Emerging franchise opportunities represent a dynamic avenue for investors and aspiring entrepreneurs seeking fast-growth potential and innovation in the US market. New franchises often embody upcoming franchise trends that cater to evolving consumer demands and technological advancements.
Choosing from these best franchises to invest in can yield profitable franchise opportunities with scalable business models that adapt to changing market conditions.
Are you keen to find out more? Keep reading below for our key selection criteria, success indicators, the top 10 emerging franchise opportunities that you could consider, and much more.
In this article:
Key Selection Criteria
When selecting emerging franchises, three key criteria stand out:
- Fast-growth potential: Franchises operating in sectors with rising consumer interest and expanding markets.
- Innovation: Businesses leveraging technology, novel concepts, or sustainable practices.
- Consumer demand: Franchises addressing current lifestyle trends such as health, convenience, and eco-consciousness.
Top 10 Emerging Franchise Opportunities
And now, without further ado, here’s our list of top 10 emerging franchise opportunities in the US.
1. Sustainable food franchises
Sustainable food franchises are at the forefront of upcoming franchise trends, driven by consumer demand for eco-friendly dining and health-conscious options. Brands in this space focus on plant-based menus, locally sourced ingredients, and reducing waste through sustainable packaging.
For example, VeganBurg and Greens and Grains are leading the plant-based movement, offering menus that cater to vegans, vegetarians, and flexitarians alike. These franchises not only appeal to environmentally aware consumers but also benefit from growing regulatory and social pressures for sustainability.
The sector’s fast-growth potential is underpinned by the surge in health and wellness spending, with the global health food market expected to surpass $1.5 trillion by 2025.
Franchisees are supported by proven business models and strong brand messaging around sustainability, making these some of the best franchises to invest in for long-term profitability.
2. Pet services
The pet services sector is booming, fuelled by rising pet ownership and a growing willingness among consumers to spend on premium care. Franchise brands in this space offer services ranging from grooming and daycare to training and even pet-friendly cleaning.
Ecomaids, for instance, provides eco-friendly cleaning services that are safe for families and pets, tapping into the dual trends of sustainability and pet care. These businesses are highly scalable and often benefit from recurring revenue models, as pet owners seek regular, reliable services.
The sector’s innovation is evident in mobile pet grooming and tech-enabled booking platforms, which enhance convenience for busy pet parents. With strong consumer demand and the potential for high margins, pet service franchises are a profitable choice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking for stability and growth.
3. Mobile businesses
Mobile franchises are redefining the franchise landscape by offering asset-light, flexible business models that require minimal upfront investment. These businesses, such as mobile cleaning, restoration, or home maintenance services, allow franchisees to operate without the need for a permanent retail location.
Clean Air Lawn Care exemplifies this trend, using solar-powered equipment and organic treatments to deliver eco-friendly lawn services directly to customers’ homes. The mobile model appeals to entrepreneurs seeking lower risk and higher margins, as well as the ability to scale rapidly across multiple territories.
With consumer preferences shifting towards convenience and on-demand services, mobile franchises are well-positioned to capitalize on these profitable franchise opportunities.
4. Virtual brands and app-based services
Virtual brands and app-based franchises are emerging as some of the most innovative franchise opportunities, leveraging technology to deliver services without the need for traditional storefronts.
These brands often operate as delivery-only food concepts or app-based service providers, reducing overheads and enabling rapid market entry. The rise of ghost kitchens and delivery-only models, such as those seen in the fast-casual dining sector, demonstrates the scalability and adaptability of these franchises.
By focusing on digital-first customer experiences, these brands can quickly respond to changing consumer trends and expand into new markets with minimal risk. Franchisees benefit from robust digital infrastructure and ongoing support, making virtual brands a compelling option for tech-savvy investors.
5. Health and wellness franchises
Health and wellness franchises are experiencing rapid growth as consumers prioritise fitness, mental health, and holistic well-being. Brands in this sector offer services ranging from boutique fitness studios and wellness clinics to healthy meal prep and nutritional coaching.
The demand for personalised, nutrient-rich meals is especially strong, with franchises like those specialising in acai bowls, superfoods, and meal prep services gaining popularity. These businesses often feature subscription-based or recurring revenue models, enhancing profitability and customer retention.
With the wellness market valued at $480 billion and rising, health and wellness franchises present a low-risk, high-reward opportunity for investors looking to align with consumer values and upcoming franchise trends.
6. Home services
Home services franchises, including cleaning, landscaping, and smart-home integration, are thriving due to ongoing demand from homeowners and the rise of remote work. Ecomaids stands out in this sector, offering toxin-free, eco-friendly cleaning solutions for homes and offices.
These franchises benefit from strong consumer demand for convenience and quality, as well as the ability to operate with flexible schedules and scalable operations. Innovation in this space includes the use of green products, digital booking systems, and customer loyalty programmes.
Home services franchises are considered some of the best franchises to invest in for those seeking steady income and long-term growth potential.
7. Education franchises
Education franchises are capitalising on the growing emphasis on STEM learning, tutoring, and enrichment programmes for children.
These franchises offer after-school classes, coding workshops, and test preparation services, catering to parents who prioritise their children’s academic success. The sector’s resilience is evident in its ability to adapt to online and hybrid learning models, expanding reach and accessibility.
Brands in this space often provide comprehensive training and curriculum support, enabling franchisees to deliver high-quality educational experiences. As the demand for personalised and supplementary education continues to rise, education franchises remain a profitable and impactful investment choice.
8. Fast-casual dining
Fast-casual dining franchises are evolving with a focus on healthier, globally inspired menus and efficient, tech-driven service. Poké franchises, such as Island Fin Poké and Aloha Poke Co., exemplify this trend by offering customisable, nutrient-rich bowls in a quick-service format.
These brands require lower build-out costs and minimal kitchen equipment, making them accessible to new franchisees. The sector’s innovation includes app-based ordering, loyalty programmes, and eco-friendly packaging, appealing to modern diners seeking convenience and sustainability.
With consumer preferences shifting towards fast, healthy, and customisable meals, fast-casual dining franchises are among the most promising emerging franchise opportunities for 2025.
9. Retail and logistics
Retail and logistics franchises are benefitting from the continued growth of e-commerce and the need for efficient delivery and support services. Brands specialising in pack-and-ship, tech support, and last-mile delivery are in high demand, offering essential services to both consumers and businesses.
These franchises often feature streamlined operations and robust training, enabling franchisees to quickly establish a presence in their local markets. Technology integration, such as automated inventory management and real-time tracking, enhances efficiency and customer satisfaction.
With the e-commerce sector showing no signs of slowing down, retail and logistics franchises present a stable and scalable investment opportunity.
10. Outdoor space construction/remodelling
Outdoor living space franchises are expanding as homeowners invest in enhancing their properties for comfort, entertainment, and sustainability. Brands in this sector offer services such as landscaping, patio construction, and eco-friendly lawn care.
Clean Air Lawn Care is a notable example, providing solar-powered, organic lawn services that appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. These franchises benefit from seasonal demand and the growing trend towards outdoor living, particularly in suburban and rural markets.
With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and customer service, outdoor space construction and remodelling franchises are well-positioned for growth in 2025 and beyond
Success Indicators for Emerging Franchises
Emerging franchises that perform well in early markets, provide robust franchisor support, and demonstrate scalability are more likely to succeed. Strong training, marketing assistance, and adaptable business models are crucial for franchisees to thrive
Risk vs. Reward in Emerging Franchises
Evaluating the stability of new brands involves assessing their market validation, financial health, and support systems.
While emerging franchises offer high reward potential, they carry risks related to unproven concepts and market volatility. Careful due diligence on franchisor track records and industry trends mitigates these risks
Spotlight on Technology-Driven Franchise Models
Technology-driven franchises are at the forefront of 2025 trends. App-based services, automated retail, and delivery-focused food brands use artificial intelligence (AI) and automation to enhance efficiency and customer experience.
These models enable faster scalability, lower operational costs, and appeal to tech-savvy consumers and franchisees alike
Conclusion
The franchise market in 2025 is vibrant with emerging opportunities across sustainable food, pet care, mobile businesses, and technology-driven models.
By focusing on fast-growth potential, innovation, and consumer demand, you can identify the best franchises to invest in.
While risks exist, franchises with strong early performance, franchisor support, and scalability offer promising paths to profitability and long-term success.
