by UFG | Apr 10, 2024 | News
One bite! Everyone knows the rules.
Barstool CEO Dave Portnoy took his popular pizza reviewing series to Florida this past week, stopping at 12 hotspots across the southern end of the state.
From Sarasota to Boca Raton, “El Presidente” chomped on several cheese pizzas for his social media accounts. The chosen pizza joints celebrated the spontaneous reviews from the media figure, reposting his reviews to their own accounts and sharing their experiences with him.
What is Portnoy’s ‘One Bite Review’ series for Barstool?
Portnoy’s “One Bite Review” is a video series where he travels across the country (sometimes the world) and buys a large cheese pizza, giving “one bite” pizza reviews for millions of followers.
“One bite, everybody knows the rules,” he says at the top of every review in which he rates every pizzeria out of 10 possible points. The channel has amassed more than 1 million subscribers since its debut in 2016, earning a cult fanbase.
In an interview Benzinga founder and CEO Jason Raznick, Portnoy explained what motivated him to review thousands of pizza joints. He shared it traced back to a debate he had with a coworker “Big Cat” Dan Katz. The two argued if they can only eat one food item for the rest of their lives, what would it be.
Portnoy argued pizza is the far superior option and decided to put his money where his mouth is by eating only pizza for one month.
“Since I was doing it, I (figured) I’ll take a bite and rate it — and it just kind of caught on,” he said.
David Portnoy pizza review list in Florida
Portnoy has journeyed to nearly 100 Florida pizzerias throughout his series. Curious if one of his favorites is right by you?
Here’s every Florida pizza joint Portnoy has reviewed:
- Mister O1- South Beach, Miami Beach – 8.9
- Ah-Beetz New Haven Pizza, Delray Beach – 8.4
- Eleventh Street Pizza, Miami – 8.2
- Lucali, Miami Beach – 8.1
- Heritage, Fort Lauderdale – 8.1
- Fantini’s, Stuart – 8.1
- Pizzacraft Artisan Pizzeria, Fort Lauderdale – 8.1
- Tucci’s Fire N Coal Pizza, Boca Raton – 8.1
- Blocks Pizza Deli, Miami Beach – 8
- Pizzette Miami, Miami Beach – 7.9
- Sicilian Oven, Boca Raton – 7.9
- Aunt Lulu’s NY Style Pizza, Boca Raton – 7.8
- Giotto Maestro Della Pizza, Miami Beach – 7.8
- Square Pie City, Miami – 7.8
- Luigi’s Coal Oven Pizza, Fort Lauderdale – 7.8
- Grandpa’s Pizza, Bonita Springs – 7.8
- Toby’s Original Little Italy Pizza, St. Petersburg – 7.7
- Nick’s New Haven Style Pizzeria and Bar, Boca Raton – 7.7
- Taglio Cucina & Pizzeria Romana, Port Charlotte – 7.7
- Industry Pizza & Slice Shop, Naples – 7.7
- Pete’s Pizza, Daytona Beach -7.6
- Pizza District, Boca Raton – 7.6
- Pizza Bruno, Orlando – 7.5
- Esposito’s Pizza Bar, Davie – 7.5
- Amarone, Aventura – 7.5
- Big Bang Pizzeria, North Lauderdale – 7.5
- Renzo’s Cafe Pizzeria, Boca Raton – 7.5
- Apizza Brooklyn, Miami – 7.4
- Pizza Time Ristorante, Boca Raton – 7.4
- Frankie’s Pizza, Miami – 7.4
- IL Panificio Pizzeria, Sarasota – 7.4
- Gianni’s Pizza, Bradenton – 7.3
- Prince Street Pizza, Miami – 7.3
- Pizza Pazza, Miami – 7.3
- Little Italian Pizza, Pompano Beach – 7.3
- Terre Del Sapore, Coral Gables – 7.3
- Tomasso’s Pizza and Subs, Boca Raton – 7.3
- Pizza Tropical, Miami – 7.3
- Giuseppe’s Steel City Pizza, Port Orange – 7.3
- Collins Pizza, Miami – 7.2
- Cafe La Buca, Pompano Beach – 7.2
- La Leggenda Pizzeria, Miami Beach – 7.2
- Sir Pizza, Key Biscayne – 7.2
- Rico’s Pizzeria, Sarasota – 7.2
- Conte’s Pizza – 7.2
- Cannoli Kitchen, Boca Raton – 7.1
- Black Magic Pizza – 7.1
- PizzeRizzo, Disney’s Hollywood Studios – 7.1
- Big Louie’s Pizzeria, Pompano Beach – 7.1
- Harry’s Pizzeria, Miami – 7.1
- Eddie & Sam’s NY Pizza, Tampa – 7.1
- DC Pie – Brickell, Miami – 7.1
- Grafa Pizza, Miami Beach – 7.1
- Nick’s Pizza, Deerfield Beach – 7.1
- Focaccia, Miami – 6.9
- LowBrow Pizza & Beer, Naples – 6.9
- Michael’s Ali Coal Fired Pizza, Winter Garden – 6.9
- The Big Cheese, Miami – 6.9
- Buon Pane Italiano Bakery, Miami Beach – 6.9
- Steve’s Pizza, Miami – 6.9
- Pizza Girls WPB, West Palm Beach – 6.9
- Banchero Miami, Miami Beach – 6.8
- Pucci’s Pizza, Miami – 6.8
- Pizza Rustica, Miami Beach – 6.8
- Blue Springs Pizza, Orange City – 6.8
- Fratelli La Bufala, Miami Beach – 6.8
- Andiamo, Miami – 6.8
- Brooklyn Boys Pizza & Pizza, Boca Ration – 6.8
- East Side Pizza, Miami – 6.8
- I Love Pizza, Miami – 6.7
- Venezia Italian Restaurant, Sarasota – 6.7
- Zuccarelli, Pompano Beach – 6.7
- Leo’s Pizza, Miami – 6.7
- New York Pizza & Restaurante, Miami – 6.7
- Franco & Vinny’s, Fort Launderdale – 6.7
- Miami’s Best Pizza, Coral Gables – 6.6
- Sazio, Delray Beach – 6.6
- Napoli Pizza, Daytona Beach – 6.6
- Casola’s Pizzeria & Sub Shop, Miami – 6.3
- Spris, Miami – 6.3
- Upper Crust Pizza, Celebration – 6.2
- Pizza Bar, Miami Beach – 6.1
- Lenny’s Pizza, Miami Beach – 6.1
- Piola – Miami Beach, Miami Beach, 6.1
- Chuck E. Cheese’s, Melbourne – 6 (also his most popular video with 4 million views)
- Primanti Bros, Fort Launderdale – 5.3
- Zinncredible Pizza, Davie – 5.2
- Biggie’s Pizza, Jacksonville – 5.1
- Planet Pizza, Orlando – 4.8
- Mom’s New York Pizza, Miami – 4.3
- Pizza De Miami, Miami – 4.1
- McDonald’s, Orlando – 2.9
- King’s Pizza, Clearwater – 2.4
- Pizza Al Fresco, Palm Beach – 2.2
What is the top pizza shop Portnoy has reviewed in the entire country?
Unfortunately, the top pizza place in Portnoy’s ranking isn’t found in Florida. Instead, it’s roughly 1,300 miles away in Massachusetts.
The only perfect score in the entire series, Monte’s Restaurant in Lynn has secured its spot as Portnoy’s favorite spot for pizza pies.
by UFG | Apr 10, 2024 | News
Looking to buy an A-list franchise? These brands have been the strongest for the longest.
This year, we at Entrepreneur published the 45th annual edition of our Franchise 500 ranking. As we celebrate that milestone, we also want to recognize the franchise brands that have been on this Franchise 500 journey right alongside us for the longest, claiming spots in the rankings year after year after year — including three that have ranked in every single Franchise 500 from the very beginning!
Those three brands, along with 47 others that have ranked for the past 25 years or more consecutively, are what we call our “Hall of Fame” franchises. We recognize them here, along with our “10+ Club” franchises — brands that are on their way to future Hall of Fame status, having ranked 10 to 24 years consecutively. We also share some thoughts from a few of these companies on the secrets to their success, the changes they’ve seen over the years, and what the future of the franchise industry might hold in store.
As always, Entrepreneur‘s franchise lists are a great starting point if you’re interested in purchasing a franchise, but they should not be construed as an unqualified recommendation of any particular company. No matter how impressive the track record of the brand you’re considering, you should always do your own extensive research before investing. That includes reading the company’s legal documents, consulting with an attorney and an accountant, and talking to current and former franchisees.
All 45 years
Dunkin’
- Ranked: 45 years consecutively
- Rank in 1980: 17
- Rank in 2024: 6
- Total Units Open in 1980: 1,084
- Total Units Open in 2023: 13,372
McDonald’s
- Ranked: 45 years consecutively
- Rank in 1980: 1
- Rank in 2024: 18
- Total Units Open in 1980: 5,749
- Total Units Open in 2023: 40,801
Lawn Doctor
- Ranked: 45 years consecutively
- Rank in 1980: 77
- Rank in 2024: 120
- Total Units Open in 1980: 260
- Total Units Open in 2023: 635
40+ Years
Chem-Dry Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
- Ranked: 44 years consecutively
- Rank in 1981: 172
- Rank in 2024: 186
- Total Units Open in 1981: 282
- Total Units Open in 2023: 2,027
The Maids
- Ranked: 41 years consecutively
- Rank in 1984: 229
- Rank in 2024: 30
- Total Units Open in 1984: 63
- Total Units Open in 2023: 1,606
Merry Maids
- Ranked: 41 years consecutively
- Rank in 1984: 219
- Rank in 2024: 102
- Total Units Open in 1984: 126
- Total Units Open in 2023: 1,640
ServiceMaster Clean
- Ranked: 41 years consecutively*
- Rank in 1984: 152
- Rank in 2024: 239
- Total Units Open in 1984: 2,168
- Total Units Open in 2023: 671
ServiceMaster Restore
- Ranked: 41 years consecutively*
- Rank in 1984: 152
- Rank in 2024: 93
- Total Units Open in 1984: 2,168
- Total Units Open in 2023: 2,334
The UPS Store
“One trend to keep an eye on is the shift from the corporate world to franchising, particularly among Generation Z. The youngest members of the workforce see themselves as creators, which is one reason that entrepreneurship is so appealing to them.” — Steve Chambers, vice president of retail and business development, The UPS Store
- Ranked: 41 years consecutively
- Rank in 1984: 187
- Rank in 2024: 4
- Total Units Open in 1984: 100
- Total Units Open in 2023: 5,570
Marco’s Pizza
- Ranked: 40 years consecutively
- Rank in 1985: 437
- Rank in 2023: 48
- Total Units Open in 1985: 18
- Total Units Open in 2023: 1,166
RE/MAX
- Ranked: 40 years consecutively
- Rank in 1985: 60
- Rank in 2023: 109
- Total Units Open in 1985: 598
- Total Units Open in 2023: 9,111
35+ years
Great Clips
“The key is to not get bored with who you are and what you have to offer. At Great Clips, we know what we’re good at. Our core offering remains the same as it has for nearly 42 years, and our innovation has come in the form of technology to make our services even more convenient for customers. Before we launched online check-in, our front door had always been the door of the salon. Now our front door is wherever someone’s phone is.” — Steve Hockett, CEO, Great Clips
- Ranked: 39 years consecutively
- Rank in 1986: 252
- Rank in 2024: 35
- Total Units Open in 1986: 94
- Total Units Open in 2023: 4,427
Servpro
- Ranked: 39 years consecutively
- Rank in 1986: 77
- Rank in 2024: 11
- Total Units Open in 1986: 574
- Total Units Open in 2023: 2,199
Huntington Learning Center
- Ranked: 38 years consecutively
- Rank in 1987: 461
- Rank in 2024: 113
- Total Units Open in 1987: 33
- Total Units Open in 2023: 286
AlphaGraphics
[The key it long-term success in franchising is] “A partnership mentality between franchisor and franchisee — making sure that the franchisor realizes that the franchisees are the brand. Their success is yours.” — Bill McPherson, vice president of retail network development, AlphaGraphics
- Ranked: 37 years consecutively
- Rank in 1988: 114
- Rank in 2024: 480
- Total Units Open in 1988: 209
- Total Units Open in 2023: 259
Wild Birds Unlimited
- Ranked: 37 years consecutively
- Rank in 1988: 483
- Rank in 2024: 165
- Total Units Open in 1988: 17
- Total Units Open in 2023: 360
Express Employment Professionals
“Technology is the drumbeat of tomorrow’s franchise industry. Embracing automation and leveraging data will be pivotal. Yet success hinges on preserving that personal touch amid technological strides. Those who can successfully integrate AI while maintaining a ‘people first’ mentality will be the businesses that lead the way.” — Vinny Provenzano, senior vice president of global franchising, Express Employment Professionals
- Ranked: 36 years consecutively
- Rank in 1989: 261
- Rank in 2024: 57
- Total Units Open in 1989: 103
- Total Units Open in 2023: 865
Maid Brigade
“We listen to our franchisees. Our owners are smart, motivated, and come from a variety of backgrounds. We welcome hearing new ideas from them, as well as keeping our eyes and ears open through attending conferences and webinars.” — Raychel Leong-Sullins, president, Maid Brigade
- Ranked: 36 years consecutively
- Rank in 1989: 126
- Rank in 2024: 273
- Total Units Open in 1989: 165
- Total Units Open in 2023: 406
Postal Annex+
- Ranked: 36 years consecutively
- Rank in 1989: 485
- Rank in 2024: 164
- Total Units Open in 1989: 26
- Total Units Open in 2023: 313
FastSigns
- Ranked: 35 years consecutively
- Rank in 1990: 398
- Rank in 2024: 73
- Total Units Open in 1990: 38
- Total Units Open in 2023: 768
Kitchen Tune-Up
- Ranked: 35 years consecutively
- Rank in 1990: 499
- Rank in 2024: 107
- Total Units Open in 1990: 22
- Total Units Open in 2023: 290
30+ Years
National Property Inspections
- Ranked: 34 years consecutively
- Rank in 1991: 376
- Rank in 2024: 343
- Total Units Open in 1991: 43
- Total Units Open in 2023: 223
Molly Maid
- Ranked: 33 years consecutively
- Rank in 1992: 231
- Rank in 2024: 103
- Total Units Open in 1992: 255
- Total Units Open in 2023: 454
7-Eleven
- Ranked: 33 years consecutively
- Rank in 1992: 17
- Rank in 2024: 25
- Total Units Open in 1992: 12,021
- Total Units Open in 2023: 83,779
Smoothie King
- Ranked: 33 years consecutively
- Rank in 1992: 466
- Rank in 2024: 15
- Total Units Open in 1992: 17
- Total Units Open in 2023: 1,354
Allegra Marketing-Print-Mail
- Ranked: 31 years consecutively
- Rank in 1994: 138
- Rank in 2024: 247
- Total Units Open in 1994: 531
- Total Units Open in 2023: 239
Charleys Cheesesteaks & Wings
- Ranked: 31 years consecutively
- Rank in 1994: 351
- Rank in 2024: 76
- Total Units Open in 1994: 19
- Total Units Open in 2023: 783
Snap-on Tools
- Ranked: 31 years consecutively
- Rank in 1994: 9
- Rank in 2024: 20
- Total Units Open in 1994: 3,271
- Total Units Open in 2023: 4,724
Matco Tools
- Ranked: 31 years consecutively
- Rank in 1994: 35
- Rank in 2024: 58
- Total Units Open in 1994: 768
- Total Units Open in 2023: 1,950
Batteries Plus
- Ranked: 30 years consecutively
- Rank in 1995: 331
- Rank in 2024: 311
- Total Units Open in 1995: 25
- Total Units Open in 2023: 731
CertaPro Painters
- Ranked: 30 years consecutively
- Rank in 1995: 359
- Rank in 2024: 163
- Total Units Open in 1995: 82
- Total Units Open in 2023: 360
Once Upon A Child
- Ranked: 30 years consecutively
- Rank in 1995: 162
- Rank in 2024: 220
- Total Units Open in 1995: 80
- Total Units Open in 2023: 408
25+ Years
Budget Blinds
- Ranked: 29 years consecutively
- Rank in 1996: 282
- Rank in 2024: 16
- Total Units Open in 1996: 67
- Total Units Open in 2023: 1,472
Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches
- Ranked: 29 years consecutively
- Rank in 1996: 456
- Rank in 2024: 90
- Total Units Open in 1996: 15
- Total Units Open in 2023: 2,637
Dream Vacations
“The number of industries that now have a franchise opportunity is just massive. People with that entrepreneurial spirit seek out opportunities that unite a passion, financial security, and a culture that they believe in and can get behind.” — Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager, Dream Vacations
- Ranked: 27 years consecutively
- Rank in 1998: 287
- Rank in 2024: 54
- Total Units Open in 1998: 305
- Total Units Open in 2023: 1,874
Home Instead
- Ranked: 27 years consecutively
- Rank in 1998: 365
- Rank in 2024: 149
- Total Units Open in 1998: 90
- Total Units Open in 2023: 1,217
Jiffy Lube
- Ranked: 27 years consecutively
- Rank in 1998: 45
- Rank in 2024: 119
- Total Units Open in 1998: 1,459
- Total Units Open in 2023: 2,232
Kumon
- Ranked: 27 years consecutively
- Rank in 1998: 53
- Rank in 2024: 10
- Total Units Open in 1998: 19,720
- Total Units Open in 2022: 26,244
Mr. Appliance
- Ranked: 27 years consecutively
- Rank in 1998: 459
- Rank in 2024: 178
- Total Units Open in 1998: 9
- Total Units Open in 2022: 343
Pillar To Post Home Inspectors
- Ranked: 27 years consecutively
- Rank in 1998: 416
- Rank in 2024: 305
- Total Units Open in 1998: 98
- Total Units Open in 2023: 510
Two Men and a Truck
- Ranked: 27 years consecutively
- Rank in 1998: 408
- Rank in 2024: 128
- Total Units Open in 1998: 47
- Total Units Open in 2023: 348
Glass Doctor
- Ranked: 26 years consecutively
- Rank in 1999: 302
- Rank in 2024: 185
- Total Units Open in 1999: 25
- Total Units Open in 2023: 189
The Goddard School
- Ranked: 26 years consecutively
- Rank in 1999: 445
- Rank in 2024: 68
- Total Units Open in 1999: 50
- Total Units Open in 2023: 612
Keller Williams
- Ranked: 26 years consecutively
- Rank in 1999: 237
- Rank in 2024: 114
- Total Units Open in 1999: 70
- Total Units Open in 2023: 1,151
Miracle Method Surface Refinishing
- Ranked: 25 years consecutively
- Rank in 1999: 436
- Rank in 2024: 158
- Total Units Open in 1999: 97
- Total Units Open in 2023: 174
Pirtek
- Ranked: 26 years consecutively
- Rank in 1999: 318
- Rank in 2024: 94
- Total Units Open in 1999: 164
- Total Units Open in 2023: 647
Screenmobile
- Ranked: 26 years consecutively
- Rank in 1999: 390
- Rank in 2024: 183
- Total Units Open in 1999: 51
- Total Units Open in 2023: 151
Sport Clips Haircuts
- Ranked: 26 years consecutively
- Rank in 1999: 451
- Rank in 2024: 44
- Total Units Open in 1999: 21
- Total Units Open in 2022: 1,896
Minuteman Press
- Ranked: 25 years consecutively
- Rank in 2000: 69
- Rank in 2024: 99
- Total units open in 2000: 896
- Total units open in 2023: 987
Signarama
- Ranked: 25 years consecutively
- Rank in 2000: 61
- Rank in 2024: 156
- Total units open in 2000: 561
- Total units open in 2023: 669
The 10+ Club
The 10+ Club honors those brands that are working their way toward the Hall of Fame distinction, having ranked 10 to 24 years consecutively.
20 – 24 Years
Anago Cleaning Systems
Ranked: 24 years
MaidPro
Ranked: 24 years
Buildingstars
Ranked: 23 years
Cruise Planners
Ranked: 23 years
DoubleTree by Hilton
Ranked: 23 years
Embassy Suites by Hilton
Ranked: 23 years
Fish Window Cleaning
Ranked: 23 years
Hampton by Hilton
Ranked: 23 years
Hilton Garden Inn
Ranked: 23 years
Hilton Hotels and Resorts
Ranked: 23 years
Homewood Suites by Hilton
Ranked: 23 years
Plato’s Closet
Ranked: 23 years
Super 8 by Wyndham
Ranked: 23 years
Ben & Jerry’s
Ranked: 22 years
Fully Promoted
Ranked: 22 years
Kiddie Academy
Ranked: 22 years
Labor Finders
Ranked: 22 years
RooterMan
Ranked: 22 years
Image360
Ranked: 21 years
Right at Home
Ranked: 21 years
Moe’s Southwest Grill
Ranked: 20 years
Palm Beach Tan
Ranked: 20 years
Weichert
Ranked: 20 years
15 -19 Years
Anytime Fitness
Ranked: 19 years
Cinnabon
Ranked: 19 years
Papa Johns
Ranked: 19 years
Spherion Staffing & Recruiting
Ranked: 19 years
“The franchise industry has progressed by leaps and bounds to help ensure that business ownership across the country is more reflective of our diverse communities. I’m proud to be a part of a brand where 46% of the new franchisees we welcomed in 2023 were from diverse backgrounds.” — Kathy George, executive vice president, Spherion
Ace Hardware
Ranked: 18 years
Baymont by Wyndham
Ranked: 18 years
Baskin-Robbins
Ranked: 17 years
Carl’s Jr.
Ranked: 17 years
Circle K
Ranked: 17 years
Dairy Queen
Ranked: 17 years
Hardee’s
Ranked: 17 years
KFC
Ranked: 17 years
Pizza Hut
Ranked: 17 years
Primrose Schools
Ranked: 17 years
“Essential to long-term success in franchising is avoiding sacrificing service excellence and quality for the sake of rapid scale. Primrose was the first to franchise an early education and care model. We committed to building a comprehensive, replicable model before accelerating growth. We gained insights from early franchise owners, leadership teams, and teachers to fine-tune operational and curriculum processes to ensure a high-quality, consistent delivery of service excellence.” — Jo Kirchner, CEO, Primrose Schools
Senior Helpers
Ranked: 17 years
Bojangles
Ranked: 16 years
“The industry will be fueled by AI integration and the advancement of both customer-facing and operational technology, resulting in increased efficiency. At Bojangles, we’ve already begun to test this type of technology, equipping several drive-thrus to take orders using our AI order-taker, Bo-Linda.” — Brooks Speirs, vice president of franchise sales, Bojangles
Checkers and Rally’s
Ranked: 16 years
Chester’s
Ranked: 16 years
Window Gang
Ranked: 16 years
Camp Bow Wow
Ranked: 15 years
H&R Block
Ranked: 15 years
Pearle Vision
Ranked: 15 years
Ziebart
Ranked: 15 years
10 – 14 Years
ASP-America’s Swimming Pool Company
Ranked: 14 years
BrightStar Care
Ranked: 14 years
CMIT Solutions
Ranked: 14 years
“The franchise industry, once rooted in face-to-face interactions, underwent a transformative shift with the advent of COVID. We’re now witnessing a harmonious blend of in-person relationship building and remote business. Technology has catalyzed a paradigm shift, compelling both customers and franchises to embrace a new and resilient business model.” — Roger Lewis, CEO, CMIT Solutions
CPR Cell Phone Repair
Ranked: 14 years
Culver’s
Ranked: 14 years
Jet-Black/Yellow Dawg Striping
Ranked: 14 years
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue
Ranked: 14 years
The Learning Experience Academy of Early Education
Ranked: 14 years
Pop-A-Lock
Ranked: 14 years
Rainbow Restoration
Ranked: 14 years
School of Rock
Ranked: 14 years
Transworld Business Advisors
Ranked: 14 years
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving
Ranked: 13 years
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
Ranked: 13 years
The Honey Baked Ham Co.
Ranked: 13 years
Hungry Howie’s Pizza & Subs
Ranked: 13 years
Jersey Mike’s Subs
Ranked: 13 years
Real Property Management
Ranked: 13 years
Sonic Drive-In
Ranked: 13 years
Weed Man
Ranked: 13 years
Dale Carnegie
Ranked: 12 years
Estrella Insurance
Ranked: 12 years
FirstLight Home Care
Ranked: 12 years
The Good Feet Store
Ranked: 12 years
Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa
Ranked: 12 years
HomeVestors of America
Ranked: 12 years
“As times change, brands are continually asked to evolve. Brands that understand how to modernize, while maintaining the culture and ‘secret sauce’ that made them great in the beginning—those are the brands that live on for decades.” — Adam Benshoof, vice president of franchise development, HomeVestors of America
Jan-Pro Cleaning and Disinfecting
Ranked: 12 years
The Joint Chiropractic
Ranked: 12 years
Kona Ice
Ranked: 12 years
“Run your own inside operation so you know firsthand what the franchisees are experiencing. Most important: Listen to your franchisees! Call them, email them, and when it gets too big, survey them. Let them have a voice, because it is their journey, too.” — Tony Lamb, CEO, Kona Ice
Mac Tools
Ranked: 12 years
MassageLuXe
Ranked: 12 years
1-800-Got-Junk?
Ranked: 12 years
Pet Supplies Plus
Ranked: 12 years
PrideStaff
Ranked: 12 years
RNR Tire Express
Ranked: 12 years
Rosati’s Pizza
Ranked: 12 years
Schlotzsky’s
Ranked: 12 years
Uptown Cheapskate
Ranked: 12 years
Closets By Design
Ranked: 11 years
Crunch
Ranked: 11 years
Del Taco
Ranked: 11 years
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Restaurant
Ranked: 11 years
Interim HealthCare
Ranked: 11 years
McAlister’s Deli
Ranked: 11 years
One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning
Ranked: 11 years
Phenix Salon Suites
Ranked: 11 years
Taco Bell
Ranked: 11 years
Tropical Smoothie Cafe
Ranked: 11 years
AAMCO Transmissions and Total Car Care
Ranked: 10 years
Big O Tires
Ranked: 10 years
Floor Coverings International
Ranked: 10 years
Mathnasium
Ranked: 10 years
Property Management Inc.
Ranked: 10 years
Pure Barre
Ranked: 10 years
The Tailored Closet
Ranked: 10 years
Waxing the City
Ranked: 10 years
#1 in Category
The #1 in Category Club are those rare franchise brands that have ranked #1 in their industry category in the Franchise 500 for the last 10-plus years.
Dunkin’
Ranked #1 in category: 38 years
The UPS Store
Ranked #1 in category: 34 years
Budget Blinds
Ranked #1 in category: 29 years
Kumon
Ranked #1 in category: 23 years
Charleys Cheesesteaks & Wings
Ranked #1 in category: 21 years
Minuteman Press
Ranked #1 in category: 21 years
Servpro
Ranked #1 in category: 21 years
Hampton by Hilton
Ranked #1 in category: 15 years
Once Upon A Child
Ranked #1 in category: 15 years
Cinnabon
Ranked #1 in category: 13 years
Express Employment Professionals
Ranked #1 in category: 13 years
7-Eleven
Ranked #1 in category: 13 years
Snap-on Tools
Ranked #1 in category: 12 years
Transworld Business Advisors
Ranked #1 in category: 12 years
Taco Bell
Ranked #1 in category: 11 years
by UFG | Apr 9, 2024 | News
Let’s get one thing straight, food is art and charcuterie boards take that art to a new level. Pronounced as “shahr-koo-tuh-ree”. You’ve probably seen it on your Twitter, Instagram, and all over the internet while randomly scrolling on your feed. This trendy elegant looking feast is a beautiful and creative way of combining food on a serving board.
Usually consisting of meat, nuts, cheese, dried fruits, fresh fruit, dips, bread, and crackers, the amazing thing about charcuterie is the never-ending options and possible selection of flavor in any way you want it. The not so amazing thing about charcuterie is it can be time-consuming, expensive and challenging for those with a not-so-artistic-eye.
That’s where Graze Craze comes in and lucky for us Pensacolians, one just opened in Gulf Breeze at 3329 Gulf Breeze Pkwy. Located next to Winn Dixie in the old Papa Murphy’s space, you will find the new Graze Craze store front who Grand Opening is today, April 9th at 11:30am.
Local franchise owners, Jocelyn and Paul Sanders, have always wanted to open their own business and when they found a connection with Graze Craze, they took a leap of faith. Graze Craze, Inc. was founded in 2018 by Kerry Sylvester, an Air Force veteran. Jocelyn’s husband, Paul, is a retired helicopter after a 20 year career in the United States Navy.
“My husband is a retired Navy helicopter pilot and I’m a trained mental health therapist. When we decided to plant our roots here permanently with our two little ones, we knew it was time to work for ourselves,” said Jocelyn. “My husband came across a veteran franchise opportunity and Graze Craze was one of the options.”
Jocelyn also frequently visited her sister in Charlotte where they would often visit a small mom and pops shop that offered charcuterie board and grazing tables and she wished there was something similar in Pensacola.
“My sister and I would always go grab a little box and go to the park so the kids can play and we can have real food and not their left over goldfish and peanut butter crackers,” she said. “I always thought how perfect it would be to have something similar here to take to the beach or to a picnic and before we knew it, my husband and I were signing the dotted line.”
At Graze Craze, they believe in using the best class ingredients and celebrating everything. Their cheeses and meats are not ones you will find widely at the grocery store and their dips are made in-house. It’s also important to Jocelyn and Paul to make sure they are sourcing local ingredients as much as they can which includes a local honey and a neighbor’s olive oil business.
Walk in their redesigned space and see a front counter with a ”grazologist” (someone who curates your board for you), a menu board and a grab ‘n go fridge. There is no indoor seating, but there is a small conference style room for guests to come and discuss catering options. They can accommodate large parties and weddings up to 200 people or small intimate gatherings or single serving charcuterie cups.
Jocelyn and the store manager prepared a picnic board for me before I left and the taste and quality was second to none. If you can’t make their Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting today at 11:30am, make sure you check them out this weekend before all your beach activities. Follow along on their Facebook for updates on today and their hours.
by UFG | Apr 7, 2024 | News
Creamy tzatziki sauce, crunchy falafel recipes, crumbly feta cheese, and warm pita bread are only a few items people can look forward to while visiting some of the best Mediterranean restaurants around the United States. While fancy original restaurants are fun for a date night, there is something to be said about a familiar chain, especially if you spot one in a not-so-familiar town. The good news is that, with the Mediterranean diet becoming increasingly popular among diners, there are some chains people are likely about to see springing up from the woodwork. In other words, they are set to be everywhere!
Mediterranean cuisine is known and widely regarded for its wide array of spices and fresh ingredients, namely fruits, vegetables, olive oil, different grains, seafood, and lean meats. These are all influenced by the culinary traditions of places along the Mediterranean basin, making it a healthy option for those who enjoy eating out now and again. From the popular menu options offered at Luna Grill to the familiar aromas of cumin, saffron, and coriander spilling out the doors of CAVA locations, Mediterranean cuisine lovers will be pleased to know that healthy, fast-casual options are going to continually grow into the norm. Here are some examples you may see down the street soon.
The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill
In a 2021 statement posted on the restaurant’s website, The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill Brand President Bob Anderson discussed developing 150 new locations of the fast-growing Mediterranean chain by 2024. As of April that year, there were only 21 restaurants in total, the first opening in Nevada in 2011. As of March 2024, that number includes nearly 60 currently operating locations, with many more set to open. Apparently, people just can’t get enough of The Great Geek’s simple yet delicious food options, allowing the company to expand its brand at such a quick rate across the nation.
Priding itself as being a “home away from home” establishment, The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill makes its food daily from scratch and with the freshest ingredients, making Greek gyros, salads, bowls, pita bread, and soups taste like they came straight from your own kitchen. Go for a personal gyro or share a Mezze Plate full of dolmades, falafel, hummus, and spanikopita with a friend. Either way, there is clearly no way to order incorrectly when it comes to The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill’s hearty menu.
by UFG | Apr 4, 2024 | News
Ray Titus is CEO of United Franchise Group (UFG), a global leader for entrepreneurs with brands in over 1,600 locations in 60 countries.
We’re well into 2024, but it’s not too late to set a new course with goals to move the needle in your career or business. In fact, this might be the perfect time. With mindsets focused on the path ahead, you’re in a position to move forward without distractions. It’s time to see where you want to go and determine the steps you’ll take to get there.
I’ve always believed in goal setting, and I believe so strongly in it that we’ve hired a manager at my company whom we call our “dream coach”—a designated professional who meets with all employees to guide them in achieving their business and personal goals. We don’t want them to focus all their energy on business at the expense of their personal lives; balancing the two makes for the kind of well-rounded person we want on our team, and adding new personal skills can make you a better business leader.
Setting Yourself Up For Success
One mistake many people make when setting goals is to have too many. I believe in setting three goals each year; if you’re stretching yourself with challenging objectives, three is plenty. I can see going as high as five if something really fires you up, but any more than that is a to-do list.
As you decide your goals, look for the sweet spot: not too hard but not too easy. They should make a significant difference for your company while exciting and inspiring you. For example, signing three new clients a week is probably impossible; you’ll likely feel defeated and want to give up in the first week. But three a year will barely register, and you’ll likely get bored.
A critical part of the goal-setting process is planning lead measures, the actionable steps you or your staff will take to hit each goal. You need two or three steps for each goal, making them measurable and time-bound so you’ll know if you’ve reached your mark. For instance, if your team decides to increase revenue by a certain amount, you might decide that each member will make a certain number of sales calls and hit a budget number each week. To earn the year’s target amount, how much must you bring in each quarter, month and week?
Once you’ve set your destination, here are some ideas for getting there.
Five Career Resolutions
These are not goals in themselves but projects and behaviors that can help you reach the big-picture objectives of your year.
1. Become a mentor. Offer to guide a new employee or one who’s just joined your team. Not only will you help the mentee learn new skills they can contribute to company growth, but you’ll stay up to date on technology and business terms. (I’ve found you never learn faster than when you have to teach someone else.)
2. Volunteer to manage a new project. Step up and take charge of a revenue- or knowledge-building endeavor. A project that needs you to recruit and assemble a team is ideal, but stepping into someone else’s leadership shoes also offers opportunity.
3. Read regularly. I encourage our employees to read at least one new book each month, more if possible. Whether it’s a business book or something that educates and motivates another aspect of your life, you will likely discover three or four ideas you can use.
4. Embrace change. Many people have trouble with change, but it’s the only constant in business; every day, it seems to come faster and faster. Change for change’s sake isn’t always good, but neither is resisting it because “that’s the way we’ve always done it.” Be one of the organization leaders who welcomes new developments and owns the change, and you may rise even faster than you dreamed.
5. Honor the winners. This is a critical step in any goal process. If you don’t acknowledge big goals when you hit them, what are you telling your team—that they weren’t important enough? When your team performs well, show your appreciation with recognition dinners, award ceremonies or anything else that makes a big deal about it. People love being part of winning teams, and shining a spotlight on them is essential.
Goal!
Knowing what you want in life for your career and your personal life is the key to getting it, and I’ve found that putting those dreams in writing is the most crucial step you can take toward achieving it; this solidifies your commitment and makes it more real. Get started now, and by year’s end, you’ll likely have many reasons to call it a successful year.
