Franchise Direct has published its annual ranking of the Top 100 Global Franchises. Their third-annual list and report provides a definitive assessment of international franchising. There is no sign that American franchises are stalling their international growth this year. In fact, Franchise Direct’s Top 100 proves just how integral a global presence is for the leading franchises.
One of the most striking elements of the Franchise Direct Top 100 is the change at the top of the list. McDonald’s, which was the world’s top franchise for the last two years, has been overtaken by Subway. The hugely-popular sandwich franchise has leapfrogged the Golden Arches after becoming the franchise with the most units worldwide, as well as launching new environmentally-friendly restaurants. In spite of being dethroned by Subway, McDonald’s continues to enjoy huge growth as it implements a more health-conscious menu.
The Top 100 report spotlights one of the world’s most unheralded growth markets for franchising: Brazil. Franchise expansion in China and India receives much publicity, but Brazil’s large population, rising middle class and infrastructural redevelopment make it an ideal place for franchise expansion.