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The basics:

• Entrepreneur’s 2026 Franchise 500 ranks Jersey Mike’s No. 1
• More than a dozen New Jersey-based brands appear on list
• Kumon, Paris Baguette, Wyndham, Playa Bowls among local standouts
• Ranking evaluates growth, financial strength, support & brand power

Of the 500 fastest-growing ventures in the U.S., more than a dozen have roots right here in New Jersey, according to a newly released ranking from Entrepreneur Magazine.

Now in its 47th year, the list offers a snapshot of what’s hot in the franchise marketplace. It also serves as a competitive measure for franchisors and research tool for those interested in franchising.

According to the compilation, Manasquan-based Jersey Mike’s Subs climbed from No. 2 in 2025 to No. 1 in 2026. Meanwhile, last year’s No. 1, Taco Bell, fell to second place.

Another New Jersey brand also ranked high on the list, Rutherford-headquartered tutoring company Kumon (No. 5).

Rounding out the top 10 are: Dunkin’ (No. 3), Ace Hardware (No. 4), Wingstop (No. 6), The UPS Store (No. 7), Hampton by Hilton (No. 8), Culver’s (No. 9) and McDonald’s (No. 10).

‘More than a list’

For the Franchise 500, Entrepreneur said it evaluates factors including costs and fees, support, size and growth, brand strength and financial strength. This year, 1,354 companies applied for consideration, according to the magazine.

To be eligible, a franchisor must be seeking new franchisees in the U.S. and Canada; and must have had a minimum of 10 units open and operating as of July 31, 2025, with at least one franchise located in North America.

While the top 10 features popular quick-service chains, the ranking also high-lights the popularity of other community-focused and need-based models.

This year’s honorees represent the bold ideas, operational excellence, and adaptability that make franchising a cornerstone of entrepreneurial success.
– Jason Feifer, Entrepreneur editor-in-chief

Beyond the household names, the compilation showcases the strength of home services franchises in the care economy, such as child care and senior care. It also highlights other specialized service industries, like beauty, education and consulting.

Entrepreneur Editor-in-Chief Jason Feifer described the ranking as “more than a list.”

“It’s really a collection of life-changing opportunities, featuring strong and resilient brands that future franchisees will be proud to be a part of,” he shared. “This year’s honorees represent the bold ideas, operational excellence, and adaptability that make franchising a cornerstone of entrepreneurial success.”

Within New Jersey, the top franchises as determined by Entrepreneur are:

• No. 1 – Jersey Mike’s Subs, Manasquan
• No. 5 – Kumon, Rutherford
• No. 29 – Paris Baguette, Moonachie
• No. 106 – Baymont by Wyndham, Parsippany
• No. 111 – Lawn Doctor, Holmdel
• No. 127 – Wyndham, Parsippany
• No. 129 – Lightbridge Academy, Iselin
• No. 162 – Huntington Learning Center, Oradell
• No. 196 – AmericInn by Wyndham, Parsippany
• No. 273 – Playa Bowls, Belmar
• No. 310 – Bubbakoo’s Burritos, Wall Township
• No. 373 – Trademark Collection by Wyndham, Parsippany
• No. 398 – Wyndham Garden, Parsippany
• No. 405 – PrimoHoagies, Westville
• No. 471 – La Quinta by Wyndham, Parsippany

Hungry for growth

After dethroning Taco Bell to become the top franchise in the U.S., Jersey Mike’s CEO Charlie Morrison called it “an incredible honor that reflects the strength of our brand and the unwavering dedication of our franchise owners.”

Founded in 1956, Jersey Mike’s started out as a small sandwich shop in Point Pleasant. Now owned by private equity firm Blackstone, the chain has more than 3,200 locations in the U.S. It also aims to open hundreds of outposts across Canada, the United Kingdom and Ireland over the next few years.

“This recognition validates the exceptional opportunity Jersey Mike’s offers entrepreneurs who want to build a successful business while making a positive impact in their communities,” Morrison went on. “Our proven system, comprehensive support, and passionate commitment to quality and community create the ideal formula for success, and we’re proud to be recognized as the franchisor-of-choice.”