The top 50 franchises of 2015

Number of franchises: 998

Cost to open a franchise: $1,000,000 - $2,000,000

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: 1,506

Cost to open a franchise: $60,000 - $186,000

Why it's hot: Merry Maids is based in Memphis, Tennessee and cleans more than 300,000 homes, apartments and condominiums each month.

Number of franchises: 1,310

Cost to open a franchise: $110,000 - $286,000

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: 1,396

Cost to open a franchise: $413,000-$1 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. Church's encourages those with an entrepreneurial spirit to join the business.

Number of franchises: 2,617

Cost to open a franchise: $10,000 - $98,000

Why it's hot: CleanNet is a cleaning service for retail and industrial facilities. It is one of the most successful and fastest-growing commercial cleaning franchise companies in the nation.

Number of franchises: 8,370

Cost to open a franchise: $4,000 - $76,000

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/co.: 7,546

Cost to open a franchise: $90,000 - $396,000

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.: 5,093

Cost to open a franchise: $211,000 - $2 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: 1,259

Cost to open a franchise: $119,000 - $288,000

Why it's hot: This company manufactures hearing aids. Its locations offer free hearing tests and consultations. Miracle-Ear also hosts a foundation that aims to improve hearing health nationwide.

Number of franchises: 1,182

Cost to open a franchise: $193,000 - $326,000

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/co.: 4,831

Cost to open a franchise: $7 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: 11,37

Cost to open a franchise: $99,000 - $126,000

Why it's hot: Pulling up in the company's distinct yellow cars, a four-person cleaning team arrives at clients' homes to take care of household chores such as vacuuming, dusting and wiping down bathrooms. The Maids are known for their "2-Step Healthy Touch Deep Cleaning System" that they claim controls allergens and helps improve indoor air quality.

Number of franchises: 3,518

Cost to open a franchise: $122,000 - $233,000

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: 1,373

Cost to open a franchise: $168,000 - $327,000

Why it's hot: Sports Clips combines sports entertainment with hair-styling. The company is catered toward men with a goal to create a comfortable and fun environment.

Number of franchises: 2,232

Cost to open a franchise: $184,000 - $430,000

Why it's hot: Midas is a car maintenance and repair company based in Georgia. The company prides itself on being one of America's original franchise systems because it began franchising in the 1950's, along with McDonald's and KFC.

Number of franchises/co.: 1,598

Cost to open a franchise: $196,000 - $370,000

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: 1,598

Cost to open a franchise: $85,000 - $248,000

Why it's hot: Matco Tools manufactures automotive equipment. It offers 13,000 items to aid in repairs and was founded in 1946.

Number of franchises: 1,369

Cost to open a franchise: $265,000 - $446,000

Why it's hot: Papa Muphy's is a "take-and-bake" store based in Hillsboro, Oregon. The company makes pizzas, cheesy breads and cookie dough for customers to take home and bake themselves. It is the fifth-largest pizza company in the US.

Number of franchises/co.: 4,983

Cost to open a franchise: $70,000 - $262,000

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.: 3,924

Cost to open a franchise: $130,000 - $844,000

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.: 4,802

Cost to open a franchise: $239,000 - $2,000,000

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: 3,882

Cost to open a franchise: $59,000 - $72,000

Why it's hot: Liberty Tax Service is a tax return preparation service that began franchising in the US and Canada in 1973.

Number of franchises: 2,079

Cost to open a franchise: $219,000-$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: $11,000 - $36,000

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/co.: 4,581

Cost to open a franchise: $160,000 - $316,000

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: 3,127

Cost to open a franchise: $1 million - $2 million

Why it's hot: Sonic is a drive-in fast food chain that began franchising in 1959. Ninety percent of its restaurants are franchised. Its menu includes corn dogs, tater-tots, onion rings, chicken sandwiches and slushies.

Number of franchises/co.: 3,188

Cost to open a franchise: $191,000 - $322,000

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: 2,071

Cost to open a franchise: $2,000 - $23,000

Why it's hot: Cruise Planners is a travel agency in which travel agents work from home and sell travel and excursion packages to customers. Its travel advisors help customers book complete packaged getaways on land or at sea. It's employees are American Express Travel Representatives.

Number of franchises/co.: 4,793

Cost to open a franchise: $168,000 - $354,000

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: 25,352

Cost to open a franchise: $64,000 - $134,000

Why it's hot: Kumon is an after-school tutoring service that provides students with worksheets for practice on math and reading skills. The company was founded 50 years ago by a high school math teacher in Japan.

Number of franchises: 5,157

Cost to open a franchise: $1 million - $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.: 4,846

Cost to open a franchise: $32,000 - $149,000

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.: 1,538

Cost to open a franchise: $1 million-$2 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.: 13,846

Cost to open a franchise: $1 million - $3 million

Why it's hot: Like McDonald's, KFC is a world-renowned company. This year, 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: 790

Cost to open a franchise: $276,000 - $783,000

Why it's hot: Aaron's is a home furnishing store that began franchising in 1992. The company sells or leases furniture, electronics and household appliances.

Number of franchises/co.: 29,544

Cost to open a franchise: $989,000 - $2 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.: 1,784

Cost to open a franchise: $179,000 - $8 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.: 11,676

Cost to open a franchise: $4,000 - $52,000

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.: 11,310

Cost to open a franchise: $217,000 - $2 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.: 53,027

Cost to open a franchise: $38,000 - $1 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.: 12,956

Cost to open a franchise: $297,000 - $2 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.: 1,536

Cost to open a franchise: $1 million-$2 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: 1,694

Cost to open a franchise: $142,000 - $191,000

Why it's hot: Servpro is a painting business specializing in disaster restoration. Its services aren't limited to painting and includes carpet cleaning and mold remediation. The company began franchising in 1969.

Number of franchises: 2,238

Cost to open a franchise: $323,000 - $544,000

Why it's hot: Known for its "freaky-fast" delivery, Jimmy John's is a gourmet sandwich shop. It was founded in 1983 by a newly high school graduate who built the chain by sharing 25% of the profit with its managers. From there, store sales saw a huge increase.

Number of franchises: 1,493

Cost to open a franchise: $144,000 - $294,000

Why it's hot: Supercuts offers quick and inexpensive haircuts without appointments. It began franchising in 1979 and was eventually acquired by Regis Corp. With an array of services, Supercuts caters to men, women, and children.

Number of franchises: 1,818

Cost to open a franchise: $1 million - $2 million

Why it's hot: Based in San Diego, California, Jack in the Box began as a burger chain in 1951. By 1982, the restaurant began franchising and its menu expanded to offer salads, tacos, breakfast, and milkshakes. In 2003, the Jack in the Box acquired Qdoba Mexican Grill.

Number of franchises/co.: 42,227

Cost to open a franchise: $117,000 - $263,000

Why it's hot: Despite the controversy surrounding the brand and its former spokesperson, 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.: 2,796

Cost to open a franchise: $63,000 - $418,000

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.

Number of franchises: 1,963

Cost to open a franchise: $4 million - $14 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.