CHAPEL HILL, N.C., July 1, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Firehouse Subs, Papa John's, and Zaxby's are among the 12 quick-service and fast-casual brands named Best Franchise Deals by QSR magazine in the publication's fourth-annual report.
The Best Franchise Deals report analyzes brands' franchisor support, average unit volume, sales-to-investment ratios, and market niches, among other things, to determine which investments give franchisees the most bang for their buck.
"Even though the economy still isn't back to pre-recession levels, franchisors are optimistic enough to start growing again," says Sam Oches, editor of QSR. "At the same time, more people are ready to invest in a business, whether for the first time or as an addition to an existing portfolio. We hope that our Best Franchise Deals can give them some direction toward which brands to consider."
This year's Best Franchise Deals was divided into three groups based on brand size: the Hungry Upstarts, the Rising Stars, and The Powerbrokers. The Hungry Upstarts, or emerging brands preparing for national growth, includes Tin Drum AsiaCafé, Fresh to Order, BurgerFi, and Taquerias Arandas; the Rising Stars, or established brands ready for the next growth step, includes Menchie's Frozen Yogurt, Barberitos, Freddy's Frozen Custard, and Penn Station East Coast Subs; and the Powerbrokers, or brands with national name recognition, includes Firehouse Subs, Papa John's, Zaxby's, and Jersey Mike's Subs.
"When you look at the sales potential, start-up costs, and franchisor support from these 12 brands, there's no doubt any of them would make a wonderful addition to a franchise portfolio," Oches says.
This year, QSR also established a Best Franchise Deals Hall of Fame, into which it ushered four brands that have already appeared on the list at least twice: Subway, Popeyes, Bojangles', and Saladworks.
"It became clear to us that these brands were worthy of the Best Franchise Deals list year after year, and as a way to shine a light on new brands while also honoring true deals, we established the Hall of Fame," Oches says.
To review the Best Franchise Deals report and view a brand-by-brand breakdown, visit www.qsrmagazine.com/best-franchise-deals.
About QSR magazine
QSR magazine is a thought leader for the quick-service and fast-casual restaurant industries. Now in its 16th year of publication, QSR takes seriously its role in promoting industry values through its award-winning editorial content. In 2013, the magazine is spotlighting the many contributions women make to the foodservice industry.