ATLANTA, Feb. 15, 2018 -- Since 2009, Franchise Direct has compiled its Top 100 Global Franchises Ranking, one of the most well-known rankings in the industry. This annual industry benchmark is one of the leading franchise ranking reports, having been frequently quoted by industry professionals.
This year’s 10th anniversary edition sees franchises going wherever necessary to continue their growth. China has emerged as a target destination for U.S. franchises, with many notable Top 100 franchises making their move to the Chinese market. Anytime Fitness (#29) is the first U.S. fitness franchise to be granted a license to franchise in China, where it will utilize the expertise of a master franchisee. Food franchisor Focus Brands announced within the past year that it will start introducing Auntie Anne’s (#57) and Cinnabon (#65) to the country.
The ranking is based on a methodology that considers a host of factors including financial performance and corporate citizenship. The ranking gives special attention to franchises that have expanded beyond their borders, operating in at least two countries. The Top 100 have been selected from hundreds of franchises that have invested in international expansion programs.
The Top 100 goes beyond the numbers. While growth and sales revenue are important factors in determining a franchise’s success, the Top 100 Global Franchises ranking also looks into whether the franchises help prospective franchisees obtain funding as well as how the franchises give back to their communities.
While the very top of the ranking didn’t see much movement with McDonald’s, KFC and Burger King retaining their spots at the top, several companies made moves below them. Several industries are represented throughout the ranking, including food, hotel, automotive, fitness, and child education.
This year’s report also contains a look at the continuing implications of the joint employer debate, a franchise market spotlight on Germany, and the potential implications of Brexit on the UK franchising industry.
To view this year’s ranking and read the report, please visit the Top 100 Global Franchises page.
About Franchise Direct:
Franchise Direct is the world’s leading franchise portal, operating 13 platforms across 5 continents. Franchise Direct provides the only credible, research-based ranking of global franchises to reach their goal of providing reliable information for entrepreneurs and investors.
Contact: Renee Bailey [email protected]


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