The top 26 retail franchises in the world

Number of franchises: 478

Cost to open a franchise: $218,300-$385,200

Why it's hot: Menchie's philosophy is built around customer satisfaction. The frozen yogurt company prides itself on focusing on making the customer experience great.

Number of franchises: 1,121

Cost to open a franchise: $135,700-$472,200

Why it's hot: Yogen Fruz has a large global presence with more than 1400 locations in over 46 countries. The healthy frozen yogurt is growing fast because of the company's respected reputation.

Number of franchises: 1,396

Cost to open a franchise: $413,300-$1.3 million

Why it's hot: Church's is one of the largest chicken chains recognized around the world. The company is aiming for widespread, rapid growth, so they really support their franchisees. Church's encourages those with an entrepreneurial spirit to join.

Number of franchises: 998

Cost to open a franchise: $1.3 million-$1.9 million

Why it's hot: Carl's Jr. is known for its provocative advertising campaigns. These ads attract a lot of attention to the company and bring in franchisees. The chain can also be dual-branded with Green Burrito, a Mexican restaurant chain run by CKE Restaurants.

Number of franchises: 489

Cost to open a franchise: $187,500-$314,980

Why it's hot: Pita Pit is a healthier spin on fast-casual. The company has experienced tremendous growth in recent years due to its abundance of nutritious options. The investment required to open a Pita Pita is inexpensive when compared to other fast food restaurants, which draws franchisees in, according to Franchise Chatter.

Number of franchises: 6,385

Cost to open a franchise: $362,400-$1.8 million

Why it's hot: Franchises with a recognizable name tend to do well when constructed in profitable areas. Dairy Queen has strong global brand recognition, which is what makes the restaurant such an enticing franchise opportunity.

Number of franchises: 1,401

Cost to open a franchise: $277,400-$464,300

Why it's hot: Cold Stone Creamery also has strong brand recognition. Customers of the chain tend to be very loyal to the eatery, and the company offers its franchisees plenty of training and support in constructing and running their individual stores.

Number of franchises: 5,157

Cost to open a franchise: $1.2 million-$2.6 million

Why it's hot: Like many of the other top franchises, Taco Bell has incredible brand awareness that attracts customers nationally. The Mexican chain also has a large peer network of 350 franchisees, and 35% of them have more than 25 years of experience. This support system is helpful when building a business.

Number of franchises/co.: 4,802

Cost to open a franchise: $750,000-$1.3 million

Why it's hot: With stores in seven countries, Ace is one of the leading forces in the home improvement market. Along with the chance to be a part of a recognized, respected company, investors are also drawn to some of the franchisee perks, like no royalty fees.

Number of franchises/co.: 4,793

Cost to open a franchise: $150,200-$420,300

Why it's hot: The UPS Store has a variety of different franchise options for entrepreneurs. Franchisees recommend the company for its forward thinking, ethical code of business, and increase in popularity in recent years, according to UPS.

Number of franchises/co.: 1,536

Cost to open a franchise: $1.3 million-$2.6 million

Why it's hot: Denny's is a company that focuses on growth, so it puts a lot of its efforts into building strong relationships with its franchisees. Around 90% of Denny's are franchise-operated, and the company offers its franchises support across all levels of the business.

Number of franchises/co.: 1,538

Cost to open a franchise: $1.3 million-$1.6 million

Why it's hot: Like Carl's Jr., Hardee's is owned by CKE. It also can be dual-branded with Mexican chain Red Burrito, which is a unique feature that attracts franchisees.

Number of franchises/co.: 890

Cost to open a franchise: $275,000-$1.9 million

Why it's hot: Krispy Kreme offers people the opportunity to franchise within the United States or internationally. The brand is identifiable worldwide, and the company provides its franchisees with extensive training before opening up shop.

Number of franchises/co.: 11,310

Cost to open a franchise: $216,100-$1.5 million

Why it's hot: Dunkin’ Donuts is another company that's distinguishable worldwide. With coffee being such a large commodity in the world, these franchises succeed in most cases. Brand loyalty is at its peak with the chain's customers as well.

Number of franchises/co.: 7,546

Cost to open a franchise: $102,900-$388,600

Why it's hot: Baskin-Robbins has around 7,300 locations worldwide. It places its efforts into fostering stable relationships with its franchisees. "Baskin-Robbins wants their franchisees to succeed and provides strong training and operational support which has positively impacted my profitability," writes Chassidy Peters, a franchisee owner of 2 stores, on the company'swebsite.

Number of franchises/co.: 3,924

Cost to open a franchise: $129,900-$844,200

Why it's hot: Papa John's is planning major international expansion, which is attracting entrepreneurs. The business has been reporting strong sales lately, which brings in people looking to invest in the company and become a part of the Papa John's family.

Number of franchises/co.: 5,093

Cost to open a franchise: $211,500-$1.6 million

Why it's hot: Circle K is an international convenience store chain that allows its franchisee owners to customize their individual quick service restaurants. The company stocks many popular brands and offers its franchisees support in business and marketing systems among other services.

Number of franchises/co.: 3,188

Cost to open a franchise: $167,900-$294,500

Why it's hot: The health and nutrition industry is booming, and GNC is one of its leaders. The vitamin and supplement chain has outlets worldwide, and franchisees are attracted to the company for its name, solid service reputation, and support system for individual stores.

Number of franchises/co.: 29,544

Cost to open a franchise: $1 million-$2.3 million

Why it's hot: McDonald's is one of the most popular fast-food chains in the world. The extensive training and support from the company brings in many franchisees looking to be a part of the dynasty.

Number of franchises/co.: 13,846

Cost to open a franchise: $1.3 million-$2.5 million

Why it's hot: Like McDonald's, KFC is a world-renowned company. Recently the chain been shaking up its menu and expanding, helping it to gain plenty of media attention. This brings in entrepreneurs looking to take part in the innovative time for the company.

Number of franchises/co.: 1,598

Cost to open a franchise: $194,900-$367,600

Why it's hot: Auntie Anne's is so well-liked that even stars like Shaquille O'Neal have franchised with the company. The global pretzel chain is unique in that no other chains produce product like it at such a large volume.

Number of franchises/co.: 42,227

Cost to open a franchise: $116,600-$263,200

Why it's hot: Despite the recent controversy surrounding the brand, the chain remains one of the leading global sandwich chains. The company started making its menu healthier in recent years, which is also helping to attract customers. It's expanding globally, and many look to be a part of this expansion.

Number of franchises/co.: 53,027

Cost to open a franchise: $37,200-$1.6 million

Why it's hot: The international convenience store chain is well known and simple. Customers know what to expect when shopping at 7-Eleven, and that business model has always worked for the store. It also has a unique sales method that attracts investors. "Most franchise systems require royalty payments based on a percentage of sales. With the 7-Eleven system, you pay royalties based upon the store’s gross profit, that is, net sales receipts less the wholesale cost of the merchandise you sell," according to 7-Eleven.