10 Franchises with High Return on Investment in 2025

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Investing in a franchise can be a lucrative way to enter the world of business ownership, especially when you’re looking for high returns on investment (ROI). However, choosing the right franchise is critical to maximizing your financial success. The ideal franchise is one with a proven business model, strong brand recognition, and high-profit potential.

This article explores the top 10 franchises with high return on investment for 2025. We’ll evaluate the business models, cost structures, market potential, and support systems of each franchise to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or a first-time entrepreneur, understanding the best opportunities in franchising can be the key to building a successful business.

Table of Contents

What Makes a Franchise Offer High ROI?

To determine which franchises offer high ROI, it’s important to consider several factors:

  • Brand Strength: Franchises with strong, recognizable brands are often more successful because customers are already familiar with their products and services.

  • Profit Margins: High-profit margin franchises typically require less effort to generate revenue, making them a more attractive option for potential franchisees.

  • Initial Investment: The lower the initial investment, the quicker you can start seeing returns. A higher initial investment usually comes with higher risks but could offer significant rewards if the business is successful.

  • Franchise Support: Franchisors who offer ongoing training, marketing assistance, and operational support can help franchisees achieve a higher ROI by reducing the operational burdens.

The Top 10 Franchises with High ROI in 2025

Here are 10 franchises that offer exceptional return on investment based on their business model, profitability, and brand strength:

1. McDonald’s: A Global Leader in Franchising

Overview of McDonald’s Franchise

McDonald’s is one of the most iconic fast-food chains in the world, offering a tried-and-true business model with consistent returns. As a McDonald’s franchisee, you benefit from a globally recognized brand, a strong customer base, and comprehensive training and operational support from the franchisor.

Initial Investment and Return

  • Initial Investment: $1 million to $2.3 million

  • Average Annual Revenue: $2.5 million (per unit)

  • Royalty Fees: 4% of gross sales

  • Why it Offers High ROI: McDonald’s extensive marketing, established supply chain, and world-class training programs allow franchisees to run successful businesses almost anywhere globally.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros: High brand recognition, proven business model, high foot traffic.

  • Cons: High initial investment and ongoing royalty fees.

2. Dunkin’ Donuts: Sweet Profits from Coffee and Donuts

Overview of Dunkin’ Donuts Franchise

Dunkin’ Donuts has become a go-to destination for coffee lovers and donut enthusiasts alike. With its franchise model offering scalability and a strong brand presence, it has attracted thousands of entrepreneurs around the globe.

Initial Investment and Return

  • Initial Investment: $250,000 to $1.7 million

  • Average Annual Revenue: $1.2 million (per unit)

  • Royalty Fees: 5.9% of gross sales

  • Why it Offers High ROI: The popularity of coffee and convenience food makes Dunkin’ Donuts an appealing choice for franchisees. With ongoing innovation and marketing support, franchisees can quickly attract customers.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros: Strong brand, low cost of entry, high customer demand.

  • Cons: Intense competition in the coffee and fast-food industry.

3. 7-Eleven: A Convenience Store with Impressive Profit Potential

Overview of 7-Eleven Franchise

7-Eleven is a global leader in convenience retail, known for offering a wide range of products from snacks to household essentials. With a low initial investment and high revenue potential, 7-Eleven is often seen as a top choice for franchisees seeking high returns.

Initial Investment and Return

  • Initial Investment: $37,200 to $1.1 million

  • Average Annual Revenue: $1.8 million (per unit)

  • Royalty Fees: 50% of gross profit

  • Why it Offers High ROI: 7-Eleven’s 24-hour service model, low overhead costs, and scalable operations make it a profitable franchise option.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros: Low startup cost, high revenue potential, flexibility in location.

  • Cons: High royalty fees, reliance on foot traffic.

4. The UPS Store: Capitalizing on the Need for Shipping and Postal Services

Overview of The UPS Store Franchise

The UPS Store is a leading provider of postal and shipping services, printing, and packaging solutions. The company has seen consistent growth, thanks to the increasing demand for shipping services, especially in e-commerce.

Initial Investment and Return

  • Initial Investment: $138,000 to $470,000

  • Average Annual Revenue: $600,000 (per unit)

  • Royalty Fees: 5% of gross sales

  • Why it Offers High ROI: With e-commerce booming and people increasingly relying on shipping services, The UPS Store offers strong revenue potential with a relatively low initial investment.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros: High demand for services, low startup cost, scalable operations.

  • Cons: Dependent on local market conditions, smaller profit margins compared to other franchises.

5. RE/MAX: Real Estate Franchise with Strong Returns

Overview of RE/MAX Franchise

RE/MAX is one of the largest real estate franchises globally, providing its agents and franchisees with extensive support, brand recognition, and innovative technology. Real estate is a high-commission business, and RE/MAX provides franchisees with everything needed to succeed in a competitive market.

Initial Investment and Return

  • Initial Investment: $50,000 to $500,000

  • Average Annual Revenue: $1 million (per unit)

  • Royalty Fees: 6% of gross sales

  • Why it Offers High ROI: With its leading market share in real estate and a strong commission-based structure, RE/MAX offers the potential for high earnings with relatively low ongoing expenses.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros: Strong brand, high earnings potential, established business model.

  • Cons: Requires knowledge of the real estate market, ongoing training and education needed.

6. Anytime Fitness: A Fast-Growing Fitness Franchise

Overview of Anytime Fitness Franchise

Anytime Fitness is a 24/7 gym franchise that offers a membership-based fitness model. With the global rise in health and wellness, Anytime Fitness has capitalized on the growing trend of fitness culture, offering franchisees an opportunity to tap into this lucrative industry.

Initial Investment and Return

  • Initial Investment: $100,000 to $400,000

  • Average Annual Revenue: $500,000 (per unit)

  • Royalty Fees: 6% of gross sales

  • Why it Offers High ROI: With flexible membership models and minimal overhead, Anytime Fitness franchises have low operating costs and high scalability potential.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros: Growing health and wellness industry, flexible business model, recurring revenue.

  • Cons: High competition in the fitness market, need for local marketing.

7. Planet Fitness: Capitalizing on the Fitness Boom

Overview of Planet Fitness Franchise

Planet Fitness has grown to become one of the largest fitness chains in the U.S., known for its affordable membership options and non-intimidating gym atmosphere. The brand’s focus on affordability has attracted millions of customers, creating a thriving franchise opportunity.

Initial Investment and Return

  • Initial Investment: $1 million to $4.5 million

  • Average Annual Revenue: $2 million (per unit)

  • Royalty Fees: 7% of gross sales

  • Why it Offers High ROI: With a low-cost membership model, large customer base, and continuous expansion, Planet Fitness is a top contender for anyone looking to enter the fitness industry.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros: Huge market demand, strong brand, scalable model.

  • Cons: High initial investment, operating costs can be significant.

8. Great Clips: High-Volume Haircut Services

Overview of Great Clips Franchise

Great Clips is one of the largest and most recognized hair salon chains, offering affordable haircuts in a fast-paced, high-traffic setting. It’s an ideal franchise for those seeking a low-maintenance, high-volume business.

Initial Investment and Return

  • Initial Investment: $150,000 to $300,000

  • Average Annual Revenue: $500,000 (per unit)

  • Royalty Fees: 6% of gross sales

  • Why it Offers High ROI: Great Clips offers a low-cost, scalable franchise opportunity with strong demand and repeat customers.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros: Strong brand, high customer loyalty, low overhead costs.

  • Cons: Dependence on local market conditions, moderate competition.

9. Culver’s: Fast-Casual Dining with High Demand

Overview of Culver’s Franchise

Culver’s is a fast-casual restaurant chain known for its butterburgers and frozen custard. The brand offers a friendly dining experience with a focus on quality ingredients and customer service.

Initial Investment and Return

  • Initial Investment: $2.3 million to $5.5 million

  • Average Annual Revenue: $3 million (per unit)

  • Royalty Fees: 4% of gross sales

  • Why it Offers High ROI: With a growing brand and a loyal customer base, Culver’s offers high-profit potential in the competitive fast-food industry.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros: High revenue potential, strong brand loyalty, excellent training and support.

  • Cons: High initial investment, heavy competition in the food industry.

10. The Maids: Growing Demand for Professional Cleaning Services

Overview of The Maids Franchise

The Maids is a professional cleaning service franchise that offers residential and commercial cleaning solutions. With a growing demand for cleaning services in both residential and business sectors, this franchise has seen significant growth.

Initial Investment and Return

  • Initial Investment: $125,000 to $175,000

  • Average Annual Revenue: $450,000 (per unit)

  • Royalty Fees: 5% of gross sales

  • Why it Offers High ROI: Low startup costs, recurring revenue, and increasing demand for cleaning services make this a great opportunity for franchisees.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros: High demand for services, low operating costs, scalability.

  • Cons: Requires efficient management and staffing, competition in local markets.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Franchise for High ROI

Selecting the right franchise can be a game-changer in achieving financial independence and long-term success. Each of the franchises mentioned above offers unique advantages, from high-profit potential to strong brand recognition. The key is to evaluate your budget, location, and personal business goals to determine the best franchise for your needs.

Before making an investment, it’s important to conduct thorough research, talk to existing franchisees, and consult with professionals to ensure that the franchise you choose aligns with your personal and financial goals.

FAQs

  1. What is the average ROI for a franchise?

    • The average ROI varies by industry, but most successful franchises can see returns of 10-20% annually.

  2. How much capital is needed to start a high-ROI franchise?

    • High-ROI franchises typically require an investment ranging from $200,000 to over $5 million, depending on the industry.

  3. What factors affect the ROI of a franchise?

    • Key factors include brand recognition, market demand, location, and operational efficiency.

  4. Are high-ROI franchises risky?

    • Like any business, there are risks involved, but established franchises offer lower risk due to their proven business models.

  5. Can I finance a franchise?

    • Yes, many franchisors offer financing options, or you can secure financing through banks or SBA loans.