Forbes examined 60 of the best brands across the U.S. for franchisees to invest in, partnering with franchise industry research firm FRANdata. To develop the rankings, researchers delved into the system sustainability, system demand, value for investment, franchisor support and franchisor stability for each brand.
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers was named the best high-investment franchise to buy.
Freddy’s corporate puts its franchisees first, says partner Scott Redler, reported The Wichita Eagle (June 4). “We work for our franchisees, and that’s critical,” Redler says.
Culver’s Butterburgers & Frozen Custard ranked 2nd, Firehouse Subs 4th, Steak N Shake BY Biglari 5th, Panera Bread 7th and Zaxby’s 9th.
The best medium-investment franchises included Nothing Bundt Cakes, which was 3rd, followed by Marco’s Pizza 5th, Jimmy John’s 7th, Tropical Smoothie Café 8th, Domino’s Pizza 9th, and Penn Station, East Coast Subs 10th.
The best businesses were able to demonstrate adaptability in different geographic markets and that their performance could be replicated, FRANdata noted.
While demand drives growth for any business, sustainability was weighted more heavily to emphasize the importance of a healthy system to the long-term success of franchise operators.
For the full story, go to this week’s Food Institute Report.