Franchise ownership is a great way to start a business with less risk and more guidance. While starting a business can initially seem intimidating, franchises can provide a solid foundation for success, especially for beginners. For instance, many come prepared with a proven business model, established brand recognition, and in many cases, strong operational support.
If you’re new to business ownership and want to consider the best franchises that will set you up for success, this blog is for you. We’ve compiled the following list of the best franchises to own for beginners this year. The franchises listed in this blog were chosen based on specific criteria, which are perfect for those just starting out.
Our Criteria for Choosing the Best Franchises
To narrow down on the following top 10 franchises to own for beginners this year, we’ve considered several important factors listed below.
| Investment Range | We focused on franchises with relatively low initial investment requirements, making them more accessible for new business owners. |
| Ease of Operation | We included franchises that have an easy-to-follow business model and provide excellent support. |
| Brand Recognition | Our top 10 franchises have strong brand recognition, which will help draw in customers from day one. |
| Training & Support | All recommended franchises offer extensive training and ongoing operational support. |
| Growth Potential | Franchises with scalability and strong market demand. |
1. Subway
Subway is a well-known and respected American multinational fast food restaurant franchise. It’s a great option if you’re just starting your business journey. Why? It’s one of the most affordable and accessible options. Subway is an established brand with an appealing and well-recognized menu, so attracting customers will be easier. Subway also has a simple business model and provides solid training and support.
| Initial Investment | $240,000 – $540,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $15,000 flat fee for all new U.S. franchises |
| Support & Training | Comprehensive training via online and in-person |
| Why It’s Beginner-Friendly | Affordable investment, strong brand recognition, and proven operational success |
2. Supercuts
Supercuts offers a simple salon model with low operational complexity, and you don’t have to be a licensed hairdresser to open a shop. The brand’s strong reputation in the hair care industry and its easy-to-operate business model structure make it a solid choice for newcomers to the franchise world.
| Initial Investment | $184,000 – $317,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $39,500 development fee for single-unit agreements |
| Support & Training | Extensive training on operations and customer service |
| Why It’s Beginner-Friendly | Low overhead, brand recognition, and a simple operation model |
3. Jersey Mike’s
Jersey Mike’s is a rapidly growing submarine sandwich chain headquartered in Manasquan, New Jersey. It’s well-known for its fresh, high-quality ingredients. The franchise model offers excellent support and training, and comes along with a strong customer base. This is an excellent choice for those looking for growth potential and a highly marketable brand.
| Initial Investment | $182,000 – $2,340,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $18,500 per location for single-unit franchises |
| Support & Training | Comprehensive training and ongoing support |
| Why It’s Beginner-Friendly | Strong brand recognition, low overhead, and growth potential |
4. Anytime Fitness
Anytime Fitness is the second largest U.S. gym franchise that is open 24 hours, 365 days a year. The brand’s proven business model and relatively low initial investment make it an attractive option for new entrepreneurs.
| Initial Investment | $459,000 – $908,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $42,500 standard; discounts for veterans and multi-unit owners |
| Support & Training | Ongoing support for gym operations and membership retention |
| Why It’s Beginner-Friendly | Low overhead, flexible business hours, and a recurring revenue model |
5. 7-Eleven
7-Eleven is a well-known global convenience store franchise with strong brand recognition. It has a flexible business model and comes with steady customer traffic. It’s a great option for hands-on operators with retail experience and beginners who want to operate in the retail space with access to training and high-touch support.
| Initial Investment | $142,000 – $1,630,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $25K standard; $15K for new franchisees under 2024 incentive |
| Support & Training | Extensive support, from site development to daily operations |
| Why It’s Beginner-Friendly | Brand recognition, flexibility, and strong operational support |
6. JAN-PRO
JAN-PRO is a commercial cleaning service franchise with low overhead and minimal staffing requirements. The demand for cleaning services is growing across industries. It’s a great option for self-motivated, detail-oriented owner-operators, and one of the best franchises to own for beginners.
| Initial Investment | $4,000 – $55,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $2,500–$44,000 tiered by startup package |
| Support & Training | Comprehensive operational support and training |
| Why It’s Beginner-Friendly | Low startup costs and a scalable service model |
7. Domino’s Pizza
Domino’s is a leading U.S. pizza franchise with a proven track record of success. It provides franchisees with extensive training and operational support, making it one of the best franchises for beginners, especially those looking for a fast-paced, high-demand business.
| Initial Investment | $156,000 – $744,000 |
| Franchise Fee | Up to $10K, often waived or discounted |
| Support & Training | Extensive training and operational support |
| Why It’s Beginner-Friendly | High demand, proven success, and comprehensive support |
8. Wingstop
Wingstop is a restaurant franchise that specializes in chicken wings. They have a national presence, NFL sponsorship, and a strong customer base. The franchise provides great growth opportunities and scalable operations, which are ideal for beginners interested in getting started in the food industry.
| Initial Investment | $298,000 – $1,001,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $25,000 flat fee per location |
| Support & Training | Ongoing training and operational support |
| Why It’s Beginner-Friendly | Proven business model, strong growth, and brand recognition |
9. Signarama
Signarama is a well-known B2B signage brand with a 35+ year history. It has a relatively low overhead and a simple business model. It’s an excellent option for new B2B-focused owners with a sales drive who are comfortable managing teams. The need for signage in business is constant and comes with modest growth potential.
| Initial Investment | $200,000 – $350,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $49,500 standard; discounts for veterans, employees, multi-unit owners |
| Support & Training | Extensive support and training |
| Why It’s Beginner-Friendly | Low overhead, consistent demand for services, and strong brand |
10. Cruise Planners
Cruise Planners offers home-based travel franchise opportunities ideal for motivated, self-starting travel lovers with strong networks. With the rise in travel and increased demand for vacation planning, it provides a flexible business model ideal for beginners who want to work from home.
| Initial Investment | $2,000 – $20,500 |
| Franchise Fee | $695–$10,995 depending on advisor experience level |
| Support & Training | Comprehensive training and support |
| Why It’s Beginner-Friendly | Home-based flexibility, low initial investment, and growth potential |
Still on the Fence? Contact Franchise.com Today!
Starting a franchise is an excellent way for new entrepreneurs to enter the business world, backed by proven business models and with the training and support they need to be successful. Whether you’re interested in food, fitness, or a home-based business, there’s an ideal franchise opportunity for everyone.
If you’re still on the fence, have questions about our top 10 best franchises to own for beginners, or would like more in-depth information about these franchises, contact us today! We’ve helped thousands of aspiring business owners connect with franchisors that align with their goals.
