While many franchisees are happy owning and operating just one business, some have greater ambitions to expand into multiple countries or territories, or even own multiple franchise brands. Multi-unit ownership isn't for everyone—it requires a different mindset and skill set than single-unit ownership does—but when done right, it can be a very rewarding entrepreneurial path to pursue. If it's a path you're considering, you can find the right franchise opportunity to pursue it in our list of top brands for multi-unit owners.
To determine this ranking, we considered each company's 2024 Franchise 500 score, which is based on an analysis of more than 150 data points in the areas of costs and fees, size and growth, franchisee support, brand strength and financial strength and stability. But we also considered factors specifically related to multi-unit franchise ownership within each brand: Are multi-unit owner discounts available? Does the brand strictly sell multi-unit or master license agreements? What percentage of franchisees own multiple units? How many units does the average franchisee own? And what percentage of the brand's total units are owned by multi-unit franchisees?
The resulting list can be a great starting point for someone considering multi-unit ownership, or an existing multi-unit franchise looking for new brands to add to their portfolio. But it should not be taken as an endorsement of any particular brand. Always do your due diligence homework before investing. Read the company's legal documents, consult with an attorney and an accountant, and talk to existing and former franchisees to find out if an opportunity is right for you.
We looked for multi-unit champions
What are some specific ways your brand encourages and supports multi-unit ownership?
“It starts with the candidate's goals: Do they have bigger empire visions? If so, we present a development plan to accommodate their goals. We believe in a phased launch approach. We don't want to overwhelm them with costs up front and jeopardize the whole plan, so each territory's development explodes, allowing the first territory to set the second up for success.” – Suave Brachowski, brand president, Isolation of the USA (No. 36)
“We work with each franchisee on a financial and operational plan to add additional territory at the right time. We also have financial incentives in the form of lower royalties and bundled fees, so they can use the extra money to invest . Some franchisees also decide to grow vertically within the same territory by adding a sister brand, Bath Tune-Up.” – Heidi Morrissey, president, Adaptation of the kitchen (No. 51)
“We utilize an automated replenishment system that ensures essential products and supplies are constantly in stock. This not only streamlines operations, but also increases the overall efficiency and profitability of each location, making multi-unit ownership a more affordable endeavor. manageable and attractive.” – Josh Robinson, vice president, franchise and corporate store operations, Pearl Vision (No. 67)
What qualities does a franchisee need to succeed in multi-unit ownership?
“Franchisees that operate at a high level are those that focus on people—maintaining a stable management team, investing in good wages and benefits, and ensuring crew member satisfaction. Successful multi-unit franchisees are out in their stores, visible and visible and actively involved in encouraging their teams to focus on the fundamentals of our business.” – Hoyt Jones, president, Jersey Mike's Subscriptions (No. 4)
“Having the ability to navigate and adapt to the challenges associated with owning unique locations is important in multi-unit ownership. Franchisees must be able to grow with the changes of multiple locations and turn them to a strategic advantage.” – Bill Luce, president, Transworld Business Advisors (No. 64)
“Multi-unit ownership requires the ability to effectively scale and build an organization that, although hyperlocal, is still larger than the individual. They must demonstrate and practice daily resilience, courage, leadership, tenacity, a mindset positive and confident. The ability to delegate and build a team is critical, meaning owners must be able to inspire and lead.” – Justin Waltz, brand president, Junkluggers (No. 134)