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For coffee-loving entrepreneurs, success is only a few sips away with a coffee-based franchise opportunity. Today’s top brands offer more than just a cup of joe—they excel through quality beans, expert craftsmanship and welcoming atmospheres.

In this article, explore the top coffee franchises, according to the 2024 Franchise 500 Ranking. From quaint corner cafes to bustling urban hubs, these franchises offer a diverse range of experiences for both coffee enthusiasts and entrepreneurs looking to break into the thriving industry.

Let’s dive into the rankings to discover which coffee franchises are leading the pack and what sets them apart in the competitive landscape of coffee culture.

Related: Considering franchise ownership? Get started now to find your personalized list of franchises that match your lifestyle, interests and budget.

1. Dunkin’

• Founded: 1950
• Franchising since: 1955
• Overall rank: 6
• Number of units: 13,372
• Change in units: +1.9% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $438,000-$1,800,000
• Leadership: Paul Brown, CEO
• Parent company: Inspire Brands

Dunkin’, originally known as Dunkin’ Donuts, traces its roots back to 1948 when Bill Rosenberg opened The Open Kettle in Quincy, Massachusetts. Renamed Dunkin’ Donuts in 1950, the franchise started franchising in 1955, quickly grew to over 100 locations by 1965 and now has more than 13,000 outposts. Franchisees benefit from a recognized brand, large customer base, various available markets and support from Dunkin’s quality support team and training programs.

2. Scooter’s Coffee

• Founded: 1998
• Franchising since: 2001
• Overall rank: 65
• Number of units: 651
• Change in units: +133.3% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $895,000-$1,400,000
• Leadership: Joe Thornton, CEO
• Parent company: Boundless Enterprises

Scooter’s Coffee, founded in 1998 by Don and Linda Eckles, emphasizes quality coffee served quickly. Franchising began in 2001, and the brand promises “Amazing People, Amazing Drinks… Amazingly Fast!” With hundreds of franchises across the U.S. and plans for further expansion, Scooter’s Coffee appeals to entrepreneurs seeking a reputable brand in the competitive coffee market.

Related: These Women-Founded Franchises Surpassed a Major Milestone — Against the Odds. Here’s How They Did It.

3. The Human Bean

• Founded: 1998
• Franchising since: 2002
• Overall rank: 131
• Number of units: 149
• Change in units: +41.9% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $552,000-$1,100,000
• Leadership: Dan Hawkins and Tom Casey, Founders
• Parent company: Casey Hawkins Inc.

The Human Bean, founded in 1998 in Ashland, Oregon, specializes in premium espresso served through drive-thru locations. Franchising since 2002, the brand has expanded to well over 100 locations nationwide. Franchisees are valued as key contributors to the company’s success, working alongside management as a team. With a management team boasting extensive experience, The Human Bean provides franchisees with the expertise needed to thrive in the coffee market.

4. PJ’s Coffee of New Orleans

• Founded: 1978
• Franchising since: 1989
• Overall rank: 135
• Number of units: 164
• Change in units: +36.7% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $406,000-$1,100,000
• Leadership: David Mesa, CDO
• Parent company: Ballard Brands

Aside from its famous coffee, every PJ’s Coffee franchise is also a market favorite for its organic tea and fresh breakfast pastries to go. In addition to being a successful national coffee chain, PJ’s Coffee is known for being part of the culture of the communities it serves, being a place where people share a special bond and connect over a shared passion—coffee.

Related: Ever Dreamed of Owning Your Own Restaurant? These Top Full-Service Restaurant Franchises Are the Best in the Business

5. Biggby Coffee

• Founded: 1994
• Franchising since: 1999
• Overall rank: 243
• Number of units: 360
• Change in units: +46.3% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $246,000-$565,000
• Leadership: Bob Fish and Michael McFall, Co-CEOs
• Parent company: Global Orange Development LLC

The atmosphere at Biggby Coffee franchises is welcoming, which might make it a great place for coffee-lovers. Biggby Coffee means business and is intent on building relationships. Over time, its baristas might even get to know their clients by name. The company culture tends to be fun and supportive. You might be given the tools for success, from training to marketing.

6. Ziggi’s Coffee

• Founded: 2004
• Franchising since: 2016
• Overall rank: 347
• Number of units: 75
• Change in units: +200.0% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $467,000-$1,800,000
• Leadership: Brandon Knudsen, President/Cofounder
• Parent company: N/A

Ziggi’s Coffee, a coffee and drive-thru franchise founded in Longmont, Colorado, has expanded nationally through franchising since 2016. With over 70 franchises across the U.S., Ziggi’s emphasizes building meaningful relationships and community connections. They serve from double-sided drive-thru stations but also have cafes and cafe-drive-thru combos. Ziggi’s looks for franchisees who value positive working relationships, quality customer service and community involvement.

7. Ellianos Coffee

• Founded: 2002
• Franchising since: 2003
• Overall rank: 398
• Number of units: 47
• Change in units: +147.4% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $612,000-$899,000
• Leadership: Scott Stewart, Owner/Founder
• Parent company: Ellianos LLC

Ellianos is committed to serving “Italian quality at American pace.” While on a visit to the Pacific Northwest, Scott and Pam Stewart were inspired by the booming coffee drive-thru industry. In 2002, they brought the concept to their home in Lake City, Florida, and opened the town’s first double-sided drive-thru specialty coffee shop. Popularity grew quickly, and the Stewarts started franchising just one year later.

Related: Fast-Food Workers in California Now Earn a $20 Minimum Wage — Here’s How This Will Impact Franchising

8. Aroma Joe’s

• Founded: 2000
• Franchising since: 2013
• Overall rank: N/R
• Number of units: 105
• Change in units: +50.0% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $501,000-$959,000
• Leadership: Loren Goodridge, CEO
• Parent company: Aroma Joe’s Franchising LLC

Aroma Joe’s Coffee was founded in 2000 by four cousins from Maine who aimed to serve good coffee in a friendly atmosphere. Since then, it has expanded its beverage offerings to include specialty espressos and energy drinks, all made with high-quality ingredients tailored to each customer’s preferences. With more than 100 stores across the U.S. and plans for further expansion, Aroma Joe’s Coffee is seeking passionate franchisees who share their commitment to quality and community involvement.

9. Beans & Brews

• Founded: 1993
• Franchising since: 2004
• Overall rank: N/R
• Number of units: 71
• Change in units: +22.4% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $519,000-$762,000
• Leadership: Jeff Laramie, CEO
• Parent company: Beans & Brews Franchise Co.

Founded in 1993, Beans & Brews is not only committed to offering top-tier coffee mountain-roasted coffee but also puts community outreach at the forefront of its values. Part of the company’s mission includes “supporting the neighborhoods and communities in which we live and do business.”

10. Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii

• Founded: 1991
• Franchising since: 1998
• Overall rank: N/R
• Number of units: 33
• Change in units: +43.5% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $454,000-$921,000
• Leadership: Scott Snyder, CEO
• Parent company: N/A

Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii was established in 1989 on the Big Island, with the goal of introducing premium Hawaiian coffee to coffee enthusiasts worldwide. With American-grown coffee from various Hawaiian islands, including Kauai, Oahu, Maui and Kona, the franchise quickly gained popularity, with tourists spreading the word about their Hawaiian coffee experience. Bad Ass Coffee prides itself on offering a wide variety of Hawaiian coffees, all benefiting from the rich volcanic soil and unique weather conditions of the islands. These coffees are known for their mild taste, low acidity and hint of honey, fruit and brown sugar flavors, making them ideal for both single-origin enjoyment and blending with international coffee varieties.

Related: This Franchise Leader Just Became the Newest Investor on Dragons’ Den, the Canadian Shark Tank

Nvidia, the world’s biggest company with a $3.5 trillion market capitalization, reported its third-quarter earnings on Wednesday after market close.

Lukman Otunuga, senior market analyst at online trading broker FXTM, told Entrepreneur before the earnings release that “with Nvidia’s jaw-dropping performance in 2024, expectations are sky-high.”

“The earnings could either propel the stock to fresh all-time highs or pull it below key support levels, depending on the guidance shared,” Otunuga remarked in an emailed statement.

Related: Why One Prominent Investor, ‘Britain’s Warren Buffett,’ Is Staying Away From Nvidia Stock

Nvidia’s overall revenue was $35.1 billion, above estimates of $33.2 billion, and the AI chipmaker’s data center revenue was $30.8 billion, also above the expected $29.1 billion.

Melissa Otto, head of technology, media, and telecommunications research at S&P Global Visible Alpha, told Bloomberg ahead of the earnings that the number for Nvidia to “meet or beat” was $29 billion for data center revenue; Nvidia beat the forecast on Wednesday.

Nvidia announced that it will start shipping out its new AI chip Blackwell in the fourth quarter and that demand is expected to exceed supply for several quarters. The company forecasted its fourth-quarter revenue at $37.5 billion.

Bloomberg data predicts a close to $300 billion swing in Nvidia’s market value on Thursday, or an 8% move in either direction.

Related: Here’s Why Nvidia Just Broke Another Record

The critical matter for Nvidia is its new Blackwell chip, which CEO Jensen Huang has said encountered “insane demand.”

Though the chip has recently faced reports of overheating, Otto states that Blackwell is expected to bring in $63 billion in revenue for the company next year, a 10% increase from forecasts given just last week.

“Clearly sentiment is improving around Blackwell,” Otto said.

Related: ‘100% Nvidia’s Fault’: CEO Jensen Huang Says the Company’s AI Chip With ‘Insane’ Demand Had a Crucial Design Flaw

Investors love to say that “first-time founders focus on the product, while second-time founders focus on distribution.” But what does that really mean? And how does it impact the success — or failure — of a business?

Let’s break it down. First-time founders often fall in love with their product. They pour endless hours into developing every feature and perfecting every line of code, believing that if they create something amazing, customers will come flocking to them. And while that mindset isn’t wrong, it’s only part of the equation. The reality is that even the best product in the world will struggle without an effective plan to get it in front of the right audience. This is where seasoned founders shift their focus — away from product obsession and onto distribution.

When we think about success stories like Dropbox or Slack, it’s tempting to assume that product flywheels are the holy grail. Dropbox, for example, leveraged its viral growth model, growing 3,900% in 15 months by incentivizing users to invite their friends in exchange for more storage space.

Slack created a product that became indispensable for teams — from 50,000 daily users to 1 million in 2015 — leading to rapid adoption across businesses worldwide. But these companies are outliers. For every Dropbox or Slack, there are countless startups that developed excellent products but failed to build the distribution necessary to reach their target market.

Related: 4 Steps to Becoming a Sales-Focused Founder (and Why It’s Important)

Why focusing solely on product is risky

The obsession with building the perfect product often blinds founders to a harsh reality: Customer acquisition doesn’t just happen. You can create the most revolutionary product in your industry, but if no one knows about it, it won’t matter. The graveyard of startups is filled with products that didn’t fail because of poor design or weak functionality; they failed because they never figured out how to reach a sustainable customer base.

SaaS unicorns make headlines because they cracked the code, but these kinds of viral growth models are incredibly rare. It’s risky to rely on the hope that a “product flywheel” will propel your business to success. For most companies, especially those in niche or highly competitive markets, growth won’t come from product-led strategies alone. And that’s where sales-led, distribution-focused companies gain a critical edge.

Why sales-led companies are more resilient

Sales-led companies understand that revenue doesn’t just appear — it’s generated by a well-thought-out, proactive approach to distribution. Focusing on sales and distribution creates a steady, predictable revenue stream. This approach is particularly important in turbulent economic times, where customer acquisition can be challenging and budgets are tight. Sales-led organizations create a foundation of trust with customers, build long-term relationships and foster customer loyalty.

Companies that prioritize distribution don’t just rely on one channel or a lucky break; they develop a diverse network of customers, partners and resellers who can keep the business growing, even when the market shifts. They’re not betting everything on a single viral moment. Instead, they’re creating a sustainable network of people who trust their brand and want to buy from them. When times get tough, these companies don’t just survive — they thrive. They’re not left scrambling for new customers because they’ve already built a moat of loyal clients and partners to keep them afloat.

Take a company like HubSpot, which didn’t just rely on product features to fuel growth. They built an entire ecosystem of resources, certifications and community events that kept customers engaged. By fostering these long-term relationships and creating a robust distribution network, HubSpot ensured that they were the go-to brand for inbound marketing tools, even as competition grew.

Related: Your Service Should Go Way Beyond Sales. 4 Ways to Build Long-lasting Relationships With Distributors and Retailers

Key takeaways for business leaders

For business leaders, the takeaway is clear: Obsessing over distribution can be more impactful than perfecting every inch of your product. A product that’s “good enough” but distributed well will often outperform a “perfect” product that no one knows about. And distribution isn’t just about pushing a product out into the world; it’s about building a trusted brand that customers will want to engage with repeatedly.

To build a sales-led, distribution-focused business, you need to:

1. Identify and leverage strategic channels: Whether it’s through partnerships, resellers or digital channels, pick the ones that make the most sense for your target market and double down.

2. Invest in relationships: Long-term customer relationships are more valuable than quick wins. A customer who trusts your brand will not only return but also advocate for you in their networks.

3. Create a moat with distribution: Build a network of customers, resellers and partners who can support you even when things get rocky. Relying solely on viral growth or product features can be a risky gamble in unpredictable markets.

At NewCampus, we’ve taken these principles to heart. We understand that product innovation is important, but we’ve built a business that prioritizes distribution and customer relationships to fuel our growth. We focus on building a robust network of edtech companies and a vibrant community to ensure that, even if someone isn’t ready to buy from us today, we’re top of mind when they are.

Instead of assuming that our product will “sell itself,” we put the work into creating a community that supports and amplifies our mission. We’re constantly engaging with our network, forming strategic partnerships with other edtech organizations and focusing on building relationships with learners. This approach doesn’t just create immediate opportunities; it establishes a foundation that keeps our brand relevant and trusted over time.

Related: 8 Ways to Be Certain You Are Selling Solutions Through the Right Channel

Looking forward

In a world where thousands of startups pour everything into their products, the companies that win are those that focus on getting their product into the hands of the right people. Sales-led, distribution-focused businesses have a level of stability and resilience that product-obsessed companies often lack.

In today’s market, the companies that can successfully bridge both will be the ones that grow, scale and stand the test of time. Embrace distribution as a cornerstone of your strategy, invest in long-term relationships, and create a network of advocates. The payoff isn’t just growth; it’s sustainability in a world that’s constantly changing.

What Time Is Starship Launching Tuesday?

The sixth flight test of Starship is targeted to lift off on Tuesday, November 19. The 30-minute launch window opens at 5 p.m. EST.

How Can I Watch the Sixth Starship Test Flight?

A live webcast of the flight test will begin about 40 minutes before liftoff, which you can watch on the SpaceX website, and live on X @SpaceX.

Watch it live, here:

Watch Starship’s sixth flight test → https://t.co/oIFc3u9laE https://t.co/acpdO2brbP

— SpaceX (@SpaceX) November 16, 2024

The test flight comes a month after its mega-viral fifth test flight, where the SpaceX team successfully saw its Super Heavy booster return to the launch site and be caught by “chopstick arms” on its first attempt.

Mechazilla has caught the Super Heavy booster! pic.twitter.com/6R5YatSVJX

— SpaceX (@SpaceX) October 13, 2024

Where Is Starship Launching From?

Starship launches from SpaceX’s Boca Chica, Texas, campus on the Gulf Coast near Brownsville.

What Is New for the Sixth Test Flight of Starship?

The 30-foot-wide, 397-foot-tall rocket will launch with the same goals as the fifth fight, “to expand the envelope on ship and booster capabilities and get closer to bringing reuse of the entire system online,” according to SpaceX.

The company says that this flight’s objectives “include the booster once again returning to the launch site for the catch, reigniting a ship Raptor engine while in space, and testing a suite of heatshield experiments and maneuvering changes for ship reentry and descent over the Indian Ocean.”

SpaceX notes that this flight also has “hardware upgrades” and “updated software controls” with “several thermal protection experiments and operational changes will test the limits of Starship’s capabilities and generate flight data to inform plans for ship catch and reuse.”

Will There Be a Seventh Test Flight?

SpaceX says on its website that there will be more test flights “with significant upgrades including redesigned forward flaps, larger propellant tanks, and the latest generation tiles and secondary thermal protection layers as we continue to iterate towards a fully reusable heat shield.”

New dates have not yet been publicly released.

Ready to break a sweat and earn a profit? In the world of fitness franchising, you can turn your passion for health and wellness into a successful business venture. Whether you’re interested in owning a gym, a yoga studio, a martial arts center or a specialized fitness concept, there are countless opportunities to capitalize on the growing demand for fitness services.

With the right franchise, you’ll receive the support, resources and brand recognition needed to succeed in this competitive industry. So, lace up your sneakers, and get ready to transform lives—and your bottom line. Explore the top 15 fitness franchises of 2024 below, according to the 2024 Franchise 500 Ranking.

Related: Considering franchise ownership? Get started now to find your personalized list of franchises that match your lifestyle, interests and budget.

1. Crunch

• Founded: 2010
• Franchising since: 2010
• Overall rank: 29
• Number of units: 442
• Change in units: +47.3% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $668,000-$6,700,000
• Leadership: Ben Midgley, CEO
• Parent company: N/A

With an innovative approach to fitness, Crunch offers a unique blend of high-energy workouts, cutting-edge equipment and engaging classes, all within a supportive and inclusive atmosphere. As a Crunch franchisee, you’ll have the opportunity to tap into a proven business model backed by extensive market research and a robust support system.

2. Anytime Fitness

• Founded: 2001
• Franchising since: 2002
• Overall rank: 77
• Number of units: 5,196
• Change in units: +9.3% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $389,000-$970,000
• Leadership: Chuck Runyon, CEO
• Parent company: Self Esteem Brands

Founded in 2002 by Chuck Runyon and Dave Mortensen to address the lack of inclusive gyms in their Minnesota community, Anytime Fitness has since expanded globally to more than 5,000 gyms and attracted over 4 million members across 38 countries. Despite initial skepticism, the founders persevered, creating a fitness solution that is affordable, convenient and welcoming, with facilities open 24/7, thus fulfilling their promise to cater to diverse needs and demographics.

3. Orangetheory Fitness

• Founded: 2010
• Franchising since: 2010
• Overall rank: 96
• Number of units: 1,527
• Change in units: +12.3% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $613,000-$1,600,000
• Leadership: Richard Armstrong, CDO
• Parent company: Ultimate Fitness Holdings, LLC

Sweat out your worries and help your community by opening an Orangetheory Fitness franchise. As a franchisee, you’ll offer what some consider one of the best workouts in the country and be guided by an experienced management team. This franchise offers affordable group personal workouts with more than 45 classes per week.

Related: Is Franchising Right For You? Ask Yourself These 9 Questions to Find Out.

4. The Exercise Coach

• Founded: 2000
• Franchising since: 2010
• Overall rank: 159
• Number of units: 233
• Change in units: +92.6% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $136,000-$349,000
• Leadership: Brian Cygan, CEO
• Parent company: Exercise Coach USA LLC

The Exercise Coach offers a promising coaching program for those seeking effective fitness solutions. Established in 2000 and franchising since 2010, it’s a leading personal fitness coaching and gym chain in the U.S. With over 200 locations, they focus on personalized programs tailored to individual fitness goals. Prospective franchisees should possess strong leadership, business acumen and a passion for helping others while fostering a supportive team environment.

5. Gold’s Gym

• Founded: 1965
• Franchising since: 1980
• Overall rank: 176
• Number of units: 599
• Change in units: -6.0% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $1,500,000-$3,600,000
• Leadership: Kevin Christie, VP of Global Franchising
• Parent company: Gold’s Gym

Gold’s Gym began in 1965 in Venice, California, initially attracting bodybuilders training on Muscle Beach. The gym gained widespread attention in 1975 with its feature in Arnold Schwarzenegger’s film “Pumping Iron.” Since 1980, Gold’s Gym has expanded through franchising, offering health club facilities and selling licensed apparel through Pro Shops operated by franchisees.

6. Club Pilates

• Founded: 2007
• Franchising since: 2012
• Overall rank: 202
• Number of units: 899
• Change in units: +50.6% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $194,000-$407,000
• Leadership: Anthony Geisler, CEO
• Parent company: Xponential Fitness

Club Pilates, founded in California in 2007, has expanded internationally through franchising since 2012, boasting over 800 studios across the United States, Canada and overseas. Emphasizing inclusivity, they welcome individuals of all ages and fitness levels to participate in their pilates programs, offering a diverse range of equipment including mats, balls, weights, pilates reformers and springboards. With a mission to empower individuals to enhance their physical and mental well-being, Club Pilates focuses on progressive learning to improve movement, sensation and overall quality of life.

7. Pure Barre

• Founded: 2001
• Franchising since: 2009
• Overall rank: 224
• Number of units: 650
• Change in units: +15.5% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $218,000-$487,000
• Leadership: Anthony Geisler, CEO
• Parent company: Xponential Fitness

Pure Barre, a leading brand in boutique fitness, operates over 600 locations in the U.S. and a few in Canada under Xponential Fitness. The franchise, aiming for continued expansion, offers opportunities for franchisees to grow within the fitness industry. Pure Barre’s technique offers a low-impact, high-intensity full-body workout led by highly-trained instructors in a 200-square-foot studio, catering to various fitness needs with classes covering cardio, strength, balance and coordination. Franchise applicants are preferred if they have a passion for Pure Barre and business acumen, especially if they already have ties to the fitness market.

Related: Find Out Which Brands Have Ranked on the Franchise 500 for Longest, Earning a Spot In our New ‘Hall of Fame’

8. Burn Boot Camp

• Founded: 2012
• Franchising since: 2015
• Overall rank: 319
• Number of units: 339
• Change in units: +29.9% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $239,000-$563,000
• Leadership: Morgan Kline, CEO & Founder
• Parent company: Kline Franchising Inc.

Burn Boot Camp, which originated as a group workout in a gymnastics studio parking lot, has evolved into a franchise focused on empowering women and transforming lives. Since becoming a franchise in 2015, it has expanded to over 300 locations across the U.S. Offering 45-minute classes aimed at enhancing cardio and strength, Burn Boot Camp is committed to guiding clients through their fitness journey and being a catalyst for global health transformation.

9. Bodybar Pilates

• Founded: 2011
• Franchising since: 2015
• Overall rank: 342
• Number of units: 25
• Change in units: +525.0% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $371,000-$623,000
• Leadership: Matt McCollum, CEO
• Parent company: Bodybar Franchising

Bodybar Pilates merges the principles of pilates with dynamic strength training and cardiovascular exercises, offering a comprehensive approach to fitness. As a franchisee, you’ll play a pivotal role in bringing this unique workout experience to your local communities.

10. Alloy Personal Training

• Founded: 1992
• Franchising since: 2019
• Overall rank: 345
• Number of units: 32
• Change in units: +966.7% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $185,000-$452,000
• Leadership: Rick Mayo, Founder/CEO
• Parent company: Alloy Personal Training LLC

Alloy Personal Training, known for its tailored programs targeting individuals in their 40s and 50s, combines athletic training with personalized approaches to enhance overall health at any fitness level. Established in 1992, Alloy opened its first location and expanded into franchising in 2019, rapidly growing its presence with several new locations. Despite being a newcomer to franchising, Alloy Personal Training brings over three decades of expertise in the health and fitness industry, positioning itself as a trusted brand in personalized fitness solutions.

11. Mayweather Boxing + Fitness

• Founded: 2018
• Franchising since: 2018
• Overall rank: 357
• Number of units: 68
• Change in units: +423.1% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $300,000-$596,000
• Leadership: James Williams, CEO
• Parent company: MW Fitness Holdings LLC

Mayweather Boxing + Fitness, founded by boxing legend Floyd Mayweather Jr. in 2018, offers a unique opportunity for franchisees to operate a business aligned with Mayweather’s legacy. The program, designed for fast results and discipline enthusiasts, provides an immersive training experience where members can burn up to 1,000 calories per 45-minute session. Leveraging over two decades of professional experience, Mayweather and his team share exclusive techniques, routines and workout programs, making Mayweather Boxing + Fitness a compelling franchise option for fitness entrepreneurs.

Related: Start Your Own Business or Buy a Franchise: Which Is Right For You

12. CycleBar

• Founded: 2014
• Franchising since: 2015
• Overall rank: 411
• Number of units: 293
• Change in units: +40.9% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $351,000-$502,000
• Leadership: Anthony Geisler, CEO
• Parent company: Xponential Fitness

CycleBar is a multi-unit indoor cycling studio franchise with over 200 locations across the U.S. and internationally, founded in 2014 by Bill Pryor and Alex Klemmer. Each location offers personalized fitness experiences led by certified staff, utilizing music playlists, video graphics and member performance data to motivate riders. As the world’s largest network of indoor cycling studios, CycleBar provides franchisees with territorial availability in major markets and rapid overall growth, leveraging its executive revenue model and scalability for aspiring franchise owners looking to enter the fitness industry.

13. Workout Anytime 24/7

• Founded: 1999
• Franchising since: 2005
• Overall rank: 431
• Number of units: 188
• Change in units: +10.6% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $785,000-$2,100,000
• Leadership: Randy Trotter, SVP of Development
• Parent company: Workout Anytime Franchising LLC

Workout Anytime 24/7, founded in 1999 and franchising since 2005, distinguishes itself in the competitive health and wellness industry by offering clients the flexibility to pursue their fitness goals at any hour. With over 180 locations across the U.S., Workout Anytime 24/7 stands out as a leading choice for individuals seeking round-the-clock access to gym facilities.

Related: Franchise vs. Independent Business? 12 Experts Weigh the Option

14. D1 Training

• Founded: 2001
• Franchising since: 2015
• Overall rank: 446
• Number of units: 90
• Change in units: +104.5% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $164,000-$666,000
• Leadership: Will Bartholomew, Founder/CEO
• Parent company: N/A

D1 Training, founded in 2001 by former University of Tennessee football player Will Bartholomew, originated from his desire to provide athletes with intense, focused training similar to his experience with the Denver Broncos. Franchising since 2015, D1 Training has expanded to 90 locations in the U.S., focusing on specialized scholastic athlete training alongside adult fitness programs. With a mission to help athletes reach their full potential, both physically and mentally, D1 Training seeks franchisees passionate about sports and community fitness, aiming to make a positive impact on their neighborhoods.

15. 30 Minute Hit

• Founded: 2004
• Franchising since: 2006
• Overall rank: 452
• Number of units: 81
• Change in units: +15.7% over 3 years
• Initial investment: $123,000-$325,000
• Leadership: Jackson Loychuk, CEO
• Parent company: 30 Minute Hit

The 30 Minute Hit is a female-focused fitness class utilizing boxing and kickboxing to enhance physical fitness. Founded in 2004 in British Columbia, Canada, it aims to empower women of all ages, helping them improve mental and physical strength and confidence. Despite being more prevalent in Canada, with over 80 franchises, there are still over a dozen locations in the United States, offering communities a chance to benefit from this unique fitness program.

Related: How to Find a Good Franchise Lawyer

N. R. Narayana Murthy says he used to arrive at the office at 6:20 a.m. and leave at 8:30 p.m. He worked 14 hours per day, six-and-a-half days per week for 30 years until he retired in 2011 at age 65.

Murthy is the 78-year-old co-founder of Infosys, an Indian technology firm with offices in 56 countries, including the United States. The company offers IT, consulting, and outsourcing services and employs more than 317,000 people worldwide.

Murthy went viral last year for stating that young people in India should work 70 hours per week, even though doing so breaks Indian labor laws. Then, at CNBC’s Global Leadership Summit earlier this month, Murthy refused to back down from his earlier statement and said, “I don’t believe in work-life balance.”

He added that he was “a little bit disappointed” in 1986 when India cut the work week from six days a week to five.

“I was not very happy with that,” he said. He then addressed the 70-hour workweek controversy stating, “I am sorry, I have not changed my view.”

“I don’t believe in work-life balance,” declares Infosys’ Narayana Murthy as he defends his infamous ’70-hour work-week’ comment while talking to Shereen Bhan at CNBC TV18’s Global Leadership Summit#CNBCTV18GLS #CNBCTV18at25 #cnbctv18digital @ShereenBhan pic.twitter.com/Hcrej8DUkw

— CNBC-TV18 (@CNBCTV18News) November 14, 2024

He added that he was “very proud” of putting in 14-hour days at the office, 6.5 days per week.

“Therefore I am not going to take it back,” Murthy said, referring to his 70-hour workweek statement.

Murthy started Infosys in 1981 with six other co-founders and $250 in starting capital.

Infosys became the first India-registered company to be listed on NASDAQ in 1999 and now has a market capitalization of over $92 billion.

Infosys brought in over $18 billion in revenue in fiscal year 2024.

Related: The Case for 14-Hour Workdays — Why New Entrepreneurs Should Embrace the Hustle Before Seeking Work-Life Balance

For most businesses and employees, working across several projects is the norm—according to The Conversation, more than 80% of employees juggle multiple work projects at once. While those workloads are expected, it can be a struggle to manage deadlines and organize all the necessary tasks for each project.

Rather than have yourself, your project managers, and your employees feel overwhelmed with multiple project tasks and deadlines, why not invest in a project management tool to manage everything more seamlessly? Microsoft Project 2021 could be the key to completing a project in a timely fashion and even staying within budget, and lifetime access is now available for $17.97 (reg. $249.99) for only two more days.

Microsoft Project: Your business’s key to organization and success

Since Microsoft Project offers so much versatility and customization, it’s not exactly easy to explain what it is and does. So, instead, we’ll walk through how Project could be used to help entrepreneurs and their employees tackle their daily workloads.

1. Set milestones and deadlines. Use premade templates to outline key phases like setup, branding, and an opening date.
2. Plan budgets. Manage funds for purchasing the truck, ingredients, and other expenses.
3. Assign tasks to yourself or employees. From large milestones, break down small steps that must come first, like acquiring licenses and creating a menu.
4. Automate scheduling. After inputting factors like priorities and limitations, you could generate a timeline for staff training, market research, or taste testing.
5. Run “what-if” scenarios. Estimate end dates or budgets based on dependent factors, such as varying locations or number of employees.
6. Visualize schedules and progress at a glance. View completed and upcoming tasks, generate reports, and so much more.

Of course, you could use Microsoft Project to organize smaller personal goals or larger team-wide tasks and projects. With so many tools and options at your fingertips, you can gain more confidence in tackling current and future projects.

Invest in this Microsoft Project 2021 lifetime license for just $17.97 (reg. $249.99) while supplies last. This offer ends in two days on November 19 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

Microsoft Project 2021 Professional: Lifetime License for Windows

Only $17.97 at Entrepreneur

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Taking on a leadership role — especially as a new CEO — brings its own set of fears and challenges. For many, it can trigger “imposter syndrome,” causing doubt about the ability to handle the demands of the new position. Some new leaders feel stuck at first, unable to make decisions for fear that the wrong one could set back the company and jeopardize their credibility as well.

They overanalyze in an attempt to avoid mistakes or refuse to change course when they realize they’ve made a wrong decision. Then there’s the pressure to build good relationships with board members and win the trust of their staff. And finally, there’s the anxiety about what surprises or unexpected challenges will surface as they learn more about the inner workings of the company.

While these feelings are common, there are ways to mitigate them. Here are a handful of strategies I have seen new leaders implement for a strong, confident start:

Related: 4 Things the New Leader of an Organization Should Do Right Away

Ask questions and practice active listening

The first step great leaders take to build confidence is to seek input from their team. Successful CEOs remain curious rather than thinking they have all the answers from the outset. They prepare for every meeting and conversation by thinking through the right questions. This means coming in with an open and neutral perspective rather than assuming the previous strategy needs to change — or even that a successful approach from a previous company would also work in the new one.

At the outset, CEOs may hear conflicting accounts from different stakeholders. The only way to root out the truth is to hear from everyone. Regularly interacting with employees broadens a new CEO’s perspective, helps them make more informed decisions and creates a learning environment grounded in mutual respect.

Seek diverse perspectives

Just as it’s important to hear from those within the company, effective CEOs gain perspectives from others outside their company. This means listening to customers about what they love and how the business can be improved. And great leaders also seek out insights from fellow CEOs who can offer unbiased feedback. For more than 65 years at Vistage, we’ve seen high-integrity leaders benefit from CEO peer groups, where leaders leave their ego at the door to focus on improving. They actively combat insular thinking and confirmation bias by learning from other CEOs who understand the nuances and challenges they are facing.

New leaders benefit from surrounding themselves with trusted peers from noncompeting businesses, while fellow members gain fresh perspectives from first-time CEOs. It’s a reciprocal, give-and-take model that elevates everyone. Whether learning from customers, peers, expert speakers, books or mentors, a focus on continuous learning and professional development helps to build leadership confidence.

Related: 6 Ways New CEOs Can Lead an Established Company Through Change

Celebrate reaching milestones

For a new CEO, credibility must be earned through action. And while many feel like they want to change everything at once, great CEOs set realistic expectations for what success will look like, especially in the first year. By accomplishing incremental objectives from the outset, leaders can demonstrate progress. Celebrating these milestones with the team, no matter how minor, cultivates a positive mindset throughout the company. Team members appreciate being recognized for their efforts and gain satisfaction from working together to achieve common goals.

Balance immediate and long-term challenges

CEOs often face the dual pressure of addressing immediate business needs while setting long-term strategies. This balancing act requires a nuanced approach — knowing when to take decisive action and when to pause for more informed decision-making. By actively engaging in solving critical operational issues, new CEOs can quickly build credibility with their teams. This enhances their understanding of the business while solidifying their reputation as a dedicated leader. In turn, this fosters respect, which is essential for any new CEO aiming to make a positive and lasting impact. The ability to refine strategies based on new information is crucial in nurturing trust within organizations.

Demonstrate leadership values

When new leaders enter a workforce, existing employees first wonder what their values are. Those leaders who spend time reflecting on their leadership values are able to communicate them authentically from the outset. When CEOs consistently demonstrate clear values through their words and actions, it provides a strong foundation from which to lead. This sets the tone for what sort of culture and operational principles will be accepted under new leadership.

Communicate the vision

It can take time for a new CEO to lay the groundwork for a company vision. But once the vision is solidified, effective communication of the strategic vision and operational plans is crucial. Communication establishes a clear roadmap, manages expectations and stabilizes stakeholder confidence during periods of transition. Creating an environment of clarity and understanding fosters trust between leaders and employees.

Related: 6 Mistakes That Rookie Leaders Make Which Can Cause Them To Fail

Navigating the complexities of leadership as a new CEO requires being proactive and establishing credibility through consistent and transparent actions. These strategies drive organizations toward success while creating a culture of trust and support — both of which are necessary for any company to thrive in the long term.

By listening, encouraging engagement across all levels of the organization and remaining flexible in strategic execution, new CEOs can lead confidently. While the leadership journey presents challenges, it also offers opportunities for personal and professional growth, resulting in a transformative experience.

Allstate cut annual spending on corporate offices by more than half in four years, going from $382 million in 2020 to $138 million this year, per Bloomberg — a $244 million reduction.

Though Allstate has also reduced its real estate footprint from 12 million square feet to 4 million, the insurance giant says it’s metaphorically “building something new” in the near future by allowing remote employees to meet in coworking spaces or shared offices used by multiple companies simultaneously.

According to a Monday Bloomberg report, 25% of Allstate’s 54,000 corporate employees will have the chance to meet with one another in coworking spaces across the country. They will rent space in cities like Atlanta, Indianapolis and Minneapolis through LiquidSpace by the day. T-Mobile and Philips also use the platform.

^{Allstate corporate office in Northbrook, Illinois. Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images}

The coworking plan is currently in the “testing and learning” stage, Allstate’s vice president of administration and real estate Mike Thomas told Bloomberg. It’s happening in cities where Allstate has between 100 and 1,000 employees — not enough for an office lease, but enough for an in-person gathering once in a while in a coworking space for training and team-building.

Related: ‘Not a Cost Play’: Amazon CEO Clarifies Why Employees Have to Come Back to the Office

Allstate’s test-and-see approach differs from the strict return-to-office policies taken recently by companies like Amazon and Dell.

At Dell, working remotely means not being considered for promotions or new roles within the company. A leaked memo in May showed that Dell had begun monitoring attendance and using it as a factor to determine how employees were reviewed, rewarded and compensated.

At Amazon, all corporate employees will be required to work in the office five days a week starting January 2. Amazon CEO Andy Jassy stated in September that in-person work was better for strengthening company culture; Amazon Web Services CEO Matt Garman said in mid-October that there were other places employees could work if they didn’t like the mandate.

Meanwhile, the benefits of in-person work over hybrid work remain in question. A study published in Nature earlier this year found that employees on a hybrid schedule were equally productive as those on an in-person schedule. A hybrid schedule presented a measurable advantage: It led to a one-third reduction in quit rates and higher job satisfaction rates.

Related: Hybrid Workers Were Put to the Test Against Fully In-Office Employees — Here’s Who Came Out On Top

The percentage of people working primarily from home has nearly tripled globally, from 10% in 2019 to 28% in 2023. Online freelance work is also the most popular holiday side hustle, with 66% of Americans indicating they plan to pursue it this season.

What exactly are employers looking for from remote hires? A new study from SEO agency Search Logistics used data from LinkedIn, Upwork and Glassdoor to find the most in-demand skills among employers.

For each popular skill, the researchers calculated a demand percentage using LinkedIn. The measure reflects how many remote jobs required the skill out of all the remote jobs available on LinkedIn.

Related: Worried About AI Stealing Your Job? A New Report Calls These 10 Careers ‘AI-Proof’

The researchers then used Upwork data to fill in the general job category that each skill fell under. Finally, they turned to Glassdoor data to find the average annual salary for those who possess each skill.

The resulting list of the most in-demand skills for remote work includes interpersonal skills like teamwork and technical skills like Java.

“It’s unsurprising that teamwork, problem-solving, leadership skills and customer service are in the top 10,” Search Logistics lead director Matthew Woodward says. “These skills are useful in basically every industry or position you could think of, so if you’re stuck on how to improve your job performance, building your proficiency in any of these skills is a great place to start.”

Related: These Are the Best Jobs for Every Personality Type, According to a New Report

Here are the 10 most in-demand skills to have on your resume when applying for remote roles.

1. Teamwork

Category (according to Upwork): Admin Support

Demand percentage (using LinkedIn): 49.98%

Average annual salary (from Glassdoor): $116,000

2. Analytical thinking

Category (according to Upwork): Engineering and Architecture

Demand percentage (using LinkedIn): 37.24%

Average annual salary (from Glassdoor): $62,000

3. Software development

Category (according to Upwork): IT & Network Admin

Demand percentage (using LinkedIn): 31.47%

Average annual salary (from Glassdoor): $131,000

4. Problem-solving skills

Category (according to Upwork): Sales and Marketing

Demand percentage (using LinkedIn): 29.04%

Average annual salary (from Glassdoor): $59,000

5. Java, Java Script

Category (according to Upwork): IT & Network Admin

Demand percentage (using LinkedIn): 21.73%

Average annual salary (from Glassdoor): $122,000

6. SQL, Python

Category (according to Upwork): IT & Network Admin

Demand percentage (using LinkedIn): 19.05%

Average annual salary (from Glassdoor): $116,000

7. Data analysis

Category (according to Upwork): Data Science and Analysis

Demand percentage (using LinkedIn): 18.57%

Average annual salary (from Glassdoor): $109,000

8. Leadership skills

Category (according to Upwork): Admin Support

Demand percentage (using LinkedIn): 15.16%

Average annual salary (from Glassdoor): $117,000

9. Sales

Category (according to Upwork): Sales and Marketing

Demand percentage (using LinkedIn): 13.52%

Average annual salary (from Glassdoor): $149,000

10. Customer service

Category (according to Upwork): Customer Service

Demand percentage (using LinkedIn): 13.24%

Average annual salary (from Glassdoor): $44,000