Businesses to Consider Starting in 2026: Why Franchising Deserves a Look

Entrepreneurship continues to garner attention in 2025. With the gig economy surging, many people are looking to take that next entrepreneurial step. As side hustles and flexible careers grow, more individuals are exploring how to take the next step into business ownership.

For many, the question is not if they should start a business, but how. While there are numerous options available for consideration, franchising certainly stands out as a practical way for those who want both independence and a built-in support system.  

The 2025 Entrepreneurial Landscape

Google Trends data shows steady interest in terms like how to start a business, with searches staying strong and even climbing in recent years. 

This reflects a broader shift in mindset as more people look beyond traditional employment and explore opportunities for greater independence.

Of course, launching a new business is not without challenges. 

Competition can be fierce, upfront investments can be significant and building a brand from the ground up requires time and resources. These realities often cause potential entrepreneurs to weigh their options.

The gig economy has helped bridge that gap. 

Many people begin with flexible, project-based work, gaining valuable skills in customer service, scheduling and self-management. 

For some, these side hustles are more than just temporary; they become stepping stones that inspire confidence and spark the decision to move into full-scale business ownership.

Data from the IRS shows that gig workers are more likely to become entrepreneurs, especially those who are younger, lower income or seeking flexibility.

Comparing Paths: Independent Startups vs. Franchises

When deciding on the best way to start a business, there are a few common paths to consider. Each comes with its own trade-offs in terms of control, resources and support.

• Independent startup: Starting a business from scratch gives the owner complete creative freedom, from branding to operations. The challenge is that it also places the full weight of financing, marketing and management on one person’s shoulders.
• Buying an existing business: This option can shorten the setup process since customers, systems and staff may already be in place. At the same time, it can mean inheriting limitations or challenges from the previous owner, leaving less room for flexibility.
• Franchising: Franchises provide a middle ground by blending independence with a structured system of operations. Entrepreneurs gain access to an established brand, established operating models and training that can ease the transition into business ownership. For many, exploring franchise opportunities, browsing franchises for sale or looking into how to buy a franchise becomes a logical next step in their research.

For more on this, look at our deeper dive blog into the franchise vs. independent businesses debate. It will help explain more of the nuances you might consider. 

Why Franchising Deserves a Look

For many aspiring business owners, the idea of launching something entirely from scratch can feel daunting (to say the least). 

Building a brand, developing processes and figuring out marketing all at once is a tall order. 

That is where franchising stands apart. Instead of starting with a blank slate, entrepreneurs step into an established system of operation and brand. 

Franchises also provide training that guides new owners through day-to-day operations, along with marketing strategies. They also carry the benefit of name recognition. When a familiar sign goes up in a local community, people know what to expect.

Perhaps most important, franchising offers ongoing support. Owners are not left to figure everything out on their own. They have access to a network of resources and experts who can help coach them while still running the business as their own. 

Industries to Watch

Some industries continue to show strength year after year, while others are emerging as new opportunities for entrepreneurs. Logistics and shipping, for example, remain in high demand as online shopping drives the need for reliable ways to get products into customers’ hands. According to Grand View Research, the global e-commerce logistics market is projected to grow more than 20% annually through 2030, reflecting sustained consumer demand for faster, more efficient delivery services. For someone interested in this space, a franchise can provide a solution to meet that need locally.

Personal services are also on the rise. From tutoring and pet care to home cleaning and beauty, these businesses thrive because they connect directly with community needs. Industry analysis from The Business Research Company projects that the global personal services market will grow from about $1.27 billion in 2024 to nearly $1.88 billion by 2029, driven by rising household incomes and lifestyle-focused spending. A franchise model can help an owner enter these markets with established tools and training, rather than figuring out how to build trust from the ground up.

Health, fitness and wellness continue to capture attention as more people prioritize lifestyle and well-being.  IBISWorld reports that revenue in U.S. gym, health and fitness clubs expanded at a compound annual growth rate of about 7% over the past several years, reaching an estimated $45.7 billion in 2025. Whether it’s gyms, boutique studios or nutrition services, these businesses reflect consumer trends. Franchising gives owners a way to enter this competitive space with a brand that people already know.

And, of course, food and beverage continues to be a well-established area within franchising. Quick-service restaurants and specialty concepts may evolve with customer tastes, but the demand for convenient, quality options is not going away anytime soon. Entrepreneurs who take this route often find that the structure of a franchise helps them keep up with changing preferences while focusing on the customer experience.

Key takeaways:

• Logistics and Shipping: Steady demand fueled by e-commerce. The UPS Store® franchise is a great example of a franchise opportunity in these areas.
• Personal Services: Strong local demand in tutoring, pet care, cleaning and beauty.
• Health, Fitness and Wellness: Growing consumer focus on lifestyle and well-being.
• Food and Beverage: Quick-service and specialty concepts remain popular.

Taking the Next Step

For anyone considering business ownership, the first move is often research. Exploring franchise opportunities and browsing franchises for sale can help clarify what aligns with your community needs. 

From there, it becomes about asking some questions: 

What level of investment is required? 

What type of training is offered? 

And how well does the franchise model fit with the lifestyle you want to build?

The best choice will look different for each individual. For some, it may mean stepping into a franchise that matches skills learned in the gig economy. For others, it could be about entering a completely new industry with the support of an established system. Work with a franchise attorney, accountant and/or other advisors to review the Franchise Disclosure Documents for brands in the industry you are interested in. 

Some questions to ask before moving forward:

• What is the investment, and ongoing costs and fees?
• What training and support does the franchisor provide?
• How does the brand connect with the community I want to serve?

Asking the right questions can help potential franchise owners make more informed decisions. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are industries to consider for franchising in 2026?
Logistics and shipping, personal services, health and wellness, and food and beverage continue to be strong sectors for franchise growth.

Is franchising better than starting a business from scratch?
It depends on your goals. Franchising offers brand support, a system of operations and training, while independent startups offer complete flexibility.

What should I look for in a franchise opportunity?
Consider investment, ongoing costs and fees, training and support, community alignment, and long-term operational needs.