10 American Entrepreneurs Who Built Successful Franchises
Franchising has become a popular business model for entrepreneurs looking to expand their businesses. With the right systems in place, franchising allows entrepreneurs to expand their reach without incurring the high costs associated with opening new locations. Here are 10 American entrepreneurs who built successful franchises.
1. Ray Kroc – McDonald’s
Ray Kroc is responsible for turning McDonald’s into one of the most recognizable brands in the world. He joined McDonald’s in 1954 and eventually bought the company in 1961. Kroc was a pioneer in the franchising industry and helped to develop the systems and processes that are still used today.
2. Sam Walton – Walmart
Sam Walton opened the first Walmart store in 1962, and the company has since become one of the largest retailers in the world. With over 11,000 stores in 27 countries, Walmart is the largest private employer in the United States.
3. Fred DeLuca – Subway
Fred DeLuca opened the first Subway store in 1965 with a loan of $1,000. Today, Subway is the largest restaurant chain in the world, with over 42,000 locations in 112 countries.
4. Jim Davis – New Balance
Jim Davis bought New Balance in 1972 and turned it into one of the most popular athletic shoe brands in the United States. Today, New Balance is a global brand with over 5,000 employees and products sold in over 120 countries.
5. Richard Schulze – Best Buy
Richard Schulze founded Best Buy in 1966 as a single store selling affordable consumer electronics. Today, Best Buy is a Fortune 100 company with over 1,000 stores in the United States and Canada.
6. Dave Thomas – Wendy’s
Dave Thomas opened the first Wendy’s restaurant in 1969, and the chain has since grown to over 6,700 locations worldwide. Thomas was a pioneer in using fresh ingredients and made-to-order cooking in the fast-food industry.
7. Blake Mycoskie – TOMS
Blake Mycoskie founded TOMS in 2006 with a mission to help children in need. For every pair of shoes sold, TOMS donates a pair to a child in need. The company has since expanded to include eyewear, coffee, and bags.
8. Herb Kelleher – Southwest Airlines
Herb Kelleher co-founded Southwest Airlines in 1967, and the airline has since grown to become one of the largest in the United States. Kelleher is known for revolutionizing the airline industry with his focus on low-cost flights and exceptional customer service.
9. Steve Ells – Chipotle Mexican Grill
Steve Ells opened the first Chipotle restaurant in 1993 with a focus on serving high-quality, fast-casual Mexican food. Today, Chipotle has over 2,500 locations worldwide.
10. Martha Matilda Harper – Harper Method
Martha Matilda Harper was a pioneer in the franchising industry, founding the Harper Method in 1891. Harper’s franchising model was unique at the time, as she offered women the opportunity to own their own businesses and achieve financial independence.
In conclusion, these entrepreneurs have changed the business world and paved the way for others to follow in their footsteps. Through hard work, determination, and innovation, they have built successful franchises that have become household names.