key takeaways
- Retail franchises continue to prove the power of local ownership backed by national support.
- Brands like 7-Eleven, Ace Hardware and Nothing Bundt Cakes are growing through innovation and community engagement.
- From tool trucks to pet supply stores, retail franchises remain one of the most flexible and profitable sectors in 2025.
Retail franchises remain a cornerstone of Main Street America, proving that convenience, community and trusted brands never go out of style. From home improvements to pet care and baked goods, these companies are growing by meeting customer needs while supporting franchise owners across the country. That said, here are the 10 top performing retail franchises entrepreneur2025 Franchise 500.
RELATED: Considering Franchise Ownership? Start finding your personal list of franchises that match your lifestyle, interests, and budget now.
1. Ace Hardware
- Established: 1924
- Franchising since: 1976
- overall rank: 5
- Number of Units: 5,782
- Change in units: +1.9% in 3 years
- initial investment: $603,850 – $2,001,550
- Leadership: John Veenhuizen, President and CEO
- Parent Company: Ace Hardware
Ace Hardware’s cooperative model gives independent owners the purchasing power and brand recognition of a national chain without sacrificing local control. Known as “The Helpful Place,” Ace continues to expand its 5,700-plus store footprint with new formats and service upgrades, including ecommerce integration and same-day delivery. It’s a proven option for entrepreneurs who want to combine retail ownership with community connections.
2. Snap-on Tools
- Established: 1920
- Franchising since: 1991
- overall rank: 16
- Number of Units: 4,608
- Change in units: -3.0% in 3 years
- initial investment: $221,751 – $500,098
- Leadership: Nick Pinchuk, Chairman, President and CEO
- Parent Company: Snap-on Inc.
For more than a century, Snap-On has been the go-to name for professional-grade tools. Its mobile franchise model allows owners to take business directly to mechanics and technicians, generating steady demand and repeat customers. Backed by strong brand loyalty and product innovation, Snap-On continues to provide franchisees a path to freedom with a business that is virtually always on the move.
Related: Top Franchise Suppliers of 2025
3. 7-Eleven
- Established: 1927
- Franchising since: 1964
- overall rank: 27
- Number of Units: 85,134
- Change in units: +10.1% in 3 years
- initial investment: $141,650 – $1,370,850
- Leadership: Joseph DePinto, CEO
- Parent Company: 7-Eleven Inc.
Few brands are more iconic than 7-Eleven. With more than 85,000 locations worldwide, the convenience store giant continues to innovate through its loyalty app, food service upgrades, and sustainability initiatives. Franchises benefit from a turnkey model, around-the-clock demand and global brand power that drives traffic day and night.
4. Pet Supplies Plus
- Established: 1987
- Franchising since: 1990
- overall rank: 29
- Number of Units: 727
- Change in units: +16.75% in 3 years
- initial investment: $536,520 – $1,965,005
- Leadership: Chris Rowland, President and CEO
- Parent Company: Franchise Group Inc.
Pet Supplies Plus has carved an emerging niche in the growing pet care industry. Its neighborhood-focused stores combine friendly service with premium products, grooming and self-wash stations. The brand’s consistent double-digit growth shows that pet parents are spending more than ever before — and franchisees are reaping the rewards of that loyalty.
RELATED: How a Police Officer Started a Pet Care Business That Earns $3 Million a Year
5. Matco Tools
- Established: 1979
- Franchising since: 1993
- overall rank: 46
- Number of Units: 1,857
- Change in units: -3% in 3 years
- initial investment: $108,079 – $382,766
- Leadership: Mike Dwyer, President
- Parent Company: vontier
Matco Tools brings the store to the customer – virtually. Franchises operate mobile tool trucks that travel to repair shops on a weekly route, providing professional-grade tools and financing options. The brand’s support network, training, and product quality make it a reliable choice for entrepreneurs looking to serve a loyal customer base of technicians and mechanics.
6. Mac Tools
- Established: 1938
- Franchising since: 2011
- overall rank: 64
- Number of Units: 1,198
- Change in units: +5.9% in 3 years
- initial investment: $122,870 – $346,725
- Leadership: Phil Cox, President/General Manager
- Parent Company: stanley black and decker
Backed by Stanley Black & Decker, Mac Tools is a trusted name among automotive professionals. Its mobile franchise system provides owners with flexibility and a built-in customer base of service centers and garages. With steady growth and brand reputation, Mac Tools offers a solid path forward for franchisees who want to pair independence with a strong support structure.
RELATED: 3 Lessons I Learned from Selling My Billion Dollar Company
7. Cornwell Quality Tools
- Established: 1919
- Franchising since: 1997
- overall rank: 72
- Number of Units: 813
- Change in units: +3% in 3 years
- initial investment: $79,525 – $323,825
- Leadership: Bob Studenic, President, CEO and Director
- Parent Company: N/A
One of the oldest names in the tool industry, Cornwell Quality Tools has built its reputation on craftsmanship and personal service. Its franchisees run mobile tool businesses that focus on sales as well as relationships. With steady unit growth and a family-owned culture, Cornwell stands out as a franchise that values long-term trust over rapid expansion.
8. Wireless Zone
- Established: 1988
- Franchising since: 1989
- overall rank: 91
- Number of Units: 790
- Change in units: +75.6% in 3 years
- initial investment: $201,875 – $532,600
- Leadership: Scott Moorhead, CEO
- Parent Company: Round Room LLC
Wireless Zone connects entrepreneurs in one of the fastest-growing industries: mobile technology. As an exclusive Verizon retailer, it provides franchisees with access to cutting-edge products, major brand support, and robust training and support. With explosive growth of over 75% in three years, the company proves there is still a huge opportunity to connect people to what matters most.
RELATED: After decades of hard work, this couple is living the entrepreneurial dream. Here’s how they achieved generational wealth
9. Nothing Bundt Cake
- Established: 1997
- Franchising since: 2006
- overall rank: 99
- Number of Units: 722
- Change in units: +62.2% in 3 years
- initial investment: $667,100 – $1,032,500
- Leadership: Dolph Burley, CEO
- Parent Company: Roark Capital
Nothing Bundt Cakes has turned a simple idea – Bundt cakes in a variety of sizes and flavors – into a national success story. The brand’s bakery-cafe model and playful branding keeps customers coming back for celebrations big and small. The franchise benefits from strong marketing, streamlined operations and one of the fastest growing footprints in the sweets category.
10. Kilwins
- Established: 1947
- Franchising since: 1982
- overall rank: 117
- Number of Units: 178
- Change in units: +16.3% in 3 years
- initial investment: $295,415 – $880,344
- Leadership: Brian Britton, CEO
- Parent Company: Kilvans Chocolate Franchise Inc.
Kilwins has been delighting customers with handcrafted chocolates, fudges and ice creams since 1947. Its timeless, open kitchen concept attracts locals and tourists alike, while its franchise model offers extensive training and strong community support. With steady growth and a reputation for quality, Kilvins continues to blend tradition with sweet success.
RELATED: He Started a Sidewinder Selling a Product with ‘Big Margins’ — Then Expanded It to 2,200 Franchises That Make Money ‘From Day One’
key takeaways
- Retail franchises continue to prove the power of local ownership backed by national support.
- Brands like 7-Eleven, Ace Hardware and Nothing Bundt Cakes are growing through innovation and community engagement.
- From tool trucks to pet supply stores, retail franchises remain one of the most flexible and profitable sectors in 2025.
Retail franchises remain a cornerstone of Main Street America, proving that convenience, community and trusted brands never go out of style. From home improvements to pet care and baked goods, these companies are growing by meeting customer needs while supporting franchise owners across the country. That said, here are the 10 top performing retail franchises entrepreneur2025 Franchise 500.
RELATED: Considering Franchise Ownership? Start finding your personal list of franchises that match your lifestyle, interests, and budget now.
1. Ace Hardware
- Established: 1924
- Franchising since: 1976
- overall rank: 5
- Number of Units: 5,782
- Change in units: +1.9% in 3 years
- initial investment: $603,850 – $2,001,550
- Leadership: John Veenhuizen, President and CEO
- Parent Company: Ace Hardware
Ace Hardware’s cooperative model gives independent owners the purchasing power and brand recognition of a national chain without sacrificing local control. Known as “The Helpful Place,” Ace continues to expand its 5,700-plus store footprint with new formats and service upgrades, including ecommerce integration and same-day delivery. It’s a proven option for entrepreneurs who want to combine retail ownership with community connections.
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