The top 50 franchises in the world

Number of franchises: 971

Cost to open a franchise: $89,200-$187,100

Why it's hot: The company stocks an assorted selection of blinds, shutters, drapes, and more at all price points. People love Budget Blinds because it makes the process of finding installations and fixtures for your home easier and less stressful. The blinds company offers at-home service and free consultations and estimates.

Number of franchises: 523

Cost to open a franchise: $115,500-$188,500

Why it's hot: Interim is the oldest healthcare franchise company in the United States. The company provides home care services, like nursing, hospice, and non-medical assistance, and it's widely spread across the country, with franchises in 43 states.

Number of franchises: 263

Cost to open a franchise: $55,300-$160,200

Why it's hot: The franchise works with its customers to fit their individualized shipping needs. The worldwide package and freight delivery company is known for its customer service and affordable shipping costs.

Number of franchises: 329

Cost to open a franchise: $34,300-$247,200

Why it's hot: My Gym Children's Fitness Center developed a structured fitness program to combine development and exercise. The company helps children 6 weeks to 10-years-old to remain fit and active and grow cognitively as well. The company is also huge; it has different locations in more than 30 countries.

Number of franchises: 290

Cost to open a franchise: $54,300-$93,300

Why it's hot: This company is known for the Self-Learning Method it takes with its students. Upon entering the program, each student takes a diagnostics test, which is designed to highlight the areas the student struggles and excels in. These results outline the trajectory of his or her coursework with the learning center.

Number of franchises: 6,665

Cost to open a franchise: $37,500-$259,000

Why it's hot: RE/MAX is a trusted and widely known real-estate company, which is why so many people chose to invest in franchise opportunities. Its worldwide recognition, massive network of resources, and advertising have made it a leader in the industry for the past 40 years.

Number of franchises: 1,182

Cost to open a franchise: $156,990-$276,980

Why it's hot: Edible Arrangements is a staple in the gift department. The global company is trendy, easy to order online, and has numerous personalization options to customize gifts. Before opening an Edible Arrangements franchise, owners are trained and offered instructional guides on all sectors of the business.

Number of franchises: 3,518

Cost to open a franchise: $114,200-$216,000

Why it's hot: Great Clips is one of the world’s largest salon brands. The company prides itself on offering affordable rates without sacrificing quality. It guarantees that all stylists and employees receive training to work at the salons.

Number of franchises: 840

Cost to open a franchise: $195,700-$13.1 million

Why it's hot: Ramada is part of the Wyndham Hotel Group, one of the largest in the world. The hotel group has the largest loyalty program because of the number of participating hotels; this loyalty program encourages visitors to come again and rack up points and rewards.

Number of franchises: 1,963

Cost to open a franchise: $3.7 million-$13.5 million

Why it's hot: Hampton Hotels is owned by Hilton Worldwide. Hilton offers tremendous assistance to its franchises, including training, ongoing support with launches and evaluations, and marketing support.

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: 949

Cost to open a franchise: $91,100-$234,200

Why it's hot: Sign-A-Rama is more than just a sign company; it works with its customers to build and shape a customer's brand. The company personalizes signs and promotional material to accommodate the strategy and direction of the brand it's working with.

Number of franchises: 8,370

Cost to open a franchise: $3500-$75,800

Why it's hot: Jazzercise revolutionized the workout industry in the 80s, making it one of the most popular, trusted forms of exercise. It's gained a cult-like following over the years, and its dance parties are still increasingly popular. Opening a Jazzercise is relatively inexpensive, which draws in many entrepreneurs.

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: 1,011

Cost to open a franchise: $99,000-$114,900

Why it's hot: A big selling point for Home Instead Senior Care franchises is the idea that one is purchasing a stake in a gratifying, rewarding business that will give back to others. Entrepreneurs that invest in this franchise are sometimes looking to give back and help others.

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: 2,079

Cost to open a franchise: $221,000-$400,000

Why it's hot: Jiffy Lube franchisees rave about the support they receive from the company in building out their businesses. Owners can participate in training at Jiffy Lube University, an online program designed to educate owners on all aspects of the business.

Number of franchises: 2,946

Cost to open a franchise: $9900-$35,800

Why it's hot: Vanguard Cleaning Systems is independently owned, and absentee franchise ownership is not allowed. However, the franchises can be run from home and usually only require 1-2 employees. Janitorial services are essential to large corporations, which is one of the things that makes this franchise successful.

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: 1,310

Cost to open a franchise: $107,300-$258,100

Why it's hot: With people gravitating towards clean eating and healthier lifestyles, fitness franchising is a profitable market. Snap Fitness is a 24-hour gym with a sleek look that entices franchisees. The company also helps owners increase sales quickly with its instructional program.

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.: 4,983

Cost to open a franchise: $49,600-$180,600

Why it's hot: The ServiceMaster parent brand is an established name in the service industry. ServiceMaster Clean has a unique business plan that allows for residential cleaning daily and commercial cleaning by night. It also offers a wide variety of other cleaning services, like disaster restoration and floor care.

Number of franchises/co.: 4,831

Cost to open a franchise: $7.2 million-$94 million

Why it's hot: IHG owns 10 successful hotel brands that include InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, Holiday Inn Hotels and Resorts and Candlewood Suites among others. It's one of the most recognized hotel brands in the world, and is continuing to grow.

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.: 4,581

Cost to open a franchise: $152,700-$318,980

Why it's hot: Snap-on tools is an innovative business that requires no real estate investment. The mobile tool store gives the franchise owners complete control of the direction of the business and the clients which they cater to.

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.: 4,846

Cost to open a franchise: $31,500-$148,700

Why it's hot: H&R Block is one of the leading companies in the tax services industry. As a 50-year-old company with an impressive track record, H&R Block attracts franchisees with its dependency and brand recognition in the financial industry.

Number of franchises/co.: 1,245

Cost to open a franchise: $180,100-$385,500

Why it's hot: Many believe that Cinnabon has the world's best cinnamon rolls. The company markets its product as an 'escape' from reality, and it really focuses on the customer experience, which encourages brand loyalty and growth.

Number of franchises/co.: 1,784

Cost to open a franchise: $198,900-$7.3 million

Why it's hot: Days Inn Hotels is owned by the Wyndham Hotel Group, a frontrunner in the hotel industry. It includes Days Inn and Days Inn & Suites, Days Hotel, and Days Suites. One aspect of the hotel chain that customers love is the free breakfast, which is a complimentary feature at most locations.

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.: 11,676

Cost to open a franchise: $3100-$50,900

Why it's hot: Jan-Pro is a cleaning service company with clients in 13 countries and more than 10,000 franchises. The company offers both international and home-based franchising opportunities. Using the Jan-Pro Tracker System, the company ensures that it provides clients with the best customer service possible.

Number of franchises/co.: 2,519

Cost to open a franchise: $176,200-$3.96 million

Why it's hot: Like Days Inn Hotels, Super 8 Hotels is also owned by Wyndham Worldwide. Super 8 is successful because its economical and its simple. The company functions as a budget hotel with most customers choosing Super 8 for its low rates.

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's website.

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 holds worldwide notoriety. The company has recently been shaking up its menu and expanding, helping the chain 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.: 12,956

Cost to open a franchise: $297,000-$2.1 million

Why it's hot: The pizza industry is lucrative, and investors can trust respected companies like Pizza Hut to succeed. The recognizable chain has a trusted reputation and a strong support structure for franchises to help its owners successfully run their stores.

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.

Number of franchises/co.: 2,796

Cost to open a franchise: $78,700-$371,000

Why it's hot: With over 2 million members in 2,885 sites across the globe, customers have 24 hour access, 365 days a year. With the secure access key and Anytime Fitness state of the art security systems, customers can feel comfortable visiting thousands of locations at no extra cost. The chain credits its top ranking to, "financial strength and stability, growth rate, and size of the system," according to its website.

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