“Franchising is a powerful business model and an amazing vehicle for growth,” says Christopher Conner, president of Franchise Marketing Systems. “If done right, franchising can supercharge an economy by fueling entrepreneurial growth in jobs, output and productivity. Franchisees win with a defined system, economies of scale, branding and a business system that should offer mentorship, support and guidance to a successful business platform.”
“Franchising as a whole is going to continue to be a very relevant part of our economy,” adds Aziz Hashim, president and CEO of NRD Holdings, Inc. “[With] continual changes in the marketplace for jobs, people will have to rely more and more on self-employment as a means of financial security. Studies show that the risks associated with franchises are significantly lower than [with] starting your own business, which will drive franchising even further.”
Each year, Franchise Direct ranks many of the foremost internationally-operating franchise companies from around the globe. This world-class list details prospering franchises operating in at least two countries.
The Top 100 Global Franchises have been selected from a candidate pool of hundreds of franchises that have invested time and resources in expansion efforts around the world. The most recent and accurate data possible on these franchise systems was gathered through self-reported company statistics, Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDDs), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings, and published industry sources. The data was then entered into a formula designed to be as objective as possible, incorporating a host of criteria including, but not limited to:
- System size (number of units)
- Franchise longevity (years franchising and company age)
- Company sales revenue
- Stability and growth
- Environmental policies
- Positive corporate citizenship
- Support for prospective and current franchisees
All of the Top 100 Global Franchises share the keys to business success at any level including: a well-defined business identity, a clear business plan, a commitment to training and support, sensitivity to environmental issues, and the ability to innovate to keep pace with ever-changing social and economic conditions.
In addition to these qualities, each of the franchises in the Top 100 has acquired the necessary cultural sensitivities to grow their respective businesses beyond their home borders. The Top 100 Global Franchises thus serve as models for early-stage franchises looking to expand, as well as those companies considering the benefits of the franchise business model.
Please note that the Top 100 Global Franchises Ranking and Report are not intended to endorse, advertise, or recommend any particular franchise system nor is it a definitive list. The ranking and report are simply meant to offer an objective look at some of the world’s top franchise operations.