES<br />

HOME SERVICES<br />

CertaPro<br />

Startup Investment: $134,750 – $169,500<br />

Cash Requirement: $80,000<br />

Total Units: 483<br />

In business, reputation is king. Our customers<br />

have made the CertaPro brand the most trusted,<br />

most referred and most reliable in the $40-billion<br />

painting industry. Our name is synonymous with<br />

excellence, a position we’ve earned due to our<br />

hadworking franchisees and their commitment to<br />

redefining the home service industry. Recognized<br />

as a category leader by Entrepreneur magazine,<br />

as well as Franchise Business Review and the<br />

Canadian Franchise Association, for outstanding<br />

franchisee relations and support. Leverage<br />

CertaPro’s 25 years of experience in a sector of<br />

franchising they established to build your own<br />

successful/scaled business.<br />

For more information on CertaPro<br />

opportunities, call (800) 689-7494<br />

or visit www.ownacertapro.com.<br />

DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen<br />

Startup Investment: $99,745 – $288,955<br />

Cash Requirement: $200,000 – $400,000<br />

Total Units: 38<br />

At its core, the DreamMaker opportunity is a<br />

faith-based remodeling franchise that helps<br />

entrepreneurs and remodelers earn strong<br />

financial numbers while having a focus on<br />

improving their quality of life. And DreamMaker is<br />

doing something that no company in franchising<br />

nor remodeling is doing—Running a remodeling<br />

franchise with: 96% recommendation rate from<br />

current customers, very positive reviews from<br />

current franchisees and growth that triples the<br />

industry. DreamMaker franchisees offer the niche<br />

of professional kitchen and bath remodeling.<br />

Additionally, the business model is designed<br />

to expand into full interior remodeling as your<br />

confidence, competency and business grows. This<br />

allows you to maximize your marketing dollars<br />

and create a customer for life.<br />

For more information on DreamMaker<br />

opportunities, call (800) 253-9153<br />

or visit www.dreammakerfranchise.com.<br />

HouseMaster<br />

Startup Investment: $61,100 – $106,150<br />

Cash Requirement: $45,000<br />

Total Units: 320<br />

HouseMaster is the recognized leader in<br />

home inspections with almost 4 decades<br />

of proven industry success and innovation.<br />

HouseMaster is the number one choice for<br />

business professionals seeking to take advantage<br />

of a low investment opportunity with significant<br />

potential. Our franchisees are among the most<br />

satisfied franchisees (according to Franchise<br />

Business Review) as well as the most tenured.<br />

More importantly HouseMaster’s proven<br />

systems and ongoing brand investments have<br />

allowed HouseMaster franchisees to achieve<br />

higher average gross sales than any other home<br />

inspection franchise opportunity. If you are<br />

committed to success and seek to be the leader<br />

in your market, HouseMaster is the way to go!<br />

For more information on HouseMaster<br />

opportunities, call (800) 526-3930 or visit<br />

www.housemaster.com.<br />

FRANCHISE<br />

WITH<br />

SIT MEANS SIT<br />

The Largest and Most Successful Dog Training<br />

Company Based in the United States<br />

Unique “recession-proof” service<br />

Intensive Franchisee Training & Support<br />

Multi-billion dollar pet industry<br />

Start at home and grow!<br />

Are you curious about starting your own<br />

Sit Means Sit Franchise? We’d LOVE to have you!<br />

WWW.SITMEANSSIT.COM – 866.748.6748<br />

Franchisee Satisfaction Award-Winner Since 2013<br />

36 | For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com


HOME SERVICES<br />

PET SERVICES<br />

FEATURED<br />

Franchisee<br />

USA Insulation<br />

Startup Investment: $203,250 – $268,500<br />

Cash Requirement: $75,000<br />

Total Units: 38<br />

The insulation industry is a 7.5 billion dollar<br />

market in the U.S. that’s poised to grow over 6%<br />

year over year, hitting 10.3 billion by the year<br />

2019. Most of this growth is being driven by the<br />

residential housing market as Baby Boomers<br />

downsize and Millennials begin purchasing their<br />

first homes, many of which are under-insulated<br />

and will need to be brought up to code. This kind<br />

of predictable growth—along with the overall<br />

growth of the home services industry—provides a<br />

business opportunity that’s ripe for expansion.<br />

Strong industry and consumer trends combined<br />

with a proprietary, high value added product,<br />

makes USA Insulation the best choice within the<br />

home service industry. This translates into about<br />

77 million homes that need insulation. We will tell<br />

you how many opportunities are in your market.<br />

For more information on USA Insulation<br />

opportunites, call (440) 951-6800 or visit<br />

www.usainsulationfranchise.com.<br />

Dogtopia<br />

Startup Investment: $416,032 – $1,071,075<br />

Cash Requirement: $200,000<br />

Total Units: 60<br />

Founded in 2002, Dogtopia is the fastest growing<br />

pet services franchise and an early pioneer in<br />

the daycare industry. From daycare to boarding,<br />

spa/grooming, training and retail, our model<br />

boosts impressive recurring revenue in a hip,<br />

modern and safe environment in convenient<br />

locations.<br />

For more information on Dogtopia<br />

opportunities, call (949) 702-6262<br />

or visit www.dogtopia.com.<br />

Renee<br />

Mansour<br />

Minuteman Press<br />

Bend, OR<br />

Franchisee since 2015<br />

Why did you purchase your franchise? My<br />

background in print comes from being a major<br />

account sales representative for IKON office<br />

solutions. I sold high volume digital presses<br />

to print shops and large organizations. Once<br />

we started a family, I decided to manage our<br />

household and lessen the amount of hours I<br />

worked outside of the home.<br />

What was it about the franchise model and<br />

or leadership that led you to purchase it? The<br />

support Minuteman Press provides was one<br />

of the things that appealed to me. Business<br />

to business sales and the hours of operation<br />

(Monday-Friday) were another reason we choose<br />

Minuteman Press. We still have teenagers<br />

at home and I want to be present in their<br />

lives. Those reasons coupled with the fact<br />

that Minuteman Press is the only franchise I<br />

researched that offered a cap on royalties, made<br />

it an easy decision for us. The more I sell beyond<br />

the cap, the more I am rewarded.<br />

What do you like most about your job? I love<br />

seeing the joy on our customers’ faces after they<br />

have received the finished products we produced<br />

for them. I also love the win. It is incredibly<br />

gratifying to have visited or called on a local<br />

business to later have that business become one<br />

of our clients.<br />

What advice do you have for prospective<br />

franchise buyers? My advice to any entrepreneur<br />

or small business owner is to get out of the office<br />

and market your business. Be that kind, energetic<br />

face that people want to do business with.<br />

Then follow it up with great service and quality<br />

products. Join BNI as well as Opportunity Knocks.<br />

You need to not only work in your business but<br />

on your business.<br />

For more information on Minuteman Press<br />

opportunities, call (800) 645-3006 or visit<br />

www.minutemanpressfranchise.com.<br />

For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com | 37


TM<br />

SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises // MARKETPLACE<br />

START YOUR BUSINESS WITH A PROVEN WINNER<br />

TOP FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITY<br />

FRANCHISE BUSINESS REVIEW <strong>2018</strong><br />

BEST FRANCHISES TO BUY<br />

FORBES<br />

TOP 5%<br />

FRANCHISEGRADE.COM<br />

Tired of the cube farm? Want to add a second income? Supplement your retirement?<br />

A Discovery Map Franchise Offers:<br />

• Low Startup Costs<br />

• Home Based<br />

• Flexible Schedule<br />

• Freedom to Travel and Enjoy Other Pursuits<br />

THE JOURNEY<br />

Established<br />

1981<br />

STARTS HERE<br />

DiscoveryMapFranchise.com/<strong>FBR</strong><br />

Discovery Map International<br />

Franchise Opportunity!<br />

High Volume Photography<br />

<strong>2018</strong> Top 50 Franchisee Satisfaction Award<br />

2017 Top 50 Low Cost Franchises (under $50k)<br />

2017 Top Franchises for Veterans<br />

2017 Best In Class - Child Services<br />

2017 Top 50 Franchises for Women<br />

Our Owners Have:<br />

• Instant business tools: a website, email, customer survey<br />

program & marketing materials<br />

• Advanced software with mobile ordering<br />

• Initial & ongoing training and support<br />

• Sales support with call center to make outbound calls<br />

• Network of hundreds of owners just like you<br />

• Annual meetings & reward trips<br />

• No photography experience needed<br />

• Flexible hours<br />

1-800-336-4550 x114<br />

tssfranchisebusiness.com/<strong>FBR</strong><br />

<strong>FBR</strong> Veterans 1st Qu <strong>2018</strong> Ad.indd 1<br />

12/5/17 10:19 AM<br />

38 | For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com


PET SERVICES<br />

RETAIL<br />

FEATURED<br />

Franchisee<br />

Sit Means Sit<br />

Startup Investment: $45,000 – $93,850<br />

Cash Requirement: $45,000<br />

Total Units: 126<br />

Starting a professional dog training franchise<br />

with Sit Means Sit allows you to take advantage<br />

of the largest and most successful U.S. animal<br />

based dog training company in the History of the<br />

United States. If you’re looking for an exceptional<br />

national company providing a unique top-notch<br />

service in a recession-proof multi-billion dollar<br />

industry, this is it. This is the “next great business<br />

opportunity” and you won’t want to miss it! Are<br />

you curious about starting your own Sit Means Sit<br />

Franchise? We’d LOVE to have you!<br />

For more information on Sit Means Sit<br />

opportunities, call 1-866-SIT-M-SIT<br />

(1-866-748-6748) or visit<br />

www.SitMeansSit.com.<br />

RETAIL<br />

Rhea Lana's<br />

Startup Investment: $19,050 – $38,950<br />

Cash Requirement: $10,000 – $13,500<br />

Total Units: 85<br />

Rhea Lana’s is a national children’s consignment<br />

franchisor that was founded in 1997. As the<br />

leader in the industry, Rhea Lana’s offers<br />

trusted, upscale consignment opportunities<br />

to entrepreneurs across America. Rhea Lana’s<br />

trademarked and innovative software provides<br />

real-time tracking of sales for consignors, as<br />

well as item entry via voice recognition, item<br />

guarantee, and consignor checks on the final<br />

event day. Our industry first, Rhea Lana’s<br />

Mobile App, further enhances the experience<br />

for Rhea Lana customers, adding increased<br />

value to our franchise system. Because of these<br />

superior consignor services, our franchise<br />

management technology and our unwavering<br />

franchise support, we are the best in children’s<br />

consignment.<br />

For more information on Rhea Lana’s<br />

opportunities, call (501) 499-0009 or visit<br />

www.rhealana.com/franchise-opportunities.<br />

Just Between Friends<br />

Startup Investment: $32,774 – $45,449<br />

Cash Requirement: $45,000<br />

Total Units: 160<br />

Just Between Friends is seeking self-motivated<br />

bargain lovers committed to serving their<br />

families and communities by hosting seasonal<br />

pop-up sales events. Our company’s core<br />

concept is to host community-supporting, high<br />

quality sales events that help families shop,<br />

sell, and save across North America — all while<br />

maintaining the highest safety standards in the<br />

industry. We are looking for family-focused<br />

and community-involved individuals who want<br />

to help others make money and save money.<br />

If this sounds like you and you are interested in<br />

running a business on a flexible schedule, being<br />

financially stable with a positive net worth, are<br />

tech savvy, outgoing, goal-driven and have a<br />

get-it-done mindset, contact us today.<br />

For more information on Just Between Friends<br />

opportunities, call (918) 230-1371 or visit<br />

www.jbfsalefranchise.com.<br />

RETAIL<br />

Wild Birds Unlimited<br />

Startup Investment: $146,693 – $228,406<br />

Cash Requirement: $40,000<br />

Total Units: 325<br />

Wild Birds Unlimited franchise store owners<br />

are the community resource for backyard bird<br />

feeding products, services and nature education.<br />

Who we are goes far beyond the products<br />

we sell. Each day our owners deliver a joyful<br />

experience to their customers while helping<br />

them purposefully engage with nature. A typical<br />

day involves customers swapping stories about<br />

latest bird sightings and sharing excitement<br />

about attracting new birds with our vast array<br />

of proprietary products.<br />

For more information on Wild Birds Unlimited<br />

opportunities, call (888) 730-7108 or visit<br />

www.wbufranchise.com.<br />

Jodi Glacer<br />

Senior Care Authority<br />

Boynton Beach, FL<br />

What do you enjoy most about your business?<br />

I really like to have variety throughout my work<br />

week. I schedule my calendar as I see fit.<br />

I have attended a networking event with other<br />

business people in the senior care arena, talked to<br />

potential clients on the phone and taken a family<br />

on tours of communities, all in the same day.<br />

Why did you select your franchise? I felt like my<br />

skills matched what was needed to operate this<br />

business. I could picture myself doing the work.<br />

Also, I live where people come to retire, so it<br />

seemed like a natural fit. And, I wanted my work<br />

life to have meaning; it is an honor to be able<br />

to help people through an emotionally difficult<br />

time. The low overhead was also a factor.<br />

Was it hard to get started? I have a sales/<br />

marketing background, so many of the actual<br />

tasks were familiar to me. There’s a ramp up just<br />

like any other job; I needed to learn about the<br />

healthcare industry too. The franchise included<br />

training, which really helped. It is a lot of work,<br />

but being that it was my business, I was eager<br />

and curious to learn as much as I could.<br />

How did you fund your franchise? I worked for<br />

one company for several years. When I was hired<br />

they gave me shares, which increased in value.<br />

My old company bought me my new career!<br />

What advice do you have for prospective<br />

franchisees? I found it helpful to take stock of<br />

my skill-sets—the ones I’m good at and enjoy,<br />

as well as the ones I don’t. I also recommend<br />

business counseling, such as the US SBA, which<br />

helped me while I was getting started. Also,<br />

plan financially for a long ramp up. Stepping into<br />

a business is not the same as stepping into a<br />

new job. People buy from people they like and<br />

trust. It takes time for people to get to know and<br />

trust you.<br />

Senior Advocacy and Living Source<br />

For more information on Senior Care Authority<br />

opportunities, call (888) 809-1231 or<br />

visit www.SeniorCareAuthority.com/franchise.<br />

TM<br />

For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com | 39


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises // MARKETPLACE<br />

As the industry pioneer and<br />

continued leader, HouseMaster<br />

Owner’s competitive<br />

advantages remain solid.<br />

• Multiple Ownership Models<br />

• Flexible Work Environment<br />

• 12-Year Average Franchise Tenure<br />

• Low Initial Investment<br />

• Excellent Income Opportunity<br />

• Brand Recognition<br />

• Franchise Business Review Top Franchise<br />

• Best-in-Class Franchisee Performance<br />

• Ongoing Training<br />

• President Kathleen Kuhn Ranked Top<br />

Franchise Leader of 2017<br />

• Diverse Service Offerings<br />

LEARN MORE AT OPPORTUNITY.HOUSEMASTER.COM OR CALL 1-800-526-3939<br />

Multi-Unit Deals<br />

NOW AVAILABLE<br />

the<br />

11,000<br />

sq ft<br />

cash<br />

! *<br />

With more than 40 years of success and over 480 locations,<br />

Golden Corral is recognized as “America’s #1 buffet and grill.” †<br />

Our concept is a proven winner — a high-value, family-oriented lunch<br />

and dinner buffet served daily and breakfast every weekend.<br />

*Actual restaurant size determined by building design; †Nation’s Restaurant News<br />

Contact: Annette Bagwell | abagwell@goldencorral.net | 800-284-5673 ext. 4479 | goldencorralfranchise.com/fbr<br />

40 | For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com


TM<br />

SENIOR SERVICES<br />

SERVICES<br />

®<br />

Experts in Leather, Plastic & Vinyl Restoration<br />

Visting Angels<br />

Startup Investment: $77,985 – $102,285<br />

Cash Requirement: $43,950<br />

Total Units: 628<br />

Visiting Angels provides non-medical homecare<br />

with the mission of restoring hope. Our pillars<br />

of care are delivered through education,<br />

support and by providing our franchisees with<br />

the resources needed to deliver the best care<br />

possible to clients in the comfort of their own<br />

home. Established in 1998, our principles have<br />

remained intact throughout the years as we<br />

assist with healing the emotional, spiritual and<br />

physical well-being of the individual. This is<br />

accomplished through relationship building and<br />

effective communication with clients, families<br />

and health care providers. This focus on the<br />

client has Visiting Angels franchisees averaging<br />

$1.3 million in gross revenue per year. We are<br />

America’s Choice in Homecare.<br />

For more information on Visting Angels<br />

opportunities, call (800) 365-4189 or visit<br />

www.visitingangelsfranchise.com.<br />

Fibrenew<br />

Startup Investment: $75,000 – $101,800<br />

Cash Requirement: $20,000 – $100,000<br />

Total Units: 250<br />

Fibrenew provides a niche market business<br />

with multiple revenue streams, low overhead<br />

operation and a flexible lifestyle - you set<br />

your own hours! Fibrenew is a market leader<br />

in the restoration of leather, plastic and vinyl.<br />

Fibrenew technicians are called upont ot restore<br />

rips, fades, stains, cracks, scratches and holes<br />

on items in homes, vehicles, boats, planes and<br />

businesses. Our company has grown and thrived<br />

through every rise and fall of the economy since<br />

1987. That really speaks to the fact that there is<br />

always a need for our services. The strength of<br />

our business model, the quality of our products<br />

and services and our enthusiasm for what we do<br />

all contribute to the success of more than 240<br />

Fibrenew franchisees around the world.<br />

For more information on Fibrenew<br />

opportunities, call (262) 457-4272 or visit<br />

www.fibrenew-franchising.com.<br />

BUILD ON THE<br />

LEADERSHIP<br />

OF SANDLER TRAINING<br />

RATED THE #1<br />

TRAINING FRANCHISE<br />

BY ENTREPRENEUR MAGAZINE<br />

FOR 13 YEARS INCLUDING 2016<br />

FranchiseBusinessREVIEW <br />

has recognized<br />

Sandler Training<br />

as the #1 Business<br />

Services Franchise.<br />

Sandler Training is a global network<br />

of sales and management trainers<br />

with hundreds of training centers<br />

throughout the world. Become a<br />

Franchise Owner and be at the<br />

forefront of a business niche that<br />

is growing exponentially, with the<br />

support of a pioneer and leader in<br />

the training industry.<br />

SANDLERFRANCHISING.COM<br />

800-669-3537 ext. 2005<br />

© 2017 Sandler Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. S Sandler Training Finding Power In Reinforcement<br />

(with design) is a registered service mark of Sandler Systems, Inc.<br />

For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com | 41


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises // MARKETPLACE<br />

SERVICES<br />

Mosquito Joe<br />

Startup Investment: $66,600 – $127,500<br />

Cash Requirement: $30,000<br />

Total Units: 234<br />

The mosquito control industry is booming, and<br />

there’s never been a better time to invest in<br />

a Mosquito Joe franchise than right now. The<br />

Mosquito Joe franchise opportunity provides<br />

a simple, low-cost business that can allow you<br />

more time to spend with your family and the<br />

freedom of working for yourself. Our extensive<br />

training and support and recurring revenue<br />

model mean you can thrive as a business owner<br />

in a high-growth market. Homeowners and<br />

businesses alike are realizing the necessity of<br />

mosquito control services, so join Mosquito Joe<br />

and make a difference in your community by<br />

making outside fun again!<br />

For more information on Mosquito Joe<br />

opportunities, call (855) 564-6563<br />

or visit www.mosquitojoefranchise.com.<br />

Be the<br />

Hometown<br />

Pizzeria<br />

LOOKING TO JOIN A TIME-TESTED, THRIVING BUSINESS<br />

AND AN AWESOME COMMUNITY?<br />

It’s time to look into opening a Pizza Factory franchise and experience our fun,<br />

family-focused and welcoming atmosphere.<br />

See why our franchisees rated us top 40 in the <strong>FBR</strong> Franchisee Satisfaction Survey!<br />

pizzafactoryfranchises.com 1-562-340-6925<br />

42 | For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com


SERVICES<br />

Our Brand. Your Business.<br />

Start Your Own Security Business with a Signal 88 Security Franchise<br />

Create Peace of Mind in Your Community with the #1 Security Franchise<br />

Real Property Management<br />

Startup Investment: $86,795 – $113,795<br />

Cash Requirement: $75,000<br />

Total Units: 295<br />

Residential property management is one of the<br />

fastest growing industries in the country. As the<br />

nation’s #1 property management franchise,<br />

we provide a variety of rental property services.<br />

Franchisees receive comprehensive training,<br />

state-of-the-art technology, proven systems<br />

and best practices based on our 30 years’<br />

experience. Most had no prior real estate or<br />

property management experience. Our business<br />

has an appealing economic model that includes<br />

a growing industry, stable revenue regardless<br />

of economic conditions, no inventory or major<br />

capital investment, average revenue of over<br />

$2,500 per property managed, margins that<br />

improve with scale, and a family of franchisees<br />

who support each other.<br />

For more information on Real Property<br />

Management opportunities, call (888) 856- 0131<br />

or visit www.propertymanagementfranchise.com.<br />

For more information, please visit:<br />

signal88franchise.com<br />

$468,000 Average Income<br />

37% Gross Profit Margins<br />

Full Support & Training<br />

For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com | 43


SPECIAL REPORT: Top Franchises for // MARKETPLACE<br />

Veterans // MARKETPLACE<br />

SERVICES<br />

WARNING:<br />

BUYING THE WRONG FRANCHISE<br />

CAN SERIOUSLY DAMAGE YOUR FINANCIAL HEALTH.<br />

When you invest in a franchise, you have only one chance to make the<br />

RIGHT choice — one that will give you and your family a bright future.<br />

Franchise Business Review can help.<br />

Our Franchise Buyer’s Toolkit provides all the resources you need<br />

to make an informed franchise investment. Learn the ins and outs of<br />

buying a franchise, get tips from the pros, and access insider insights<br />

that you won’t find anywhere else.<br />

Learn more at FranchiseBusinessReview.com/Toolkit<br />

Signal 88<br />

Startup Investment: $73,000 – $268,400<br />

Wild Birds Unlimited<br />

Cash Requirement: $45,000<br />

Startup Investment: $123,331 – $192,099<br />

Total Units: 369<br />

Cash Requirement: $30,000 – $40,000<br />

Signal Total Units: 88 Security 295 is one of the nation's leading<br />

security franchises for residential, commercial,<br />

Wild Birds Unlimited owners are their local<br />

retail and institutional customers. Built on the<br />

communities’ backyard bird feeding specialists<br />

principle that safety is a basic human right and<br />

and a premiere source for nature information<br />

need, Signal 88 offers customized services to<br />

as well as quality products. But who we are<br />

keep communities free from harm. This includes<br />

goes far beyond the items we sell. It’s our<br />

the brand's unique patrol method—in which<br />

owners’ commitment to their customers that<br />

a Signal 88 Security vehicle comes on site a<br />

distinguishes them from other retailers, a<br />

number of times per night to scope out the<br />

fact that makes us very proud. Wild Birds<br />

designated area—as an effective and economical<br />

Unlimited owners enjoy helping their customers<br />

means to deter crime. Signal 88 launched its<br />

understand birds and nature, swapping stories<br />

franchise opportunity in 2008 and currently has<br />

about the latest bird sightings and seeing other<br />

more than 170 locations run by local owners and<br />

people share their excitement.<br />

operators nationwide.<br />

Special Veteran Incentives: Offers a 15%<br />

For more information on Signal 88<br />

discount off the initial franchise fee.<br />

opportunities, call (402) 819-3323<br />

For visit more www.signal88franchise.com.<br />

information on Wild Birds Unlimited<br />

opportunities, call (888) 730-7108 or visit<br />

www.wbufranchise.com.<br />

FLEXIBILITY<br />

Our low-investment opportunity offers you the<br />

flexibility to build a travel business around your life.<br />

Discover<br />

a world of opportunity<br />

Join Today<br />

$8,820<br />

*<br />

Financing Available<br />

EXPLORE<br />

YOUR DREAMS OF<br />

BUSINESS<br />

OWNERSHIP<br />

HOME-BASED TRAVEL FRANCHISE<br />

Sell every destination and give your clients the Dream Vacations<br />

experience of a lifetime!<br />

Get started now, CALL 1-800-650-5576 | DreamVacationsFranchise.com<br />

44 12 | For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com


SERVICES<br />

TECHNOLOGY<br />

TRAVEL & HOSPITALITY<br />

Window Genie<br />

Startup Investment: $90,800 – $140,000<br />

Cash Requirement: $50,000<br />

Total Units: 121<br />

Window Genie is a nationally ranked mobile<br />

service franchise specializing in residential<br />

and light commercial window cleaning, window<br />

tinting, pressure washing and more. Our services<br />

are in high demand because we specialize in<br />

the time-consuming, difficult, but necessary<br />

property maintenance tasks most people are<br />

unwilling or unable to do themselves. By offering<br />

a variety of services to fit every home’s needs<br />

and budget, our owners are able to establish<br />

repeat and referral clients that provide multiple<br />

streams of revenue year-round. With our<br />

commitments to branding, professionalism and<br />

customer satisfaction, our owners stand out in<br />

their markets as the trusted go-to home service<br />

providers.<br />

For more information on Window Genie<br />

opportunities, call (800) 700-0022<br />

or visit www.windowgeniefranchise.com.<br />

TeamLogic<br />

Startup Investment: $160,000<br />

Cash Requirement: $60,000<br />

Total Units: 135<br />

TeamLogic IT franchisees provide computer<br />

services and managed IT solutions to small- and<br />

medium-sized businesses. Franchise owners<br />

serve as the CEOs of their business and hire the<br />

IT staff to perform the work. The ideal candidate<br />

for a TeamLogic IT business is a person who<br />

wishes to work in a business environment,<br />

understands technology, and enjoys working with<br />

other business professionals.<br />

For more information on TeamLogic<br />

opportunities, call (949) 582-6300<br />

or visit www.teamlogicfranchising.com.<br />

Expedia<br />

Startup Investment: $150,000 – $250,000<br />

Cash Requirement: $100,000<br />

Total Units: 225<br />

With an Expedia CruiseShipCenters franchise,<br />

you can own a retail travel agency franchise,<br />

backed by the most recognized brand in travel.<br />

As a full service travel agency that specializes<br />

in cruises, your Expedia CruiseShipCenters<br />

location will offer travelers in your community a<br />

wide range of travel products with outstanding<br />

service and Expedia prices. We’re committed<br />

to meeting the needs of our franchisees with<br />

our Stronger.Together ® culture, massive buying<br />

power, award-winning marketing and industryleading<br />

technology. Build equity and enjoy a<br />

great lifestyle with our proven franchise model<br />

celebrating 30 years of success and more than<br />

235 locations throughout North America.<br />

For more information on Expedia<br />

opportunities, call (844) 358-0361<br />

or visit www.expediafranchise.com.<br />

Join The Nation’s Largest, Fastest Growing &<br />

Most Satisfied Senior Assisted Living<br />

Placement Franchise System<br />

There are 10,000 seniors turning 65 every single day in this nation. Many of them need to find a<br />

quality Independent Living, Assisted Living or Memory Care Community. You can be that person<br />

who helps them find the safest new place to “call home”. Your services are FREE to seniors and<br />

their families as we are paid handsomely by thousands of care providers in our network.<br />

Claim Your Share of The Senior Care Franchise Industry Without Ever Hiring A Caregiver!<br />

Our 150 Franchisees are among the most satisfied in the Senior Care Franchise Industry.<br />

“One of INC. Magazine’s Fastest Growing Privately-Held Companies In America”<br />

Entrepreneur Magazine Calls CarePatrol:<br />

“One of the Top Senior Care Franchises - Fastest Growing Franchises - Top Service Franchises - Top<br />

Home Based Franchises”<br />

CarePatrol has been consistently ranked in the Entrepreneur Magazine’s “Franchise 500” for the past<br />

3 years, most recently ranking #218 out of 5,000 other Franchise Systems in 2016<br />

Franchisee Satisfaction Award Winners for 8 Consecutive Years !!!<br />

For more information on the companies in this report, visit www.<strong>FBR</strong>50.com | 45

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