Right here Are the Greatest Strategies for Owning Multiple Franchises | Entrepreneur

In franchising, the expansion alternatives are infinite. You might purchase one unit — after which, when you succeed, you may purchase a second. Then a 3rd. Then onward into the tons of and even hundreds!

The franchise business is stuffed with individuals like that. More than 40% of all franchise models are owned by multi-unit franchisees, and the common franchisee owns 2.4 models. (That’s information we collected from candidates for our 2025 Franchise 500 rating.) There’s loads of variation throughout the business, in fact, with some techniques nonetheless dominated by single-unit house owners and others made up solely of multi-unit franchisees. But in the end, there is not any doubt that multi-unit franchise possession continues to achieve reputation, which is why we have ranked the highest manufacturers for current and potential franchisees who’re inquisitive about it.

To do this, we first took under consideration every firm’s 2025 Franchise 500 rating, which relies on an evaluation of greater than 150 information factors within the areas of prices and charges, dimension and development, assist, model power, and monetary power and stability. Then we checked out components associated extra particularly to multi-unit possession, resembling reductions supplied for multi-unit franchisees, whether or not manufacturers promote solely multi-unit or grasp license offers, what proportion of a model’s franchisees personal a number of models, what proportion of a model’s whole models are owned by multi-unit franchisees, and what number of models the common franchisee inside every model owns.

This checklist shouldn’t be seen as a advice of any explicit model. But whether or not you are simply beginning to consider shopping for a franchise and have already got your sights set on multi-unit possession, or whether or not you are an skilled proprietor seeking to broaden your portfolio, it may function a terrific jumping-off level to your personal analysis. Always learn the corporate’s authorized paperwork, seek the advice of with an lawyer and an accountant, and discuss to current and former franchisees earlier than investing.

Related: How I Built a Multi-Unit Franchise Operation Without Leaving My Day Job

We Asked Multi-unit Champions

What are some particular methods your model encourages and helps multi-unit possession?

“We help facilitate connections among our multi-unit owners through conferences, regional meetings, and online forums, allowing them to share best practices and build valuable relationships. We also have franchise business coaches that specialize in supporting our franchisees with more than 10 units.” — Matt Stanton, chief growth officer, Purpose Brands (Anytime Fitness), No. 28

“We actively support multi-unit ownership through a flexible and scalable business model, including rewarding growth with reduced royalty fee percentages based on store count and sales, offering expansion planning support, and leveraging a point-of-sale system that can be configured for multi-store operations.” — Gary Skidmore, chief working officer, Big O Tires, No. 47

“If an owner has the right mindset and a clear vision, we help build a smart, achievable plan for expansion. The PuroClean Elevations Program is a strategic initiative designed to support franchise owners in scaling their business responsibly. It strengthens operations, improves profitability, and prepares them for sustainable growth.” — Tim Courtney, vp of franchise growth, PuroClean, No. 79

Related: Considering Becoming a Multi-Unit Franchise Operator of a New Brand? Here’s What You Should Know First.

What qualities does a franchisee must succeed at multi-unit possession?

“Managing multiple teams across different locations requires the ability to inspire, delegate, and build a cohesive culture. We’ve seen that effective operators empower their teams and foster a sense of belonging and ownership across their restaurants.” — Jake Barden, senior vp of franchise gross sales, Dine Brands (IHOP), No. 10

“Ultimately, it’s about shifting from being the best operator to becoming the best coach of operators. Multi-unit success is all about leading through others and knowing how to build, trust, and develop a team. The franchisees who do this while also staying extremely engaged in the business are the most successful ones.” — Susan Valverde, model president, Sylvan Learning, No. 81

“A clear long-term vision is essential. Knowing where you want to be in five or 10 years helps guide smart decision-making. A strong focus on the guest experience is also key. Successful franchisees know how to identify and empower store managers who are passionate about delivering great service.” — Geoff Henry, president, Gong cha Americas, No. 139

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