Food Franchise Opportunities

Business trends come and go, but fast food is here to stay, and fast food franchises for sale remain popular points of interest for entrepreneurs. Ever since their boom in the 1950s, food franchises have remained a mainstay of the American economy. The numbers practically speak for themselves:

• Food franchises make up more than 36% of total franchises in the US and employ over 50% of all franchise workers

• The food franchise industry generates sales of nearly $500 billion per year

• 61% of food franchise establishments are fast food. 24% are retail food (i.e., convenience stores) and 15% are full-service restaurants

The food franchise industry is a diverse one, comprising everything from full-service, sit-down dining to grab-and-go convenience stores to pop-up coffee stands and ubiquitous food trucks. Major segments of the industry include:

Fast food: By far the powerhouse of the food franchise industry, albeit one that must adjust rapidly to shifting consumer preferences. Many have increased their relevance by hopping on opportunities to offer healthy food as part of their franchise.

Full service: This sector comprises 5% of all franchised establishments in the United States.

Coffee: Thanks to the ubiquity of coffee drinkers, these franchises have staying power.

Pizza: While met with recent challenges, the pizza franchise industry has bounced back with strong growth thanks to its adaptability.

Food gifting: An $18 billion industry, food gifting allows customers to send baked goods, candy and the like to recipients.

Bakery: Bakery franchises, which sell not only baked goods but also soups, sandwiches, coffee and other beverages, have enjoyed consistent growth over the past decade.

Juice & smoothie: This industry generates $2 billion in annual sales.