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International franchising has been on a lot of people’s minds lately. Perhaps its just a sign of the growing awareness of the potentials of the global economy.

Only this Wednesday, the Wall Street Journal wrote an in-depth story on American franchises are looking abroad. Well, their timing couldn’t have been better, as Franchise Direct is proud to announce the findings of its inaugural Top 100 Global Franchises study.

You can be sure we’ll be discussing the findings and their ramification a lot in the near future here on this blog, but for the mean time, we’d like you to just digest the findings. Here’s everything you need to know:

Franchise Direct, one of the world’s top franchise portals, has released its first-annual list of the Top 100 Global Franchises. Franchise Direct arrived at these rankings after examining thousands of franchises worldwide. Franchising plays a major role in the global economy, and this list highlights the franchise businesses that have best-invested in international development. Combined, they make up some of the world’s most beloved franchised brands.

Franchise Direct is perfectly positioned to examine the global franchise market, as it is a prominent player in international franchising and operates popular national portals in seven major economies in North America and Europe. The list was compiled according to an objective methodology that factored in a range of commercial matters alongside matters of corporate citizenship and best practice. It also weighed in its support and financing for franchisees, as well as its policy regarding environmental and social matters to arrive at its list of the Top 100 Global Franchises.

The Top 100 Global Global Franchises provide an insightful glimpse inside the state of the franchising industry in the current economic climate. The Top 100 is largely dominated by the top performers in the quick-service restaurant industry. But the list also shows the diversity of the franchising system, with cleaning, internet and senior care franchises making the Top 100.

Franchising is seen by many as an American concept, but these rankings are also unique because they indicate the rising success of franchises outside of America. Fifteen franchises that are not based in America have cracked the Top 100, with franchises from Japan, Australia and Britain represented.

This list provides a blueprint for franchises considering international expansion. While each franchise on the Top 100 has developed a clear brand identity, they all share a number of similar traits. Each has built its success on a clear business model that’s easy to replicate, a strong support apparatus, an ability to innovate and a sensitivity towards environmental issues.

Franchises are certain to play a greater role in the globalizing economy. Despite the global credit crunch, the world’s top franchises remain cautiously optimistic. This list shows that franchising continues to remain a vibrant economic force in America and beyond.