When a franchise has a successful year, we expect to see it climb in our Franchise 500 ranking. Maybe it'll move up 20 or 30 spots. That's normal.
But every year, there are a few outliers that somehow rocket-blast themselves hundreds of spots up the list. Growth like that doesn't come easy, and there must be a story behind it. That's why, every year, we reach out to the companies with some of the biggest growth stories to ask one question: "How'd you do it?"
This year, we learned about the power of patience, the value of tapping into a national conversation, and the progress you can make by punching through a bottleneck. Hopefully, you'll find something useful in the stories-a new way to frame a problem, perhaps, or even a specific strategy you'd like to try.
If nothing else, you'll find inspiration. The companies here demonstrate how a strong culture, strategic thinking, and healthy franchisee relationships can build an incredible growth engine that powers serious momentum. Buckle up: Here are 2024's Big Movers.
How Ellie Mental Health Jumped 194 Spots
The U.S. is facing a growing mental health crisis. Ellie wants to be the solution.
Ellie wasn't on our list last year. Now it's No. 307.
Shortly after Ellie Mental Health started franchising in 2021, the company hosted its first discovery day at its very first clinic in Saint Paul, Minnesota. Four potential franchisees showed up. The next month, it was five people. And by month three-in October 2021-40 people and 17 groups came in looking to buy a territory.
This story is from the January - February 2024 edition of Entrepreneur US.
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This story is from the January - February 2024 edition of Entrepreneur US.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Why Small Businesses Can't Afford to Grow
Big companies take a long time to pay their suppliers. Sometimes, so long that the supplier goes out of business. Two entrepreneurs wanted to find out why this system is so broken-and wound up creating a solution.
MY FAVORITE CUSTOMER
For small, independent businesses, loyal patrons are benefactors, protectors, muses, and mascots. They make sure the show goes on. Here, three business owners celebrate an irreplaceable member of their community.
Do You Say 'Yes' Enough?
We don't give ourselves enough credit for trying. So let's start doing it right now.
He Does $10 Million-Plus in Sales
When Jeffrey Bell gave up horse training to buy a Floor Coverings International franchise, he wanted to get out ahead of his new pack. To do that, he had to learn to delegate.
How This Business Rookie Became a Top Seller
After competing in two Olympics, Cammile Adams dove headfirst into her second career - and became SafeSplash Swim School's #1 franchisee. Here's how.
How to Pick the Perfect Franchise For You
There are a lot of great brands out there. But that doesn't mean they're all a great fit.
Serving the Underserved
When Dennis Johnson opened a Pizza Ranch in Minnesota, he hoped to serve the nearby Native American communities in more ways than one.
When Life Is Preparation
Vanesa Ellis was no expert on mosquitoes or lawn care. But as it turns out, something else made her the perfect fit for two home-care franchise brands.
Changing Careers? Consider Franchising.
Here are five reasons why franchise ownership could be the right fit for you.
WRANGLING THE MANY-HEADED MONSTER
For mom-and-pop business owners, just as inflation calms in one area of operations, it rears its head somewhere else. The best way to stay on top of it, experts say, is to stay flexible.
