Franchise
Chick-fil-A in Gay-Rights Fracas as Supporters Line Up
BY Dinah Wisenberg Brin
Proponents of Chick-fil-A President Dan Cathy's same-sex marriage position keep the culture war going today with an unofficial "Chick-fil-A Appreciation Day."
From Small-Town Day Spa to Flourishing Franchise
BY David Port
How a contrarian approach helped one entrepreneur scale her spa business to more than 25 franchise units in 14 states.
Top 10 Franchises for Veterans
BY Tracy Stapp
They want you: These franchises are embracing and supporting former military personnel in a big way.
Kid Franchises Tap the Tyke Market
BY Dinah Wisenberg Brin
Whether its playstation-equipped restaurants or swim schools, franchise companies are targeting kids -- and the parents who will pay up for their services.
The Biggest Lessons Franchisors Learned About Social Media
BY Jason Daley
The franchise world has finally embraced social media. A look at the new services and policies helping the franchise systems work together, plus three tips to build a social fan base.
Look Out Lunch Ladies, Here Comes Wholesome Tummies
BY Jason Daley
This new franchise delivers meals to schools and kicks PB&J to the curb.
Franchisee Rolling in Green from Recycling Other People's Clutter
BY Jason Daley
This 1-800-Got-Junk franchisee collects other people's unwanted stuff and finds a use for everything viable from clients' homes.
Small-Business Lending: Getting Better, Still Not Great
BY Catherine Clifford
Small-business lending has been showing signs of life, albeit not the activity seen before the recession.
Franchises Turn to Automated Customer Feedback
BY Jason Daley
Innovative software empowers franchise owners to respond to customer reviews instantly.
Freedom in a Fashion Franchise
BY Jason Daley
Apricot Lane franchises operate as true boutiques. And they're growing fast.
After a Post-9/11 Slump, an Entrepreneur Turns to Franchising
BY Jason Daley
Greg Carafello was at his flagship location on Sept. 11. He escaped after the second plane hit. Not only did he lose his main branch, but also his best friend.
The Top New Franchises of 2012
BY Tracy Stapp
New franchises are holding their own against older competition
How to Avoid a Franchise Fad
BY Sarah Max
Before sinking your money into a hot franchise concept, make sure it's the real deal -- not a dead duck.
Fitness Franchises Muscle Up
BY Sarah Max
January is when Americans migrate from the bottomless eggnog bowl to the gym. Not surprisingly, fitness clubs win at least a third of all new memberships at the start of the year.
Franchises a Draw for Minority Entrepreneurs
BY Dinah Wisenberg Brin
A greater percentage of Asians, African-Americans and other minorities are buying into franchised businesses, as opposed to starting their own independent businesses, says a recent study from the International Franchise Association.
Franchise Industry to Grow in 2012 -- Report
BY Catherine Clifford
The coming year will see modest growth for the franchise sector, according to the International Franchise Association's annual forecast for 2012.
10 Industry Trends for Franchises in 2012
BY Tracy Stapp
From burgers to child care to staying fit, our annual list of trends in the franchise world shows where to consider putting your money to make money.
Ya, Mon: A Franchise for Hydroponic Equipment
BY Jason Daley
A hydroponic equipment outlet brings production of medical marijuana to light.
How to Create a Succession Plan for a Franchise Business
BY Jason Daley
Passing a franchise from one generation to the next can be fraught with complexities. A smart succession plan will ease the transition.
For Paralyzed Athlete, Franchise Is Good Fit
BY Dinah Wisenberg Brin
J.J. O'Connor suffered a life-changing hockey injury at 16. Today, he's in the process of opening his fourth Sport Clips location -- and enjoying life as a business owner.
20-Something Entrepreneur Multiplies Success in a Salad Franchise
BY Jason Daley
A former mall rat serves up fresh ideas with Saladworks franchises in three states.
Turning Jocks Into Franchise Owners
BY Dinah Wisenberg Brin
A new program aims to help professional athletes tackle the franchise world when they retire from sports.
Help! My Franchise Is Failing
BY Jeff Elgin
If your business hits a rough patch, you should be able to turn to your franchisor for assistance. Here's what you can expect to receive.
Facebook Friends Franchises
BY Dinah Wisenberg Brin
The social-networking giant joins the International Franchise Association, with plans to appear at the trade group's annual meeting.



