Best of the Best The 116 companies ranked the best in their categories in our 2003 Franchise 500 listing

The term "best" is arguably one of the most overusedwords in our society. It can describe everything from theyear's most meaningful film to a mediocre hamburger. Some saythe word has been applied so subjectively, so often, that it'slost all meaning. Our solution? Apply it in a quantifiablecontext.

Our annual Franchise500^® does just that. We rank the top franchisesby applying objective criteria and are therefore able to narrow ourlist down to the top 10 franchises of the year. And based on our2003 Franchise 500^®, we've also come up withthe top franchises in each of 116 categories. Whether you'reinterested in an automotive or a pet franchise, look at whatwe've determined to be the "best" franchises in yourcategory.

Still, the list is not intended to endorse any particularfranchise, but to serve as a starting point for your independentresearch. This should include analyzing a company's literatureand UFOC, calling and visiting existing franchisees, and speakingwith an attorney and accountant before purchasing any franchise.It's the best strategy for finding the best franchise foryou.