Top 20 Franchises to Watch

May 5, 2025
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Franchising is booming, and we’re here for it! From mouthwatering eats and refreshing treats to fitness favorites and top-notch services, the franchise world is full of brands making big moves. At Bolt PR, we know that standing out in a competitive market takes more than just a great product or service—it’s about building buzz, telling compelling stories, and connecting with the right audience. Our franchise PR pros work with brands across industries to help them grow and thrive, and now, we’re sharing some of our top contenders to watch. 

We’ve rounded up a list of standout franchises that are making waves across the country. Whether you’re a foodie hunting for your next obsession, a wellness enthusiast chasing your goals, or an entrepreneur looking for inspiration, there’s something here for you. These brands are turning heads with unique concepts, strong regional roots, and offerings that keep customers coming back for more.

FOOD & BEVERAGE

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Scooter’s Coffee

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Black and white portrait of Joe Thornton, CEO of Scooter’s Coffee, framed in a circular gradient border of blue and purple hues, with the text 'Scooter’s Coffee' in bold white and 'Joe Thornton, CEO' below on a teal background.

For over 25 years, Scooter’s Coffee has been providing customers with a one-of-a-kind customer experience, built around a love of the second most traded commodity in the world - coffee. Recently named one of the fastest growing by Yelp, Scooter’s Coffee is rapidly expanding across the U.S., opening 120 locations last year alone. Recognized for its core values of integrity, love, humility and courage, Scooter’s Coffee is expected to continue its rapid expansion in the franchise industry.

Jeremiah’s Italian Ice

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Black and white portrait of Jeremiah Litwack, Founder of Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, holding a cup of Italian ice with a spoon, framed in a circular gradient border of blue and purple hues, with the text 'Jeremiah’s Italian Ice' in bold white and 'Jeremiah Litwack, Founder' below on a teal background.

Scooping up smiles since opening in Central Florida in 1996, Jeremiah’s Italian Ice has been offering trendsetting menu items, froggy swag and vibrant attitudes for nearly 30 years. With refreshing flavors of Italian ice, Jelati and soft ice cream, the franchise delivers the coolest treats to satisfy customers’ sweet tooths throughout the U.S.

Shipley Do-Nuts

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Black and white portrait of Flynn Dekker, CEO of Shipley Do-Nuts, framed in a circular gradient border of blue and purple hues, with the text 'Shipley Do-Nuts' in bold white and 'Flynn Dekker, CEO' below on a teal background.

With made-fresh-daily handcrafted donuts and kolaches, Shipley Do-Nuts is taking the franchise world by storm. Founded in Texas over 85 years ago, the delectable and oh-so-delicious brand has grown from one location in Houston to over 330 locations nationwide. With over 60 varieties of donuts to choose from, the opportunities are quite literally endless.

Big Whiskey’s

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Black and white portrait of Austin Herschend, CEO of Big Whiskey’s, framed in a circular gradient border of blue and purple hues, with the text 'Big Whiskey’s' in bold white and 'Austin Herschend, CEO' below on a teal background.

Founded in 2006 and born in the Midwest, Big Whiskey’s provides a creative and delicious food and beverage menu and experience. Located in five states across the U.S., the fast-growing restaurant franchise focuses on a community first approach, weaving each location into the fabric of the community that supports it and giving back in the process. Honoring traditions, this award-winning franchise is one to watch as it continues its expansion.

Yogurtland

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Black and white portrait of Phillip Chang, CEO of Yogurtland, framed in a circular gradient border of blue and purple hues, with the text 'Yogurtland' in bold white and 'Phillip Chang, CEO' below on a teal background.

As a self-serve frozen yogurt franchise, Yogurtland offers a variety of flavors and toppings, allowing customers to create personalized desserts. With locations across the U.S. and internationally, Yogurtland stands out by using real ingredients and proprietary recipes, delivering a consistently delicious experience.

SERVICES

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petbar Boutique

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Black and white portrait of Dan & Ashley O’Loughlin, Founders of petbar Boutique, holding a small dog with a background of pet photos, framed in a circular gradient border of blue and purple hues, with the text 'petbar Boutique' in bold white and 'Dan & Ashley O’Loughlin, Founders' below on a teal background.

Providing pet grooming services, self-service wash stations, and a selection of pet products, petbar Boutique offers a convenient and enjoyable experience for pet owners. Located in various states, they stand out with their membership options, professional groomers, and a spa-like environment for pets. With locations in Texas, Florida, Georgia, Missouri and South Carolina, the franchise is rapidly expanding across the U.S.

JAN-PRO

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Black and white portrait of Gary Bauer, President of JAN-PRO, framed in a circular gradient border of blue and purple hues, with the text 'JAN-PRO' in bold white and 'Gary Bauer, President' below on a teal background.

JAN-PRO Cleaning & Disinfecting is a commercial cleaning franchise that provides reliable, consistent and professional commercial cleaning services. With over 30 years of experience and the most advanced products and equipment to ensure clean, healthy environments, JAN-PRO guarantees great service and that nothing is overlooked.

Lightbridge Academy

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Black and white portrait of Gigi Schweikert, CEO of Lightbridge Academy, framed in a circular gradient border of blue and purple hues, with the text 'Lightbridge Academy' in bold white and 'Gigi Schweikert, CEO' below on a teal background.

Following a Circle of Care philosophy, placing equal importance on the needs of children, their families, center owners and the community, Lightbridge Academy offers early education and childcare for children aged six weeks through kindergarten. With over 150 childcare centers across the country, the franchise is recognized for its core values and ability to unlock a child's academic, social, and emotional potential.

Stellar Service Brands

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Black and white portrait of Jessica Wescott, CEO of Stellar Service Brands, framed in a circular gradient border of blue and purple hues, with the text 'Stellar Service Brands' in bold white and 'Jessica Wescott, CEO' below on a teal background.

Headquartered in Dallas, Stellar Service Brands is a leading franchisor with award-winning brands, such as Restoration 1, bluefrog Plumbing & Drain and Softroc. Providing key franchise opportunities within the home services industry, Stellar Service Brands prides itself on its community-driven approach to franchising, giving people across the country the opportunity to become entrepreneurs and own their own businesses.

Take 5 Oil Change

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Black and white portrait of Mo Khalid, EVP and Group President of Take 5 Oil Change, framed in a circular gradient border of blue and purple hues, with the text 'Take 5 Oil Change' in bold white and 'Mo Khalid, EVP and Group President' below on a teal background.

Providing quick and convenient oil change services, Take 5 Oil Change allows customers to stay in their vehicles during the process. Predominantly located in the Southeastern U.S., Take 5 is distinguished by its efficient drive-thru service model, emphasizing speed and customer convenience. The brand’s growth continues to accelerate, recently earning the #27 spot on Entrepreneur's 2025 Fastest-Growing Franchises list—its highest ranking yet.

HEALTH & FITNESS

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StretchLab

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Black and white portrait of Verdine Baker, President of StretchLab, framed in a circular gradient border of blue and purple hues, with the text 'StretchLab' in bold white and 'Verdine Baker, President' below on a teal background.

Providing one-on-one assisted stretching sessions with trained Flexologists®, StretchLab aims to improve flexibility, enhance movement, and reduce pain. With one-on-one customized stretch sessions, they offer personalized stretching routines in an open, fun, and energetic environment, helping clients achieve their wellness goals. Located across the U.S., StretchLab is growing fast and quickly expanding its fitness footprint.

Hello Sugar

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Black and white portrait of Brigham Dallas, Founder & CEO of Hello Sugar, framed in a circular gradient border of blue and purple hues, with the text 'Hello Sugar' in bold white and 'Brigham Dallas, Founder & CEO' below on a teal background.

Founded by Brigham Dallas in 2015, Hello Sugar is on a mission to create an incredible waxing experience, where customers feel comfortable during their most vulnerable services. Through spicy personalities and exceptionally skilled aestheticians, the Hello Sugar franchise is on the move with 129 open locations and 500 territories primed. Through a more lean salon-suite first approach, Hello Sugar is helping entrepreneurs build their dreams, while also mitigating the traditional risk and expanding the business when the time is right.

BrightStar Care

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Black and white portrait of Andrew Ray, CEO of BrightStar Care, framed in a circular gradient border of blue and purple hues, with the text 'BrightStar Care' in bold white and 'Andrew Ray, CEO' below on a teal background.

BrightStar Care is a national private in-home care and medical staffing franchise that provides medical and non-medical care to individuals of all ages. Known for quality care and comprehensive support, BrightStar Care believes in the impact of going the extra mile. In addition to receiving industry awards and accolades, such as the recent Best of Home Care Awards, BrightStar Care was also named to Entrepreneur’s 2025 Franchise 500 list, demonstrating their ongoing growth and expansion.

Pvolve

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Black and white portrait of Rachel Katzman, Founder of Pvolve, framed in a circular gradient border of blue and purple hues, with the text 'Pvolve' in bold white and 'Rachel Katzman, Founder' below on a teal background.

As a clinically backed workout and fitness franchise, Pvolve prioritizes functional movement and low-impact workouts. Aiming to improve strength, stability and mobility, the fitness company focuses on simulating movements for real-life activities and situations. With proprietary resistance equipment and a hybrid fitness model, Pvolve offers a new kind of workout that leaves people feeling revitalized and energized.

HOSPITALITY

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PickleRage

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Black and white portrait of David Smith, COO of PickleRage, framed in a circular gradient border of blue and purple hues, with the text 'PickleRage' in bold white and 'David Smith, COO' below on a teal background.

Created for players by players, PickleRage Indoor Pickleball clubs are the premier destination for pickleball enthusiasts. With top-quality indoor courts featuring high-grade materials for optimal playability and safety, this franchise provides a vibrant community for both casual games and competitive tournaments.

Dream Vacations

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Black and white portrait of Jeff Tolkin, CEO of Dream Vacations, framed in a circular gradient border of blue and purple hues, with the text 'Dream Vacations' in bold white and 'Jeff Tolkin, CEO' below on a teal background.

Dream Vacations is an award-winning home-based travel franchise. With over 2,000 franchise owners, the company is regarded as one of the industry’s best home-based travel agencies. With the ability to work from anywhere, this virtual franchise offers entrepreneurs the chance to own their own businesses with limited overhead.

All American Pet Resorts

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Black and white portrait of Yolanda and Art Rimbold, Founders of All American Pet Resorts, framed in a circular gradient border of blue and purple hues, with the text 'All American Pet Resorts' in bold white and 'Yolanda and Art Rimbold, Founders' below on a teal background.

For pet parents, having peace of mind that your furry friend is taken care of when you’re away is critical and that is what pet franchise All American Pet Resorts values most. The all-inclusive dog boarding and daycare resort provides boarding, daycare and grooming with safe and secure accommodations for pets. Staffed by Pet Care Specialists 24/7, 365 days a year, the All American Pet Resorts franchise is redefining what doggy-daycare looks like with an upscale and customer-focused experience.

Grand Welcome

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Black and white portrait of Patrick Stewart, CEO of Grand Welcome, framed in a circular gradient border of blue and purple hues, with the text 'Grand Welcome' in bold white and 'Patrick Stewart, CEO' below on a teal background.

As a leading vacation rental management franchise, Grand Welcome provides property owners and travelers a premium vacation experience. With over 90 territories across the U.S., Grand Welcome offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to rapidly grow in the booming travel industry with the support of an established brand and network.

ALCOHOL & SPIRITS

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Hoppin’

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Black and white portrait of Rich Moyer, Founder & CEO of Hoppin’, framed in a circular gradient border of blue and purple hues, with the text 'Hoppin’' in bold white and 'Rich Moyer, Founder & CEO' below on a teal background.

Founded in 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina, Hoppin’ is a self-serve taproom where guests can enjoy beer, wine or cocktails without ever needing a bartender. Leveraging self-pour technology, Hoppin’ provides a one-of-a-kind customer experience with a rotating selection of drinks and partnerships with local vendors.

The Brass Tap

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Black and white portrait of Chris Elliot, CEO of The Brass Tap, framed in a circular gradient border of blue and purple hues, with the text 'The Brass Tap' in bold white and 'Chris Elliot, CEO' below on a teal background.

Providing localized offerings with top-tier hospitality, The Brass Tap is a bar franchise that delivers world class cocktails and premium food selections, coupled with an energized and upbeat environment, perfect for live music, trivia or just watching the latest games. Recently named to Franchise Times’ Top 400 List, The Brass Tap has locations across the U.S., expanding its footprint and offerings for franchisees and customers alike.

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From services to spirits and everything in between, these franchises are rapidly making their mark on the industry, providing customers with a quality experience and giving entrepreneurs the opportunity for success. If you’re looking to grow or market your franchise brand, our team can be your partner to guide your marketing strategy every step of the way. Contact us to learn more