Hispanic Enterprise identifies the Top 25 Franchise opportunities for Hispanics

Thanks to hard work and an overarching commitment to success, the American middle-class Hispanic community has steadily grown and prospered in the past 15 years. As a result, the franchising community has become increasingly pro-active about recruiting and supporting Hispanic franchisees. According to a recent survey conducted by the National Minority Franchising Initiative, Hispanics already represent 15 percent or more of their total franchisees.
One primary goal of Hispanic Enterprise’s Top 25 questionnaire was to determine what percentage of the franchisor’s key managers (i.e. those earning in excess of $60,000 per annum) are Hispanic. We were pleasantly surprised to learn that many companies have a high percentage of Hispanic managers in key positions—a clear sign of progress and upward mobility. We were equally impressed by the level of manpower many large franchisors are committing to the recruitment and support of minority franchisees.
Producing a list with the Top 10, 25 or 100 of any category is a difficult task. It’s hard enough picking the best movies, actresses or baseball players. Picking the top franchise opportunities, however, is even more daunting—especially with the foreknowledge that someone may naively take such a list and commit an investment in excess of $200,000 without doing the proper due diligence.
There are a number of critical variables that must be considered in their entirety before a potential investor should decide which franchise is best for him or her. These include historical performance, brand identification, market dynamics, franchisee satisfaction, the level of initial training and ongoing support, financial stability and various other key areas that must be fully explored.
Although some would advise otherwise, we suggest that one should take at least four months to make the decision on a franchise—and that means not succumbing to pressure (whether by franchisors, brokers, investors, or well-intentioned friends) to make that decision prematurely.
There are severe penalties for making the wrong choice. At best, you may make a poor investment and will be both unhappy and financially strapped; at worst, you may lose your self-worth and your investment in its entirety. The secret is to do your homework at the outset.
Every decision is individual one and has to be made in light of your personal strengths, weaknesses, long-term objectives and tolerance for risk. Keep in mind that there are about 2,400 franchise systems in North America, many brand new and many tried-and-true. Unless you have a great deal of business experience in a particular industry, consider sticking with a company that has 40 or more operating units. These are the ones that have already learned from their mistakes and have the staff to properly support you as a new franchisee. You should also favor those firms that have already demonstrated their intentions and efforts to recruit minorities, especially Hispanics, into their company, whether as managers or as franchisees.
Each and every one of the companies listed here as a Top 25 Franchise has made a corporate commitment to recruit prospective franchisees from the Hispanic community over the past several years. This commitment is not motivated by altruism; it is based on sound economics. It is a fact of life that many of the growing numbers of Latino immigrants and Hispanic Americans have settled in areas that are currently underserved by the basic retail and service outlets prevalent in most other communities. Given the large and growing buying power within these underserved markets, it is an undeniable reality that Hispanic franchisees are the best candidates to run franchises within these communities.
With the above caveats in mind, the companies noted here represent exceptional opportunities for prospective franchisees and have demonstrated a commitment to properly training and supporting you once you become a franchisee.

Bonus Building Care
Turn-key commercial cleaning operation, with customers, training, operations assistance, equipment, business insurance and clerical support. Franchisees get personalized support and quick start-up. Master franchises available. IFA Member.
Franchisor Background:
Established: 1996
First Franchise: 1996
Franchise Units: 1,295
Company-Owned Units: 380
Total Units: 1,675
North American Distribution:
Operations in 16 states
States/Provinces with Greatest Density:
508 in Tennessee, 267 in Texas
Average Number of Employees:
Varies
Financial Requirements:
Cash Investment: Varies
Total Investment: Varies
Fees:
Franchise: $6.5K
Royalty: 10 percent

Carlson Hotels Worldwide
Carlson Hotels Worldwide is one of the world’s major hotel companies, operating in more than 69 countries. Brands include: Regent International Hotels, Radisson Hotels, Park Plaza Hotels, Country Inns & Suites and Park Inn Hotels.
Franchisor Background:
Established: 1938
Franchise Units: 925
Company-Owned Units: 11
Total Units: 936
North American Distribution:
Operations in 50 states
Financial Requirements:
Cash Investment: $1 million to $20 million
Total Investment: $3 million to $100 million
Average Total Investment: $2 million
Fees:
Franchise: $5K to $150K
Royalty: 4 to 5 percent

Carvel Corporation
The nation’s first retail ice cream franchise is a leading manufacturer of ice cream cakes, and premium soft serve ice cream products. The company boasts of 90 percent brand awareness in its core markets. Commitment to franchisees includes pre-opening development support, comprehensive training, innovative marketing programs and ongoing operational field support.
Franchisor Background:
Established: 1934
First Franchise: 1947
Franchise Units: 530
Company-Owned Units: 0
Total Units: 530
North American Distribution:
Operations in 25 states, 1 province
States/Provinces with Greatest Density:
217 in New York, 52 in New Jersey,
29 in Connecticut
Average Number of Employees:
2 full time, 6 part time
Financial Requirements:
Cash Investment: $100K
Total Investment: $300K
Minimum Net Worth: $300K
Fees:
Franchise: $30K
Royalty: $1.82 per gallon

Cendant
As one the world’s largest hotel franchisors, Cendant. boasts nearly 540,000 rooms.. Their brands cover a wide cross-section of lodging markets, ranging from mid priced to economy facilities that cater to all travelers.
Franchisor Background:
Established: 1990
First Franchise: 1990
Franchise Units: 6,588
Company-Owned Units: 0
Total Units: 6,588
North American Distribution:
Operations in 50 states
States/Provinces with Greatest Density:
478 in California, 435 in Texas, 423 Florida
Average Number of Employees:
Varies
Financial Requirements:
Total Investment: $205K to $6.2 million
Fees:
Franchise: Varies
Royalty: Varies

Church’s Chicken
Church’s is the second largest chicken restaurant chain in the country. Church’s offers Southern fried chicken with signature side items. It has a proven business system, niche customer base, low square footage requirements (as little as 750 square feet) and extensive franchisee support.
Franchisor Background:
Established: 1952
First Franchise: 1972
Franchise Units: 1,297
Company-Owned Units: 276
Total Units: 1,573
North American Distribution:
Operations in 28 states
States/Provinces with Greatest Density:
416 in Texas, 103 in Georgia, 74 in Florida
Average Number of Employees:
15 full time, 6 part time
Financial Requirements:
Cash Investment: $200K
Total Investment: $194K to $750K
Minimum Net Worth: $400K
Fees:
Franchise: $5K to $15K
Royalty: 5 percent

Comfort Keepers
Comfort Keepers provides non-medical in-home care, such as companionship, meal preparation, light housekeeping, grocery and clothing shopping, and grooming for the elderly and others who need assistance in daily living. A service leader, with 95 percent client satisfaction.
Franchisor Background:
Established: 1999
First Franchise: 1999
Franchise Units: 582
Company-Owned Units: 0
Total Units: 582
North American Distribution:
Operations in 45 states, 3 provinces
States/Provinces with Greatest Density:
57 in California, 54 in Florida, 42 in Ohio
Average Number of Employees:
2 full time plus caregivers
Financial Requirements:
Cash Investment: $56K to $88K
Total Investment: $56K to $88K
Minimum Net Worth: $150K
Fees:
Franchise: $32.5K
Royalty: 5 to 3 percent Desc.

Coverall Cleaning Concepts
Commercial cleaning franchise with comprehensive training, equipment, billing and collection services, and an initial customer base. With an affordable down payment as low as $1,500, Coverall Cleaning Concepts provides a combination of business programs and support systems that focus on meeting the needs of the franchisees. Master and territory franchises are also available.
Franchisor Background:
Established: 1985
First Franchise: 1985
Franchise Units: 9,500
Company-Owned Units: 0
Total Units: 9,500
North American Distribution:
Operations in 32 states, 2 provinces
States/Provinces with Greatest Density:
1,296 in California, 1,054 in Florida, 750 in Ohio
Average Number of Employees:
1 to 2 full time, 2 to 3 part time
Financial Requirements:
Cash Investment: $1.5K to $25.2K
Total Investment: Varies
Fees:
Franchise: $6.5K to $32.2K
Royalty: 5 percent
Minimum Net Worth: $1.5K

Domino’s Pizza
Domino’s Pizza is a recognized world leader in pizza delivery, with more than 43 years of experience. Domino’s has grown from one store in Ypsilanti, Michigan to more than 5,000 stores in the U.S., with additional locations in 50 countries around the world. The company offers a strong operating model, history of business innovations, and corporate support teams.
Franchisor Background:
Established: 1960
First Franchise: 1967
Franchise Units: 4,568
Company-Owned Units: 570
Total Units: 5,138
North American Distribution:
Operations in 50 states
States/Provinces with Greatest Density:
264 in California, 250 in Washington D.C., 215 in New York
Financial Requirements:
Cash Investment: $30K
Fees:
Franchise: $3.2K
Royalty: 5.5 percent

Express Personnel Services
This sales-focused, business-to-business franchise helps people find good jobs and employers hire good people. Every franchise has four profit centers and one agreement. Express provides three weeks of start-up training and ongoing online learning.
Franchisor Background:
Established: 1983
First Franchise: 1985
Franchise Units: 584
Company-Owned Units: 8
Total Units: 592
North American Distribution:
Operations in 47 states
States/Provinces with Greatest Density:
53 in Texas, 34 in Oklahoma,
34 in Washington
Average Number of Employees:
3 full time
Financial Requirements:
Cash Investment: $130K to $170K
Total Investment: $130K to $170K
Minimum Net Worth: $100K
Fees:
Franchise: $30K
Royalty: 8 to 9 percent

Fantastic Sams
Fantastic Sams is one of the largest full-service hair care franchises, with nearly 1,400 salons worldwide. The company offers franchisees ongoing support in marketing, advertising, recruiting, retention, training, management and business planning. No hair care experience required.
Franchisor Background:
Established: 1974
First Franchise: 1976
Franchise Units: 1,400
Company-Owned Units: 0
Total Units: 1,400
North American Distribution:
Operations in 44 states, 4 provinces
States/Provinces with Greatest Density:
219 in California, 104 in Florida, 96 in Michigan
Average Number of Employees:
8 full time
Financial Requirements:
Cash Investment: $60K
Total Investment: $150K to $175K
Minimum Net Work: $250K
Fees:
Franchise: $25K to $35K
Royalty: Varies per region

Fastsigns International
Fastsigns centers use state-of-the-art computer technology to create custom signs, graphics and banners. The company’s goal is to help our franchisees build successful centers that achieve and maintain high sales volumes and maximum profits year after year. Average/store sales have increase 15 of the last 16 years to $680,897 in 2006.
Franchisor Background:
Established: 1985
First Franchise: 1986
Franchise Units: 503
Company-Owned Units: 0
Total Units: 503
North American Distribution:
Operations in 45 states, 4 provinces
States/Provinces with Greatest Density:
56 in Texas, 41 in California, 33 in Florida
Average Number of Employees:
3 full time
Financial Requirements:
Cash Investment: $75K
Total Investment: $189K to $272K
Minimum Net Worth: $189K
Fees:
Franchise: $25K
Royalty: 6 percent

Huntington Learning Center
Offers tutoring to students, ages 5 to 19, in reading, writing, language development study skills and mathematics, as well as programs to prepare for the SAT and ACT exams. Instruction is offered in a tutorial setting and is predominately remedial in nature.
Franchisor Background:
Established: 1977
First Franchise: 1985
Franchise Units: 276
Company-Owned Units: 36
Total Units: 312
North American Distribution:
Operations in 41 states
States/Provinces with Greatest Density:
37 in California, 31 in Florida, 26 in New York
Average Number of Employees:
2 to 4 full time, 12 to 20 part time
Financial Requirements:
Cash Investment: $60K
Total Investment: $203K to $394K
Minimum Net Worth: $250K
Fees:
Franchise: $43K
Royalty: 8 percent/$1.5K Min.

InterContinental Hotels Group
InterContinental Hotels Group operates hotels in more than 100 countries. Brands include InterContinental Hotels, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Staybridge Suites Hotels, Candlewood Suites and Hotel Indigo.
Franchisor Background:
Established: 1952
First Franchise: 1952
Franchise Units: 3,104
Company-Owned Units: 540
Total Units: 3,644
North American Distribution:
Operations in 50 states
Financial Requirements:
Cash Investment: $1 million to $20 million
Total Investment: Varies
Minimum Net Worth: Varies
Fees:
Franchise: $50K minimum
Royalty: 5 to 6 percent

Jani-King International
Jani-King is one of the world’s largest commercial cleaning franchisors with locations in 19 countries and over 110 regions internationally. Franchise opportunities include initial customer contracts, training, local support, administrative and accounting assistance, equipment leasing and national advertising.
Franchisor Background:
Established: 1969
First Franchise: 1974
Franchise Units: 12,000
Company-Owned Units: 21
Total Units: 12,021
North American Distribution:
Operations in 39 states, 7 provinces
States/Provinces with Greatest Density:
880 in Texas, 737 in California, 307 in Florida
Financial Requirements:
Cash Investment: $2.9K to $33K
Total Investment: $2.9K to $40K
Minimum Net Worth: $2.9K to $33K
Fees:
Franchise: $8K to $33K
Royalty: 10 percent

Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC)
KFC is the world’s largest quick-service restaurant and features a chicken-dominant menu. It offers franchisees full-service restaurants and nontraditional express units for captive markets.
Franchisor Background:
Established: 1939
First Franchise: 1952
Franchise Units: 4,204
Company-Owned Units: 1,252
Total Units: 5,456
North American Distribution:
Operations in 50 states and 10 provinces
States/Provinces with Greatest Density:
California, Texas and Illinois
Average Number of Employees:
2 full time, 22 part time
Financial Requirements:
Total Investment: $1.1 million to $1.7 million
Minimum Net Worth: $1 million
Fees:
Franchise: $25K
Royalty: 4 percent or $600 per month

Liberty Tax Service
Liberty Tax Service is the fastest-growing international tax service. In nine years, the company has grown to a size that has taken other national tax franchises 15 years to realize. The company offers a turnkey business model, marketing services and corporate support.
Franchisor Background:
Established: 1996
First Franchise: 1997
Franchise Units: 2,296
Company-Owned Units: 65
Total Units: 2,361
North American Distribution:
Operations in 50 states
States/Provinces with Greatest Density:
187 in California
Average Number of Employees:
4 to 6 full time and 2 part time
Financial Requirements:
Cash Investment: $34K
Total Investment: $33.3K to $63.9K
Minimum Net Worth: $100K
Fees:
Franchise: $34K
Royalty: Varies

Meineke Car Care Centers
Meineke has been offering superior automotive repair services at discount prices for over 30 years. The nationally-recognized company offers brand recognition, training and ongoing technical and operational support.
Franchisor Background:
Established: 1972
First Franchise: 1973
Franchise Units: 886
Company-Owned Units: 2
Total Units: 888
North American Distribution:
Operations in 49 states, 5 provinces
States/Provinces with Greatest Density:
69 in New York, 57 in Pennsylvania,
56 in Texas
Average Number of Employees:
4 full time
Financial Requirements:
Cash Investment: $60K
Total Investment: $190K to $352K
Minimum Net Worth: $150K
Fees:
Franchise: $30K
Royalty: 3 to 7 percent

Money Mailer
One of America’s leading direct mail advertising companies. Over its 27-year history, the company has been at the forefront of introducing direct mail advertising products and programs. Training is supplemented with quarterly sales meetings, an annual convention, and a highly interactive intranet site that is updated weekly.
Franchisor Background:
Established: 1979
First Franchise: 1980
Franchise Units: 301
Company-Owned Units: 20
Total Units: 321
North American Distribution:
Operations in 25 states
States/Provinces with Greatest Density:
44 in California, 25 in Illinois,
21 in New Jersey
Average Number of Employees:
1 full time
Financial Requirements:
Cash Investment: $53.5K to $81.5K
Total Investment: $53.5K to $81.5K
Minimum Net Worth: Varies
Fees:
Franchise: $37.5K to $52.5K
Royalty: $1,400 to $1,600 per month

Motel 6
Motel 6 is synonymous with a great travel value and enjoys among the highest brand recognition of any economy-lodging brand. A part of the Accor family of hotels, franchisee support includes complete prototype design, marketing support, national advertising, protected market territories, personalized operational support, and ongoing training at corporate headquarters. Motel 6 received the AAFD Fair Franchising Seal of Approval.
Franchisor Background:
Established: 1962
First Franchise: 1996
Franchise Units: 194
Company-Owned Units: 675
Total Units: 869
North American Distribution:
Operations in 48 states
States/Provinces with Greatest Density:
171 in California, 120 in Texas, 47 in Arizona
Average Number of Employees:
2 to 4 full time, 4 to 10 part time
Financial Requirements:
Cash Investment: $100K to $500K
Total Investment: $2.2 to $2.6 million
Minimum Net Worth: $1.5 million
Fees:
Franchise: $25K
Royalty: 4 percent

Mr. Transmission
Mr. Transmission, a division of Moran Industries, franchises transmission service centers throughout the U.S. The company offers franchisees an established business system, strong brand name, customized marketing and a service that is in strong demand. In addition, comprehensive training and continuous support help to ensure franchisees maximize their potential. Franchisor Background:
Established: 1956
First Franchise: 1990
Franchise Units: 168
Company-Owned Units: 0
Total Units: 168
North American Distribution:
Operations in 14 states
States/Provinces with Greatest Density:
21 in Georgia, 12 in Indiana, 12 in Florida
Average Number of Employees:
3 to 5 full time
Financial Requirements:
Cash Investment: $50K
Total Investment: $149K
Minimum Net Worth: $100K
Fees:
Franchise: $27.5K
Royalty: 7 percent

Papa John’s International
Papa John’s International prides itself on the simplicity and efficiency of its operating system, employing the same technology, distribution system and training programs system-wide to ensure the quality and integrity of the product. The Papa John’s team assists franchisees with site selection and equipment packages in addition to providing team member training assistance and restaurant-level marketing guidance.
Franchisor Background:
Established: 1985
First Franchise: 1986
Franchise Units: 2,512
Company-Owned Units: 508
Total Units: 3,020
North American Distribution:
Operations in 49 states
States/Provinces with Greatest Density:
239 in Florida, 207 in Texas, 173 in California
Average Number of Employees:
8 full time, 18 part time
Financial Requirements:
Cash Investment: $160K to $395K
Total Investment: $160K to $395K
Minimum Net Worth: $250K to $2 million
Fees:
Franchise: $25K
Royalty: 4 percent net sales

PostNet
PostNet franchises offer a method of marketing products and services that consumers and businesses use daily. Its franchisees have the opportunity to tap into the global market by offering services such as UPS, DHL, FedEx, shipping, copy services, private mailboxes, fax and printing.
Franchisor Background:
Established: 1992
First Franchise: 1993
Franchise Units: 900
Company-Owned Units: 0
Total Units: 900
North American Distribution:
Operations in 39 states, 2 provinces
States/Provinces with Greatest Density:
89 in California, 54 in Texas, 31 in Florida
Average Number of Employees:
2 full time, 1 part time
Financial Requirements:
Cash Investment: $50K
Total Investment: $174.3K to $195.8K
Minimum Net Worth: $300K
Fees:
Franchise: $29.9K
Royalty: 5 percent

RE/MAX International
The RE/MAX real estate franchise network, is a global system of more than 5,455 offices worldwide. RE/MAX sales associates lead the industry in professional designations, experience and production while providing real estate services in residential, commercial, referral, relocation and asset management. Franchisor Background:
Established: 1973
First Franchise: 1975
Franchise Units: 6,922
Company-Owned Units: 33
Total Units: 6,955
North American Distribution:
Operations in 50 states, 12 provinces
States/Provinces with Greatest Density:
452 in Illinois, 155 in California, 267 in Ohio
Average Number of Employees:
2 to 4 full time, 1 part time
Financial Requirements:
Cash Investment: $20K to $200K
Total Investment: $18.8K to $150K
Minimum Net Worth: Varies
Fees:
Franchise: $10K to $25K
Royalty: Varies

ServiceMaster Clean
With over 52 years of franchising experience, ServiceMaster Clean continues to grow each year. The company offers five different franchise licenses: a residential services license, commercial services, disaster restoration services, janitorial services, and small market services. Financial assistance is offered.
Franchisor Background:
Established: 1947
First Franchise: 1952
Franchise Units: 4,488
Company-Owned Units: 0
Total Units: 4,488
North American Distribution:
Operations in 50 states, 10 provinces
States/Provinces with Greatest Density:
200 in Illinois, 155 in California, 139 in Ohio
Average Number of Employees:
3 full time, 2 part time
Financial Requirements:
Cash Investment: $12K
Total Investment: $18.8K to $100K
Minimum Net Worth: $50K
Fees:
Franchise: $16.9K to $43K
Royalty: 4 to 10 percent

Two Men And A Truck
Two Men And A Truck is a local moving franchise committed to exceeding customers’ expectations. Training for franchisees by the operations department covers everything from how to move a grand piano to how to how to hire, market, manage and lead.
Franchisor Background:
Established: 1985
First Franchise: 1989
Franchise Units: 162
Company-Owned Units: 8
Total Units: 170
North American Distribution:
Operations in 29 States, 1 Province
States/Provinces with Greatest Density:
20 in FL, 18 in MI, 14 in GA
Average Number of Employees:
5 full time, 3 part time
Financial Requirements:
Cash Investment: $50K+
Total Investment: $115K to $300K
Minimum Net Worth: 300K+
Fees:
Franchise: $37K
Royalty: 6 percent

Bond and Wallace are co-founders of the National Minority Franchising Initiative (www.minorityfranchising.com). They can be reached at rob@worldfranchising.com and cwallace18@nc.rr.com.