What Franchise - Issue 21.2

Welcome to this issue of What Franchise , where we look ahead to what the year has in store for franchising and ask where the smartest opportunities are really emerging. A new year always brings fresh energy, but it also invites reflection.With economic uncertainty still in the background, clarity, confidence and good information matter more than ever, particularly for those considering their next move into business ownership. In this issue, we open with 50 of the hottest franchise investments right now (p15), highlighting brands that are building momentum, scaling sustainably and already attracting serious interest from UK investors. Some of these franchise brands are already household names, others are still flying just under the radar, but all have momentum on their side. Alongside this, we reveal our 26 bold predictions for the year ahead on page 47, drawing on insight from some of franchising’s leading voices. From emerging trends to shifts in investor behaviour, these perspectives offer a sage and grounded view of what’s likely to shape the sector next. Resilience is a theme that runs throughout the issue, nowhere more so than in our deep dive into the care sector. Across residential and domiciliary models, we explore why care continues to stand out as one of the UK’s most resilient – and rewarding – franchise opportunities, driven by demographic change and growing demand for high-quality services. We also hear from franchise success stories who share what they focused on in their first 100 days to build traction, secure customers and start generating returns. And while franchising is often seen as a safer route into business, the BFA highlights key red flags to watch for before signing on the dotted line – essential reading for first-time and experienced investors alike. Finally, on page 64, we examine why all eyes are on the UK as international brands look here as a launchpad for global expansion, and what that means for franchisees ready to capitalise on global ambition at a local level. Enjoy the issue – and here’s to making well-informed, confident moves in the months to come. Get ahead in 2026 NEXT ISSUE ON SALE: MAR/APR 2026 The views in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is made to ensure the veracity and integrity of the companies, persons, products and services mentioned in this publication, and the details given are believed to be accurate at the time of going to press. However, no responsibility or liability whatsoever can be accepted for any consequence or repercussion of responding to information or advice given or inferred. Copyright Artichoke Media Ltd. EDITOR Charlotte Smith [email protected] HEAD OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Rachael Wenham 44 (0) 1323 471911 [email protected] SENIORACCOUNTMANAGER Kelly Parris 44 (0) 1206 505902 [email protected] ART EDITORS Richard Allen Sarah Barajas ACCOUNTS [email protected] PUBLISHERS Joe Carter, Sam Reubin, Richard Stebbing PUBLISHED BY Artichoke Media Ltd Charlotte Smith Editor, What Franchise [email protected] Industry Contribution Winner British Franchise Association Professional Affiliate and Supplier Awards 2019 advisor @whatfranchise 3 WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM Edi tor ’ s Letter